64 DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. 



Prevention and Remedies. 



In early spring, and just before the buds commence to 

 swell, lay bare the roots of the trees and spray the same 

 with either kerosene emulsion, Bordeaux mixture, or 

 both, adding a little spent gas lime as a covering (this 

 should not be placed in direct contact with the roots). 

 At pruning time thin out and burn as much wood as 

 possible, then give the trees a couple of thorough spray- 

 ings with either kerosene (by means of the '"attachment"), 

 resin compound, or other materials before mentioned. 



Should the aphis in spite of these precautions make 

 their appearance, wait till the foliage has fairly hardened, 

 then use the above, but in a more diluted form. Tobacco 

 and soap is one of the good old remedies, and is especially 

 useful when the foliage is tender — too tender, perhaps, 

 to be able to use the more penetrating kerosene with 

 safety. There are one or two other matters which are 

 of importance, viz., the advisability of keeping your trees 

 in vigorous health, i.e., by first grafting your trees on 

 the proper stocks. If you want to combat the pests keep 

 the trees growing, keep the orchard clean, and see that 

 it is properly cultivated. In Queensland the plum is 

 also attacked by the " Fruit Fly," although according to 

 Mr. Tryon this fly is not very partial to this fruit, but 

 in Victoria, with the exception of the aphis and some 

 small native weevils, it is comparatively free from insect 

 attack. 



