OF THE FINE-APPLE. 



351 



moisture. Water will instantly reduce them to a 

 state of inaction ; and this has induced some to 

 believe that it will destroy them : but I have often 

 put the tops of plants, infested with them, under 

 water for ten or twelve hours, and always found 

 them recover their usual vivacity and vigour as 

 soon as they became dry. 



Fourthly, During the hot summer months, the 

 dipping the tops of plants frequently in clean 

 water will clear them of many insects ; and if per- 

 formed late in an evening, is wonderfully refresh- 

 ing, and greatly accelerates their growth. But if 

 a little tobacco be added to the water, so as to 

 make a mild infusion, and also a small quantity of 

 flowers of sulphur, just at the time of using, it will 

 be more efficacious in respect to insects, and not 

 less refreshing to the plants. 



In this operation there is no necessity for the 

 top of the plant to remain under water longer than 

 a few seconds. 



Lastly, Besides the advantages which plants re- 

 ceive from being at all times kept clear of insects, 

 they have other benefits arising from cleanliness. 

 I therefore strongly recommend the keeping every 

 part of a hot-house clear of dirt, as it will greatly 

 contribute to the health and vigour of the plants. 

 To obtain this desirable end, let the inside of the 

 roof be kept duly painted : let the pots at all times 

 be kept clean of weeds and moss, and their tops 

 constantly refreshed with fresh mould : see that 

 the faded flowers and leaves be taken off before 



