46 THE STRAWBEKRY CULTURIST. 



might certainly be considered something unique in the 

 way of a Strawberry. 



Strange as it may appear to the novice in fruit cul- 

 ture, varieties which are most highly praised at their in- 

 troduction, are quite frequently the first to disappear from 

 cultivation, while others gain a prominent position in 

 spite of all opposition. The Wilson, when first exhibited, 

 and for years afterwards, met with opposition and was 

 denounced as unfit for cultivation or use by some of the 

 most prominent pomologists in the country. Yet it 

 continued to grow in favor until, within the past decade 

 or less, it was more extensively cultivated than any other 

 variety, and probably there were more acres planted with 

 it than all the others put together, and even at this late 

 day it is considered a standard and profitable berry. 



This variety was said to be too acid and too dark 

 colored for a market berry, and the late berries on the 

 plant were too small, all of which is true, but the fruit 

 is very firm, withstands long carriage and rough hand- 

 ling, and when it comes to filling the baskets and crates 

 at gathering time the Wilson rarely disappointed the 

 cultivator or consumer, who sought the markets for his 

 supply of Strawberries. 



The lesson to be learned from the erratic reputation 

 of the Wilson is that first impressions are not always 

 trustworthy, and a variety may prove better than it 

 promises when first introduced, although it must be ad- 

 mitted that the chances are ten to one against the very 

 best of new sorts. 



In the following select list of varieties I propose 

 mentioning only those which have gained a local or 

 widespread reputation for excellence, without regard to 

 the length of time they may have been in cultivation. 

 Pistillate varieties are indicated by the letter P. 



