DAVYER'S GUIDE. 



lus with the introduction of the Japan varieties. We therefore, for tlie 

 benefit of our readers, think best to divide the Plums into two separate 

 classes, namely: The Euro- 

 pean and the Japan Varie- 

 ties. In selecting varieties 

 from both these families, we 

 will not deviate from our 

 original purpose thus far 

 faithfully adhered to with all 

 the fruits we have written 

 about. To cut down the list 

 of varieties as far as possi- 

 ble and practicable, without 

 omitting any sort that is re- 

 liable and valuable under 

 varied climatic conditions 

 in any section of the coun- 

 try where the fruit can be 

 produced. We have a great 

 surplus of varieties of all 

 -fruits, many of them having 

 only a local value near their 

 origin, or where grown un- 

 der some special favored 

 conditions and treatment; 

 "then we have many others 

 .that are quite valueless no 

 matter where grown. These 

 should never have been put 



■on the list in the begining, but should now be discarded 

 possible moment. Then such a voluminous list of good, 

 ferent varieties serve only to confuse the beginner or amateur fruit grow- 

 'er, besides being a constant source of annoyance to the professional. The 

 writer has for many years past in his semi-annual publications and 

 writings strongly advocated the cutting down of this unnecessary and 

 inexcusable long list of fruits, the complete and entire weeding out 

 and destruction of these needless inferior sorts. We are pleased to ob- 

 serve for some time past the tendency in this direction by many leading 

 nurserymen, authorities on horticultural matters, and even the best and 

 ■most progressive up-to-date fruit growers, especially those who are in the 

 ibusiness for commercial purposes are confining their plantings to a 

 few of the leading, trustworthy, standard kinds. The disseminators and 

 ■introducers of new fruits are public benefactors and their work is at all 

 times commendable. However, when after a fair trial a new fruit proves 

 a failure it is a duty and a blessing to all interested to discard it 

 promptly, 



PLUMS— J.-iPAN Varieties. 



This comparatively new family has revolu- 

 tionized plum growing for some years past. They 

 are in many essential ways different and preferable 

 to our European sorts. The trees are hardier and 

 will endure neglect and unfavorable situations bet- 

 tor; they are stronger and more vigorousi growers, 

 much more productive, and as a rule, will come in- 

 to bearing from two to four years earlier. The fruits average eonsider- 



-^^■*-*^^,.^ i^Cil^ 



at the earliest 

 bad and indif- 



