THE Fur IT DISTRICTS OF XK\V YORK 643 



The western boundary of this region cannot be drawn with 

 detiniteiiess, but the eastern boundary is well drawn, being the 

 highlands overlooking the Hudson Valley. Both the wild and 

 the cultivated flora in this region are variable in its different 

 parts, and in accordance with these differences, and to agree with 

 the topography of the district, several subdivisions could be made. 

 Hut it is an agricultural belt rather than a pomological one, 

 though the apple succeeds remarkably well in some valleys, and 

 the other hardy fruits can at least be grown for home use. In 

 favored locations the culture of hardy tree fruits might well be 

 extended and grown in sufficient quantities for local markets. 



CENTRAL LAKES 



The great basin, in which lie the Central or Finger Lakes, is a 

 region of very indefinite boundaries, the fruit lands of which lie 

 generally in the lower and more level lands near the lakes. 

 Unusually favorable conditions prevail in this and in the district 

 to the north for the growth of the apple especially favorable 

 in the climate. This and the following district comprise the 

 Western Xow York apple belt, far famed for the quality and 

 quantity of the product. 



One of the chief assets of the Western New York apple belt, 

 as has been indicated, is its climate. The climate as a whole 

 is one of comparatively uniform temperatures and with well 

 regulated conditions of humidity, both brought about by the large, 

 deep bodies of water in or adjoining the districts. A wide range 

 of varieties of the tree fruits, including the tender peach, is 

 adapted to both districts, but a few sorts in a commercial way 

 at least have gained and maintain the lead. 



While the apple is the leading fruit in this district, the culture 

 of all other tree fruits assumes large proportions. Probably more 

 cherries and plums are grown in this district than in any other 

 part of the state. Here, too, is found the second most important 

 grape region, this industry being localized about Keuka, Can- 

 andaigua and Seneca lakes. Between Seneca and Keuka lakes, 

 with Dundee as a center, is the seat of the dried black raspberry 

 industry, over a thousand tons being produced annually. Through- 

 out the whole region the culture of one fruit or another is carried 



