CALIFORNIA AVOCADO ASSOCIATFON 



79 



profit, while the large fruit found a ready market. That is to say, 

 fruit weighing from six to twelve ounces each were at a discount, 

 while those weighing from sixteen to tvv^enty-two ounces were ac- 

 cepted with favor, and all over twenty-two ounces were in strong 

 demand at a premium. 



Contrary to general opinion, I found the thin-skinned varieties 

 to be remarkably good shippers. Indeed, when cut at the proper 

 time and carefully packed, they will hold up quite as well, if not 

 better, than some varieties of even the hard-shelled fruit. I have 

 ' no hesitancy in saying that California growers will find no difficulty 

 in shipping the thin-skinned varieties to any part of the United 

 States. 



Another point is that, while ahuacates can be transported long 

 distances under refrigeration and arrive at destination in apparent 

 good condition, it is generally found they will ripen-in badly, espe- 

 cially when a temperature lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit is 

 maintained. An air temperature of from 50 to 60 degrees is quite 

 ideal for the transportation and preservation of this fruit. 



Paper wrapping of any kind is injurious. A small amount of 

 coarse excelsior should be used, and packing in single-layer crates 

 is desirable, though not essential, the first requisite being a free 

 circulation at air temperatures, and a dry atmosphere under refrig- 

 eration. 



In marketing from Mexico, many difficulties were encountered 

 in picking, packing, transporting to railways and other lines of 

 transportation, etc., but with the facilities available in this country 

 the California growers will soon determine the best methods for 

 marketing, the most essential requirements being to expand the 

 markets by educating the public to the value of this fruit, and by 

 propagating the best varieties. 



In addition to the restrictions upon the Mexican ahuacate, 

 there are existing embargoes against the mango, zapote, guava and 

 sweet lime ; so that further experiments with the tropical fruits, at 

 least from Mexico for the American market, cannot be made. 



Experience With Shipments 



Questioned in regard to the fruit shipped to Chicago and re- 

 turned, Dr. Coit said : 



I think most of the people have seen it. I would like 



