AX X UAL REPORT. 153 



One of the most interesting speakers of the day was J. H. 

 Hale, who spoke next. He said it was very appropriate for 

 the two societies to come together on such an occasion as this. 

 "Berries and cream always go together." 



The possibilities before the Connecticut fruit grower are 

 great, said Mr. Hale. Western and southern growers tell us we 

 have the soil, the markets and the demand for fine fruits and 

 we should be alive to our opportunities. 



The influences of cultivating fruits and flowers is refining 

 and worth many times more than the dollars and cents we get 

 out of it. 



H. O. Daniels of Middletown spoke briefly and pointed out 

 several valuable lessons to be learned from this season from 

 the dairyman's standpoint. 



Prof. W. E. Britton, State Entomologist, was asked to speak 

 of the work of injurious insects. The prevalence of the aphis 

 was discussed. Prof. Britton advised the use of soap and water 

 spray for this pest. The San Jose scale is doing much damage 

 all over the State. Lime, salt and sulphur wash has worked 

 well in killing the scale. The insect breeds late into the fall 

 and early winter, said Prof. Britton, and fall spraying is to 

 be recommended. The spring application should not be 

 neglected, however, as the wash \vill not remain on the trees 

 through the winter and very thorough work is necessary to con- 

 trol the scale. 



L. H. [Mead of Keeny Park, Hartford, spoke next. He said 

 the worst thing about this spray work is dreading it before 

 you begin. 



We don't always appreciate our advantages here in New 

 England. Land is cheaper than in the West. Good markets 

 are right at hand. The most beautiful scenery is ever around 

 us and our work should be a pleasant occupation. 



When abandoned farms are bought up by shrewd business 

 men, it's time we waked up to our possibilities. 



Mr. Hale seconded these remarks and urged farmers to 

 look ahead in their business. The powers of our soil are not 

 exhausted. What is needed is a system of cover crops, — clover, 

 cow-peas, rye, etc., and let every bit of unoccupied land be 

 covered with some crop for green manuring. 



Mr. S. F. Willard of Wethersfield was the closing speaker. 

 He said all were very welcome, but he regretted the weather 

 II 



