THE BURBANK CHERRY 119 



experiments specimens growing on trees that 

 were observed to bear earlier, even if by only a 

 few days, than other kinds. 



To come at once to the sequel of the story, I 

 was able after many years of experimentation to 

 produce a fine, large, productive cherry that 

 ripens about two weeks earlier than any variety 

 before grown. This result was achieved by per- 

 sistent selection, generation after generation, of 

 specimens that manifested the early-fruiting 

 character. But the full bearing of the story can- 

 not be understood unless attention is given to 

 the almost numberless complications that were 

 involved. 



SEEKING MANY ENDS AT ONCE 



Had the only object sought been the produc- 

 tion of a cherry that ripened very early, it would 

 not have been very difficult to attain success. 



In that case all other qualities could have been 

 disregarded, and attention given solely and ex- 

 clusively to the question of time of fruitage. The 

 cherries that ripen earliest each season being 

 selected, presently a race of early bearers would 

 have been produced beyond peradventure. Se- 

 lection carried through a comparatively small 

 number of generations would have sufficed to 

 give me what was sought. 



