Repository: UIHistories Project: Board of Trustees Minutes - 1869 [PAGE 275]

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261 Mr. B. F . JOHNSON—What is the best aspect ? Mr. HUSMANN—We take a southern slope where we wish to grow grapes for the purpose of making the best wines. QUESTION—Is it not considered that the fruit that ripens under the sun of the first half of the day is better than that with the last half.

Mr. HUSMANN—We do not find it so.

QUESTION—Do you renew your wood as often as possible ? Mr. HUSMANN—Yes, in the case of some varieties. A VOICE—Will you give your system of pruning. Mr. HUSMANN—We modify the system according to the variety. It was suggested that he take the Concord, and show his method of training the grape. Mr. Husmann here went to the blackboard and demonstrated hip method of pruning the Concord vine. H e fruits this variety mainly upon the laterals. H e explained the practice of summer pruning, first and second pinchings. Mr. JEWETT—When would you make this second pruning ? Mr. HUSMANN—Just as soon as the shoots become long enough in the summer. Indeed, I don't know that I have a great deal of system in pruning; I go to work and prune just as I please. With the Catawba, in particular, we practice the renewal system. Mr. CAMPBELL—What height do you make your trellisses ?

Mr. HUSMANN—Five feet. Mr. CAMPBELL—Do you use wires ? ANSWER—Yes. QUESITON—How many ? Mr. HUSMANN—Three.

Mr. Husmann said, in answer to a question, we change our treatment, as I have stated, with the variety we have to deal with. The Norton's Virginia fruits better upon old wood; so does the Taylor, and also the Clinton. W e fruit these varieties on spurs. Mr. N . J. COLMAN—What is the best variety to succeed the Concord ? Mr. HUSMANN—I think Rodger's No. 4 the best. Mr. CAMPBELL—Is it as hardy as the Concord ? Mr. HUSMANN—It is hardy enough for us. Mr. B. F . JOHNSON—What is your soil ? What its geological formation ? Mr. HUSMANN—It is a sandy clay subsoil, overlaid with a black loam, and underlaid with sandstone.