DISEASES. 197 



We do believe, as a result of our observations, that 

 some varieties of grapes are more healthy and vigorous 

 than others ; and, on the other hand, that some are pecu- 

 liarly subject to the inroads of these maladies which have 

 so terribly affected the fruit, the foliage, and the green 

 wood of our vines. We do firmly believe, that our so- 

 cieties should avoid recommending the extensive planting 

 of any trees or vines that have not proved themselves 

 general healthy, and free from the maladies in question, 

 for a number of years, after trial in different situations. 



We do believe that systematic efforts should be made 

 with different remedial and preventive agents, to avert the 

 disasters that have overtaken our vine-crops of late years, 

 and, with this view, as we have reason to believe that the 

 difficulty depends upon the existence of some epiphytic 

 plant, and as we are informed that sulphur and sulphate 

 of iron exert an obnoxious influence upon the whole class 

 of fungi, we recommend our brother vine-dressers to take 

 courage, and to make vigorous and systematic efforts to 

 ward off the difficulty the coming season, by the regular 

 and persevering applications of these substances to their 

 grape vines. 



For your encouragement, we will also refer you to the 

 history of the vineyards of Europe, which have suffered 

 in like manner, and which have at length recuperated their 

 energies and become productive. Why may not the same 

 good fortune await us ? 



Very respectfully submitted, by 



R. BUCHANAN, Chairman. 



