Size, beauty, productiveness. Empire has them all. 



EMPIRE 



A red! Star, ft Outshines Premier in many ways. 



Empire is one of the finest medium early berries northern growers have ever had. 

 Empire (Dresden x Sparkle) was originated by Dr. George L. Slate at the New York 

 Experiment Station. The best way to fully describe Empire is to compare it with 

 Premier, long the leader of all northern varieties. 



Premier is early, Empire medium early, about four days after Premier. Both are 

 northern varieties — Premier the champion, Empire the strong challenger. 



Quality: Empire is much better than Premier. 



Size. Empire berries average larger than Premier. 



Appearance: Empire berries are much more attractive than Premier and will bring 

 higher prices on any market where quality and appearance are important. (See inside 

 back cover.) 



Firmness: Empire berries are firmer than Premier with a tougher skin which makes 

 them hold and ship better. Neither is as firm as Blakemore or Tennessee Beauty. 



Growth: Even though indexed virus- free Empire stocks will not be available until 1958 

 our Empire has made truly wonderful beds — superior to our best virus free Premier. 

 (See picture.) 



Productiveness: Empire is about equal to Premier. If all the small late berries are 



included Premier may yield a few more. Empire has more big berries. 



Processor: Neither Premier nor Empire are outstanding as processing berries. Both are 



acceptable. 



Frost Resistance: Premier has a proven record of over 40 years. Empire has been a 

 consistent bearer since its introduction in 1950. Grower reaction to Empire has ranged 

 from good to enthusiastic. Fine reports about its growth, yield, size, beauty and quality 

 have come from most of the middle and northern states. In this area Empire is a 

 winner. You will like it. Price list page 32. 



10 



