34 FRUIT-GARDENING. 



described, will not be injurious to any, but will be effectual in 

 the destruction of the larvae of insects. 



For Apricot, Nectarine, and Peach-Trees. To eight gallons 

 of water add one pound of soft soap, two pounds of common 

 sulphur, and half an ounce of black pepper. 



For Apple, Cherry, Pear, and Plum-Trees. To four gal- 

 lons of water add one pound of soft soap, two pounds of com- 

 mon sulphur, two ounces of tobacco, and one ounce of black 

 pepper. 



For Figs and Vines. To four gallons of water add half a 

 pound of soft soap, one pound of sulphur, and a quarter of an 

 ounce of black pepper. All these ingredients must be boiled 

 together for twenty minutes at least, and when in a lukewarm 

 state, applied to the bark of the trees with a suitable brush. 



For the destruction of the Aphis which frequently attacks 

 the Apple, as well as other fruit-trees while young, an appli- 

 cation of diluted whale-oil soap to the leaves and branches has 

 been found very efficacious. If whale-oil soap be applied too 

 freely, it may injure young trees or bushes, and sometimes 

 destroy them. 



CHECKING THE RAVAGES OF THE CURCULIO. 



The most destructive enemy to our fruit is the Curculio, 

 which passes the winter in the earth in a chrysalis state, and 

 if suffered to remain unmolested by the gardener, will be ready 

 to commence its attacks at about the time the blossoms appear 

 on our fruit-trees. The eggs are deposited in the Apple, Pear, 

 and also all stone fruit, at a very early stage of their growth, 

 which soon hatch, and small maggots are produced, which 

 exist in the fruit, causing it to drop off" prematurely, with the 

 little enemy within. If this fruit be gathered up, or immedi- 

 ately devoured by hogs, geese, or other animals, a check may 



