PROFIT SHARING 65 



required to keep trees in proper condition is of a kind 

 that can be put off, and in the pressure of other things 

 during the fall and spring rush, it usually is deferred until 

 the orchard is an unsightly waste. It is much the same 

 with all kinds of small fruits. This, also, is looked upon 

 as a side issue, and therefore neglected. 



Apples, cherries, berries and various other fruits can 

 be grown with profit in all parts of this country, with the 

 possible exception of two or three of the most northerly 

 prairie states. Can any one say that apples or cherries 

 pay less than grain, or require more work ? 



The truth is, they pay far better per acre than any of 

 the ordinary farm crops. It is only through neglect that 

 they fail to return liberal profits, and if each farmer 

 would get up a profit-sharing plan with regard to his 

 fruit, and bring in the entire family, including the hired 

 help, there would be a lot of pleasure in the project, and a 

 nice sum of money for every individual concerned. 



In one case that I have in mind, an old orchard of about 

 twenty apple trees was extended until it occupies four 

 acres, and there is an additional acre of strawberries and 

 raspberries near by. This five-acre fruit tract is a joint 

 family enterprise. The head of the house gets his share 

 for furnishing the land and the money required to buy 

 the young trees. He has been investing about $20 a year 

 in young trees, to secure new varieties and increase the 

 acreage. Last year alone he received $300 as his share 

 of the profits on five acres. Two sons and his wife and 

 daughter get a like amount each, there being a revenue 

 of $1,500. It was a favorable fruit season, and the 

 returns may be less on an average. However, there is an 

 abundance of pin money in that family, and the young 

 people are receiving some wholesome training. They are 

 learning to raise fruit in a businesslike way ; to care for 

 the trees ; to meet market needs, and to handle money 

 that comes to them as a result of their skill and industry. 



