GENERAL PRACTICE. ENEMIES. 2? , 



The composition must not be used at the strength mentioned on apple foliage early 

 in the season, because stronger solutions of soft soap than 2 ounces to the gallon of water 

 sometimes scorch the tender growths; therefore, dilute to 120 gallons for the apple 

 early in the season, to 100 gallons after the foliage becomes firm, and use at full strength 

 in autumn. Plum and other trees with smooth leaves may be sprayed with it at a 

 strength of 100 gallons whilst tender, and at full strength after the foliage becomes 

 firm. 



One of the oldest preventives of red spider and insects generally infesting fruit 

 trees is syringing them well on calm mild evenings with soapsuds strained through a 

 hair-sieve or old sack, taking care not to use the " suds " too strong, making sure that 

 they only contain hard (soda) soap and washing (refined) soda, with the usual water. 

 Trees washed with the soapsuds before the flowers expand, when the fruit is set, and 

 repeated at fortnightly intervals up to the change for ripening, seldom suffer from 

 parasitic infections, and there is no deposit of consequence on the fruits, provided the 

 suds are used warm and the trees are thoroughly washed with clear water. In case 

 of trees in the open washing is not necessary in rainy weather, but trees against walls 

 may need cleansing with water after applying the soapsuds. They have manurial value, 

 while the soda aids the strengthening of the bark. 



Water alone is effective against red spider if applied with sufficient force and fre- 

 quency. Clear rain-water will not leave a deposit, yet this safe and cheap cure must be 

 abandoned immediately the fruit gives indications of ripening, otherwise its beautiful 

 bloom will be lost and cracking may ensue. Ked spider attacks are greatly influenced 

 by weather and atmospheric conditions indoors. Drought and heat promote its spread ; 

 rains, syringing, and a moist atmosphere having a contrary effect. Deficiency of water 

 and nutriment at the roots invite the attacks of red spider because the leaves are then 

 thin and weak : the stout and strong offer the greatest resistance to this and other 

 enemies. Applications of liquid manure and mulching the surface of the soil are of great 

 service in invigorating growth and preventing much injury by red spider. 



Early action in subduing insects is most important. Euin has often been the result 

 of delay. A keen eye, knowledge, and promptitude are necessary. The first appear- 

 ance of a brown speck or patch on a vine-leaf should lead to speedy examination, 

 and if red spider be found, wash that speck or patch on the opposite side of the leaf, or 

 where the pests are situated, with a sponge moistened in a solution of soft soap, 2 

 ounces to the gallon of water, and treat every affected leaf similarly. Five minuto* 



