WEATHER IN NOVEMBER

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 29068, 3 December 1959, Page 18

WEATHER IN NOVEMBER

Lincoln College Report

In November, rainfall was below average and sunshine and temperatures were above the mean, factors which increased the already dry conditions in Canterbury, says the summary of meteorological observations made at Canterbury Agricultural College, Lincoln. The highest maximum temperature was 81 degrees on November 29 with the average 69.6 degrees. There were 238.7 hours of sunshine—3s.3 above the mean. Rainfall was 1.25 inches, .72 inches below the mean. Dry soil- conditions made cultivation difficult on areas to be summer fallowed and spring-sown crops such as peas and summer lamb fattening feed made slow growth because of the lack of rainfall. Stock health was satisfactory and lamb growth good, which enabled large numbers to be killed or weaned. On some properties the shortage of feed made it necessary to both kill and wean lambs at ages much younger than ever before. First cuts of lucerne were not heavy, but because they were made without rain damage the quality was good. Second cuts have made very good growth on medium to heavy land, but on light land growth was retarded. Vegetable growth in home gardens has been slow, and frequent hosings were required. Most succulent species of vegetables and flowers have been subject to heavy greenfly infestation.