Grading of Fruit and Vegetables. 159 



Bags of various kinds and sizes, with large light open baskets 

 or crates, are more extensively employed than boxes. The 

 majority of roots are sent in bags, but the best samples of 

 turnips, carrots, &c, that are bunched are sent in crates, while 

 radishes and small roots are sent in baskets. Green vegetables 

 like cabbages, are best in crates, as also are broccoli and 

 cauliflowers, but the earliest and best of the last named are 

 often packed in flat baskets or hampers and pay for every care 

 The best samples of salading, such as lettuces, are usually packed 

 in hampers, the rougher grades in crates. Peas and beans are 

 packed in baskets, bushels, or half-sieves, but as previously 

 noted peas when shelled are forwarded in small boxes containing 

 about three quarts each. Half-sieves are also used for Brussels 

 sprouts, pickling onions, and other small vegetables. The 

 earliest rhubarb is consigned in hampers ; the later often goes 

 to market in bundles loaded direct into the vans, or packed 

 in crates, as also is celery. For all early and high quality 

 vegetables shallow baskets or boxes are useful. Cucumbers, 

 tomatoes, mushrooms, and many others can be conveniently 

 sent in this way, and where periodical consignments of general 

 vegetables are sent to private customers this is the best method. 

 It is necessary to pack firmly as with fruits, and where green or 

 perishable vegetables have to travel a longdistance it is desirable 

 to gather them as shortly before packing as possible, preferably 

 in the early morning when quite fresh, but not when drenched 

 with rain. They should not be allowed to remain exposed to 

 sun or wind for some hours before they are sent off, as is 

 sometimes the case, to the obvious disadvantage of the seller. 

 Above all, do not on any consideration admit defective or 

 decaying samples into the packages; maintain the uniformity 

 so strongly recommended as regards fruits, and it will be found 

 that the reputation gained is a satisfactory exemplification that 

 " honesty is the best policy," though what is often stigmatised 

 as dishonesty is a carelessness from which the producer suffers 

 most seriously in the returns he receives. 



R. Lewis Castle. 



