INSECTS— PLANTS FOR STOVES. 



265 



or dipping in a strong solution of soft soap and tobacco water, were at one time the 

 best remedies, but nicotine vapour, already alluded to, is both safer and more effective 

 if persevered with, as a remedy for either thrips, green and black fly (Aphides), or the 

 white fly (Aleyrodes). 



Bed Spider (Tetranychus telarius).— -The smallest of insect pests, but by no means 

 to be overlooked on that account ; it ought not to make much headway in plant stoves 

 in which the syringe is freely used and the atmosphere kept constantly moist during 

 the greater part of the year. Dry heat often leads to an attack of red spider, as well as 

 favours the spread of other insect pests. Stages over hot-water pipes ought to be 

 kept covered with slates, and these with either ashes, spar, or fresh moss ; then if this 

 material is frequently moistened, a damp, instead of a dry, heat will be constantly rising. 

 Sponging with one of the various insecticides advertised, or with soapy water and 

 sulphur, is of good service, especially in the autumn and early winter months, while 

 syringing with clear soot or sulphur water are good deterrents. If the flowers of 

 sulphur are first made into a paste the mixing will be more complete ; or a good handful 

 of it may be squeezed through a canvas or muslin bag into a 3-gallon can of water, and 

 so applied with a syringe. 



In respect to insects generally, no matter what they are, or the plants which may 

 be attacked by them, it is impossible to emphasize too strongly the enormous importance 

 of watchfulness for the first comers. It should never be forgotten that when one or two 

 insects are seen, there are others, and probably many, also present, but not apparent. 

 No greater mistake can be made than refraining from destroying the first few invaders ; 

 they may be the progenitors of millions and therefore ought to be promptly destroyed, 

 as the most certain and sure way of preventing anxiety to cultivators, cost to proprietors, 

 and injury, if not ruin, to plants. 



PLANTS FOR STOVES. 



Many and various are the plants from much warmer climes than our own which 

 are cultivated, for deeorative purposes, in adequately heated structures in this country. 

 Some of these plants are beautiful because of their handsome foliage and stateliness or 

 elegance in habit, while others are grown because of the charms of their flowers. 

 Happily stove plants are not difficult to grow, but on the contrary comparatively easy, 

 provided their requirements are met as regards temperature, moisture, sun and shade, 

 appropriate to the different kinds. This information, founded on praotice in every case, 



VOL. 11. mm 



