TREES AND SHRUBS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVII, Issue 20596, 21 June 1930, Page 29 (Supplement)

TREES AND SHRUBS.

SUITABLE FERTILISERS. For trees, shrubs, hedge plants and ether permanent subjects an application of bonedusfc or blood and bone, mixed bonedust iu equal quantities—about ft handful or more, well mixed ■with the soil in each hole—is a safe and permanent method of manuring. For hedge plants, scatter the fertiliser along the lino before digging out the trench for the reception of the plants. . In the case of trees that are planted "with the object of growing into large and handsomo specimens, extra care thould be devoted in the preparation of Ui* holes for their reception. If the ,M(soil is stiff and uncongenial, good, Situs and, deep holes should bo dug and some of this thrown out and refilled with fresh surface earth. For this purpose a turfy loam mixed with trimmings from paths;' edgings and leaf rubbish are the best. A little fine scoria ash placed in the bottom of the hole is most bepclicial. In fairly deep friable this is unnecessary, but in tho case of any with i hard pen underlying tiho surface —which often occurs—the insertion of some mild explosive should be employed to break lip the' subsoil and allow free action for the roots of any large-growing trees that may bo planted Otherwise success cannot be obtained. Tho tree will ultimately become stunted and probably die. To obtain the best results ft is imperative that tho holes bo properly prepared at the first—after results will well repay for any extra labour and expense. " A proper system of drainage must also be provided otherwise water will collect at the bottom of the hole!) and prove fatal to most varieties of trees.