SILVER BLIGHT.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXX, Issue 8465, 15 June 1907, Page 6

SILVER BLIGHT.

-,,,- \ ,».,.,..,: : . . REPORT BY THE GOVERNMENT BIOLOGIST. Some apple trees in'an orchard on the Upper Plain were recently attacked by the silver blight, and the matter was reported to Mr T. W. Kirk, F.L.S., Government Biologist. The following communication concerning the disease has been received from Mr Kirk by the local Stock Inspector:—Silver blight is a very obscure and little known disease, in fact the aetiology has not yet been worked out. It seems to be closely allied to the disease known as "silver leaf," which is at present engaging the attention of English plant pathologists. Various theories have at times been put forward as to its cause—bacteria and fungi having both been held responsible. Of course, not until the full life history has been worked out can we expect to be able to control it. Nevertheless the following treatment has been found to lessen its effects:—(l) All affected branches should be cut out and burnt as soon as detected. The cut surface should then be painted over with a solution of coal tar to lander fresh.infection. (2) Uso two knivea—the first for pruning until the sound wood is reached, and the second for cutting off a piece of the sound wood; or else sterilise the knife before making the second cut. * (3-j Apply from Jib to lib of sulphate of iron to the roots lightly worked in. (4) The same weight of sulphate of ammonia and the same of lime. (5) Dusting the trees several times with slaked lime in also useful.