Thinning-out.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LII, Issue 16050, 16 October 1915, Page 4 (Supplement)

Thinning-out.

Thinning-out of the bunches too is a matter that must be attended to. The number of bunches left upon the vines must always be regulated by the strength and condition of the plants, as well as the treatment given to their culture. AH vines that are in a healthy condition generally produce more bunches than the vines could possibly mature and colour, particularly when the spurs have been formed at even short distances throughout the length of cane. In no case should the vines be overtaxed with fruit, it is far better to be satisfied with a reasonable crop of well-ripened, well-developed fruit than have a heavy crop of small unripened berries. The first thinning of berries should be commenced as soon as possible after the berries have properly set. giving the final thinning when they have attained about the size of peas. The vines should be well sprayed, and a nice moist atmosphere maintained, particularly when closing the house. The floor too should be frequently damped down during the day. A moist atmosphere is the more necessary since the red spider has proved so troublesome and injurious to the foliage, and is a means of keeping the pests in check. Sulphur too should be used freely, particularly in houses where this pest have proved troublesome. In such cases it is advisable to dash the foliage with sulnhur and not to wait until the pest makes it appearance. The worst feature of this pest is that its appearance is rarely noticed until the foliage has been robbed of much of its vitality, and the leaves change colour. No effort, in fact, should be spared to keen this pest under, as clean, healthy foliage is an all-important factor in the production of well-finished fruit.