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[INSECTS.]
In a work of this character it seems needful to treat more fully of those pests which prove so destructive to plant life, than we have in our brief references.
The Aphis or green louse is the one that most frequently infests our plants, and the rapidity with which it multiplies, is astonishing. Reaumer has proved that in five generations one aphis may be the progenitor of six thousand millions, and there may be ten generations in a year!
The method most generally adopted for their destruction is fumigation with tobacco. As this is attended with considerable difficulty, a weak solution may be used quite as effectively. We have had no experience with either method, having used another with good success for several years. This is white hellebore which we usually apply in the powder when the Rose-bushes are wet with dew or rain, bending the branches over, so that the application can be made chiefly on the under side of the leaves, where the pests are found. Two or three times proves sufficient. For our house plants we usually make a solution, by putting half an ounce of the hellebore into pretty warm water, and letting it stand for several hours, stirring it up however, before spraying the leaves. Afterward, the plants need to be washed.
For the Scale a strong solution of soap-suds applied with a sponge or a small stiff brush. A tooth brush is very suitable for this purpose.
For Mealy Bug, a mixture of one part alcohol and three parts water, applying with a feather, or what is better, a camel hair brush. Another method is to use kerosene in the same way. A florist who has practiced this for eight years, says it is sure death to the insect. The feather should be brushed all over the mealy-looking substances found usually in the axils of the leaves.
Worms in Pots. Lime water is a safe and effectual remedy for the little white worms often found in the soil. Slake the lime in water and after it has settled, pour off the clear water and drench the earth.
Ants. Various remedies have proved effective. One is to take a vial or a cup nearly filled with sweet oil, and sink it in the ground where the ants resort, so that the rim is on a level with the surface. The ants are very fond of it, but it is sure death to them.