EDITORIAL. 5 



carry on exi^eriments in thinning, j^runing, fertilizing, and cultivat- 

 ing the trees, and on the extent to Avhich shade could be removed. 



With a crop like coffee several years must elapse before definite 

 results can be announced. The past season was the sixth since these 

 experiments were begun and the average 3'ield from tlie experimental 

 plats was 290 pounds of merchantable coffee per acre, as compared 

 with an average of less than 200 pounds for the main crop. In the 

 experiments on establishing new plantations the sixth year has been 

 concluded. The value of seed beds, nursery cultivation, and wind- 

 breaks has been demonstrated. In 1909 a second small crop was 

 produced on the new plantation averaging about 100 pounds of coffee 

 per acre. The cost of the plantation thus far lias been $101.56 

 per acre. 



The experiments thus far have shown the necessity of thinning, 

 pruning, reduction of shade on established plantations, and cultiva- 

 tion where the contour of the land will permit, if the yield of coffee 

 in Porto liico is to be brought up to an average that will be profitable. 

 They have also demonstrated the value of seed beds and nursery cul- ' 

 tivation in providing vigorous seedlings for new plantings. 



In addition to these experiments, about thirty varieties of coffee 

 have been introduced from various parts of the world, Avith the hope 

 that some ma}^ be found better suited to the American taste. A few 

 of the most prized varieties from Arabia and Java have fruited and 

 cup tests have shown that they retain their characteristic aroma and 

 flavor when grown in Porto Rico. As fast as any of those showing 

 superior merit bear seed they are distributed for i^lanting. The sta- 

 tion has also been for several years studying coffee soils, insect and 

 fungus pests, fermentation and preparation for market, etc. 



It will be seen, therefore, that considerable progress has been made 

 in studies relating to this industry, which is now mentioned in the 

 appropriation act for the first time. 



The work of the remaining bureaus has been provided for sub- 

 stantially as at present. The Bureau of Soils receives $231,020. the 

 Bureau of Statistics $220,320, the Bureau of Biological Survey 

 $86,920, the Library $35,320, the Division of Publications $202,730, 

 the Division of Accounts $79,990, the Office of the Secretary $229,870, 

 and the Office of Public Roads $114,240. 



To the sums carried in this agricultural appropriation act should 

 also be added the appropriation for the Department printing and 

 binding, for which the usual allotment of $400,000 is included in the 

 appropriati(m act for sundry civil expenses, an appropriation of 

 $30,000 for the testing of paper-making materials carried in the same 

 act and supplementing the $14,000 granted in the agricultural apjn-o- 

 priation act, and the deficiency appropriations of $50,000 for the 



