1 6 Grapes and Grape-Culture. 



noticed this peculiarity of the lona in plants in the propagating-bed, in 

 layers, and in bearing vines. I might think this arose from some error or 

 ignorance in propagation or cultivation if it were not true that other varie- 

 ties form perfectly healthy roots under the same treatment. And, further- 

 more, vines received from the great exemplar, who modestly claims his 

 vines to be such as no other can possibly produce, have been equally 

 faulty. Where the lona will succeed, even with extraordinary care, I would 

 plant it by all means ; but I believe the regions where it will be found 

 profitable are few, and far between. 



A new grape, called the Walter, said to be a seedling-cross between 

 Delaware and Diana, and claimed by its originator to be as early as Hart- 

 ford, may, if it proves healthy, hardy, and productive, be of value. It is 

 better flavored than the Diana, though somewhat like it ; and, except the 

 fault of a tough, pulpy centre, is an improvement upon that variety. But, 

 as it has only fruited in one locality, nothing definite can be said of its 

 value for general use. 



. Among the white varieties, Allen's White Hybrid, Rebecca, and 

 Maxatawny, have probably been more extensively planted than any 

 others ; but neither of them appears to have acquired extensive popularity 

 for vineyard-purposes. The Rebecca is rather deficient in foliage, and 

 young vines much disposed to mildew. It is also usually a shy bearer, 

 and the vine tender in severe winters. It is, however, one of our finest 

 white native grapes when well grown and perfectly ripened. I have seen 

 the best results from the Rebecca on well-worked clay and sandy soils, in 

 warm, sheltered situations, where the vines were pruned upon the long-cane 

 renewal system, and left wholly without summer-pruning. 



Allen's White Hybrid is better supplied with foliage than the Re- 

 becca ; and I have found it less inclined to mildew. It is also a better 

 bearer, ripens about the same time, and is also of fine quality. It cannot 

 be called quite hardy ; and it is always safe to prune both these varieties in 

 the fall, lay the vines upon the ground, and cover with a few inches of 

 eaith for winter-protection. 



The Maxatawny has the best habit of growth, is more vigorous in vine, 

 and luxuriant in foliage, also less inclined to mildew, than either of the 

 others, and is rather hardier in winter. It is, however, later in the ripen- 



