Practical entomology for farmers and gardeners, with proven methods you can try today.
This edition collects hands-on field notes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Division of Entomology, focusing on how insects affect crops and how to combat them in real farming settings. It blends careful observation with actionable treatments that were tested in orchards, vineyards, and home gardens.
The pages cover concrete, step-by-step experiments and outcomes, from fighting the Rose Chafer to protecting peach trees and apple crops. You’ll see how different spray formulas and equipment performed, and learn about the challenges of applying treatments thoroughly in the field. The material emphasizes practical, repeatable approaches you can adapt to your own pest issues.
- A detailed account of controlling the Rose Chafer (rose-bug) with kerosene emulsion, including spray timing and ground-drench results.
- Experiments comparing London purple and Paris green for codling moth and fruit tree protection, with note on spray equipment and application rates.
- Alternative remedies such as tobacco decoctions and their effectiveness against aphids on peach trees.
- Eyewitness-style notes on spraying technique, machine choice, and the importance of thorough coverage for success.
Ideal for readers of practical agricultural entomology, pest-control practitioners, and anyone seeking tested methods to protect crops from common insects.