Trees, Fruits, and Flowers of Minnesota, 1916 Trivia Quiz Questions and Answers

In 1916, what was the estimated value of a half-acre garden in Minnesota?

$10
$50
$100
$500

Correct Answer: $50

Correct Answer Explanation: According to the book, a half-acre garden in 1916 was estimated to be worth $50, reflecting the importance of home gardening in supplementing food supplies and contributing to the local economy.

What hardy apple variety was recommended for Minnesota orchards in 1916?

Honeycrisp
Fuji
Wealthy
Granny Smith

Correct Answer: Wealthy

Correct Answer Explanation: The Wealthy apple, known for its hardiness and adaptability to Minnesota’s climate, was one of the recommended varieties for orchards in 1916.

What was a significant challenge facing fruit growers in Minnesota in 1916?

The lack of demand for fruit
The prevalence of invasive species
The absence of specialized equipment
The difficulty in marketing fruit

Correct Answer: The difficulty in marketing fruit

Correct Answer Explanation: The book highlights the challenges of marketing fruit, including the need for standardization and the benefits of cooperative efforts. This reflects the difficulties faced by growers in finding reliable buyers and obtaining fair prices for their produce.

Which fruit variety, though not productive, was valued for its resistance to curculio and brown rot in 1916?

The Wealthy apple
The Surprise plum
The Patten’s Greening apple
The Northwestern Greening apple

Correct Answer: The Surprise plum

Correct Answer Explanation: Despite its lack of productivity, the Surprise plum was considered a valuable variety due to its resistance to the plum curculio and brown rot, two significant pests and diseases that could severely impact fruit production.

What is “top-working” as it relates to fruit trees?

A method of pruning trees to encourage new growth
A technique for grafting desirable varieties onto hardy rootstocks
A process of transplanting trees to a different location
A way to control pests and diseases by spraying the trees

Correct Answer: A technique for grafting desirable varieties onto hardy rootstocks

Correct Answer Explanation: Top-working involves grafting a desirable fruit variety onto a hardy rootstock, allowing growers to combine the best qualities of both, resulting in trees that produce high-quality fruit while being resistant to harsh conditions.

Which of the following practices was NOT considered essential for successful fruit production in Minnesota in 1916?

Spraying for pests and diseases
Using cover crops
Employing organic farming techniques
Pruning trees regularly

Correct Answer: Employing organic farming techniques

Correct Answer Explanation: While organic farming practices are now widely recognized, in 1916, the focus was on using effective methods to control pests and diseases, ensuring fruit quality, and maximizing yields. Organic methods were not yet widely adopted or recognized as essential for successful fruit production.

Which organization played a key role in developing new fruit varieties for Minnesota in 1916?

The Minnesota Horticultural Society
The University of Minnesota Extension
The Minnesota Fruit-Breeding Farm
The National Conservation Committee

Correct Answer: The Minnesota Fruit-Breeding Farm

Correct Answer Explanation: The Minnesota Fruit-Breeding Farm was established specifically to develop new fruit varieties that could withstand the state’s harsh climate. It played a crucial role in the research and development of hardy apples, plums, and other fruits suitable for Minnesota’s conditions.

What was a significant benefit of the rise of consolidated schools in rural Minnesota in 1916?

They provided more opportunities for students to learn about horticulture
They made it easier for farmers to market their produce
They improved access to healthcare services in rural areas
They created social centers for communities

Correct Answer: They created social centers for communities

Correct Answer Explanation: The book mentions that consolidated schools were becoming more prevalent in rural areas, serving not only as educational institutions but also as community centers, providing social gatherings and fostering a sense of community spirit.

What type of trees were considered essential for protecting orchards and farms from harsh winds and frost in 1916?

Evergreen trees
Deciduous trees
Fruit trees
Shade trees

Correct Answer: Evergreen trees

Correct Answer Explanation: Windbreaks, especially those composed of evergreen trees, were valued for their ability to protect crops and livestock from harsh winds and frost, mitigating the risks associated with harsh weather conditions.

