THE DISEASES 



of black pepper will produce a similar result. 

 I have not tried these remedies, being satis- 

 fied with the lime solution advised, but those of 

 my readers who are fond of experimenting can 

 do so, and perhaps they may find them of 

 benefit. I would suggest, however, trying 

 them on a plant which you do not care very 

 much about, as the result might not be what 

 you would like to have. 



Of late years many plants have been afflicted 

 with a disease of fungoid character. The 

 edges of their leaves will turn brown and soon 

 become dry enough to crumble under the 

 touch. Frequently yellow spots will appear 

 in the leaves. These will enlarge, become 

 brown, and the tissue of the leaf will crumble 

 away, leaving a hole that has the appearance 

 of having been made by an insect. No insect 

 can be found, however, and the owner of the 

 plant is mystified. The trouble originates 

 from spores of fungus that float about in the 

 air. They settle upon a leaf, and soon affect 

 it as described. Few plants escape the 

 ravages of the disease when it secures a foot- 

 hold in a collection. It does deadly and rapid 

 work, and prompt action is necessary to 

 counteract its destructive influence.-^ 



78 



