246 THE SPRA YING OF 'FRUITS. 



the entire surface of the plant. One completely thorough 

 spraying, in which the plant is drenched, is more useful than 

 a half-dozen perfunctory or half-hearted operations. The 

 spray should be applied until the liquid begins to drip from 

 the tree. If the operation is stopped as soon as this dripping 

 begins, it is considered that there is no danger of turning 

 stock into the orchard to feed upon the grass. At least, no 

 cases of injury from such practice are on record. The num- 

 ber of sprayings can never make good the lack of thorough- 

 ness. Prepare for the operation in advance, preferably dur- 

 ing the winter season. Be sure to know what the spray is to 

 be applied for. Secure strong pumps and a variety of noz- 

 zles. Be on time with the work, do not be in a hurry while 

 doing it, and consider that the spray protects the plant in 

 proportion as the plant is well covered. 



THE APPARATUS. 



There is no one best pump or nozzle for all purposes. The 

 operator needs different styles of tools for spraying as much 

 as he does for working his land. The first requisite is that 

 the pump be strong and capable of throwing much liquid. It 



FIG. 294. Knapsack Sprayer. 



should be brass-lined, have a long, strong handle, a large (two 

 inches in diameter or upward) cylinder, and it should be low 

 and compact, so as not to catch in the limbs, or be top-heavy 

 when mounted on a barrel or tank. As a rule, from ten to 

 fifteen feet of hose should be used for each delivery, and one 



