15 Nov., 1919.] 



Victorian Rainfall. 



699 



Rainfall in Victoria^ — continued. 



LIMING FRUIT TREES 



There is no doubt that much loss of fruit is attributable to lack of 

 lime in the soil, the " shanking," or falling, of half-grown stone fruits 

 being most frequently due to the absence of this essential element. 

 Quicklime is the best form to use, and after slaking it should be spread 

 over the surface during winter at the rate of 30 pounds to the square 

 rod. Most soils not containing natural lime may be given this dressing 

 every second or third year. 



Before applying the lime it is well to see that the ground beneath 

 the trees is raked clear of all nibbish, for the latter contains the pupae 

 of many insect pests, which if left undisturbed will attack the trees in 

 spring. 



Whilst winter washing of orchard trees with caustic alkali is un- 

 doubtedly good practice, the average farmer seldom has the time or the 

 tackle with which to apply such sprays to his fruit trees. A lime-sulphur 

 mixture, which may be painted over the trunks and larger branches, is 

 a useful substitute and one rhat anyone can use; the object being to 

 remove mosses and lichens and so destroy the hiding-places in which 

 they conceal themselves. 



The following is a good formula : Place 10 lb. of fresh quicklime in 

 a tub capable of holding 50 gallons. Pour enough warm water over the 

 lime to cover the latter, and as soon as slaking begins 

 add 8 lb. of flowers of sulphur, stirring thoroughly and giving more 

 water if necessary. Cover the tub with an old sack and let the mixture 

 boil for twenty minutes, stirring occasionally. Then fill the tub up with 

 water, and the mixture is ready for use. 



If the liquid so prepared is applied with a spraying machine or 

 syringe, it will first have to be strained; but if only the lower parts of 

 the trees are to be dressed, a whitewash brush will do. 



Farmers Union Advoratr (ISr.Z.), ISth Oct. 1919. 



