Occasional Notes. i6t 
then that those to be seriously considered are very few. To be effective 
they should consist of solutions of such a nature that can be applied by 
means of a force pump, so as to reach every part. 
Whale-oil-soap in a solution of one pound of soap to one gallon of 
water is reported to have killed all the inse&s, but only few of the eggs ; 
it must be applied hot, as it solidifies in cooling, and it is recommended 
that the operation be repeated several times at short intervals. 
The most effective of all insecticides is termed Kerosine Emulsion, 
the formula for the preparation of which is here given : — 
Pure kerosine, i gallon. 
Condensed milk, i£ pints. 
Water 3 pints. 
Mix the milk and the water before adding the oil and churn until the 
whole solidifies and forms a "butter." In applying this preparation the 
kerosine " butter" should be diluted with from 12 to 16 times its 
quantity of water and then be applied immediately, for, if it is allowed 
to stand, the " butter" rises to the surface and the solution is imperfeft. 
The results of experiments with this are stated by Mr. Hubbard to 
have been satisfactory and he gives it the preference over all other 
insefticides. It should be remembered that it is possible (I might say 
certain) the insefts can be more readily combatted by insefticides 
during the very short period in which they are adtive, just after 
emergence from the egg (attention has been directed to this already 
in this report) ; local observation only can define this short period. 
No remedial measures can be of much value unless as the result of 
concerted aftion. The care of one planter may be utterly neutralized 
by the neglecl of another, his neighbour. Therefore it is desirable that 
if after the trial success has been obtained, the application of such a 
remedy should be made compulsory universally and not be left to in- 
dividual discretion. 
Inse£t " pests" are (with few exceptions) endemic and epidemic in 
the same locality. They are always present, and so long as they con- 
tinue endemic and limited in their numbers the injury sustained is but 
small and may even in certain cases become an aftual benefit by 
checking over production. It is when the epidemic condition shews 
itself that the real injury is inflifted. The epidemic condition may be 
only transitory or it may prevail to such an extent as to destroy or 
permanently damage the plants. 
It is therefore desirable to keep up a healthy condition, and if in spite 
