On destroying the Mealy Bug and White Scale. 59 



I had likewise been making experiments with another compo- 

 sition, and so successfully, that I determined to dress my 

 whole stock with it. The materials in this case are, simply, 

 equal proportions of soot and flour of sulphur, with a little 

 pounded camphor added, in the proportion of ^ oz. to 2 lb. of 

 the mixture of soot and sulphur, to be dusted all over the 

 plants, after having been washed with a lotion of soft soap and 

 water, say 1 lb. soft soap dissolved in 2 gallons of water. 



In this^manner I dressed my whole stock, and the cure was 

 most effectual, never having seen a vestige of scale on any of 

 my plants since, which is eight or nine years ago. This plan 

 has the advantage of the mixture Mr. Nichol recommends, as 

 it is not so injurious to the plants, nor does it disfigure their 

 appearance so much, the mixture being nearly the colour of 

 the foliage. I subjoin an account of how I proceeded : — 

 After the plants were taken out of the bark-bed, I made two 

 men look them well over, and with dry brushes rub the in- 

 sects and all dirt off them. I then had two or three inches of 

 the mould taken off the surface of the pots ; they were then 

 handed to two more men, who washed them well over with the 

 lotion of soft soap ; two more then dusted them well over with 

 the mixture, vidth puffs, or dry brushes will answer as well, 

 taking care not to let it get into the hearts of the plants, as the 

 insect is seldom found there, or the case must be bad indeed. 

 They were then cased with fresh mould ; and, after the bark- 

 bed had been treated as before mentioned, they were replunged, 

 and the business finished. 



I must add, by way of caution, that great care must be 

 taken not to exceed the proportion of camphor mentioned, as 

 it would be injurious to the plants ; particularly if water is 

 allowed to touch it, as in that case it kills the leaves. 



The operation should* therefore be performed in October, 

 as from that time till spring the plants require but little water, 

 which should not at this time be poured amongst the leaves 

 for the' reason assigned. Indeed, unless the plants are very 

 much infected, I am of opinion the camphor might be omitted 

 altogether. After such a dressing, and if the plants are 

 grown in a moist atmosphere afterwards, which, by the way, 

 they should always have to be grown well, I am confident the 

 insects will be for ever banished. 



I have recommended this cure to several gardeners, and it 

 has never failed of the effect, when done as directed. 



I am Sir, &c. W. M'Murtrie. 



Shiigborough Gardens, Jan. 1. 1829. 



