No. 6. 



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



757 



The above figures show that the fruits need much more potash 

 thau phosphoric acid. On the other hand most commercial fertili- 

 zers reverse this proportion. The fact of the matter is that prac- 

 tically all the soils of Pennsylvania are deficient in phosphoric acid, 

 and for an original application, enough phosphoric acid should be 

 given for several years' crops so as to make sure that there will be 

 a sufficiency. 



In the light of the figures given, a liberal supply of potash is sure 

 to be a necessity. All fruits need phosphoric acid to ripen both 

 the fruit and the wood. Potash gives color and sweetness to the 

 fruit while the phosphoric acid gives size, maturity and firmness. 

 Nitrogen helps to develop the leaves, but too much delays I'ipening, 

 and in the case of strawberries, makes the fruit soft. If there is a 

 lack of nitrogen the leaf growth will be small and consequently the 

 crop be decreased. 



In general, a good rule for the fertilization of fruits is to obtain 

 the needed nitrogen by the growth of clovers or other legumes and 

 then add phosphoric acid and potash in the form of mineral fertili- 

 zers. In beginning a system of fertilization on most farms, it is 

 well to add at first twice as much phosphoric acid as potash, due to 

 that fact already stated that most Pennsylvania farms are sadly 

 deficient in phosphoric acid. Later, for several years, add the two in 

 equal quantities. Eventually, when the ground soil has become well- 

 filled with plant food, the potash can be twice the amount of the 

 phosphoric acid. 



In reply to an inquiry, Mr. Simons stated that he does not use 

 commercial fertilizers generally in fruit culture. Prefers barnyard 

 manure and ashes and has had satisfactory results. 



Mr. Foster offered a series of resolutions, which were subse- 

 quently withdrawn, whereupon, the Association was declared ad- 

 journed. 



ENOS B. ENGLE, 



Secretary. 



