1 4b Winter Washing of Fruit Trees. 



Not only are moss and lichens and the insects referred to 

 above destroyed or stopped from excessive increase by 

 this wash, but it acts also in another way by attacking* the 

 eggs of certain species. The extent of its action on the 

 eggs has not, however, been fully determined. Groups of 

 the eggs of the Apple Suckers (Psylla malt) treated with it 

 were all killed, as also were those of the Red Spider on fruit 

 — a species of Bryobia — and those of certain aphides. Spray- 

 ing the wash over eggs recently laid had little effect on 

 them, but, when the embryos were nearly mature, the 

 majority of those of the insects mentioned above were 

 destroyed. 



At present, therefore, the wash is mainly recommended 

 for cleaning the trees in an orchard and thus destroying the 

 shelter of various insects during the winter, and for killing 

 certain hibernating pests themselves, as the Codling Maggot, 

 Woolly Aphis, and others. It certainly has no effect in the 

 open on the ova of the Winter Moth, Lackey Moth, and 

 those of certain plant lice. 



To prepare caustic alkali wash, first dissolve i lb. of 

 commercial caustic soda in water, then i lb. of crude potash 

 in water. When both have been dissolved mix the two well 

 together, then add f lb. of agricultural treacle, stir well and 

 add sufficient water to make up to ten gallons. 



The best time to spray the trees is about the middle of 

 February, as some insect and mite eggs are then more liable 

 to be affected than earlier in the winter, and it is then not 

 too late to harm any developing buds. 



The wash has a burning effect on the hands, care must 

 therefore be taken in employing it. Rubber gloves have 

 been used by some people, but these, unless close fitting, 

 allow the wash to run under the rubber, and more harm is 

 done than usual. With ordinary care the sprayers need 

 suffer little inconvenience. 



Every old or young orchard where moss and lichen and 

 Woolly Aphis have a firm hold should undergo this treatment, 

 which has a most beneficial effect not only in clearing the 

 trees of moss and rough bark, but indirectly in lessening 

 insect attack. 



