124 Journal of Ar/rioilture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918. 



that germination qualities of grain treated should not be impaired in 

 fumigating, so they regularly cheeked plantings of the untreated. It 

 was in connexion with the use of nitro benzine that they bumped into 

 the unexpected. They found that not only was the grain not impaired 

 for seed purposes, but that it was actually bettered. Maize seemed to 

 thrive on the fumes of nitro benzine. Not only was the percentage 

 of germination increased by treatment, but the rate of germination also 

 speeded up. The experimenters checked and re-checked again and 

 again, with the same results. An experiment with 1911 maize, for 

 instance, brought out the fact that the fumigated seeds sprouted nearly 

 two days before the unfumigated, when planted at the same time, and 

 of the former about 18 per cent, more kernels germinated than of the 

 latter, 



" We are not saying that the treatment will so result with all corn," 

 Professor Moore said, " as our experiments have not gone far enough 

 to justify so sweeping a statement, but we expect to wind up the most 

 significant test of all on the subject shortly, after which we shall have 

 something to announce. Nitro benzine is an oil, a coal tar derivative. 

 Its price has been raised somewhat by war causes, but it is com- 

 mercially obtainable. We fumigate the corn by placing it in a closed 

 box in which is suspended a cloth saturated with the oil. The fumes 

 do the work. We think well enough of present indications to make 

 known our findings at this time, so that iVmerican farmers who are 

 facing a critical seed maize situation may try out the process if they 

 see fit. Why does the treatment so affect the corn? We haven't the 

 slightest idea. We oiily know that it has had that effect with corn we 

 have treated." — Farmers' Union Advocate, 17/3/17. 



ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES. 



E E. Fescott, F.L.S., Pomologist. . 



The Orchard. 



Young Teees. 



Young trees of the Citrus family should now be making a good, 

 thrifty growth. The foliage should be glossy, and itsi general appearance 

 a bright green and healthy one. Occasional light waterings, as well as 

 mulching of grass, or of well-rotted manure, will be helpful to tbe trees. 



Young deciduous fruit trees will also benefit by having a grass or 

 manure mulch; and, if it has not previously been attended to,_unneces- 

 sary growths in the centre of the tree and on the main leaders should be 

 removed. 



Fumigation. 



Evergreen trees, including those of the citrus family, that are infested 

 with scale, should now be sprayed or fumigated to rid the trees of this 



