Forcing-House Miscellanies. 413 



origin, and was first reported in this country in 1891. On account 

 of the rapidity with which the disease has spread, and the serioua 

 losses that follow its attacks if allowed to develop unchecked, it has 

 been ranked among those which are treated with difficulty. It 

 appears probable that some exaggerated statements have been made 

 regarding its control, yet carnation growers can not be too careful in 

 adopting all measures that may prove efEective in destroying the 

 parasite. 



The disease has been rapidly introduced into all parts of the 

 country by means of diseased stock sent out by propagators. The 

 first item in growing a healthy Jot of carnations is to have the plants 

 free from disease when they are set in the bench. All rooted cut- 

 tings received from other growers should be closely examined, and 

 the affected ones discarded. The same protection should be taken 

 at the time of setting the plants in the benches. It is only in this 

 manner that a clean start can be made, and even in spite of such 

 care, the trouble appears only too frequently. 



During 1891, some new varieties of carnations were sent us for 

 testing, and with the plants came the rust. For obvious reasons 

 these plants could not be discarded, and the attempt was made to 

 grow them in a bench which was also set with carnations of standard 

 varieties, these being entirely free from the disease. 



The bench was planted during September, but no fungicide was 

 applied until November IT. At this time the rust had spread 

 among the healthy plants that were growing next to the affected 

 ones, about a dozen being diseased. Some were so seriously attacked, 

 however, that steps were taken to check the spread of the disease. 



Two mixtures were applied. The first consisted of the Bordeaux 

 mixture* to which was added soap. This addition was made in 

 order to render the mixture more adhesive. Varying. quantities of 

 soap were tried, but the stated amount proved as satisfactory as^ 

 any. The foliage of carnations is particularly difficult to wet, and 

 much trouble was experienced in obtaining a uniform application. 

 The soap appeared to possess a certain value in preventing the mix- 

 ture from collecting in drops and rolling from the leaves, yet this 

 action was not as marked as was desired. It was found, however, 

 that if an extremely fine spray was made the liquid could be fairly 

 well distributed. 



* Copper sulphate 6 pounds, quicklime 4 pounds, soap li pounds, water 45 

 gallons. 



