There is a wide division of opinion in regard to what is the best
berry to grow; the shrewdest growers find that a selection of
berries, running from the very early to the very late berry, gives
the best returns when a series of years is taken into account.
By common consent the purple-black berry, called “Early Black,” has
been the favorite with both growers and consumers, as its handsome,
rich coloring made it a good seller, while it is also a very prolific
berry. It is a medium-hard berry, and for bogs which are liable to be
infested with the fire, fruit, or span worm it seems preferable, as
the bog can be kept under water until as late as the first or middle
of June, and these berries will then, in an average season, ripen
before frost. It is, however, pretty well conceded by many growers
that this berry has been of great injury to the business as a whole,
since it is one of the poorest of keepers, and, while affording
profit for the time to the grower, has been of such loss to the
“middleman,” as to render him unduly cautious of Cape Cod berries.
This reputation which has attached itself to the Cape crop is wholly
unwarranted by a careful and intelligent investigation of the many
and various conditions which govern this, the most important feature
of the whole business.
The “A. D. Makepeace” berry is the outcome of a berry found by
its namesake, the largest grower in this country, and gradually
cultivated until it is conceded to be the largest early berry in the
market, and as such commands a high price. It is of cherry shape, and
rose-tinged purple in coloring. Illustration No. 1 is a fair example
of the shape of this berry.
The “James Anthony” is a very good variety of the second early
berries, and by some considered among the best keepers of the
medium-early berries.
The “Bachelor” is a larger berry, and, like the “J. P. Howes,” proves
to be a fair keeper and a salable berry, although the Howes is more
even and regular in size.
The “McFarland” is a dark-red, handsome berry, of large size, and a
favorite with a few large growers.
The “Bugle” or “Chipman” is an older berry, and one of the best
keepers, but not as productive as some others.
The six varieties mentioned are the most popular grown. Some others
may have a local reputation, which time and attention will bring into
favorable notice. Local conditions have much to do, however, with
qualities in all cases.
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HARWICHPORT, MASS., Oct. 20, 1891.
I have used Bradley’s Fertilizer for a number of years on
cranberries, both on newly set vines and old vines. I apply it
broadcast, and I find it pays well. I can recommend it to be a good
investment, causing more and larger fruit.