FIELD CROPS

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 36, 6 November 1943, Page 6

FIELD CROPS

Production Affected By Wet Weather

OUTLOOK FOR SEASON

Production throughout New Zealand had been adversely affected by the abnormally wet weather during the months of June, July, August, September and October, said the Director of the Fields Division. Department of Agriculture, Mr. W. P. Smallfield, yesterday. It had been particularly difficult to prepare seed beds for spring sown crops and practically all cultivation work was a month to six weeks behind. Later-sown crops had also been affected because the land was too waterlogged for proper preparation. Vegetable production had suffered severely; many of the early crops had been poor and some had failed completely. Supplies were likely to be below normal requirements throughout November and early December. Dairy production would probably be down this season, partly because of the abnormally dry autumn and partly because of the wet spring.. The cumulative effect of the shortage of fertilizers and the scarcity of labour also contributed to the position. The wet spring had been unsatisfactory for laftbing. and losses had been unsusually severe in Canterbury. Crops of potatoes, turnips, rape and kale were now being planted and their success would depend on the state of the weather from now till Christmas, said Mr. Smallfield. . The calling-up of territorials for one month’s service would ensure an ample supply of labour for the harvesting ot hay. ensilage and cereals.