CULTURE FOR PROFIT. 



tion on this side the water may be ascertained when the 

 census returns are issued. 



Those who enter upon fruit culture must not, how- 

 ever, expect to make fortunes in a year. Much has been 

 said and written which is wide of the truth as to profits 

 so wide, indeed, that it does much harm instead of 

 good. Exaggeration and over-statement only weaken the 

 argument and raise suspicion, and ultimately lead to dis- 

 appointment, in those who listen to and act upon it. But 

 there is abundant proof that those who plant carefully, 

 and cultivate with common sense, to say nothing of scien- 

 tific skill, reap a fair return for their outlay and labour. 

 This is proved, not merely by large growers for market 

 but by a considerable number of small cultivators. 



Many persons seeing this, and desiring to enter upon 

 fruit culture upon a larger or smaller scale, are seeking 

 reliable information and guidance as to the best methods 

 of proceeding, and this requires much thought and cai^eful 

 consideration. Do not hastily rush into it, but consider 

 well the general pi'ospects, and especially whether there 

 is any particular advantage or inducement in your own 

 case. For instance, whether you have in your possession 

 or occupation land that is suitable to the purpose, whether 

 you have any special means of disposing of the fruit, and 

 all considerations of a like kind. Then, according to 

 your circumstances and surroundings, determine upon 

 your course of action. Many points will have to be 

 thought out and determined before even commencing. 

 There will be the question of whether you have a retail 

 outlet for your fruit, or whether it must be sent to a 

 wholesale mai'ket, whether you would be likely to get a 

 better return for early or late varieties, and whether you 

 have a jam factory or other means of disposing- of the fruit. 



