84 GARDENING FOR ALL. 
The leaves are attacked by a fungus called Cladosporium 
fuloum, which manifests itself by spots upon the leaves, and in 
time destroys the whole of the leaves affected. On the first 
appearance of this disease, the affected parts ought to be 
sponged with a solution of sulphide of potassium, at the rate 
of half-an-ounce of sulphide to one gallon of water, and an 
occasional spraying with the same mixture will hold the 
disease in check. A cold and damp atmosphere pre-disposes 
the plants to this disease, and if there is an excess of moisture 
at the roots, and imperfect ventilation in addition, the disease 
is most likely to be very serious in form and extent. A free 
circulation of air, a warm—but not hot—temperature, 
abundance of light, proper food, and enough—but not too 
much—water, will secure healthy and very fruitful plants if 
the variety is a good one. 
The fruit is liable to be attacked by the black spot fungus, 
Cladosporium lycopersict. It is liable to attack all varieties, and 
under any system of cultivation. Spraying with a weak 
solution of sulphide of potassium may be of service as a 
preveutive, but all fruits attacked must be removed and 
burned as soon as they are noticed, because the disease is in 
the interior of the fruit and beyond the reach of direct applica- 
tions of fungicide. 
Tomatoes have become so popular that tons of the whole- 
some and medicinal fruit are grown and consumed now, 
whereas twenty-five and thirty-five years ago only a few 
pounds were required. 
All persons who have ‘‘a bit of glass” wish to grow 
tomatoes, and even those who have no glass wish to grow a 
few. 
The culture of tomatoes is very simple and easy. Sow 
seed in January, February, March, or April, according to the 
time the fruit is required and whether to be grown under 
glass or in the open air. For the latter purpose the beginning 
of April is early enough to sow the seed if artificial heat is at 
command. 
Drain, and nearly fill with good soil, some six inch pots. 
Press the soil down very lightly and evenly, and sow the seeds 
one inch apart all over the surface of the soil, cover with 
