MAtSAClirSKTT3 VllV\T KKI'UKT. 



Lockpoi-t, has for many ycai-s ripened Imhcllas long before his nciglibore, and so 

 uniformly, that many were induced to believe it a distinct sort, and it has been sold as 

 such. Cases of this kind are not rare, as all experienced fruit-growers know ; and it 

 is not only so with Grapes, but with other fruits. Mr. SruoNd may have ])crhaps seen 

 one vine in his houses ripen its fniit souncr than another of the same varictv, without 

 being able to see clearly why. — Eu.J 



MASSACHUSETTS FRUIT RETORT FOR 1854* 



In common with the whole country, the State of Massachusetts lias severely suffered 

 from the long continued drouth that has prevailed during the summer, materially 

 affecting both the quantity and the quality of the fruit crop. In consequence, the 

 Fruit Committee for this State have not been able to perform their duty in a manner 

 at all satisfactoiy to themselves; for, while a few fruits may have withstood the trial, 

 or even improved under it, a large majority — and among them many of our new 

 varieties — are more or less injured in size or flavor. 



The Committee, however, have availed themselves of all accessible facilities to 

 prepare a report that may add — though it be but little — to the common stock of 

 pomological knowledge; and they feel bound to acknowledge their especial obliga- 

 tions to the President of this Society (Col. Wilder) for the information derived from 

 the examination of the unequaled collection of Pears contained in his gardens, and 

 for the many detailed results of his experience, which he generously placed at the 

 disposal of the Committee. From the Chainnan of the General Fruit Committee, 

 we are indebted for constant assistance and advice, which has materially aided our 

 deliberations. 



The Committee would call tlie attention of the Society to the following fruits : 



PEAKS. 



Rostiezci\ Tyson, Brandywine — always good. Until we can get as good a summer 

 Pear as these, no other ought to be recommended for general cultivation. 



Beurre iVAnjou — sustains its previous good reputation. On the Pear stock it proves 

 a thrifty, hardy variety. We pronounce it best. 



Buff am — a most valuable old sort, from its vigorous growth and prolific character; 

 if the fruit is gathered early, nearly first rale — very yood. 



Alpha — hardy, and a great bearer. Col. Wilder pronounces it to be among the 

 most desirable. Very good. 



Hoioell and Dallas — these Pears are uniformly fair and handsome, and of excellent 

 quality. Very yood. 



JVouvcau Poileau — a remarkable tree for vigor and beauty of growth. Fruit large, 

 but rather too buttery. This vai-iety possesses all the characteristics of a perfect tree, 

 and perfect fruit, (except the feult alluded to,) which, it is hoped, may be overcome by 

 early gathering and proper ripening. 



* From the rroceedings of the Third Session of the American Tomological Socitty, 



