~ EMPIRE 
A real Stat, lt Outshines Premier in many ways. 
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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 fading champion, Empire the strong challenger. 
Size: Empire berries are much more attractive than Premier and will bring higher prices 
on any market where quality and appearance are important. (See inside front 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 before we had virus free stocks Empire made a more vigorous growth 
than Premier. From now on all the Empire stock will be from virus free sources. So far 
it has been superior to our best virus free Premier. 
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. Mr. W. A. 
Andrews of Butler County, Ohio, has this to say about Empire and Premier: ‘Have 
grown your Empire berries for five years. They are the best producer and vigorous 
grower of them all. My neighbor has Premier and my Empire out produces his by far.” 
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. 
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