35^ State Horticultural Society. 



Not the least of Mr. Colman's services to Missouri agriculture, and 

 to agriculture in the nation as well, was the founding of Colman's Rural 

 World, more than half a century ago — a paper that has always fearlessly 

 advocated the highest agricultural interests of the State. It ranks among 

 the ablest agricultural papers of this country. 



Very truly yours, 



J. W. Sanborn, 

 Wilson Farm, Gilmanton. N. H. 



MID-SEASON PEACHES. 



(B.v Edwin H. Riehl.) 



It is settled fact in my mind that we have too many varieties ripen- 

 ing in mid-season, which is about now. The markets always have been 

 full at this time of the year, but now it is more so, since the favorite, 

 Elberta, has become so popular. If peaches are planted to ripen at this 

 season, let them be Elbertas, since no other variety will sell as well, or 

 ^ive the profit that these do. It is without doubt the most valuable 

 variety ripening in its season, and other varieties ripening with it should 

 not be planted, excepting, perhaps, in case of the family orchard. It wouM 

 be well to have a good white peach, like Mixon, Stump or Washington , 

 the last preferred ; or a good cling, like Hyslop, for variety, or in case 

 Elberta should fail, which it sometimes does in severe winters. Yes, 

 and for home use I would add another, the Captain Ede. Like Elberta, 

 it is of a rich, yellow color, and, though smaller and for this reason not 

 so desirable for market, it is more productive and ever so much better 

 in quality. Now, some of you may say that nothing could be better 

 than a well ripened Elberta, but you are mistaken there; just try them 

 together and you will find as much difference between Elberta and 

 Captain Ede, in favor of the latter, as between Ben Davis and Grimes' 

 Golden apples. 



I did not bring up this subject because there are too many peaches 

 on the market now, for such is not the case ; peaches are in demand and 

 anything of fair size sells for a fair price. This, however, is not a big 

 peach year. If it were, nothing but Elbertas would be in it. It is no 

 trouble to get $1.50 per bushel for Elbertas now, whereas no other variety 

 sells for more than $1.25. and they must be extra fancy to bring that. 



Those who think of setting peach trees should s-^lect varieties ripen- 

 ing before and after Elberta, especially if for market. F')r early I would 



