JUDGING FRUITS 



465 



ing the time to apply the score-card method, because it may 

 be seen at a glance that they are outclassed. 



In using the score card, make cuts on a percentage basis. 

 Unless this is done, the mind, tending to deal with whole 

 numbers, will make too heavy cuts on the less important fac- 

 tors on the score card and too moderate cuts on the more 

 important factors. Thus, in the usual score card for apples, 

 a cut of two points on size is a 20 percent cut, while a cut of 

 two points on color is less than 10 percent. 



How to Identify Varieties of Fruit. It is a valuable asset 

 to be able to identify the major varieties of the various fruits. 

 It is difficult to put forth a formula by which this ability 

 may be acquired. Some of the most accurate judges have 

 difficulty in explaining just how they recognize varieties. 

 Much, however, can be accomplished in this direction by study. 

 The suggestions given apply directly to the apple but may be 

 adapted to other fruits. 



Begin with a small number of varieties. Secure specimens 

 from different regions in order that local variations may not 

 mislead. Study these varieties several times a week through- 

 out the season. Increase the list as knowledge increases. 



Look for the constant external factors. Shape is much 

 more reliable as a guide than size or color. The length of the 

 stem and the depth of the cavity in which it is placed; the 

 size and appearance of the dots that stand out in the skin on 

 close inspection; the way the color is laid on, whether in 

 stripes, splashes, a blush on the cheek, or in a solid effect; the 

 depth of the basin or depression at the blossom end, whether 

 the sides of the depression are straight or sloping; the calyx 

 lobes, whether open and spreading, or closed and folded over 

 each other — all are points that have bearing and tell their 

 story to the person who studies them. Likewise, unusual cor- 

 rugations or enlargement, such as appear characteristically 

 about the calyx of Delicious, or suture lines running from 

 stem to calyx over the outer surface as in Tolman or Winter 

 Banana, are significant. 



