Freeport Weekly Journal in Freeport, Illinois

Salt And Plaster The Remedy For Cut Worms On Corn

The article reports a 19th century remedy tested by a Philadelphia agricultural commissioner on his corn crop to combat cut worms. Mixing finely ground salt with plaster and applying around each corn hill killed worms without harming the plant, while a control row without treatment was destroyed. It notes salt’s effect on insect skin rather than sap, and suggests charcoal as an alternative. Also included are methods for home canning fruit with glass jars and a brief note on preserving rhubarb and tomatoes.