.4 APPLE. 



Prevention and Remedies. — On the Continent of Europe the attack 

 of the Lappet caterpillars is much more destructive than with us, and 

 is recorded as being often injurious there to young Plum trees, also to 

 Pear, Apple, and Peach trees. But even there the mischief is stated 

 to be less from their numbers than from their great size. 



In this country probably no treatment is needed beyond what 

 common prudence would suggest. When once attention is directed to 

 the caterpillars being found on twigs of their food-trees in winter, we 

 have the clue towards getting rid of them before they grow to the 

 devastating powers to which they attain in spring. And when they are 

 at work (if by unusual mishap they established themselves) their com- 

 plete clearance of leafage, if the attack at all resembled in destructive- 

 ness that of which I had samples, would draw attention even in its 

 early stages to the locality from which the great grubs could easily be 

 removed. 



In most insect attacks the best course is simply to destroy the 

 so-called " pest " in whatever may be the simplest manner; but with 

 such rare and exceptionally large specimens, it may be well to suggest 

 that probably any neighbouring entomologist, or naturalist, might be 

 willing to give some small sum for them, which would (if permitted by 

 the owner) make it worth the while of one of the nursery workmen to 

 collect the caterpillars and dispose of them alive. 



Note. — Enquiries or observations were also sent regarding almost 

 all the common Apple attacks, as American blight. Winter Moth, and 

 other moths, Apple-blossom Sawfly, and Apple-blossom Weevil, Eed 

 Spider, &c. These were all duly attended to as occasion required, 

 but having been so frequently referred to in previous Reports, it is 

 unnecessary to repeat the details. — E. A. 0. 



