The cage and pot described here were used successfully in extensive studies on the transmission of aster yellows virus by the six spotted leafhopper, Macrosteles fascifrons (Stål) (Richardson 1966). The use of this composite unit results in a saving of labour, cost, and greenhouse space.

The materials for the testing unit consist of a round peat pot, 3 in. in diameter and 3 in. deep, and a 1-lb polyethylene bag approximately 8 in. long, with an opening 3 in. in diameter. The seedling growing in the pot is covered by the inverted bag and the mouth of the bag is then pulled down over the rim of the pot and secured with a rubber band (Fig. 1). Several hundred small holes are made in the bag to permit air exchange.