54 RED SPIDER. 



roots formed earlier in the season than late ones. The 

 "rest" of the plant and the ripening of the roots 

 are thus more likely to be complete before the cold 

 rains of winter set in ; and even in a rich border, more 

 of the young roots survive than in the case of those 

 of later-started vines ; though, under all circumstances 

 as to time of forcing, the rich heavy border is very 

 unsafe for supplying constant crops of good grapes. 



RED SPIDER. 



This small insect is perhaps the greatest pest the 

 vine-grower has to contend with ; and as prevention is 

 better than cure, the first step to be taken is to wash 

 every part of the vinery, the wood and glass, with a 

 brush, and warm water well dashed into every crevice, 

 and the walls with a lime- wash made from hot shell- 

 lime, with a little sulphur stirred into it. Let all loose 

 bark be removed from the vines after they are pruned, 

 scrub them well with soap and water and a brush, and 

 give them a painting over with the mixture already re- 

 commended; let the soil of the border inside the house 

 be slightly forked, and give it a watering with water in 

 which a little sulphur (say one ounce to two gallons) 

 has been stirred, which will kill any insects or larvae 

 that may have fallen on the soil. This done, and the 

 vines kept in proper health, spider ought not to make 

 its appearance till the grapes are stoning ; but watch 

 for it constantly do not wait till the leaves are becom- 

 ing red from its effects. It will first show itself at the 

 hottest part of the house ; and the moment it is seen, 

 have the return-pipes painted with sulphur mixed with 



