92 THE PEACH 



elements, lirne and potash, which contributed so 

 largely in their composition and healthful growth, 

 were the very agents, when properly prepared and 

 applied, that proved destructive to all the enemies 

 of the tree, whether from insects or parasitic fungi. 

 Quick or caustic lime, potash, guano and all the 

 ammoniacal alkalies, act as purifiers and produce 

 the desired result the entire destruction of these 

 diseases, whether in the body, limbs or roots of 

 the tree ; in the one case by the application of a 

 wash, and to the roots a treatment of lime, which 

 is preferred to ashes on account of its cheapness r 

 convenience and access, and as favorably known 

 to every farmer as an indispensible agent in the 

 fertilizing of his soil. The peach tree, he said, is 

 an improver of the soil, and lands of medium fer- 

 tility are to be preferred for peach orchards, as the 

 ground will continue to improve yearly under cul- 

 tivation. 



The peach is the least expensive crop on the 

 farm ; this brings peach growing within the capa- 

 city of all as a cheap, available and profitable crop. 

 The successful growing of this delicious fruit is of 

 the highest importance to every one, from the 

 farmer with his broad acres and his thousands of 

 trees, to the town, village and country house- 

 keeper who has a yard or lawn, however limited. 

 Each can become his own peach grower on a suffi- 

 cient scale to supply with a few thrifty trees his 

 entire wants in this delicious fruit. In a few short 



