PREFACE. IX 



nati, for much of wliich information we have been in- 

 debted to an extremely valuable publication made last 

 year by Robert Buchanan, Esq., of that city. 



Any one who has given attention to the subject must 

 have been struck with the waste of ground devoted in 

 the United States to the culture of fruit of indifferent 

 character. As it is obvious that good varieties occupy 

 no more space than inferior ones, we have endeavored 

 to aid in their choice those who set out orchards or cul- 

 tivate fruit in any manner, by giving them the decisions 

 of the American Qongress of Fruit-grotuers, which has 

 held several annual meetings in New York and else- 

 where — a highly respectable body of intelligent and 

 practical men, meeting annually to discuss the merits 

 and promote the culture of the best fruits of all kinds. 

 A few years will demonstrate to the country the most 

 valuable results from this association of accom.plished 

 and experienced pomologists. 



