74 DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. 



could or would attack the tree for, at least, some consider- 

 able time. It having been observed that the small and 

 fibrous roots are not often attacked, the lifting of the trees 

 and the removal of many of the larger roots before again 

 re-planting has been tried, and, fortunately for growers 

 of apples and pears, the results have, so far, proved 

 successful, it having been ascertained (so Mr. King 

 informs me) that the trees have thriven and borne well 

 after this seemingly heroic treatment. 



It is a matter of great regret that this formidable pest 

 should have made such headway, and is so widely distri- 

 buted throughout the fruit-growing districts of the colony, 

 and it is to be hoped that, in addition to the preventive and 

 remedial measures already suggested, growers will co- 

 operate with the Entomologist, Mycologist, and inspectors, 

 with a view of stamping out all plant enemies, whether 

 insect or fungoid. 



It should be observed that the more vigorous the growth 

 of any plant, and the freer it is kept from rubbish and litter 

 of all kind, the less liable is it to be attacked by insect 

 pests of any kind. Where small native trees abound near 

 orchards, a search should be made on the leaves for this 

 Curculio, when they can be shaken off and destroyed, and 

 their numbers greatly lessened. 



Bi-sulphide of carbon can be obtained in bulk, or in small 

 quantities, at about 5s. per gallon, and being highly com- 

 bustive, care should be taken to see that it is kept tightly 

 corked and away from intense artificial heat. Carbon 

 fumes, if inhaled, have the reputation of being very injurious 

 if used in close or confined places (although, having used 

 it for years, I have not found it so). 



Quibell's mixture can be purchased either in bulk or in 

 small quantities from McLean Bros. & Rigg (cost, pure, 

 about 6s. per gallon), which will make from 20 to 30 gallons 

 of the liquid ready for use. There are, doubtless, many 

 other remedies, but only those which have been tested here 

 are at present mentioned. 



