28 



of all the species of Hellebore. Blyth, in his work previously referred 

 to, states that a dose of " 20 grains of powdered root has caused death, 

 and, on the other hand, ten times that quantity has been taken with 

 impunity, so that at present, it is quite an open question just how 

 much may prove fatal." It is probable that the powdered root loses its 

 active principle with age, and becomes not only less poisonous, but 

 also less valuable as an insecticide. 



Division of Horticulture. 



S. T. MAYNARD. 



Report on new and standard varieties of fruit. 



As each season passes, more positive knowledge as to the value of the 

 old and new varieties is brought out. Old varieties often develope 

 some quality either good or bad, not before known, which affect their 

 value for market or other purposes ; diseases or weaknesses become 

 more marked, or valuable qualities become noticeable, or the consumer 

 learns more of those qualities and greater demand is created. 



For these reasons, in making this report of the past season's experi- 

 ence in the college orchards and fruit plantations, we shall not only 

 sum up the merits of new varieties, but also note any change in the 

 standing of the older varieties. 



This summary will be based principally upon observations taken on 

 our own grounds, but we may also note the standing of varieties in 

 other sections of the state. 



THE APPLE. 



The crop in this state will probably prove one of the largest recorded. 

 The fruit is large and fair generally, but less free from codling moths 

 than for several years. Should the crop in other sections prove as 

 small as reported, good prices will prevail, if the growers will not allow 

 themselves to be frightened into putting their fruit upon the market 

 too rapidly. To obtain the best prices more care must be given to 

 sorting and packing of the fruit than is usually given. 



Varieties. 



Yellow Transparent. This is one of the best Russian varieties yet in- 

 troduced. In time of ripening it is in advance of the Early Har- 

 vest or Red Astrachan. Its color is against it as a profitable mar- 

 ket apple, even should it prove as vigorous and productive as the 

 latter varieties. Tree only moderately vigorous. It is a very 

 promising variety, but further trial must be made to establish its 

 value. 



