74 ANIMAL COMPETITORS 



45 to 50 gallon quantities) and is easily applied 

 to the trunks of trees either in the form of a 

 spray or by the use of a brush. One thorough 

 application in November would probably be ef- 

 fective for the entire winter. The ingredients 

 of the wash are 20 pounds of unslaked lime, 

 15 pounds flowers of sulphur, and water to 

 make 45 to 50 gallons. The mixture should be 

 boiled in an iron kettle at least an hour and 

 applied to the trees while warm. 



Winter mulching of trees is dangerous, un- 

 less the neighborhood is known to be free from 

 mice. Mulch containing straw may be placed 

 in the orchard in spring, but it should be re- 

 moved before the approach of cold weather. 

 Fine, thoroughly rotted manure may be used in 

 the orchard with but little danger. Lime or 

 ashes about the trunks of trees has some value 

 in keeping off mice, but clean cultivation is 

 equally or more effective. 



Remedies for injured trees. When trees 

 are girdled by mice, portions of the inner bark 

 (cambium layer) are often left, partly cover- 

 ing the hard wood below. If sunlight and wind 

 have free access to the injury, the remaining 



