138 THE CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 



earliest of any grape, and can be tried, as it may be worthy 

 of cultivation when the vine becomes strong. 



In November, the vines must be laid down and well cov- 

 ered with straw, or litter, to protect them from the frost, when 

 cultivated in the northern states. 



In Hovey's Magazine of Horticulture, vol. 12th, is a com- 

 munication by Mr. J. W. Russel, gardener to Horace Gray, 

 Esq., on the cultivation of the grape, in which he gives the 

 foUomng receipt to prevent mildew. Having found the appli- 

 cation of sulphur to the floor of the house all that was neces- 

 sary in cultivating the grape under glass, I have never used 

 this preparation, but, for their cultivation in the open air, I 

 would strongly advise its trial ; it should be applied in July, 

 or earher, if there is any appearance of mildew on the fruit, 

 wood, or fohage. 



Receipt. — " To one peck of quick lime, add half a pound 

 of sulphur ; put them into a tight barrel, and pour boiling hot 

 water over them sufficient to slake all the hme, and it will be 

 found that the sulphur is mixed -vvith it in the best possible 

 manner ; then pour on to the top of it three gallons of soft 

 water, and stir it well together, leaving it to settle ; in about 

 twenty-four hours, the water on the top will be perfectly clear. 



" This should be taken off" as clear as possible, and put into 

 a stone jar, there to remain until wanted. Half a pint of this 

 mixture will be sufficient for three gallons of water. 



" This wash will not injure either the fruit or leaves, and 

 no person could tell that any thing but clean water had been 

 used, only that it leaves a stain on white paint, which will 

 wear off" in a little time. This is a sure remedy for the mil- 

 dew, and, therefore, worth knowing to every grape culti- 

 vator."* 



* Prince's Treatise on the Grape contains this receipt, and it is there stated, that 

 the application of it, in tlie garden of Capt. Smith, of Newport, R. I., to the Chasse- 

 las grape, was attended with success. The material part left, after drawing the 

 clear liquid off, may be used for washing the wall, or trellis, upon which the vine is 

 trained. 



