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BLENHEIM, KE. (syn. Shipley)—-A very good early variety, 
above medium, oval, orange with a deep yellow, juicy, and tolerably 
rich flesh; good grower, and regular prolific bearer. Fruit runs a 
little larger than the Royal, and is usually better distributed on the 
tree, but it must be well thinned. This variety is approved by 
canners. Ripens a little later than the Royal. Tree shy when young, 
but becomes productive after a few years. 
MANSFIELD SEEDLING, L—TFruit very large, and one of the 
fincst grown. A good bearer and a late one. 
SELect PEacHEes (Prunus Persica). 
The Peach, when grown in perfection, is probably one of the best 
fruit cultivated. Its period of ripening ranges from early sum- 
mer to late autumn. The trees are not as a rule long-lived, bearing 
half-dozen good erops and then decline. Under favourable conditions, 
however, they bear for a score of years or so. The peach in its 
bearing or its quality is readily affected by climate and local con- 
ditions, and one kind which flourishes in one locality may do in- 
differently in another in close proximity where climatic or soil con- 
ditions differ. The soil most suitable is that which yields good farm 
crops. On a strong loam it lasts longer than on a thin or gravelly 
soil; potassie fertilisers greatly benefit it. 
The following are some of the favourite varieties, arranged ap- 
proximately in the order of ripening :— 
Fuat Curna, E., F., of which there is an improved variety, 
ripens earliest of all—beginning of November. Tree, a strong 
grower and an early and abundant bearer; for that reason not a 
long-lived variety. Suitable for the warmer districts of the State. 
Does well about Champion Bay. 
DuNHeLM (syn. Bell’s November), named by the importer, Mr. 
A. E. Sanderson, of Guildford, from stock introduced from South 
America. Ripens very early—beginning of December. Crimson 
cheek, medium size; fruits well; similar to but smaller than Brigg’s 
Red May. Suitable for coastal districts free from hard frost. 
Brica’s Earty Rep May (California), E., F.—The best of 
early peaches. Riyens middle of November. Fruit medium to 
large, round; white skin with rich, red cheek; flesh greenish-white, 
melting, juicy, 1ich; stone partially free; a standard early variety; 
subject to mildew. In the coastal districts, west of the Darling 
Ranges, this variety is a disappointing one, dropping its fruit buds 
very extensively in certain seasons. 
ALEXANDER (American), F., C.-—A very early and excellent 
peach. Fruit medium to large; greeuish-white, nearly covered with 
rich red. Flesh whitish, melting, juicy, sweet, the only fault being 
