Xxii BOARD OF AGRICULTURE. [Pub. Doc. 



Summary of Crop Conditions, 1904. 



The wet weather of May delayed farm work, and at the 

 close of the month it was somewhat in arrears. Pastures 

 and mowings wintered well, as a rule, secured a good start, 

 and at the close of the month the prospect for grass was 

 never better. Fall seeding generally wintered well and 

 got a good start. The apple bloom was unusually heavy. 

 Peach trees were badly winter- killed, and bloomed only in 

 a few localities ; cherries and plums made a full bloom, but 

 there were some complaints of a light pear bloom. Few 

 insects appeared, and they did but little damage. Spraying 

 is generally practised by fruit specialists, and growing in 

 favor with farmers. Farm help was fairly plent}^ ; average 

 wages, $20 per month with board, and $1.50 per day, or 

 higher, without board. There was a slight increase in the 

 acreage of potatoes. 



Insects did less damage than usual in June. Indian corn 

 was reported as small and backward, but of good color and 

 otherwise thrifty. Haying was just beginning at time of 

 making returns, with the crop not more than an average 

 one, the damage from winter-killing being more serious than 

 was expected. The acreage of early potatoes was consider- 

 ably increased, with crop somewhat backward, but generally 

 promising well. Early market-garden crops generally made 

 good yields, and brought prices fully up to the average. 

 The flow of milk was well maintained, with prices for dairy 

 products showing a tendency to seek a lower level. Dairy 

 cows were somewhat more plentiful than usual, Avith prices 

 easier. Pastures were generally in good condition. Straw- 

 berries were a fair crop. Plums and cherries promised good 

 yields. Apples set well and promised well. 



In July insects did very little damage. Indian corn Avas 



