55 



Attention has been called to the further fact that the best 

 results from certain varieties of some crops have been ob- 

 tained under definite soil conditions, and this is especially 

 well illustrated bj different varieties of apples. Other fruits, 

 such as the peach and the pear, show a similar range of soil 

 adaptability as to the individual variety, but these will not 

 be considered at this time. 



Excellent opportunities for fruit culture in Massachusetts 

 are abundant. jSTo other State can grow a greater number of 

 really good varieties of apples, and very few States can equal 

 her in this respect. Yet choice fruit is constantly being 

 brought into the State to supply her wants, while cheaper 

 fruit is as constantly being exported because it is not grown 

 as well as it should be. In common with other northeastern 

 States Massachusetts possesses a climate in which a large 

 number of varieties of aj)j)les thrive. Her soils vary greatly, 

 but include large areas in the aggregate which are well 

 adajDted to produce all the choice apples the State can con- 

 sume. This land may be bought, furthermore, at a low price, 

 — in fact, at a lower price than in many States that now 

 ship large quantities of apples a long distance to her markets. 

 Massachusetts markets are unexcelled, and there are plenty of 

 favorable soil areas within the State on sites suitable for 

 orcharding that are adapted to productive varieties of high 

 quality. It seems strange that such opportunities have not 

 been taken advantage of more fully, yet I would not advocate 

 that those without experience, or at least careful study, plant 

 orchards extensively, even under the favorable conditions 

 that Massachusetts affords. Orcharding is a business requir- 

 ing a high degree of skill and much patience, and there is 

 danger lest some be led by the present popular wave of enthu- 

 siasm for the business to engage in it without due considera- 

 tion of these matters. Yet there is always a good opportunity 

 for any one who will so study the business as to master it, 

 and for such, conditions are highly favorable in Massachu- 

 setts. 



