CHRISTCHURCH GRAIN MARKET.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXXIII, Issue 8806, 28 February 1914, Page 7

CHRISTCHURCH GRAIN MARKET.

(Per Press Association.)

CHRISTCHURCH, February 27. The estimated yields of crops for the current season, as published by tlit' Department of Agriculture, have been subjected to some criticism. The estimate of 32' to 33 bushels per acre of wheat is considered altogether too low, and, so far as North and Mid-Canter-bury is concerned, will be nearer 40 bushels per acre, as so many crops are yielding 50 and 60 bushels per acre. An average * for the Dominion of 35 bushels would be well within tn mark. A 35-bushel crop on the acreage estimated to have been sown will give a total quantity about equal to th< Dominion's requirements. The estimated yield of oats (41.03 bushels per acre) will allow a considerable surplus for export. The barley crop is estimated to yield 38.31 bushels and the potato crop 6.7 tons per acre.. The esfrk mates are both looked upon as too high. If potatoes yield about 5 tons to the acre, the total quantity in increased acreage will be nearly equal to last year's crop, which Avas somewhat beyond the Dominion's requirements. The total yield, however, is impossible to estimate until it is seen to what extent the crop is affected by blight, and this will not be ascertained till after digging. , Wheat.—There is not much business yet doing in grain. Wheat is selling, but the offerings are not very large present, and sellers are generally asking3s 6d for grain for which; buyers are offering Id to 2d less. Oats.—Few oats are coming forward, as the demand ..is, not active, and prices do not tempt sellers at present. Potatoes.—There is little business being done in potatoes, and there is not much desire to do forward business either on the part of sellers or i'buyers.. For immediate delivery los is offered, and for forward delivery £2 ss, at country stations. Onions.—Onions are easier and £4 per ton is all that is offered.