52 AGRICULTURE OF MAINE. 



per bushel box. He says of them that they are one of the most 

 profitable he has in his orchard. He had somewhere, about 200 

 boxes. This suggests that it is wise to have an eye all the time 

 upon the home markets, as they are nearby and we are likely 

 to be better served than when we ship across the water. So 

 there are other varieties that mature early and are good sellers. 

 The question then comes home to the farmer, What varieties 

 shall I plant? The answer I shall give to this question will not 

 be definite, because I am not familiar with the surroundings, 

 but the farmer who wishes to extend his orchard should take 

 into account what apples do well in the locality. He 

 should learn what these are and from them select the kinds 

 that are the most desirable. Only a few of these have been 

 named, but do not allow the man who comes along with a well- 

 taught story to induce you to plant a novert}' when a certainty 

 stands out clearly before your face. There are enough of them, 

 and when once the varieties are determined be sure to place 

 the order with the most reliable dealers only. Insist on in- 

 spected stock to secure freedom from San Jose scale and other 

 noxious insects. Examine the trees carefully when they arrive 

 and if traces of insects are found do not plant the trees until a 

 thorough examination can be made by the State entomologist. 

 Set the trees carefully and give thorough cultivation and careful 

 pruning, and the rapidity with which they will mature will sur- 

 prise the grower. 



