250 MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURE. 



standing alone in their glory. I would recommend that all 

 hassocks be removed before setting out vines. And also, let 

 no man set out rose-bushes with his vines. 



I would suggest that when the thermometer, the direction of 

 the wind, etc., denote a frost, if there be a stream of water 

 which the cultivator can command, that a dam be built and so 

 constructed that the water may be thrown back during a cold 

 spell, and when it is past let the water run again. If a stream 

 of water of sufficient size does not flow — reservoirs of water 

 may in places be laid up for use in a frosty time. 



As far as my observation extends there are but few soils in 

 which the cranberry will not flourish. Where it will not, the 

 character of the soil may be changed by carting on gravel, 

 loam or sand, at any time in winter ; if necessary spread it 

 upon the ice from one to three inches in depth ; the vines will 

 find tlicir way through and grow with new life and vigor. 



I have in two instances made trial of burning the vines 

 because they were old and did not seem to bear fruit. These 

 pieces contained together some ten to fifteen rods. 



I can see no good reason for burning vines except to destroy 

 the cranberry worm when it cannot be done by flowing in 

 summer. If burning is resorted to great care must be taken 

 not to burn in too dry a time. If there be but few vines and 

 other matter to burn, it would be necessary to select a time 

 more dry than if there Avere a great body of vines — as they 

 would burn almost any time when once on fire. 



Meadows for cranberries must not be drained. 



Above is my statement, and also my experience, and I rest 

 my claim for the premium on three reasons. 



1. The successful experiment in transplanting. 



2, In establishing the principle that flowing until the first of 

 July will destroy effectually the cranberry worm, so destructive 

 to the vine. 



And, lastly, yet by no means the least, my experience and 

 observation of more than twenty years in the cultivation of the 

 vine in the different grasses, which may, by being given to the 

 public, save those who cultivate this fruit much precious time as 

 well as large sums of money. 



Sherborn, September 13, 1853. 



