THE PEAR. 99 



Favorable conditions of the atmosphere un- 

 doubtedly increase the development of bac- 

 teria, and it may be possible to check their 

 development by the use of the Bordeaux mix- 

 ture, eau celeste, or sulphur. Some experi- 

 ments in the spraying of trees have indicated 

 that the microbes can be held in check. Some 

 varieties, like Anjou, are comparatively ex- 

 empt. Keiffer is claimed to be blight-proof, 

 but the claim has been disputed. At present 

 the quick use of the amputating knife is the 

 most effectual remedy. 



Cracking of the Fruit. — ]\Iany varieties, like 

 the Old St. Michael and Flemish Beauty, are 

 so liable to crack that thej- are considered 

 worthless in most sections. If this is caused 

 by fungous growth, spraying vs^ith the Bor- 

 deaux mixture may check the evil. 



Pear Leaf-blight is caused by a fungus which 

 spreads over young seed beds in July and Au- 

 gust, causing the leaves to dry up and growth 

 to stop. Older trees suffer less. Spraying 

 the foliage frequently with the fungicides will 

 prove effectual. 



Notwithstanding the formidable list of in- 

 sects and diseases, it is comparatively easy to 

 maintain healthy trees and raise sound fruit 

 of the pear, especially in New England. 



