CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 223 



cannot grow, or we may cause a violent death by poison- 

 ing. I think it wise to keep it constantly in mind that 

 this is a plant*, and let our efforts be distinctly directed to 

 one or other of these three ends. In this way we shall 

 arrive at intelligent results, and be spared a multiplicity 

 of foolish theories. For example, in "The Horticulturist," 

 vol. xix. p. 143, Mr. J. Stagman "fully elucidates the 

 subject" of mildew and grape-rot, and concludes that the 

 first is produced by a negative state of electricity, and 

 the rot by a positive state. If the nature of the disease 

 is kept distinctly in view, we shall not be in danger of 

 bewilderment by incorrect statements and crude opinions. 

 Let us take the three possible ways of counteracting the 

 disease, in the order in which they are before written. 

 1st, Preventing the seeds of fungi from taking root. Can 

 we guard against the attacks of mildew? It is univer- 

 sally observed that feeble and sickly growth is much more 

 liable to the attack than firm and healthy foliage. Mid- 

 dle-aged vines are more free than either young or old 

 vines : this is the universal law. A good constitution 

 can make a more successful defence against disease. Any 

 thing, therefore, that contributes to the health of the vine, 

 is so far a help. In " The Horticulturist," vol. i. p. 148, 

 is an article signed by " Chemico," which suggests that 



