A Plea for the Plum -Trees. 25 



give us an abundance, and to prove that a crop of plums was not an im- 

 possibility. 



The next year, as the trees were larger, we doubled the allowance of salt ; 

 sprinkling it on the ground in April, and allowing the spring-rains to wash 

 it in. 



No black-wart appeared. The trees blossomed well, set, and matured 

 their fruit ; and thus to the present time, when we have about fifty plum- 

 trees of all ages, and apricots which require the same treatment. Now, 

 will any one say that the end is not worth the means ? Granted that the 

 plura is not a favorite fruit ; that it is too rich and cloying to be wholesome 

 if eaten freely. What is more beautiful in growth, upon the table, or more 

 valuable for a winter preserve, and who will mention a more delicious 

 fruit, than a well-ripened Green Gage ? The expense is small, the trouble 

 is but little, the return is large. Plums are now so scarce, that they com- 

 mand a good price in the market ; and an orchard would yield large 

 returns. 



For a small garden, the trees are most ornamental, and, if kept in shape, 

 are worth growing for their beauty alone : they may be pruned into pyra- 

 mids, or grown with fastigiate or round heads. The soil around them 

 should always be kept open, and, during the summer, should not be 

 allowed, to become bound. 



But we hear the reader say, " What varieties did you plant ? " We have 

 many ; but we mention only a few of the best : — 



And, first, the Green Gage, than which there can be nothing better. It is 



VOL. IV. 4 



