Chloride of Lime
is composed of chlorine and lime. When exposed to the air, it parts with a portion of its major constituent, chlorine, and is thus changed to Muriate of Lime, a salt which rapidly absorbs moisture from the air. It has been used with moderate success for quickening the growth of Turnip seed, in the proportion of 11b. to six gallons of water, soaked for thirty-six hours. Great care should be taken in using it, as it will totally destroy the germinating powers of many seeds. Chloride of Lime is also very valuable as a disinfectant-solution 1/21b. to two gallons of water. It is one of the most effectual applications for fixing ammoniacal fumes. In order to bleach skeleton leaves and fruits, the green cellular portions of which have been got rid off by maceration in water for a longer or shorter period, according to the texture and general character of the specimens, immersion in a weak solution of Chloride of Lime for a day or two, is all that is necessary.