EARLY TOMATOES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20324, 3 August 1929, Page 5 (Supplement)

EARLY TOMATOES.

Tomatoes required for spring or early summer planting should now bo sown. Tho seed should bo sown in shallow boxes of 1 pan 3in good, sifted soil and placed in tho warmest part of the greenhouse, or, failing this convenience, in a closo, warm framo Even if placed in a sheltered, sunny position on tho verandah, they should, with reasonablo care, be raised successfully. Fill tho box or pan to within about an inch of the top with good soil and press the surface level so that tho seed can be evenly distributed. Aftci sowing lightly cover tho seed with finn soil then cover tho box or pan with glass As soon as tho soed shows signs of germination, the glass should Iks slightly raised to admit tho air and prevent the plants from becoming drawn and weak.

As so'Mi as the plants have formed two or three of their rough leaves thov should be pricked out into boxes, allowing a space of about 3in. between each plant, so that when ready for transplanting they can bo lifted with but littlo check. Where heating material is obtainable a small hotbed for raising theso and other tender plants for early planting is an advantage A reasonablo thickness of stable manure and leaves mado into a hotbed will retain tho heat for a much longer period than manure alone For raising early cucumbers, marrows and other tender subjects a certain amount of bottom heat is essential.