296 On the Management of Orange, Lemon, 



tub, a sharp iron rod, about three feet long, is made use 

 of to penetrate to the bottom of the earth, and to form a 

 channel for the water. Sir Abraham Hume has lately had 

 boxes made for the large trees, after the model of those at the 

 Thuilleries and Versailles, which are constructed in the fol- 

 lowing manner : two of the opposite sides are fixed, the other 

 two are moveable, but kept in their places by a couple of iron 

 bars with hinges, which are fastened on one side, and on the 

 other are hooks for these to catch in, according to the annexed 

 sketch, that the state of the roots may be readily examined, the 

 old earth taken out, and the fresh put in at pleasure. Another 

 material advantage gained in these boxes is, that I am able 

 to shift the plants by sliding them into others, while in shift- 

 ing tubs the roots are generally materially injured, or the 

 tubs destroyed in getting the plants out safe. 



Early in March J give all the plants a good top dressing 

 with rich compost formed with rotten leaves and a small 

 quantity of loam, and water them freely while the trees are 

 in flower. In May, during sunny weather, I apply a copious 

 washing with the engine ; then shut up the house close for 

 three or four hours, which producing a strong steamy heat 

 as high as 70°, effects the destruction of the red-spider; 

 the stems and leaves also are occasionally wiped with 

 a wet sponge to remove other insects, and dirt ; this always 

 seems to add vigour and richness to the foliage. The healthy 

 appearance of the trees at Wormleybury I consider to be 

 owing in great part to their never being taken out of the 

 house in summer ; for one unseasonable or frosty night is apt 

 to change their leaves ; and if they be much shattered by 

 violent rain or high winds, little less than three years is 



