The Potato Blight.

Northland Age, Volume 3, Issue 20, 18 December 1906, Page 5

The Potato Blight.

While it is pleasing to learn that in many parts of the district the potato blight has made no appearance this season, it is equally disconcerting to hear that in other instances growers are likely to lose the whole of their crops. When, in the latter instance, we know that various “ infallible ” specifics and spraying mixtures have been used, and accompanying instructions faithfully carried out, it has to be admitted that the prospect of successfully combating the disease is very discouraging. But it is only natural that failures in this respect would be recorded, seeing that there are so many alleged remedies on the market, prepared, we are charitable enough to say, in good faith ; and though some have suffered severely as a result they may still be of good heart, as it would appear there is at least one specific which has proved effective. We refer to Sharland’s potato blight exterminator, in reference to which we noticed an interesting article in “ The -N.Z. Farmers’ Weekly ” of October 9th last. We refrained from mentioning the matter earlier, as we were desirous of hearing what local results had been achieved. In the article mentioned -it was stated that Shai land’s blight exterminator was doing all that was claimed for it, and that it was proving simply invaluable to large numbers of potatogrowers, instances in support being given from Devenport, West Tamaki and Tauranga. Confirmatory evidence of its effectiveness is now forthcoming also from Northern growers, among whom we may cite Mr. Geo. Foster, of Prowanui. Mr. Foster writes :—“ I have been making several inquiries re the treatment of potato blight with Messrs. Sharland and Co.’s blight exterminator, and it is now- proved to be effectual as far as this present season has gone. . . . As far as I see, having made several inspections of my own crop, where it has been applied, and having the opinion of others, so far it is doing good work and very little, if any, of that much dreaded disease is to be found where Sharland’s specific is applied as instructed.” In face of evidence of this kind we think we are safe in recommending Sharland’s exterminator to the consideration of those interested. We may add that it is claimed that the preparation is also being used successfully for cauliflower, cabbage, turnips, pumpkins, etc., and for grain of all kinds. In the case of grain, it destroys any seed that is at all affected by rust ar disease, and ensures more vigorous growth of the healthy seed.