Certified Seeds

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 270, 11 August 1938, Page 13

Certified Seeds

Sir,-—I wish to support wholeheartedly Mr. Gregor McGregor, of Banana, Wanganui River, in the suggestion which ht has repeatedly made that no pasture seeds should be allowed to be sown in New Zealand until they have been subjected to Government test for purity and germination. In my opinion the work of testing the seeds should be carried out free of charge to the farmers. When one considers that in a primary producing coun- ' try such as this, pasture seeds are nothing more nor less than the source of our wealth, it must be realised that this is a national question. As things are at present, it is open to anyone to lay down a paddock with uncertified seed-—and what is the result? Noxious weeds of every kind are introduced and perpetuated, and farmers have absolutely no idea as to the weight or quality of the pasture seeds they sow. This is a question which the Farmers Union should have taken up and pushed right through years ago. Our climate is such that weeds which in colder climes do not spread, become an absolute menace here. In this connection it is only necessary to mention ragwort. May I suggest that this urgent matter be considered by Parliament? I consider Mr. McGregor deserves the thanks of everyone. I personally know he has a thorough practical knowledge of his subject, and I sincerely trust that his advice win be given effect to.-T ' Bushy Park, August 9.