nd.

[Illustration: Prof. R. S. Mackintosh--Horticulturist connected with
Extension Division, University Farm, St. Paul.]

"B" Grade.--Hand picked, practically normal shape, practically free from
dirt, disease and insect injuries, and properly packed. Limit of defects
allowed: Not more than 15% of all nor 5% of any one kind.

Only one variety and grade should be put in a package. In the grade
specifications given, normal shape refers to the general form of
well-grown specimens of the variety in question. For instance: The
Wealthy is regular in outline and nearly round, while the Hibernal is
somewhat flat and often irregular. In like manner the color must be
typical of the variety, whether green, yellow or red. Red apples usually
sell better than green or yellow varieties, although the quality may be
even poorer. Fruit showing insect or disease injuries cannot be classed
as well grown. Grading to size is very important. This is not specified
because it depends upon the variety and season. Only apples above a
selected minimum size, as 2-1/2 inches, the diameter at right angles to
stem, should be placed in the same package. Defects refer to apples not
up to grade in size, color or shape and having bruises, punctures,
disease or insect injuries.

_Fancy._--For persons having extra choice fruit, a fancy grade can be
used. Well-grown specimens, hand picked, of normal shape, at least
two-thirds colored, free from dirt, diseases and insect injuries and
properly packed. Not more than 5% of combined defects allowed, of which
only 2% can be of the same kind.

Hundreds of letters were sent to persons in the state, telling them that
we would maintain an information bureau or clearing house to help them
in finding markets for their apples. Several growers replied, and the
names of persons who were anxious to buy apples were given them. Nine
farmers' clubs asked for information as to where Minnesota apples could
be bought. This is a beginning, and it shows that there is need for some
sort of an organization that can find out where apples are and who wants
them. The intention has not been to interfere with the regular trade
routes, but to give the growers information as to who wants apples. As
you will notice, this does not bring the producer directly to the door
of the consumer. There must be some one to act as a go-between in most
cases.

It was just stated that Minnesota is a state having a very large number
of co-operative b