HOW TO CONTROL THRIPS 
Control of thrips is now very definitely a matter of record. In fact, one brief 
sentence tells the story—start the season with clean bulbs, then either plant 
early or spray regularly, or both. 
PLANT EARLY 
December and January are the safest months in Southern California; Janu- 
ary and February in Central California; and March in most other places. 
Migratory thrips from neighboring gardens are not likely to reach such early 
plantings in time to injure the blooms. The damage is not from the first few 
thrips, but from the thousands of offspring that develop after several weeks 
of breeding. 
START SPRAYING EARLY 
Early plantings should give uninjured blooms. Regular spraying, started 
while the plants are young, makes it almost certain that your blooms will 
come through in good shape. Spraying is essential for late or for very large 
plantings. Start when the plants are two or three inches tall, and spray at 
least twice a week. To avoid spray-burning, never spray until evening during 
spells of warm weather. 
SPRAYS 
We recommend Tartar Emetic as one of the most effective sprays. Tartar 
Emetic can be had through your local druggist. Use 11/. teaspoons of Tartar 
Emetic and 1/. cup Karo Syrup to one gallon of water. Spray twice a week 
from the time the plants are 4 or 5 inches high until blooming time. Bear in 
mind that spraying is done to keep down stray thrips in the early stages of 
growth and it will do no good after your plants become heavily infested. You 
can always save choice spikes, even if infested, by giving them a daily “mas- 
saging’ while the spike is in bud. This crushes and kills the thrips that are 
hidden in the sheaf, and these are the thrips that injure the blooms. 
Note—There are several new dusts that can be used instead of sprays. We 
understand that they are quite effective. 
TUBEROUS BEGONIAS 
This year we are not able to supply the fine strain as in previous years and, 
therefore, are offering only one variety— 
BRIDAL VEIL—A magnificent clear white hanging basket type. 
Large bulbs, each $3.00. 
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