The Custard Apple in Queensland 



I. Introduction. 



In order that the history of the cultivation' of the Oustard Apple-' 

 in Queensland may be placed on record, it has been deemed advisable to 

 collect all available information relating to the matter and to publish 

 the results in pamphlet form. 



The work has been carried out by Mr. Wm. Leslie, Assistant 

 Instructor in Fruit Culture, who has gone fully into the matter and has- 

 received very valuable assistance in his investigations from many growers. 

 The thanks of the Department of Agriculture and Stock are due to 

 all those who have assisted Mr. Leslie in his endeavour to obtain reliable- 

 records, and particularly to the late Mr. Leslie Gordon Corrie, who 

 was one of the first to recognise the value of this fruit and the suitability 

 of (Queensland for its production. Mr. Corrie not only recognised the 

 value of the fruit, and recommended its cultivation commercially, but 

 he made extensive plantings at his orchards at Redland Bay and Garden 

 Island, where he tested many types and propagated those showing 

 especial merit, Mr. James Collins, of Redland Bay, Mr. James Pink, of 

 Wellington Point, Mr. William Soutter, of Sunnybank, Mr. Katterns, of 

 Bowen Bridge, and others have also kindly supplied much valuable 

 information which is incorporated in this pamphlet. 



This pamphlet is primarily a compilation of records of the 

 introduction and cultivation of the Custard Apple in Queensland, together 

 with a description of some of the best types grown in this State; but, 

 at the same time, it contains useful information respecting the soils and 

 districts most suitable for the growth of this fruit, as well as advice 

 regarding propagation, planting, pruning, cultivation, and manuring, 

 that will be of assistance to growers, and particularly to those who 

 purpose going in for the culture of this fruit. 



There is no question regarding the suitability of Queensland for the 

 production of high-class Custard Apples, or of finding a market for the 

 fruit when grown, as, on account of its fine flavour, it meets with a 

 good local demand, which is steadily improving. As the fruit becomes 

 better known the demand for it is extending, and given better marketing: 

 facilities, the market for it in the Southern States is certain to improve. 



