A GARDENERS' CLUB.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20867, 8 May 1931, Page 14

A GARDENERS' CLUB.

Sir, —The letter from the pen of "Gardener" in your issue of Thursday is one which, to my mind, is worthy of consideration by all bona-fiae gardeners. The formation of a club should, and could, provide a means of improving our efficiency by the interchange of experiences, investigations and difficulties and discussion of various cultural theories. A \vell : stocked library of standard works could readily be made available and there should be little difficulty in arranging for the services of eminent public or Government horticultural experts to give lectures on suitable subjects. Quarterly • show/ is flying high, but an annual show, seems possible. From past experience I doubt the advisability of asking local seedsmen to put up prizes. Undoubtedly thev would, but it always savours of a mild form of blackmail. The roll of gardeners is a sound idea, the efficiency of which I have already proved in a small way, as it assures to the public the services of men whose efficiency and integrily are vouched for by a responsible organisation, at rates of remuneration varying according to the degree of skill called for. "Gardener" is perhaps ' a trifle optimistic regarding the number of his fellow craftsmen who would offer themselves for membership. The spirit often is willing, but the flesh is weak, and although most will admit the advantages of the scheme comparatively _ few may be found sufficiently enthusiastic to make tho effort required. However, to test the strength of the demand, I am prepared to place my services at the disposal of those who wish to see such » club formed, and, at the request of not fewer than twelve prospective members, would arrange a meeting (time and place to suit the majority) in order to provide an opportunity to bring the idea to fruition. ' W. G. Swabbx., 13, Komaru Street, Remuora.