302 so'ccJiss ir/7v/ small fruits. 



If I were shipping long distances, I would prefer baskets 

 of which the round Eeecher quarts and pints are the types. 

 Such packages occupy too much space, however, to be for- 

 warded in refrigerators. I think berries remain in good 

 condition longer in this circular, open basket than in any 

 other. Of the crate, it is sufficient to say that it should be 

 light, strong, and so constructed as to permit free circulation 

 of air. Few of the square '* quart baskets" hold a quart. 

 Indeed, there are but few honest baskets in the market ; 

 and the fact has come to be so well recognized that they are 

 now sold by the '' basket," the majority being aware that 

 they are simply packages of fruit. I think there should be 

 a change in this respect, and that the several packages 

 should hold a full quart, pint, etc. Square quarts fill a crate 

 compactly, requiring the least amount of space ; there is no 

 chance for the baskets to upset, and when the crate is 

 opened there is a continuous surface of fruit, which is very 

 attractive. Very large, showy strawberries appear best, 

 however, m round baskets. If my market were a near one, 

 I would plan to dispose of the bulk of my crop in round 

 pints, since they could be used for strawberries, the firmer 

 raspberries, and blackberries. Thus one stock and style of 

 baskets would last throughout the whole season. 



A little good taste bestowed upon the appearance of a 

 fruit package often adds several cents per pound or quart to 

 the price received, and thus it comes that the brand of cer- 

 tain growers is sought after in the market. A few green 

 leaves, judiciously placed, cost nothing, but may catch the 

 eye and secure a fancy price. 



After much inquiry in the market, however, I am led to the 

 conclusion that the size, quality, and appearance of the fruit 

 count for far more than all other considerations combined. 

 The old Marlboro' thirds still largely in use on the Hud- 



