64 



such favored kinds. I have been tc^ld that even the Houghttni 

 mildews in some localities in some seasons. Still in most instan- 

 ces our hardy, native varieties are free from rust, if grown on 

 moist, rich, well cultivated land and well pruned. Sometimes a 

 great many young suckers will start in spring which should be 

 cut out. The regular pruning can be done any time after the 

 leaves fall and before the buds start in spring. Except for an 

 amateur's experiments, the large foreign varieties are too uncer- 

 tain for our climate. 



Varieties. 



Houghton's Seedling— Has been the principal variety 

 grown of late years both for garden and field culture, and many 

 barrels are sent annually to New York market. The fruit is 

 small, almost round, pale red when ripe, sweet, tender and of good 

 flavor. It is readily propagated by cuttings, like the currant. 

 The plants are very hardy and vigorous, and as they grow large, 

 have a spreading, drooping tendency. It is exceedingly produc- 

 tive, and rarely mildews. 



This variety is rapidly being superceded by the — 



Downingi — A larger and better berry, oval, greenish- white 

 and of excellent flavor. The plant is a strong upright grower, 

 and very productive. It is no doubt the best gooseberry thus far 

 introduced. This variety is said not to grow as readily from cut- 

 tings as is the case with most kinds. For home planting it can 

 be increased by layering, or bending branches down in spring 

 and covering part of them with earth. By fall these branches 

 will be well-rooted and can be set out elsewhere. 



Mountain Seedling.— Larger than either of the two first 

 named but not equal in quality. 



Smith's Improved. — A strong grower. Berry large, light 

 green, oval, but not equal to the Downing. 



