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The Bulletin. 



square. The outdoor crop and the ones grown in frames are packed in 

 one-third barrel veneer baskets, as shown in Fig. 20. In either case, 

 whether using boxes or baskets, the cucumbers are arranged and packed 

 by hand so as to fit firmly and tightly together. This close packing not 

 only makes it easier to put on the covers, but results in the cucumbers 

 reaching market in better condition and in a full package. 



PEAS. 



This is a profitable crop, particularly when grown and marketed early 

 in the season. Peas require careful handling, and should not be gathered 

 until the pods are well filled. The pods are picked into half-bushel 

 baskets and carried to the ends of the rows, where they are put in the 

 packages in which they are sent to market. The bushel veneer basket is 

 the most preferable type of package to use. Each package should be 

 well filled with closely packed, comparatively uniform, clean pods. It 

 is important that the package be snugly packed and slightly heaped be- 

 fore the cover is put on, as peas shrink considerably when in transit. 



CANTALOUPES. 



The exact stage of maturity at which to pick melons for marketing 

 can only be learned by experience. The distance from the market and 

 time required to place cantaloupes on sale are points to be carefully 

 considered in handling this crop. Melons allowed to become too ripe 



Fig. 21. — Standard Ckate, Holding 4."i Melons. 



before packing usually become soft and decayed before reaching market. 

 This condition invariably results in either a sacrifice of the fruit or a 

 slow sale, that in the end means a loss to the grower. If gathered too 

 green, the melons reach market in firm condition but lacking in flavor, 

 and are not wanted by the best trade. As stated above, the proper time 

 to harvest this crop can best be learned by one's own experience. 



