14 Apples. 



In this paper I will give some of the characteristics of the summer 

 apples, — those possessing such a character as to be considered standard 

 varieties in our markets. 



Early Harvest. — A variety universally recommended, and very generally 

 planted, even in the smallest collection. 



It has disappointed the planters, except when planted in soils well 

 supplied with lime and potash ; otherwise it is never fair. The fruit cracks 

 and blasts. The bark grows rough, and cankers. Shoots erect, short- 

 jointed, slow growth, always at an acute angle, easily split at the joints ; 

 fruit above the medium size, form round, sometimes a little flattened ; 

 color bright straw, with some white dots ; stem stout, six to seven tenths 

 inches, set in a hollow calyx, closed, set in a shallow basin ; flesh white, 

 juicy, sprightly, sub-acid. A poor bearer ; very likely to rot on the trees 

 before it is ripe ; and is an especial favorite of the curculio, owing perhaps 

 to its smooth skin. It ripens the last of July, when we have our markets 

 filled with better Southern-grown fruit. As a market fruit, it is nearly 

 abandoned near Boston. Among cultivators it has eight synonymes, which 

 indicate an extensive culture. 



Williams's Favorite. — Originated in Roxbur}"-, Mass., on a strong soil; 

 and, wherever cultivated on a strong soil, it never disappoints the planter, 

 in quality, quantity, or market-price in the Boston markets. 



The past season, it sold in the fruit-stores at a dollar per dozen, and ten 

 cents each. The market was poorly supplied. In years past, it has sold 

 at twenty-five cents per dozen in a very full market. 



This fruit grown to its first quality will always sell well in comparison 

 with other apples, on account of its splendid appearance. 



Fruit oblong, ovate, bright red, shaded with pale yellow in the shade, 

 rich dark red in the sun ; stem slender, seven-tenths of an inch in length, 

 very slightly sunk ; flesh yellowish-white, and of a fine, mild, and excellent 

 flavor. It ripens slowly on the tree through the month of August, and 

 should be picked as it ripens. A little observation will soon teach the har- 

 vesters ; so that they can tell at a glance which fruit is fit to pick. It is 

 somewhat like the strawberry : it must not be picked before it is ripe, if its 

 best developments are desired. Perfection in ripeness makes the market- 

 value : hence the care needed in harvesting. 



