INTRODUCTION. KVil 
imate composition of his soil, either by a pre- 
vious knowledge of the crops grown on it, or 
by an analysis, so that he may renew those 
ingredients that are not already in sufficient 
quantity to meet the demands of the trees. A 
pear tree planted on a poorly prepared soil may 
often show signs of vigor and healthfulness 
for a few years, but the absence of the neces- 
sary constituents will soon become apparent, 
and unless some means are taken to restore 
them, premature death is sure to follow. 
There is no good reason why the horticul- 
turist should not know the anatomy of the 
trees, and the composition of the soil, as well 
as the skillful physician comprehends the con- 
dition and surroundings of the human body. 
It is my intention in this work to present 
to the reader plain and thoroughly practical 
directions on pear culture, relating my own 
experience as far as possible. My desire is to 
give instructions so minute that those who 
may follow them will learn how to propagate 
a tree in the nursery row, prepare the soil for 
its permanent location, give it such attention 
during the early stages of growth as to in- 
sure a strong, vigorous tree, that when the 
time shall arrive for producing fruit, they 
