208 STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



There are many others worthj' of special mention, who have been 

 liberal contributors of valuable experiences and observations to the 

 society; also, a still larger number not so read}^ of tongue or pen, whose 

 work and example have been helpful object lessons to the practical hor- 

 ticultural interests of the state. 



In conclusion, and on behalf of the many visitors from different parts 

 of this and other states and Canada, and especially of the old members 

 of this society, I most sincerely thank the people of Grand Eapids for the 

 cordial welcome which has been conveyed to us in such appropriate 

 language by our former secretary, Mr. Garfield. 



DISTRIBUTION— WHAT BECOMES OF THE FRUIT ? 

 BY MR. E. A. MOSELEY OF GRAND RAPIDS. 



Michigan has gained for herself a national reputation through her 

 enormous production of fruit, consisting of peaches, pears, plums, grapes, 

 and apples. 



Western Michigan is known as the great peach belt. This section 

 produced more peaches of choice varieties during the past year than 

 any other state in the Union. Having such a large crop to dispose of 

 brings up the question as to how the fruit can be distributed to the 

 best advantage throughout the country and reach the best markets in 

 good condition. 



Transportation companies during the past few years have been to 

 great expense, and given much study, experimenting how to carry fruit 

 to destination in best condition. Along this line great advancements 

 and wonderful improvements have been made. 



A large proportion of the fruit shipped this season has been in regula- 

 tion cars. The bushel basket is fast taking preference with shippers 

 and receivers as the most profitable fruit package, especialh' in the 

 eastern markets, through the middle states, and other markets where 

 thoroughly introduced. Many of the western markets do not take favor- 

 ably to the bushel basket, especially where they are not familiar with it, 

 often requiring one or more seasons before the trade take kindly to this 

 package. The bushel basket is more profitable for the grower than the 

 small fifth, as it saves a large expense in packing and cost of packages. 

 Another advantage in favor of the bushel basket is its being open for 

 inspection, lessening the opportunity for deceit by putting in poor fruit. 

 The small basket is generally packed in such a manner as to make the 

 fruit appear much better than it really is, and thereby often causing a 

 great deal of dissatisfaction with the purchaser. In fact, the deceit in 

 small packages has become so universal that the trade in many markets 

 are losing confidence in the fruit shipped in this manner and will only 

 buy at greatly reduced prices. 



When shipping peaches in bushel baskets in refrigerator cars the 

 fruit will carry in much better condition by shelving the cars, so that 

 each basket will stand level and firm, and one tier deep. 



