Transactions (1891)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1876 edition. Excerpt: ...except the loss of probably fifty per cent. of all apple trees thus far planted. This loss is partially attributed to the newness and unsubdued condition of our virgin prairies. Many are zealously working with a full determination to succeed. We cannot yet speak with any certainty as to our best and most hardy varieties. Pears and Peaches are not attempted as yet. Various kinds of Cherries and Plums are succeeding finely. Of the Raspberry, Gooseberry, Currants, and Strawberries, we have, where suitable care and culture have been given, an abundance. All these make a fine growth, fruit heavily, and are remarkably fine in appearance and quality. Plats of these fruits reach best results when protected from wind sweep somewhat, and well mulched to carry them through our drouths of both summer and winter. Grapes have not as yet done as well, but will doubtless improve, when our soil becomes older and better subdued. With Evergreens, very few succeed, and many doubt our final success with them. My own experience leads me to believe that some kinds will do very well. I have the White, Scotch and Austrian Pines, and Norway Spruce, all doing finely and looking well so far, though, as yet they are quite small, being only two and three years transplanted. Tire Arbor Vitas and Balsam Fir are not as hardy, although some specimens are making good growth. Norway and White Spruce do well, if protected and shaded somewhat on south and southwest sides, while young. As they attain age and become deeply rooted, they will no doubt take care of themselves. Another essential is thorough mulching, which by the way, is a great benefit to any and all of our trees. The Red Cedar is as hardy with us as the Cottonwood; it grows rapidly and ought to be extensively...