Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Supplement/Mildew

MILDEW, a distemper which, from its clammy nature, is equally injurious to trees and plants, by closing up their pores, so that their perspiration is obstructed, and their growth is checked.—Contrary to the commonly received opinion, Mr. Forsyth has observed, that fruit-trees are more liable to this malady, when planted against South and West walls, than those exposed to the East; and, by removing such diseased trees to North or East walls, they have perfectly recovered.

Where danger is apprehended from the mildew, Mr. F. advises the trees to be sprinkled with urine and lime-water; but, if the young shoots be much infected, it will be necessary to wash them with a woollen cloth, dipped in the mixture, which has been specified in the article Blight (p. 399, of this Supplement), with a view to clear them of all glutinous or viscid matters; so that their exhalation may not be impeded.