Insects in the Garden 
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CHAPTER XV 
Insects in the Garden 
This is a most important subject in connection with 
gardening, and one which ought to be studied by gardeners 
far more than it is at the present time. There are very few 
plants which are free from attacks of insects of one kind or 
another. Some are attacked by only one kind of insect, 
while other plants are infested by several kinds, either in 
different seasons or at the same time. It is better, if 
possible, to prevent insects from getting a hold upon plants, 
because, in many instances, it is very difficult to get rid of 
them. This, however, must be done, if the highest value 
is to be obtained from the plants. Some say: “Why keep 
my plants clean when my neighbour neglects his and does 
not keep his clean?” This is a point with which the local 
authorities will have to deal in the near future, owing to 
the number of allotments and small holding's that are 
coming into existence. Those who neglect, ought, by law, 
to be compelled to keep their gardens and orchards free 
from insect pests, that is, as far as possible. Neglected 
gardens and orchards simply become a breeding ground for 
insects of all kinds. These, when the season comes round, 
take wing into fresh gardens, where there is not so much 
competition for food. Some of them which are surrounded 
by woolly matter may be carried about by the wind for 
considerable distances. These settle in a garden, and, if 
not detected at once, start what is called a “ bad attack ”, 
for these pests multiply at a very rapid rate. Many insects 
have sucking mouths. They pierce a hole in the plant, 
