THE WEED problem: INSECTS, ETC. 79 



by loosening the ground in making their 

 tunnels and galleries, the effect is that the 

 roots become dried out and the tops nat- 

 urally suffer. 



The most effectual means of attack is to poi- 

 son the ants by means of bisulphide of carbon. 

 The work can be quickly accomplished and 

 though not a particularly pleasant operation, 

 it is not so objectionable that there is any 

 excuse for avoiding it. The bisulphide of 

 carbon is a heavy, colourless, volatile liquid 

 which easily sinks into the ground, and the 

 fumes, which are heavier than the air, quickly 

 penetrate downward into the most remote 

 corners of the ants' runs. One or two table- 

 spoonfuls of the liquid may be carefully 

 poured into the opening of the nest and a 

 damp cloth or a handful of soil should be 

 immediately put over it and packed down 

 tightly. Nothing else is necessary. If one 

 application does not entirely rid the lawn of 

 these little pests, it is a simple matter to 

 repeat the attack. 



One word of caution is well in reference to 

 the handling of this poison. It is highly in- 

 flammable, and the vapour is dangerously 

 explosive. Be very careful, therefore, not to 



