186 On Peach Trees. 



and by turning and loosening the surface, forward thc^ 

 growth and health of the trees. Apple-trees do not 

 thrive, in the soil favourable to the culture of the peach.' ^ 



Compare this account, with the actual state of the 

 peach tree, in our country^, and judge whether we live 

 in a region favourable to its growth. Mr. Ilestori's at- 

 tempt at cultivating this tree, in the southern manner, 

 begins already to fail. His trees are evidently infected i 

 and many are on the decline. The yellows are univer- 

 sally prevalent, this season, throughout the whole coun- 

 try. I do not wish to discourage perseverance, in the 

 culture of this tree. But, when particular products of- 

 ten fail, they warn us to apply our main strength and re- 

 sources, to other objects, more certain and equally pro- 

 fitable. Let hazardous cultivation, be collateral and 

 subordinate. 



Tlie mercury^ as mentioned by Dr. Tilton, for the 

 cure of the disease in peach trees, I have frequently ap- 

 plied to plumbs. I bored a gimblet hole through the 

 bark, and about half an inch into the alburnum, or sap 

 wood, and inserted a drop or two of crude mercury, so 

 as to be carried through the circulation, with intent to 

 destroy vermin or insects in the bark or fruit. I have 

 sometimes had plenteous crops, apparently from this re- 

 medy ; but I have more frequently been disappointed. 



I am. Sir, 



Your obedient servant, 

 Richard Peters. 



Dr. James Mease, 



Secretary Agrk. Soc. PJiilacL 