What was a significant challenge faced by fruit growers in Minnesota due to the plum curculio in 1916?

The plum curculio caused the price of fruit to plummet
The plum curculio led to a decline in consumer demand for fruit
The plum curculio destroyed a significant portion of the fruit crop
The plum curculio made it difficult to export fruit to other states

Correct Answer: The plum curculio destroyed a significant portion of the fruit crop

Correct Answer Explanation: The book mentions data from the National Conservation Committee showing an average annual loss of over $8,590,769 for just three fruits—apples, peaches, and plums—due to the plum curculio. This highlights the devastating impact of pests on fruit production and the need for effective pest control measures.

What was the primary purpose of the Bay Lake Fruit Growers’ Association in 1916?

To provide educational resources for fruit growers
To promote the consumption of local fruits
To help fruit growers market their products more effectively
To lobby for policies that benefited fruit growers

Correct Answer: To help fruit growers market their products more effectively

Correct Answer Explanation: The book showcases the Bay Lake Fruit Growers’ Association, illustrating the benefits of cooperative marketing in achieving higher prices for members. This reflects the importance of collaboration and collective efforts in addressing the challenges of marketing agricultural products.

Which of the following was NOT a factor in the growth of the apple industry in Minnesota in 1916?

The development of new, hardy apple varieties
The increasing demand for fresh fruit
The availability of government subsidies for apple growers
The introduction of improved orchard management techniques

Correct Answer: The availability of government subsidies for apple growers

Correct Answer Explanation: The book does not mention any government subsidies for apple growers, highlighting that the growth of the industry was driven by factors like innovation in varieties, increasing demand, and improved orchard management techniques.

What was the estimated total value of home gardens in Minnesota in 1916?

$500,000
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000

Correct Answer: $7,000,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The book estimates the total value of home gardens in Minnesota in 1916 at over $7,000,000, demonstrating the significant economic and social contribution of home gardening to the state.

What was a recommended method for improving soil fertility in 1916?

Using synthetic fertilizers
Relying on natural composting
Employing crop rotation techniques
Planting green manure crops

Correct Answer: Planting green manure crops

Correct Answer Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of maintaining soil fertility through the use of green manure and commercial fertilizers, highlighting that planting green manure crops was considered a crucial practice for enriching the soil and supporting healthy plant growth.

What is the significance of the story of John Chapman (“Johnny Appleseed”) in the context of the book?

It underscores the historical importance of apple cultivation
It emphasizes the need for sustainable agricultural practices
It showcases the importance of community involvement in horticulture
It highlights the challenges of marketing fruit in the early 20th century

Correct Answer: It underscores the historical importance of apple cultivation

Correct Answer Explanation: The book cites the story of John Chapman, a legendary figure who planted apple seeds throughout the American wilderness, highlighting the importance of seed planting and propagation, underscoring the historical significance of apple cultivation and its impact on the development of the country.

What is the significance of Harold Simmons’s story in the book?

It demonstrates the importance of marketing fruit effectively
It highlights the importance of research in developing new varieties
It showcases the challenges of dealing with pests and diseases
It provides practical advice on orchard management techniques

Correct Answer: It provides practical advice on orchard management techniques

Correct Answer Explanation: The book features Harold Simmons, an apple grower, who describes his successful methods for pruning, thinning, propping, and spraying apples in his orchard, providing practical advice on orchard management techniques for other growers.

What is the significance of Gust Johnson’s story in the book?

It highlights the importance of community involvement in horticulture
It emphasizes the challenges of marketing fruit in the early 20th century
It demonstrates the long-term rewards of fruit production
It showcases the importance of research in developing new varieties

Correct Answer: It demonstrates the long-term rewards of fruit production

Correct Answer Explanation: The book highlights Gust Johnson, a retired fruit grower, who shares his decades of experience in growing raspberries, illustrating the challenges and rewards of fruit production, demonstrating the long-term commitment and dedication required for success in horticulture.

What is the significance of the story about a farmer who learned from a boy in the book?

