80 ANNUAL REPORT 



RETROSPECTIVE. 



During a period of something over twenty-three years, since its 

 first organization, our Society has pursued its onward way. And 

 in glancing at its present status, we find the interest of our mem- 

 bers for the promotion of the work on hand is unremitting; that 

 one and all are ready to accord their cheerful, hearty co-operation 

 on every line that gives assurance of success. It may be true that 

 partial failures and various hindrances have dimmed the ardor of 

 many individuals here and there, as well as sorely tried the faith 

 of all at times; but, notwithstanding these discouragements in the 

 past, there is today a spirit of determination manifest which well 

 portends the coming of a brighter day; and hence we feel assured 

 of ultimate success in growing fruit. 



The officers of the Society have faithfully performed their part 

 and labored earnestly to promote a love for horticulture among the 

 members, as well as in the state at large. We find that year by 

 year our meetings steadily increase in point of interest and in the 

 number in attendance, and thus a spirit is awakened worthy of 

 emulation if not enthusiasm for the cause. Our worthy Presi- 

 dent has labored ceaselessly for the advancement of horticultural 

 work. A man of indomitable energy, push and zeal, with unfail- 

 ing courage and steady trust, he has manfully stood at his post of 

 duty, often giving liberally both of time and money as well as 

 earnest thought to the promotion of our work. How well he has 

 performed his duty, the future will alone reveal. We owe to him 

 a debt of gratitude which we can only pay by still insisting 

 that he continue, as in the past, to hold the helm and bravely guide 

 our goodly ship in safety to the haven of success. 



OUR REPORTS. 



A casual glance at the reports of our society will show that in 

 the contemplation of horticultural topics we have been earnest 

 students. The questions taken up and treated year by year have 

 been of quite a varied nature and cover a wide range. But there 

 is need of this; and while we find to some extent a similarity in 

 some of our reports, yet in the various discussions had from time 

 to time new facts are constantly elicited and new experiences of 

 value given. This surely indicates a steady progress, and in the 

 right direction. While the advancement has seemed slow at times, 

 yet it has been continuous and gratifying. Our membership, 

 though not as large as could be wished, is well maintained and 

 rather on the increase. 



FAILURES. 



There is a doubtful feeling in the mind of some with regard to 

 growing apples and larger fruits in Minnesota, but this is not the 

 only place where trees have died, where blight and mildew show 

 their ill effects, or where destructive insects carry 6n their devas- 

 tating ravages. Horticulturists of sister states have entered many 

 loud protests concerning failures and disappointments everywhere, 



