136 HAKDT GRAPES. 



Hartford Prolific. — In general appearance of vine and of 

 both bunch and berry this variety bears considerable resemblance 

 to the Isabella, but ripens much earlier and is not as good in 

 flavor. It is one of the earliest ripening sorts we have, and sells 

 readily in the market at good prices. It has the defect of drop- 

 ping its berries from the bunch as soon as ripe, yet this does not 

 take place every season. When ripe, however, they should be 

 gathered and used, as they do not improve in flavor by being 

 allowed to hang on the vine, but on the contrary become musky, 

 and lose all sprightliness. The vine is about as hardy as the 

 Isabella, but not quite as vigorous iu growth; the bunches large, 

 shouldered, tolerably compact; berry large, round, black, mode- 

 rately juicy, sweet, with a good deal of pulp. 



loNA. — After some years of trial we are obliged to say that 

 this Grape is neither hardier nor much, if any, earlier than the 

 Isabella. Those who can grow and ripen the Isabella may hope 

 to succeed with this Grape, but it will no doubt be better in 

 climates that enjoy longer summers than those of Canada gene- 

 rally. The bunch is large, loose, but shouldered; the berries are 

 full medium, red, juicy, sweet, with a pleasant vinous flavor. 



ISRAELLA. — ^This ripens very soon after the Hartford Prolific, 

 and on that account is well worthy of trial. Though sent out at 

 the same time with the lona and by the same cultivator, it was 

 not as highly lauded, and has perhaps in consequence not been 

 very generally tested in the colder parts of Canada. The vine is 

 vigorous, productive, and probably will prove to be as hardy as 

 the Concord. The bunches are above medium size, shouldered 

 and compact; berries large, black, juicy, sweet, and without 

 pulpiness. 



Isabella. — One of the most vigorous, healthy and productive 

 varieties in cultivation, and where it ripens well is one of the 

 most profitable. Unfortunately it requires a longer summer than 

 is to be found in most of the Dominion to ripen its fruit well, 

 and it cannot endure exposure to great extremes of cold. It is 

 believed to be a native of South Carolina. The bunches are 



