PROTECTION FROM THE CANKER-WORM. 



The operation of this is simple. The moths ascend the tree to the 

 rope and here congregate, for it appears to be entirely contrary to their 

 nature to travel downward. When the space between the tree and trunk 

 has become filled with them, then the new-comers may pass over their 

 compacted bodies, and by dint of effort ascend the outside of the tin; 

 but reaching its upper edge, observation shows that they will not de- 

 scend upon the inside, but travel round and round the upper edge 

 until they abandon the attempt to reach the tree, and fall to the ground. 

 Other methods have been used for preventing the ascent of the moths 

 but none seem to be so simple and effectual as the above. A somewhat 

 similar one, upon the same general principle, is the following: 



An improved tin protector. — Take a strip of tin four inches wide of 

 sufficient length when encircling the tree to 

 leave a space of about six inches. The upper 

 edge of the tin is bent over so as to receive 

 beneath it a piece of muslin as long as the 

 tin and eight inches wide, to be held in place 

 by pounding down the tin. The ends of the 

 tin are bent in opposite directions so that 

 they can be hooked together. Placing this 

 around the tree with the cloth upward, the 

 cloth is to be firmly bound to the tree by a 

 strong cord. This method is shown in the 

 accompanying illustration. In either of the 

 above methods, the eggs which will be depos- 

 J^^:lJ^l^^r:^^X'^^^^:i ited in large numbers below the obstruction, 



the Canker-worm mom. ^^^^ ^^ ^^^-jy j.-jjg^ by brushing them with 



kerosene oil, without injury to the tree, unless an excessive quantity (a 

 very little is needed) should be used. 



Killing the larvce. — When, as in the inquiry above made, the moths 

 have not been prevented from ascending the tree and depositing their 

 eggs, and the caterpillars have hatched out and are rapidly destroying 

 the foliage, then there are two good methods for their destruction which 

 may be resorted to. 



Spread a thin covering of straw under the tree as far as the branches 

 extend, and set fire to it, at the same time jarring the tree, and as the 

 caterpillars drop by their threads, sweep them down with a pole into 

 the fire. 



Apply Paris green in water to the trees with a force-pump, in the pro- 

 portions and manner probably known to every orchardist. It may be 

 used with perfect safety upon apple-trees so early in the season as the 

 time during which the canker-worm prevails. 



