CULTURAL METHODS FOR THE GRAPE IN NEW YORK 1295 



persons believe that such is the case, but conclusive evidence is 

 lacking. There can be no doubt that stable manure does im- 

 prove the soil texture of the vineyard, however. 



No person should attempt to grow grapes for pleasure or 

 profit, unless he is willing to give them proper care. The his- 

 tory of grape growing has been and is today one of ups and 

 downs, and the specific reasons for the fluctuations are yet 

 unknown. Undoubtedly a combination of causes is responsible. 

 In every region of decline are many vineyards which are measur- 

 ing up to the standard, and why? In all such vineyards the 

 grower has given personal supervision and intelligent care to his 

 vines and has not attempted to obtain a great yield in one year 

 at the expense of the next, but rather has been satisfied to pro- 

 duce a fair crop each year. This should be the aim of each 

 grower. Neither excessive wood growth nor an excessive yield in 

 alternate years is desired, but a balance should be struck between 

 the extremes. 



FIG. 435. LOADING THE GRAPES FOB TRANSFER TO PACKING SHED 



