ORANGES AND LEMONS IN PORTO RICO. 431 



As to the varieties of sweet oranges grown here, 1 find from per- 

 sonal observation that, whatever its origin, the sweet orange acclimated 

 here takes a good deal of the flavor and character of our Florida 

 oranges, and as no effort is made to scientifically cultivate any particu- 

 lar kind and species, it is impossible to determine the best variety. 



Situation. Trees producing sweet oranges are found here on sugar 

 and coffee estates from 10 to 50 miles from the coast line and distant 

 from shipping ports and harbors. 



As to elevation above sea level, sweet oranges can be produced in 

 rich alluvial soil found at various elevations. 



Climate. The temperature of this island varies from 60 minimum to 

 100 maximum (Fahrenheit) all the year. The nightsin winter are gen- 

 erally cool, especially when the north winds, most common from De- 

 cember to March, prevail. In the mountainous districts of this pro- 

 vince the nights are never sultry, although the days very often are very 

 sultry. In the absence of any scientific statistics I calculate from per- 

 sonal observation that the rain-fall is about 45 inches per annum. 



LEMONS. 



Lemons are not cultivated at all, and in their stead limes, growing 

 wild here and native to this country, are used. 



The lack of laboring men, the few necessities of the natives, and 

 the poor transporting facilities render the success of all agricultural 

 industries, except the cultivation of sugar, almost impossible as a com- 

 mercial investment. 



Figs, although easily grown here, are very rarely found. Olives not 

 at all. 



OTTO E. REIMER, 



Consul. 

 UNITED STATES CONSULATE, 



Santiago de Cuba, January 10, 1890. 



PORTO RICO. 



REPORT BY CONSUL CONROT, OF SAN JUAN. 

 (Republished for Consular Reports, No. 41.) 



In answer to the Department's communication, dated December 4, 

 1883, requesting information with regard to fruit culture and the extent 

 and value of the fruit industry as conducted in this consulate, 1 have 

 respectfully to state that there are no grape vineyards, olive trees, or 

 figs cultivated in this province. 



Orange trees grow all over this island. The Porto Kico orange mostly 

 cultivated averages from 2 to 4 inches in diameter. The trees average 