It emphasizes the importance of education and learning
It highlights the importance of community involvement in horticulture
It demonstrates the importance of research in developing new varieties
It showcases the challenges of dealing with pests and diseases

Correct Answer: It emphasizes the importance of education and learning

Correct Answer Explanation: The book highlights a story about a farmer who learned a valuable lesson from a boy, emphasizing the importance of open-mindedness and learning from others, even if they are younger or less experienced.

What is the significance of the story of Ezra F. Pabody in the book?

It highlights the importance of community service and the impact of one person’s efforts on others
It emphasizes the importance of marketing fruit effectively
It demonstrates the challenges of dealing with pests and diseases
It showcases the importance of research in developing new varieties

Correct Answer: It highlights the importance of community service and the impact of one person’s efforts on others

Correct Answer Explanation: The book recounts the life and legacy of Ezra F. Pabody, a Minnesota horticulturalist and city missionary, highlighting the importance of community service and the impact of one person’s efforts on others, inspiring readers to contribute to their communities through horticulture.

What is the significance of the story of C. S. Harrison in the book?

It emphasizes the importance of community involvement in horticulture
It highlights the importance of research in developing new varieties
It showcases the beauty and wonder of nature and the rewarding nature of the craft
It demonstrates the challenges of dealing with pests and diseases

Correct Answer: It showcases the beauty and wonder of nature and the rewarding nature of the craft

Correct Answer Explanation: The book features C. S. Harrison, a veteran nurseryman, who shares his passionate beliefs about the power of horticulture, emphasizing the beauty and wonder of nature and the rewarding nature of the craft, inspiring readers to appreciate the beauty and satisfaction found in cultivating plants.

What is the significance of the story of C. A. Pfeiffer and his experiences with the Surprise plum in Winona?

It demonstrates that certain varieties of fruit can thrive in specific localities despite their overall lack of productivity
It highlights the importance of community involvement in horticulture
It emphasizes the challenges of dealing with pests and diseases
It showcases the importance of research in developing new varieties

Correct Answer: It demonstrates that certain varieties of fruit can thrive in specific localities despite their overall lack of productivity

Correct Answer Explanation: The book recounts the positive experiences of C. A. Pfeiffer with the Surprise plum in Winona, demonstrating that this variety can thrive in certain localities despite its overall lack of productivity, highlighting the importance of regional adaptation in fruit selection and cultivation.

What is the significance of the story of J. K. Dixon and his experience with frost damage in the Fourth Congressional District?

It emphasizes the importance of taking preventative measures to protect fruit crops from weather-related damage
It highlights the importance of community involvement in horticulture
It demonstrates the challenges of dealing with pests and diseases
It showcases the importance of research in developing new varieties

Correct Answer: It emphasizes the importance of taking preventative measures to protect fruit crops from weather-related damage

Correct Answer Explanation: The book recounts the experience of J. K. Dixon with the devastating impact of frost on fruit in his district, emphasizing the importance of taking preventative measures to protect fruit crops from weather-related damage, highlighting the need for proactive strategies to mitigate risks in horticulture.

What is the significance of the story of Wm. Mansfield and his tree tomatoes?

It demonstrates the innovative spirit of gardeners and the potential for developing new and unique fruit varieties
It highlights the importance of community involvement in horticulture
It emphasizes the challenges of dealing with pests and diseases
It showcases the importance of research in developing new varieties

Correct Answer: It demonstrates the innovative spirit of gardeners and the potential for developing new and unique fruit varieties

Correct Answer Explanation: The book recounts the story of Wm. Mansfield, a dedicated tomato grower, who developed a tree tomato variety and provides detailed instructions for growing it, demonstrating the innovative spirit of gardeners and the potential for developing new and unique fruit varieties.

Which of the following is NOT a key element emphasized in the book “Trees, Fruits, and Flowers of Minnesota, 1916”?

The importance of selecting hardy varieties
The use of organic farming techniques
The development of effective marketing strategies
The need for research and development of new fruit varieties

Correct Answer: The use of organic farming techniques

Correct Answer Explanation: While organic farming practices are now widely recognized, in 1916, the book’s focus was on using effective methods to control pests and diseases, ensuring fruit quality, and maximizing yields. Organic methods were not yet widely adopted or recognized as essential for successful fruit production.

