149 



We believe in the best and most thorough cultivation 

 and liberal feeding. Such patients have the least need of 

 medical attendance, and are the best prepared to ward off 

 epidemics or contagion. 



We are persuaded that the electric lights are doing good 

 service to the horticulturist by the destruction of millions 

 of insect pests, which are attracted to them and their own 

 death. The enthusiastic entomologist is often seen perched 

 under the arc light with his scoop net in hand, gathering 

 in many fine specimens of moths. 



Pruning should not be commenced until the vine has be- 

 come thoroughly dormant, say in New England about the 

 middle of November, as our object during the summer has 

 been not to grow any superfluous wood. So in pruning we 

 should leave only such canes as are needed as a renewal of 

 the parent vine. Trim all laterals not required back to 

 two buds, and see that the vine is securely fastened to its 

 support (when not layered for winter). If it is not well 

 secured, and such an ice storm as last winter gave us should 

 occur, attended by violent wind, much damage would be 

 done. It is good practice to rake up all grape foliage and 

 trimmings and hum them. Whatever disease there may be 

 present will be most likely to be found on the foliage and 

 tender shoots. 



Tlirow a light covering of evergreen boughs, corn stalks 

 or coarse, strawy manure around the roots for winter and 

 let them rest. 



SIX CROPS OF GREATEST VALUE TO ESSEX 

 COUNTY. 



BY M. SUMNER PERKINS OF DANVERS. 



Onions, cabbages, corn, potatoes, squashes and turnips 

 may be justly termed the half dozen staple crops of Essex 



