74 ANIMAL COMPETITORS 
45 to 50 gallon quantities) and is easily applied 
to the trunks of trees either in the form of a 
spray or by the use of a brush. One thorough 
application in November would probably be ef- 
fective for the entire winter. The ingredients 
of the wash are 20 pounds of unslaked lime, 
15 pounds flowers of sulphur, and water to 
make 45 to 50 gallons. The mixture should be 
boiled in an iron kettle at least an hour and 
applied to the trees while warm. 
Winter mulching of trees is dangerous, un- 
less the neighborhood is known to be free from 
mice. Mulch containing straw may be placed 
in the orchard in spring, but it should be re- 
moved before the approach of cold weather. 
Fine, thoroughly rotted manure may be used in 
the orchard with but little danger. Lime or 
ashes about the trunks of trees has some value 
in keeping off mice, but clean cultivation is 
equally or more effective. 
Remedies for injured trees. When trees 
are girdled by mice, portions of the inner bark 
(cambium layer) are often left, partly cover- 
ing the hard wood below. If sunlight and wind 
have free access to the injury, the remaining 
