222 MASSACHUSETTS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY ' 



In the class for best yield of apples from an old tree W. H. 

 Atkins of South Amherst carried off first prize, with a yield of 45| 

 bushels. 



In this connection an extract from the report of the judge may 

 be of interest. 



We found different troubles more prominent in different sections as was 

 to be expected, red-humped caterpillar being much more plenty in the cen- 

 tral and western sections, while, of course, the gypsy moths were plenty 

 in the eastern section, on account of the bad weather during spray time. 

 The results of spraying, so far as gypsy moths were concerned, were largely 

 nuUified. . . . 



In spite of the shortage of labor this year on all the farms we have never 

 seen finer orchards nor some in better condition. 



The contests for the encouragement of dairying were continued 

 as in the three years preceding, the Legislature having renewed 

 the appropriation for a similar period. Cash prizes aggregating 

 $2,700 were offered. There were 653 entries and 578 contestants. 

 Cash prizes were also offered to local inspectors of milk and to 

 cooperative creameries. 



The small amount allowed by the Legislature for the inspection 

 of apiaries made it difficult to properly cover the State. With the 

 development of large orchards and plantations of small fruits, 

 and the growth of the cucumber industry, more bees are needed 

 and greater protection should be afforded. A disease known as 

 bee paralysis made its appearance. little is known as to its origin 

 and control but it is said that this disease killed over 80 per cent 

 of the bees in England. 



Nursery inspection followed along much the same lines as 

 formerly, although the work was increased to cover the gypsy and 

 brown-tail moth inspection in the smaller nurseries which were 

 not covered by the government inspectors. The increase in the 

 number of nurseries and a larger planting have made more demands 

 upon the inspection force. 



The work of the Dairy Bureau was broadened by legislative 

 authority so as to include encouragement of the dairy industry. 

 It has had charge of the clean milk contest, and has held exhibits 

 and issued pamphlets. Fewer prosecutions than usual have been 

 made although the same strict watch has been kept for violations 

 of the dairy laws. 



