21 March 1912
Splendid Fruit
Grown in the Crudine District Samples for the London Exhibition.
A packing demonstration was held recently at Messrs. Sim Bros.' orchard, "Brooklyn," Capertee, by J. G. .R. Bryant, Government Fruit Expert. The fruit for export included "Five Crown" apples. The quality first-class, and the fruit in right stage for shipping. The expert said it compared very favorably with similar varieties grown in the State.
The first shipment of fruit destined for Germany was graded and packed during the day in the presence of local growers.
After packing, a tour was made through the orchard. The growth and general appearance of the trees was found to be excellent. The cropping of the "Jonathan," "Five Crown," and "Munro's Favorite" apples was very heavy, the color and size of the "Jonathan" being particularly noticeable. Amongst the younger trees, which are now coming into bearing, were found varieties of the "Delicious" and "Rome Beauty." These give promise of proving profitable varieties to grow in this district.
Regarding pears, "Winter Nellis" were carrying heavy crops of good quality fruit. This pear is of special value to grow, and appears to be eminently well suited to this locality. Amongst others were "Broompark," "Barry," "Kuffer's Hybrid," and "Bailey's Bergamott," carrying very good crops. The "William Bile Cap" and "Gansell Bergamott" trees had been harvested. The samples stored in the packing shed were of high quality, and from the appearance of the pear trees, one can confidently recommend the extension of the plantation of the above varieties throughout this district.
As to the working and general appearance of this orchard, it clearly shows the thorough and careful attention which has been given to the cultivation of the ground and the care paid to the controlling of the various fruit pests. The orchard is practically clean.
The area of orchard is 110 acres, carrying 11,000 trees in various stages of growth - one to 12 years. From some trees up to nine bushels of apples have been harvested. Twenty-seven cases of apples and pears from this orchard were selected by an officer of the Agricultural Department to be exhibited at the Royal Horticultural Show, London, next May, along with samples from several other representative orchards throughout the State1
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