306 Kepokt of the Depakt.mext of Extomology. 



cultivation. 



According to Monlton, experiments have clearly demonstrated 

 that deep fall plowing is an efficient aid to spraying if it is done 

 at a proper time and with care. The thrips undergo their pnpal 

 development during the late fall and early winter, and when in 

 this stage they are apparently, under certain conditions, suscep- 

 tible to disturbances of the soil. For prune orchards in California 

 Foster and Jones recommend plowing to the depth of seven or 

 eight inches during the months of October and ]S[oveniber, fol- 

 lowed by harrowing ; and then cross plowing eight or nine inches 

 deep with subsequent harrowing. On the other hand it is also 

 stated by them that on certain fruit areas in that State such treat- 

 ment, especially for pear orchards, has not given as satisfactory 

 results as have been obtained in other localities. 



Fall plowing of orchards in Xew York is not regarded with 

 favor by most orchardists, and moreover an opinion prevails that 

 such practice on the lighter soils is attended with risks from winter 

 injuries. In view of the absence of data showing effects on both 

 trees and the insect, fall plowing of orchards for the thrips in this 

 State should be pursued advisedly and in an experimental way. 



GENERAL CAKE OF ORCHAED. 



Severe attacks by the thrips are a serious drain on the vitality 

 and productiveness of the trees. In their weakened state they are 

 also more subject to injuries by adverse weather or environment, 

 and to attacks by various wood-boring insects. The needs of the 

 orchard with respect to cultivation, fertilizers, pruning and spray- 

 ing for other insects and diseases should be carefully considered in 

 order that the most favorable conditions for recovery to health 

 and productiveness may be afforded to the trees. 



