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is a minute fungus known as Eso'tscus deformans, which makes its 

 appearance in a somewhat mysterious manner. There is some difference 

 of opinion as to the nature of this fungus, but the most feasible theory is 

 that its appearance is clue to a very low temperature after the trees have 

 started into growth. Very often in the spring or early summer, after 

 several mild or comparatively warm days there will be a sudden change to 

 sharp cold winds and a corresponding low temperature. This theory is 

 supported by the fact that the more delicate varieties usually suffer the 

 most, and trees that are well sheltered are the least affected. When 

 attacked by the Curl Blight, which is also known as the Blister Blight, 

 the mid-rib and veins of the leaves become swollen and distorted, forming 

 wart-like masses. During this malformation the leaves twist and curl in 

 a peculiar manner, their tissues are destroyed, and they cease to perform 

 their proper functions. The Curl Blight is a difficult complaint to deal 

 with, and though it may be checked more or less by careful and prompt 

 treatment there is no absolute cure. Preventatives : 1. Provide effective 

 shelter from cold winds. 2. Work the trees upon robust stocks. 3, 

 When practicable raise the stocks from seeds where the trees are required, 

 so that they need not be shifted. 4. Keep the trees in a healthy 

 vigorous condition by the use of manure when necessary. Remedies : 

 1. Sulphate of Iron. 2. Bluestone and Ammonia. 3. Bluestone and 

 Sodium Carbonate. 4. Eau Celeste. 5. Eau Grison. These remedies 

 are all used as fine sprays, and should be applied several times at short 

 intervals. Care should be taken to use somewhat weak solutions, as the 

 foliage being tender is liable to injury from strong ones ; and whatever 

 remedy is chosen should be used throughout. Full particulars as to the 

 preparation and use of these remedies will be found in the article upon 

 Fungicides, page 98. volume 1. 



Mildew. Peach trees often suffer from various forms of Mildew, and 

 more especially in localities where the temperature at times is very low 

 after growth has commenced. Sometimes Mildew is the result of weak- 

 ness through over-bearing, poverty of soil, drought, or excess of water at 

 the roots. In fact, debility from any cause predisposes trees to the 

 attacks of Mildew and other fungi. All kinds of Mildew increase with 

 great rapidity when unchecked, and prompt measures should be adopted 

 as soon as any white spots are detected. The most simple and effective 

 remedy is Lime and Sulphur, which is a certain cure if applied in good 

 time. For fuller particulars see article upon Mildew, page 91, volume 1. 



Root Fungus. Various kinds of Fungi often affect the roots of Pe'ach 

 trees, and sometimes to a serious extent. Their origin is somewhat 

 obscure, and their appearance may be due to various causes, such as 

 extreme dryness of the soil or the use of rank manure. It may also make 

 its appearance upon roots that have become ruptured or cankered from 

 rough cultivation, the attacks of root-feeding insects, or the unhealthiness 

 of the trees. Remedy : The most effective way of eradicating root fungi 

 is to water the surface soil occasionally with a strong solution of Sulphate 

 of Iron. 



Unst. This fungus is widely spread through Australasia, as also other 

 parts of the world, and often causes serious injury to the foliage of Peach 



