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the bark of the trees should be exposed fully to the light for the greater 

 part of the year. 



INSECTICIDES AND FUNGICIDES. 



Fruit-growers are apt to be puzzled by the many remedies sug- 

 gested by entomologists and vegetable pathologists for coping with the 

 numerous insects and fungi that are injurious. They are also often 

 uncertain as to the preparation of these remedies, and when and how to 

 apply them in the most effective way. This want the writer proposes 

 to supply, as far as is practicable, in the following remarks, but as a 

 matter of course the subject has not been dealt with so exhaustively as 

 some may consider desirable. The first essential in treating insect or 

 fungoid pests is that the grower should clearly identify the particular 

 one or the class it belongs to, in order that the proper remedies may be 

 applied. This is a matter of primary importance, as without this 

 knowledge time and materials may be wasted. The next consideration 

 is how the various remedies, either simple or compound, can be most 

 effectively applied. These specifics are used in the forms of powders 

 for dusting, paste for painting, in a liquid form for spraying, and vapour 

 or smoke. Consequently, the fruit cultivator must take care to utilise 

 each form in the proper way, and in such a manner as will be productive 

 of the best results. 



The remedies most commonly used at the present time for insects are 

 based upon arsenic, petroleum, and pyrethruni, or their compounds. 

 The first of these classes acts upon the stomach and are serviceable 

 against the mandibular insects or those with biting mouths. The second 

 and third act by contact with the bodies of insects, and can be applied 

 more generally. 



Alkaline Wash. A useful preparation for destroying borers and 

 other insects in the trunks of trees. It is made by mixing a strong 

 solution of washing soda with soft soap till it has the consistency of 

 paint. 



Ammoniacal Solution of Copper Carbonate. This mixture has been 

 used successfully to destroy Grape Mildew, Fusicladiums, and some 

 borers. It is prepared as follows : Three ounces of copper carbonate 

 dissolved in one quart of ammonia. When used, dilute with 22 gallons 

 of water. A weaker solution is made by using 28 gallons of water. Use 

 as a fine spray. 



Benzole. This remedy is the only proved effective one for the 

 Kutherglen " Fly " pest, and its use is recommended against other 

 insects that attack fruit as it is ripening. It kills insects by contact, 

 and leaves no perceptible flavour upon the fruit. When used, the 

 benzole must be kept well stirred, and distributed as a very fine 

 spray. 



Bi-sulphide of Carbon. A powerful and useful insecticide for many 

 root-feeding insects and ants. Its vapour has a deadly effect upon 

 insect life, and all other living animals, therefore it must be used with 