What does the book suggest about the role of horticulture in Minnesota in 1916?

Horticulture was primarily a hobby for wealthy individuals
Horticulture was a significant industry with both economic and aesthetic values
Horticulture was primarily focused on developing new fruit varieties for commercial production
Horticulture was primarily focused on providing food for local communities

Correct Answer: Horticulture was a significant industry with both economic and aesthetic values

Correct Answer Explanation: The book emphasizes the contributions of horticulture to the farm and home, enhancing both economic and aesthetic values, demonstrating the importance of horticulture not only for food production but also for enriching the landscape and improving quality of life.

What is the main takeaway message of the book “Trees, Fruits, and Flowers of Minnesota, 1916”?

Minnesota’s horticulture industry was in decline due to the challenges of pests and diseases
Horticulture was a promising industry with great potential for growth and innovation
The importance of organic farming was becoming increasingly recognized
The focus on fruit production was shifting from commercial orchards to home gardens

Correct Answer: Horticulture was a promising industry with great potential for growth and innovation

Correct Answer Explanation: The book highlights the pioneering work of the Minnesota Fruit-Breeding Farm in developing new varieties and the crucial role of research in addressing the challenges faced by growers, demonstrating that horticulture was a promising industry with great potential for growth and innovation.

What is the significance of the book “Trees, Fruits, and Flowers of Minnesota, 1916” for understanding the history of Minnesota horticulture?

It provides a comprehensive overview of the development of the state’s horticultural industry
It provides insights into the challenges and triumphs of horticulture in Minnesota at the time
It highlights the role of government in supporting the horticulture industry
It showcases the importance of organic farming in the early 20th century

Correct Answer: It provides insights into the challenges and triumphs of horticulture in Minnesota at the time

Correct Answer Explanation: The book provides valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of horticulture in Minnesota at the time, highlighting the importance of selecting hardy varieties, employing proper orchard management techniques, and developing effective marketing strategies to ensure a successful fruit industry.

What is a “windbreak” in the context of horticulture?

A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
A row of trees or shrubs planted to protect crops and livestock from harsh winds
A method of controlling pests and diseases
A type of pruning technique

Correct Answer: A row of trees or shrubs planted to protect crops and livestock from harsh winds

What is a “cover crop” in the context of horticulture?

A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
A row of trees or shrubs planted to protect crops and livestock from harsh winds
A crop planted to improve soil fertility, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds
A method of controlling pests and diseases

Correct Answer: A crop planted to improve soil fertility, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds

Correct Answer Explanation: Cover crops are planted to improve soil fertility, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds, contributing to a healthy and productive growing environment.

What is “mulch” in the context of horticulture?

A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
A layer of organic material applied around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature
A method of controlling pests and diseases
A type of pruning technique

Correct Answer: A layer of organic material applied around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature

Correct Answer Explanation: Mulch, often made from organic materials like straw, leaves, or wood chips, is applied around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature, creating a favorable environment for plant growth.

What is a “dormant spray” in the context of horticulture?

A spray applied to trees and shrubs during their dormant period (winter), typically to control pests and diseases
A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
A method of controlling weeds
A type of pruning technique

Correct Answer: A spray applied to trees and shrubs during their dormant period (winter), typically to control pests and diseases

Correct Answer Explanation: Dormant sprays are applied to trees and shrubs during their dormant period, usually in winter, to control pests and diseases that may be present on the plants but inactive during the cold months.

What is a “canker” in the context of horticulture?

A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
A localized area of dead tissue on a tree trunk or branch, often caused by bacteria or fungi
A method of controlling pests and diseases
A type of pruning technique

Correct Answer: A localized area of dead tissue on a tree trunk or branch, often caused by bacteria or fungi

Correct Answer Explanation: Cankers are localized areas of dead tissue on a tree trunk or branch, often caused by bacteria or fungi, and can weaken or kill the tree if not treated.

