QQ STATE POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. 



likely to be adapted to the exigencies of that climate, than trees 

 grown from seeds produced elsewhere ? I would suggest one 

 other idea in relation to the same matter. It is as important to 

 have hardy roots as hardy trunks. If the roots and spongioles 

 are tender, of course the tree is more easily destroyed by cold 

 than one grown from another seed in which the organs have more 

 hardiness ; consequently it is a more tender tree. So it seems to 

 me that it is of importance where the seeds are grown. 



II. N. Atherton, of Hallo well. I am a good deal interested ia 

 this discussion, and a good deal surprised to see so little faith 

 manifested in regard to Maine grown fruit trees. To the question 

 " Shall Maine grow her own fruit trees?" my brother has said, 

 "yes, if she can." I say "yes," most emphatically, without any 

 "if." I believe Maine to be just as capable of growing her own 

 fruit trees as any other State ; as capable of succeeding in this 

 business as in any other. All that is necessary, it seems to me, 

 is a proper knowledge of the subject, and sufficient force and 

 energy. We (my brother and myself) have been in the habit of 

 sending abroad for trees, not because of any decided preference 

 for trees grown outside of the State, but more from force of cir- 

 cumstances and because we could not obtain them in sufficient 

 numbers and variety at home. 



The President. In reference to the obstacles in the way of 

 raising trees in Maine, will Mr. Varney, of Vassalboro', respond 

 to the points referred to. 



Mr. Varney. I do not know that I am able to answer those 

 questions to-day, or that 1 shall be for years to come. I suppose 

 it is known, to some of you at least, that I am in the nursery 

 business in a small way, and I have some of these drawbacks to 

 meet with, and when the question comes up, " Shall Maine grow 

 her own fruit trees?" it is to be answered, certainly with me, 

 60 far as experience goes, in the future. I could talk about tap 

 roots and black hearts, and borers, if it was necessary. We have 

 got our black roots and black tops from abroad, generally, and I 

 think our borers were introduced from abroad, almost entirely, 

 and we have those things to contend with, as they do in other 

 places. I believe, however, with the gentleman from Portland, 

 (Mr. Woodman) in the possibility of Maine being able to raise 

 her own fruit trees, notwithstanding the drawbacks which have 

 been referred to this afternoon. I believe in raising our trees at 

 home. I believe they are better. I believe it can be done sue- 



