OF THE PINE-APPLE. 



317 



crease, the Pine-plants are soon reduced to the 

 very situation I have just before described, which 

 perplexes and gives the gardener everlasting vex- 

 ation. Besides, it is evident that this unseasonable 

 business of shifting and dressing the plants will 

 considerably retard their growth, and bring upon 

 them a sickly appearance, especially in their last 

 stage, viz. their fruiting season. 



It is observable that the two last species of in- 

 sects multiply faster on old and sickly plants than 

 on those that are young, and in a more vigorous 

 state. Indeed, the case of vegetables seems very 

 similar to that of animals. From these observations 

 I infer, that these insects cannot be nearly so pre- 

 judicial to the Pine-plant in warm climates as with 

 us ; for there they are always in a vigorous grow- 

 ing state, and fruit at a more early season. 



It will be a matter of much importance to per- 

 sons that have Pine-plants, infested with one or 

 both of the last species of insects, to know a cheap, 

 easy, and certain method of cure. Indeed, such 

 a knowledge will be very desirable to persons who 

 have hot-houses that are clear of these vermin ; 

 for then they may safely admit any Pine-plants 

 from warm climates, which will enable them, 

 without the least danger, to supply their stoves 

 with new and better kinds. 



It may not be disagreeable to my readers to be 

 informed of the particulars of my success in the 

 business of destroying these insects, which indeed 

 suggested to me the present method of cure, the 



