Garden Notes FOOD FOR SUMMER

Dominion, Volume 37, Issue 36, 6 November 1943, Page 7

Garden Notes FOOD FOR SUMMER

Vegetables To Sow Or Plant In November URGENT GARDEN TASKS

( By “The Hoe.”)

So unfavourable have been the past four months that most gardeners are way behind in their sowing and planting schedules. If adequate vegetables are to bo grown on the home plot, it beliotcs thq gardener to Like advantage of every favourable opportunity to overtake the arrears in bis planting programme Late sowing or planting can be largely overcome by ensuring a steady now of plant food throughout the growing period. This can be done by incorporating with the soil adequate supplies of organic matter such as' partly decayed composted material, mellowed animal manures or partly decomposed leafmould, plus a little blood and bone fertilizer. The emphasis on partly-de-cayed organic matter is worth noting, as when worked into the soil in that state, the process of decomposition goes steadily on, gradually making available to, the plant roots a continuous flow of nutrients throughout the period of growth. When the plants begin to grow, the question of adequate supplies of moisture becomes paramount, as without moisture the plant foods cannot be dissolved, and roots can only absorb through their membranes those salts which arein solution. The organic matter in the soil helps to retain water, but in addition a mulch of organic piatter (lawn clippings are good) greatly assists in conserving the soil moisture. A two-inch mulch of any old manure. composted material or leafmould is desirable. The foregoing are fundamental requirements and must be supplemented by other fertilizers’or manures in many cases. For instance, leaf crops such as lettuce can be encouraged to make quick growth by means of nitrate of soda or sulphate of ammonia, applied as a liquid manure (4oz. to a gallon of water) at intervals of a week or 10 days. Always water the soil well before applying liquid manures.

What to Sow Now.— Peas can. still be sown. Sow a few feet of row’ every week for a succession of supplies, and remember that peas require, in addition to organic matter, adequate supplies of lime. Apply at rate of about "oz. a square yard before planting, aud just, when pods are forming give another dressing of lime (2oz. a square yard) and water it in. Dwarf beans enn be sown in quantity, but it is advisable to make smaller sowings at frequent intervals otherwise the whole crop ripens at once. Lettuce should bo sown in, small quantifies at intervals. A pinch of seed at a time is sufficient. At this season sow in a shady corner and keep well watered. when large enough to he easily handled. Main crop potatoes can still be sown in well enriched ground, but don't Rive very ranch lime; loz. a square yard is sufficient for this crop. Garden swedes, beetroot, parsnips, radishes, intermediate 1 , carrots, runner beans can also be sown now*.

What to Plant.—Cape gooseberries (a rich source of vitamins and a prolific crop when properly grown) should find a place in larger gardens. Lettuce can bo transplanted as required ; also cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Tomatoes should do well if planted out now. A fairly rich ■ soil, a welldrained. sunny situation and ample supplies of potash are the main requirements of this crop. If you use sulphate nt potash apply it at the rate of 2oz. a square yard: if you provide potash by means of wood ashes, apply at rate of Goz. a square yard;

Kuineras cun safely be planted out in all districts. They require a light, warm soil that is fairly well charged with organic matter , and ample supplies of water. Onions can still be planted out. Require a well drained, finely worked soil and plenty of potash.