MAINE STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 



Tran?<actioiis for 1883. 



The period covered by this report constitutes the tenth year of 

 the Society's existence. The results which have thus far been 

 accomplished have demonstrated the public utility of such an organ- 

 ization. But to establish and develoj) a comprehensive pomological 

 system, which shall produce tangible results in the bulk and value 

 of our orchard products, is a work which could only be begun in so 

 short a period ; it requires ample means and the continuous attention 

 of competent laborers. 



At no previous time in the history of the State has there been so 

 much attention given to the planting of new orchards, or to the 

 intelligent care of those previousl}- planted, so earnest and general 

 discussion of the methods of horticultural practice, nor so much 

 sound judgment in the application of principles and practices to the 

 production of definite results as at the present time. Without 

 undervaluing the success of the numerous persons who, years ago. 

 established extensive and profitable orchards in various parts of the 

 State, or the efforts of those who by their writings and i)ublic 

 addresses have, during the last half century, earnecl the distinction 

 of pioncei-s in the work, it is safe to say that at the time of the 

 formation of this Society the imi)roved ail of horticulture, as under- 

 stood and practiced at the i)resent time, had not taken any consider- 

 able hold of the masses of the people. The adaptability of the gri'al 

 central and southern porti(jns of our State to successful fruit cultui<' 

 had Iteen hilly demonstrated ; with respect to the north'.'rn [)ortioii il 

 was an open (piestion, (and not yet fully settled.) 



The Societ}' found people everywheri' I)uyiug and [)lanting fruit 

 trees, but in a majority of cases with no conception of the adaptation 



