We do believe, however, that we have yet much to learn in regard to the philosophy of pruning which it were well for us to study, and that by so doing we may gather some useful hints in relation to this very important part of a vine-grower's duties.
We do believe, as a result of our observations, that some varieties of grapes are more healthy and vigorous than others; and, on the other hand, that some are peculiarly subject to the inroads of these maladies which have so terribly affected the fruit, the foliage, and the green wood of our vines. We do firmly believe, that our societies should avoid recommending the extensive planting of any trees or vines that have not proved themselves general healthy, and free from the maladies in question, for a number of years, after trial in different situations.
We do believe that systematic efforts should be made with different remedial and preventive agents, to avert the disasters that have overtaken our vine-crops of late years, and, with this view, as we have reason to believe that the difficulty depends upon the existence of some epiphytic plant, and as we are informed that sulphur and sulphate of iron exert an obnoxious influence upon the whole class of fungi, we recommend our brother vine-dressers to take courage, and to make vigorous and systematic efforts to ward off the difficulty the coming season, by the regular and persevering applications of these substances to their grape vines.
For your encouragement, we will also refer you to the history of the vineyards of Europe, which have suffered in like manner, and which have at length recuperated their energies and become productive. Why may not the same good fortune await us?
Very respectfully submitted, by
R. Buchanan, Chairman.
FOOTNOTES:
[16] Trans. Horticultural Society, London, Vol. II, p. 308; and Am. Journal of Science and Arts, March, 1840.
[17] Trans. Cincinnati Horticultural Society, 1865.
[18] Cincinnati Hort. Soc. Report.