VINEYARDS. 45 



This method of pruning, using strong stakes, has so far suc- 

 ceeded well with me. You will observe that I use good strong 

 stakes, that will last at least ten years, and not a small, weak 

 pole, that often rots and breaks down the first year. I do not 

 claim that this is the best method of pruning, although I have 

 tried many of the different methods recommended ; but, so far, 

 am better satisfied with this than with any other that I have 

 tried. I have not used sulphur or other applications to prevent 

 mildew, and you will see that the foliage is reasonably healthy 

 and perfect. 



Now, with economy in preparation of the soil, using land that 

 was not costly, but well adapted to the purpose, a method of 

 pruning that docs not require a large amount of tying, a variety 

 that is absolutely hardy, and not requiring winter protection, 

 the grape can be grown at a large profit, even at six cents a 

 pound. This, with the great certainty of a crop, the short 

 space of time in which vines can be brought into bearing, makes 

 the grape, in my judgment, one of the most desirable and profit- 

 able fruits to raise. 



In answer to inquiries, I will say that the cedar stakes cost 

 seven cents each, delivered at my place ; size from three to six 

 inches in diameter at the top, and eight feet long. Then, as to 

 crop : last year they produced but very few ; — I now have refer- 

 ence to the 100 vines shown for premium ; — this year, 908 

 pounds, being a fraction over nine pounds to a vine, were sold 

 for twenty cents a pound, amounting to $181.60, averaging 

 $1. 81-^0 to a vine. You will remember that my man cut and 

 weighed the product of one vine, which was one of the 100 vines 

 offered for premium, when the Committee was at my place, 

 upon which there were fifteen and three-fourths pounds, planted 

 two years ago last spring. In answer to your questions as to 

 cost, such vines as I planted were worth $15 per hundred. The 

 cost of planting is about two cents a vine, after the ground is 

 prepared. The cost of hoeing, and other cultivation from the 

 time of planting the vine up to the time of gathering the first 

 crop I cannot tell accurately, but it is certainly less than the 

 same land would be in corn ; in fact it cost me nothing, as I 

 grew vines between the rows, that have paid me well for all the 

 work of cultivation. 



