THE VEGETABLE GARDEN

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XXII, Issue 252, 7 October 1932, Page 13

THE VEGETABLE GARDEN

Pumpkins and Cucumbers: The weather is now warmer and seeds of cucumber, pumpkin, marrow and melon can safely be planted. Seeds may either be set on moulds or on the ilat provided there is plenty of rich rotted manure under them. All this type of plant are gross feeders and must be manured accordingly. Set the seeds in clumps of three or four and thin out the weakest when large enough. Tomato Planting: In most gardens the tomato can now be set out in the open ground. Dig the roil well and set in the warmest spot available. Not too much manure is required until plants are firmly established and showing flower. In cold windy gardens where a few early plants are attempted a good idea is to place a half bennm. tin or square box with the bottom knocked out over the plant. A sheet of glass can then cover the top, making a miniature glass house. Seeds to Sow: Most root crops command attention now and main crop sowings of carrots, radish, beet, turnip, swedes, and parsnips must be made. Sow thinly to save yourself extra work of weeding out; and ft also makes the seed go further. For sowing in beds or boxes to transplant when large enough, set lettuce, broccoli, cabbage, bcfrecole or curley greens, Brussels sprouts, red pickling cabbage and leeks.

Hoeing and Preparing: Keep the hoe busy along the rows of established vegetables. This does a great deal of good, letting air into the soil, keeping the ground moist and allowing the sun’s rays to penetrate deeper than usual. Lime scattered round the garden is well advised. Bqans and Peas: Broad beans that are well on in growth may be nipped back to make them branch more. Any signs of rust may be checked by using lime and sulphur applied with a strong syringe. Continue sowing beans, French and butter, for succession crops. Try a row of the purple podded variety. They Boil green and taste delicious. Sow now, strategm and daisy peas to follow on after William Hurst and American Wonder. Xmas Herbs: What is lamb without mint sauce, or turkey without fresh stuffing? See to it now that the herb clumps are in good order. Cut back straggling growth and thin out where required. Beds that have been established two or three seasons should be manured with super and blood and bone. Parsley may be Sown thinly in drills round the borders for fresh tender growth.