THE FRUIT GROWERS GUIDE. 



introduction of woody substances or other unsuitable matter in the soil, and commonly 

 through the decay of roots occasioned by sodden or sour soil. The effect is seen in 

 stunted growth, and the remedy is found in removing the offensive soil, trimming away 

 decayed roots, and establishing the plants in sweet compost ; then plunging the pots in 

 bottom heat, syringing and shading the trees, watering very carefully, and maintaining 

 a genial atmosphere. In the course of a few weeks they recover, and are gradually 

 inured to bear ordinary treatment. 



Gumming is often induced by the pernicious custom of pouring water directly on 



the stem, and having the collar sunk instead 

 of a little higher than the surrounding soil 

 level. When the evil occurs in a small 

 branch, remove it ; if in the stem or a large 

 branch, cut out the affected wood to the 

 sound part, paint the wound with shell lac 

 solution (shell lac dissolved in alcohol), and 

 cover over with grafting clay to encourage 

 the bark to spread over the wound. The best 

 preventive is careful treatment all round. 



" Black smut" is a fungoid growth that 

 requires the exudations of insects to grow 

 in, and can be prevented by removing its 

 cause. The fungus causes the foliage to 

 assume a yellow hue, and renders the leaves 

 and fruit unsightly. 



Enemies. The orange scale (Lecanium 

 hesperidium), Fig. 15, 1, 2, is a common 

 pest of the Citrus and Myrtle families (Eugenia and Guava) all the world over, and 

 its length is about -j -inch, colour dark brown. The scale collects in masses on the 

 young wood, as well as on the leafstalks and the fruit (see spray Fig. 15), committing 

 serious injury. 



Thorough cleanliness is of the first importance in resisting insect invasions. Every 

 year the house and trees should be cleansed. This is best done after the fruit is 

 gathered, and when the trees are at rest. Dissolve 4 ounces of soft-soap in a gallon 

 of hot water, and apply it to the leaves with a sponge, to the bark with a brush, leaving 



Fig. 15. SOFT OBANGE SCALE (LECANIUM HESPERIDIUM) 

 ON OBANGE-TREE SPRAY. 



References : 1, female, natural size ; 2, female, magnified. 



