THE GARDEN.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLVII, Issue 14566, 31 December 1910, Page 4 (Supplement)

THE GARDEN.

Ix taking a brief retrospective glance upon the past 12 months tho year 1910 compares more than favourably with any of its predecessors. The weather, that all-important factor in connection with horticultural operations, has been most propitious. Especially throughout tho spring and up to the present time ideal conditions have prevailod for tnu splanting operations. P.nd for growth generally. Our parks, gardens, and grounds pre »nt a verdant and most, charming appearance, beautiful flowers .n the greatest abundance and variety abouf'-o. where, contrasting with the varibufs tints of foliage and rare verdure of the gr&sr, clearly indicating the existence of conditions most favourable to plant life. THE FRUIT SEASON. Fruit-hearing trees are in a, most wealthy and flourishing state and laden with ample crops of fruits. Strawberries are in greater supply and of superior quality than for many years. Our kitchen gardens are replete with the many varieties of vegetables in thendifferent stages of growth and maturity, but nob altogether free from blemish, as fungoid, diseases ho/vo 'been prevalent upon potatoes and tomatoes. To prevent fungi proper attention must be paid to spraying tho foliage before tho disease makes its appearance. Altogether, from the horticulturist's point of view, the new year opens most propitiously, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and otter garden products being most plentiful. ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE. During the past 12 months ornamental horticulture has made marvellous progress. The remarkable developments and improvements in horticulture still proceed with unabated vigour. Hvbridisers and specialists are more busy than ever in their efforts to produce something new; the previous year's novelties a-ro soon displaced _ with others possessing distinct, characteristics in the flower or habit of growth of the plant, or in both combined. The rose still retains its premier position among flowers. | Recent, additions* and developments in the climbing section have popularised the pergold, which acids greatly to the' charms of 'he garden. Each year "adds a whole batch of novelties in roses.

THE SWEET PEA. The sweet oea still continues its onward march of popularity. The greatest, enthusiasm is evinced in this flower, and' the greatest rivalry in the production of new varieties and in growing flowers for exhibition. The cactus dahlia also receives considerable attention, judging from the number of novelties that are annually produced. Another section of the dahlia family, the psiiouyflower, has recently come into prominence. The narcissi, or daffodil family, continue to increase in popularity and receive special care and attention at the hands of tho hybridizer. Some of our local productions are of high-class merit and most distinct. RAISING NEW VARIETIES. It. is a matter of regret that here in New Zealand, where we possess such unrivalled! climatic conditions, so little interest is takca or time devoted to the raising of new varieties of plants from cross fertilisation. Our growers are evidently content with the productions of other countries;, instead of striking out 011 now lines. There is a wide and profitable field open to the specialist who would undertake the work. It is, however, pleasing to note that our growers keep abreast of the times by importing the latent and best, varieties in plants and seeds, chiefly the productions of Europe, airl America. THE YEAR'S SHOWS. The horticultural exhibitions during the past year have been a great success and have done much to encourage the growth of flowers and improve the quality of the exhibits. The Auckland Horticultural Society arranged a spring show, chiefly for daffodils, a November show for roses and other flowers in season, also pot plants and vegetables, and classes for children —a most important feature. Prizes, too,.arc given for the bestfilled and kept school gardens. Early in December the carnation and' sweet pea exhibition and carnival was held, and in the autumn the chrysanthemum and dahlia show. In addition, every country district and village of any importance has its agricultural and horticultural association ana annual show. Thora are also winter shows, all of which greatly assist in encouraging the cultivation of fruits, flowers, vegetables, and other garden products. In bidding adieu to the past year horticulturists have reason to be thankful for .such a bountiful season, and to hope that the new year, which commences so auspiciously, will bo equally favourable.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. " Amateur," Tauranga: From your description the insect seen upon the vines is, without doubt, the mealy big, which is the worst pest the vine-grower has to contend: with when once it becomes established in the house. Not knowing the post you nave been wise in seeking information as soon as possible, so that active measures can be taken before they have time to increase. I would advise you to procure a bottle of Bridford antiseptic or, firtree oil, and to cirefully look over every vine, starting from the base near the ground, and upon any signs of the insects, either upon wood or foliage, dress thft parts affected with the insecticide, using a small brush for the purpose. Being only young vines, and, as you state, only a very few having made their appearance., you may by frequent wartohmj,," eradicate tbeai from the vines. Only persistent effort is likely to do this. You l»avo done perfectly right in allowing the leading can© to extend unstopped, and even the lateral growth may be- allowed, to exfceod, providing they do not become unduly crowded so as to exclude the necessary light and air. Onjv one leader, however, must bo allowed to grow on each cane. The main object in allowing a liberal amount of growth on. young vinea is to encourage free root a/ation., as roots ciisi only be produced in proportion as heajttiy, vigorous top- : cDosrtJMffonadft! JSJSTGS. .