IDEAL PLUM OR PRUNE 109 



The skin of the plum should be thick and firm, 

 especially if the fruit is to be shipped to a distant 

 market. 



FOJT home use or a near-by market a thin- 

 skinned plum may be quite as satisfactory. 



The bloom of the plum adds to its appearance, 

 and its condition may be a test of freshness. The 

 bloom evidently had originally a protective func- 

 tion, possibly shielding the fruit from the sun, or 

 otherwise protecting the juices from too rapid 

 chemical change. 



The bloom may be developed on a fruit by 

 means of selection where it is especially desired 

 for any reason. It is obviously only a minor 

 characteristic of the perfect plum. 



The flesh of the plum should be firm, par- 

 ticularly if the fruit is to be used for shipping 

 purposes. The texture may be shown by cutting 

 the fruit with a dull knife. For home consump- 

 tion, plums that are very watery are often con- 

 sidered a great treat. I have some splendid 

 watery plums now growing fruits that almost 

 melt in the hand. But these have not the texture 

 to stand the trip to market and keep in good 

 condition. 



The orchardist must bear this difference 

 clearly in mind, and let the choice be determined 

 by the use for which the fruit is intended. 



