THE 



AMERICAN J^RUIT C.ULTURIST 



CHAPTER I. 



INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 



IT is scarcely necessary at the present time, when so many are 

 engaged in the culture of fruit-trees, to go into an argument to show 

 its advantages. The most convincing proof is furnished by the fruit 

 itself; whether it be from the single loaded plum or apricot-tree in 

 the narrow yard of the townsman, or the broad orchard bending 

 under the myriads of delicious specimens on the spacious grounds 

 of the farmer. 



The climate and soil of our country afford unequalled facilities for 

 the cultivation of fruit. A rich treasure lies within the reach of its 

 inhabitants, in the profusion of delicious kinds which successive 

 months may be made to supply. Yet, but few have availed them- 

 selves fully of these advantages. Even the rapid increase of fruit 

 culture within the past few years has but thinly spread its bounties 

 over a widely-expanded and thickly-peopled territory. 



In traversing the country, neat cottages and comfortable farm- 

 houses are seen everywhere interspersed, and plenty is indicated by 

 loaded orchards and abundant harvests. But how few of the pros- 

 perous owners are fully aware of the rare delicacies their fertile lands 

 are capable of yielding. How many cultivate enough of the best 

 peaches to obtain " from the loaded bough the mellow shower," for 

 ten successive weeks ? What number know that plums, rich, juicy, 

 and bloom-dusted, may be had fresh from the tree, from early wheat- 

 harvest till the ground freezes in autumn ? Who among them par- 



