206 . ANNUAL REPORT 



ability to growing fruits of every kind than almost any other clime, 

 and hence the industry is rapidly upon the increase; extravagant re- 

 ports are given concerning average yields of fruit and prices realized. 



RAPID TRANSIT. 



One thing that should be borne in mind in this connection is the 

 fact that, by the use of good refrigerator cars, these California fruits 

 are readily transported and brought in competition with the products 

 raised in other states and sections further east. As is well known, in 

 Illinois, Michigan, and other fruit producing states some growers are 

 becoming more or less alarmed at the enormous shipments being 

 made, lest home-grown fruits should be displaced and local markets 

 overstocked. 



INCREASE OF SHIPMENTS, 



It seems these fruits from the Pacific coast are finding ready sale. 

 Our local dealers and commission men in Minneapolis and St. Paul, 

 who first began a year or so ago to handle western fruits in bulk, re- 

 ceived this season several hundred cars of California fruits. In view 

 of these conditions the question seems to be presented what method 

 should be used to meet this competition, what line of action ought to 

 be pursued to bring about the best results for all concerned? 



MEANS AND METHODS. 



It generally is a waste of time and poor economy to try to grow 

 that which will come in competition with products from more highly 

 favored localities. The prudent farmer, fruit grower, and market 

 gardener as well, will count the cost to see what he can raise to best 

 advantage. Choice products generally command the highest price; 

 and therefore it will always pay to raise the very best. Then, too, 

 with thorough cultivation a better and larger yield will be secured. 



By studying markets carefully, the nature of the climate, soil, ex- 

 posure, cost of marketing, and the like, a better understanding can 

 be had of what to grow and when and how to sell the product raised. 

 Results will be more satisfactory by far than carrying on the enter- 

 prise, or industry pursued, in the old-fashioned, haphazzard kind of 

 style. 



HOME GROWN FRUITS. 



But after all that may be said in favor of commercial horticulture in 



