TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Auckland Star, Volume XXVIII, Issue 42, 20 February 1897, Page 3 (Supplement)

TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Hop Picking (Mrs C.)-Hops ripen from about the end of February till the end of March, according to the seasou. When ready for picking the flowers arc firm to tlite touch, pale straw colour, emitting a fracrant ana nromatic odour, and fall to pieces easily. When the hops are green, tho istroblos nro open and elastic; but close, firm and crisp, whun ripening. If the finest colour ia desired, tho hops should be picked when a yellow juice forms at the bottom of the scales: but if the most strength and weight ia required, picking must be loft until the scales assunio a slightly brown appearance. After picking, the vines should be cut about thrco feot up the pole, and tied into a knot to prerenfc profuse bleeding.

Tomatoes ("G.E.S."). — I could not tell you the reason of your flowers not setting unless it be through the lato dry v/eaihor. I luivo grown tomatoes for years and have nerer seen what you have tried to describe. If the same is still going on would you be kind enough to send me one or two of the shoot 3. Pftck in a cardboard box and send to the Star Office so as to arrive there on Monday.