10 



While in some cases the quality of the fruit is improved through 

 grafting, in others it becomes inferior. This is said without re- 

 gard to form of ropt system. A difference in this respect would 

 make the effect either more or less pronounced. In grafting, the 

 character of the vine is changed and in consequence also the 

 character of the fruit. 



It is generally considered that the root system of vines and 

 trees is commensurate of the size of their tops. This undoubtedly 

 holds good with most ungrafted trees and vines, but not always 

 is correct with grafted ones. In grafting on a more freely growing 

 root, the size of the root system may be much less in dimensions 

 than the top growth, but such a diminutive free root is perfectly 

 able to supply the larger top with nourishment, as long as mois- 

 ture is within reach. But this will become exhausted from such 

 a small space much sooner than from the large space covered by 

 a vine with a more expansive root system. Such a condition 

 exists with vines grafted on Rupestris St. George standing on 

 Stiff clays. 



RESISTANCE TO THE PHYLLOXERA. 



In regard to resistance tp the Phylloxera it must be remem- 

 bered, that the vine's ability to overcome the effect of the work 

 of the insect, does not depend only on its innate resistance, but 

 is much influenced also by adaptation and hardiness to other 

 diseases and with grafted vines also by affinity and congeniality. 

 Aestivalis, Candicans and Labrusca with a somewhat low resist- 

 ance thrive well in their respective localities. Their resistance is 

 entirely sufficient ,or nature would have developed a higher one, if 

 it was necessary. In fact Mr. T. V. Munson, of Denison, Texas, 

 considers the Candicans the hardiest American vine capable of 

 enduring the greatest drouth and heat. If this was unconditionally 

 correct, why does it not occur also in Georgia or Florida, where 

 climatic conditions for a large and vigorous growth of the grape 

 vine are certainly much more favorable than in Texas. 

 Birds carry grape seeds in all directions. On the other hand 

 Cordifolia and Rotundifolia with the highest resistance possible, 

 certainly must need this, or nature would not have developed it, 

 as it does not develop any qualities which are unnecessary for the 

 maintenance and survival of its products. 



