STEADY RAIN FALLS

North Canterbury Gazette, Volume 7, Issue 61, 3 December 1937, Page 4

STEADY RAIN FALLS

Benefit to Crops and

Gardens

OATS ALREADY IN STOOK

Commencing last evening,., a light, misty rain began to fall, continuing through the night and increasing with daylight. During the forenoon it became particularly heavy, and then suddenly clear. The fall, which was particularly fine and at times almost mistlike, came from the east and gave maximum benefit to crops and gardens. Although no figures are available, it is estimated that the total fall for the 24 hours measured nearly an inch. Unfortunately for oat and wheat crops on the lighter land, the rain is too late to be of great benefit. Already some crops of oats in the Amberley and Waipara districts are in stook. Crops on the heavier land around Rangiora will benefit.

Turnip, mangel, and rape seed sown has not yet struck in many cases, and here the rain will be particularly valuable in giving these crops a good start. The feed problem has not yet grown acute, but the rain will be welcome to bring fresh growth, which wiir be of great assistance to many farmers in assisting to fatten lambs. White clover is another crop to benefit. Many pastures which have been shut up for seed have shown no growth, but the extra moisture, coming at a most opportune time, will make a big difference. The farmer is not the only one pleased because it is raining. Modest though the town dweller’s garden may be, the wet spell means a great deal to the peas and lettuces and potatoes (not to mention the effect on prices of greengrocer’s wares), and the Borough water supply will get a rest for a few days.