READERS' EXCHANGE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21640, 4 November 1933, Page 7 (Supplement)

READERS' EXCHANGE

DESTROYING ANTS

In answer to an inquiry made by " Anxious " (Devonport), as to the best method of getting rid of ants, " Kepos " (Remuera), has kindly supplied the folpwing formula, which usually proves most effectual. Make a syrup by dissolving 6oz. of sugar in one pint of hot water, afterward adding 10 grains of sodium arsenite. This poison bait is best administered by pouring it on a sponge, placed in a tin having a number of fair-sized holes punched in the lid and sides. These baited tins can be placed in situations favoured by the ants. One of the most powerful ant-destroyers is para-dichlor benzine; if some crystals are placed right in the nest, it will soon* kill all the ants.

Another correspondent, V.W,R. (Sandringham), recommends the following ant-bait. Two and a-quarter pounds sugar, 2J pints water, 23 grains tartaric acid crystals, 32 grains sodium benzoate, 56 grains sodium arsenate crystals, 31b- of honey. Allow ingredients. except honey and arsenate to boil slowly for 30 minutes. Dissolve sodium arsenate in one-quarter of a pint boiling water; then when it is cool, add the syrup. Add honey last; mix thorough! y, then bottle and mark "Poison."' Punch holes in the sides of a round flat tin which has a lid. Place a small piece of muslin at bottom of tin, and pour a little of mixture on. Keep muslin moist with mixture. A similar method is recommended by J. McV. (Auckland), to whom sincere thanks are also sent.

QUESTIONS J. R. (Te Awamutu). —Could anyone advise me as to the best way to keep an electric oven clean ? Inquirer (Te Awamutu). —Would anyone kindly oblige mo with a recipe for curing rabbit skins?