M. H. C.
Fort Riley, Kans.
The trap is the best known means of destroying moles, but of course it requires vigilance and patience and perseverance in its use, without these the trap is ineffective. Those who have tried poisoned corn say that it will effectually rid a place of moles. Soak the kernels in arsenic water and place them in the runways. Perhaps some of our readers may have some experience to state on this subject.
Pine Apple Air Plant.
Several inquiries have been received about the treatment of this plant. Those who are offering it in the trade advise that the roots be wrapped in moss and that the plant be wired upon a piece of bark or wood, that it be placed in the window, and frequently showered or sprayed. We have had no experience with it. The plant is a native of a hot and humid climate and it is somewhat doubtful that it will generally succeed in window culture. Unless the window is a bay, and enclosed with glass on the side of the room which it is off, and, moreover, well heated, it will probably in most cases prove a failure. Its family relationship is with the Spanish gray moss, and the pine apple.
Phyllocactus latifrons.
Your answers to correspondents in the “Letter Box” are so helpful that I am led to ask for hints as to the treatment of the night-blooming phyllocactus. I have one that blossomed three or four times, but only a single flower at a time. It seems to spend its strength in sending out long, round stems two or three feet in length. I cut off one of these a few weeks ago and it soon started again at the same spot and is now three feet long. Ought these stems to be cut, and is there any special treatment which will secure blossoms? An answer in your interesting Magazine will much oblige
Mrs. D. F. G.
Norwich, Conn.
It is not advisable to remove the shoots as mentioned, a large and well branched plant is desirable, and in that condition it should be capable of producing more flowers. Give a rich soil with a mixture of sand, and water moderately. Let it have a position where it will have the sun a portion of the day.