What is “scab” in the context of horticulture?

A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
A fungal disease that affects apples and other fruits, causing lesions and blemishes
A method of controlling pests and diseases
A type of pruning technique

Correct Answer: A fungal disease that affects apples and other fruits, causing lesions and blemishes

Correct Answer Explanation: Scab is a fungal disease that affects apples and other fruits, causing lesions and blemishes, reducing the quality and marketability of the fruit.

What is a “codling moth” in the context of horticulture?

A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
A destructive pest of apples that infests the fruit with its larvae
A method of controlling pests and diseases
A type of pruning technique

Correct Answer: A destructive pest of apples that infests the fruit with its larvae

Correct Answer Explanation: The codling moth is a destructive pest of apples that infests the fruit with its larvae, damaging the apples and making them unsuitable for consumption.

What are “plant lice” in the context of horticulture?

A type of fertilizer used to enrich the soil
Small, soft-bodied insects (aphids) that feed on plant sap, causing damage and weakening
A method of controlling pests and diseases
A type of pruning technique

Correct Answer: Small, soft-bodied insects (aphids) that feed on plant sap, causing damage and weakening

Correct Answer Explanation: Plant lice, also known as aphids, are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap, causing damage and weakening the plants, and can lead to stunted growth or even death.

In 1916, how many barrels of apples did Minnesota produce?

100
500
800
1,200

Correct Answer: 800

Correct Answer Explanation: The book mentions that Minnesota produced 800 barrels of apples in 1915, reflecting the scale of apple production in the state at the time.

What is the estimated cost of labor for a three-quarters acre garden in 1916?

Correct Answer: $15

Correct Answer Explanation: The book estimates the labor cost for a three-quarters acre garden in 1916 at $15, highlighting the importance of labor and its cost in maintaining and producing from a garden.

What is the estimated amount of nitrogen a single acre of clover can capture from the air?

20 pounds
60 pounds
120 pounds
240 pounds

Correct Answer: 120 pounds

Correct Answer Explanation: The book states that a single acre of clover can capture 120 pounds of nitrogen from the air, demonstrating the significant contribution of nitrogen-fixing plants to soil fertility.

What is the estimated annual loss due to the plum curculio for apples, peaches, and plums, according to the National Conservation Committee in 1916?

$859,076
$8,590,769
$85,907,690
$859,076,900

Correct Answer: $8,590,769

Correct Answer Explanation: The book cites data from the National Conservation Committee showing an average annual loss of over $8,590,769 for just three fruits—apples, peaches, and plums—due to the plum curculio, highlighting the significant economic impact of pests on fruit production.

What is the estimated net annual revenue for a municipal forest of 10,000 acres, according to the book?

$5,000 – $10,000
$50,000 – $100,000
$500,000 – $1,000,000
$5,000,000 – $10,000,000

Correct Answer: $50,000 – $100,000

Correct Answer Explanation: The book suggests that a municipal forest of 10,000 acres could generate a net annual revenue of $50,000 to $100,000, in addition to its recreational benefits, demonstrating the potential economic value of forestry and the importance of managing forests sustainably.

What is a “hardy” plant in the context of horticulture?

A plant that is resistant to pests and diseases
A plant that is easy to grow and maintain
A plant that is native to a particular region
A plant that can withstand cold temperatures, drought, or other environmental challenges

Correct Answer: A plant that can withstand cold temperatures, drought, or other environmental challenges

Correct Answer Explanation: A hardy plant is one that can withstand cold temperatures, drought, or other environmental challenges, making it suitable for a particular region or climate.

What does the term “top-working” refer to in horticulture?

A type of pruning technique
A method of grafting a desirable variety of fruit onto a hardy rootstock
A way to control pests and diseases
A type of fertilizer

Correct Answer: A method of grafting a desirable variety of fruit onto a hardy rootstock

What does the term “windbreak” refer to in horticulture?

A type of fertilizer
A row of trees or shrubs planted to protect crops and livestock from harsh winds
A method of controlling pests and diseases
A type of pruning technique