34 



The Bulletin. 



with raffia or some other suitable tying material, or held in shape with 

 broad rubber bands. Several styles of "bunching" machines have been 

 invented into which the stalks are placed and held until tied; after 

 tying, the ends are always trimmed to a smooth, even length. The 

 bunches are usually packed in crates holding from one to two dozen 

 bunches. A layer of damp paper or moss is placed on the bottom and 

 the bunches stood on end and placed firmly together, so as to avoid 

 slipping and bruising. Fig. 22 shows a package holding twelve bunches. 

 Note the shape of the box. This holds the bunches firmly in place, 

 and results in placing them upon the market in a better and more attract- 

 ive condition. Note, also, the moss on which the bunches are placed. 

 This damp moss keeps the stalks fresh and crisp. 



BEANS. 



String, or "snap" beans, as they are commonly called, are usually 

 grown in localities having a good supply of comparatively cheap labor. 

 They are handled in much the same manner as peas, the pods being 

 picked with sufficient care so as to cause as little disturbance to the roots 

 as possible and before the seeds have become large enough to bulge the 

 pods, and while crisp enough to snap when bent. The gathering is all 



Fig. 23. — Hamper of "Snap" Beans as it Reached Market. 



done by hand, and the pods, when picked, are carried to the packing 

 shed, where they are sorted and packed ready for market. The same 

 package used in shipping lettuce is used in placing string beans on the 

 market. The beans are arranged and packed tight and snug. This is 



