
ONE OF OUR GLADIOLUS FIELDS 
INSECTS 
As arule, Gladiolus are not bothered very much with insects, 
except that late years very minute insects called Thrips have 
been giving some trouble in certain parts of the country. If 
you failed to obtain good bloom last summer, buds drying up, 
etc., the chances are that thrips were to blame. These insects 
are so small that when young they are almost invisible to the 
naked eye, and are very easily overlooked. After your old 
bulbs have been cleaned of the old bulbs and roots, which opera- 
tion is best done in late November or early December after 
they have been drying a few weeks, sprinkle Naphthalene 
Flakes over the bulbs at the rate of about 1 oz. (four level 
tablespoonfuls) to 100 bulbs. If in paper bag, fold over top; 
if in tray or box, cover with newspaper; and let stand a month 
ortwo. Most of the flakes will evaporate, and the rest may be 
removed. This kills the thrips which winter over on the bulbs. 
Do not use naphthalene in the soil. Will mail a box of 
Naphthalene Flakes sufficient to treat 1000 bulbs for 25c. 
This price includes postage to Zone 4. More distant points, 
dc extra. Write for price in quantity. 
If you have had trouble with thrips you had better, in ad- 
dition to the naphthalene treatment, spray your glad plants 
as soon as up a few inches, with some good insecticide spray, 
and repeat every ten days. 
KEEP YOUR BULBS HEALTHY 
If your bulbs have become scabby or diseased, they may be 
benefited and possibly cured by the following process: In the 
spring, just before planting, soak your bulbs for an hour or 
two in a solution of 4 teaspoonfuls of LYSOL to 1 gallon of 
water. Bulbs may be planted immediately, or dried and 
planted later. This treatment will also kill any thrips and 
eggs which may be on your bulbs, but does not completely 
take the place of the naphthalene flakes, as the flakes kili during 
the winter before the insects have a chance to breed in storage. 

There is nothing quite equal to Gladiolus for long lasting 
bouquets for the house. Plant plenty of them. 
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