Good Seed And Rich Soil For Healthy Onions

Auckland Star, Volume LXXII, Issue 69, 22 March 1941, Page 7 (Supplement)

Good Seed And Rich Soil For Healthy Onions

MANY Ancklanders had poor crops of onions this year, mainly due to mildew, and this is reflected in the abnormal number of leeks that have -fen planted out for winter use. Where mildew has been experienced " s garden in one year, it can be fxpected the next season, and as a pre'•aution the plants should he kept dusted •ith eulphur preferably after rain or in 'ho mornings , while the plants are etiil *et with dew. Good onions are impossible from poor '1«m seeds, despite the best of attention. 50* tie right variety at the right time, ind buy seed from a dependable source.

no sow ppp<ls foo parly is as had as sowing too late. Take rarp ahvayfi as to the correct kind to sow at thp time; otherwise they will only run to seed before bulbing. In tlie Auckland district seeds pan he »wn now, but June, July and August are good, months to sow tliem in eokl districts. Always make two sowings three weeks apart, one in almost sure to ha correct, despite the vagaries of the season. Seedbeds should have fine rich soil— not loose. Tread it till tirm and level, at a time when the noil is in suitable condition. No covering is necessary, just press the seeds into the soil. Thin out the plants in the seed bed and transplant when Sin high, or if longer, cut tops back half way when shifting, and shorten the roots also with a knife. Permanent l>eds must be rich and free from weeds, and the soil should be well firmed.