33 



innumerable. But to draw a prize like the Chas. Downing or 

 Seth Boydeii is a good thing for the whole country as well as for 

 the fortunate possessor. Seedlings of promise should be taken 

 up with a ball of earth and set by themselves where they can 

 spread and be tested more fully. When in blossom note and 

 mark carefully whether the flowers are pistillate or perfect. 

 Flowers which possess both stamens and pistils and which 

 fertilize themselves, producing fruit without the aid of another 

 variety, are termed "perfect." 



The mysteries of scientific hybridization and forcing under 

 glass do not come within the scope of this practical hand-book. 

 For these and kindred topics, the history of small-fruits, and full 

 lists of varieties, few of which are in general cultivation, I refer 

 the reader to the valuable works of A. S. Fuller and others, which 

 can be bought at the office of the American Agriculturist, 245 

 Broadway, New York. 



At the close of this manual will be found a chapter on pick- 

 ing, preparing small-fruits for market, and the best packages for 

 shipping. 



Varieties. 



I will close this chapter on strawberries with a description of 

 some of the leading kinds that are now in favor. 



Monarch of the West.— The largest of all ; fruit enormous, 

 and averaging large to the last. I picked one berry that measured 

 7 inches around, and others 6i, 6, and 5 inches. It is also the 

 most vigorous grower I have seen. Though so large it has a very 

 fine flavor and a delightful aroma. With me it has proved a good 

 bearer on both light and heavy soil, and I have seen it loaded 

 with fruit on the New Jersey sand. A superb variety for home 

 use, but a little soft I fear for distant markets. With a near 

 market and with careful handling it wOl bring the highest prices. 



Seth Boyden (No. 30). — This is still one of my chief favo 

 rites. Though a comparatively new variety, its reputation is 



