188 Report oF THE BOTANIST OF THE 
Appreciating the limitations and inaccuracies of the circular- 
letter method, the committee planned to supplement the data ob- 
tained in that way with data obtained from observations made by 
experts. Jor this purpose the Chairman associated with himself 
Mr. F. H. Blodgett, Assistant Botanist and Entomologist, who 
made three two-day and three three-day trips to different localities 
in the southern half of the district for the purpose of inspecting 
fruit plantations, taking notes on fruit diseases and collecting speci- 
mens. The Chairman made six similar trips of inspection to locali- 
ties in the northern half of the district. 
This combination of circular-letter method and expert inspection 
is a good one. The two methods supplement each other admirably. 
The following is a copy of the circular letter sent to fruit 
growers, the spaces for answers being omitted: 
CIRCULAR Tari Inquiry Sent TO FRUIT GROWERS. 
GENEVA, N. Y., Nov. 15, 1899. 
Dear Str.— The undersigned, a Committee on Plant Diseases, appointed by 
the Eastern New York Horticultural Society, wish to get together information 
in regard to the most troublesome diseases prevalent the past season among 
orchards, vineyards and nurseries in the Hudson River Valley. They issue 
the following circular in the hope that prompt replies may enable them to 
prepare a valuable report for the next meeting of the Society. Will you kindly 
fill out the blanks below and return at once? Please answer only those ques- 
tions concerning which you can give positive information. Address your reply 
to the chairman, F. C. Stewart, Geneva, N. Y. ; 
1. Which of the following plant diseases have caused serious injury in your 
locality during the past season— 
ORCHARD DISEASES. 
Apple. Plum. 
Pear blight (Fire blight). Black knot. 
Scab. Fruit rot. 
Leaf spot. Leaf blight. 
Pear. Peach. 
Leaf blight. Fruit rot. 
Pear blight (Fire blight). Leaf curl. 
Scab. Yellows. 
Little peach. 
Quince. Cherry. 
Fruit spot and leaf blight. Fruit rot. 
Pear blight (Fire blight). vs, Leaf blight. 
