GOOD CROPS PROMISED

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 21296, 24 September 1932, Page 12

GOOD CROPS PROMISED

ABUNDANT FRUIT BLOSSOMS STRAWBERRIES WELL FORWARD FROSTS DELAY VEGETABLES The abundance of fruit blossoms rioted this, spring is regarded as an indication of a very prolific season, and it is expected that production will be very heavy. On tho other hand, the frosts experienced earlier in tho season, coupled with the dry conditions in .August and Septcmbor, have delayed vegetable crops. Early plums have finished flowering, while the later varieties, peaches and other stone fruits, aro now in blossom. Unless very inclement weather is experienced in tho next two weeks, an abundant fruit harvest is anticipated. The prevalence of white-eyes, or "blighties," in certain districts is not expected to have any great effect on tho crops. Apple trees have not yet started blossoming, and it is difficult to reach any estimate of tho crop, but the trees in all districts aro looking exceptionally well. Nurserymen report good business in most lines of trees, and it appears that planting has been heavy this. year. There has been a good demand for stone fruit and citrus plants, with a lesser sale of apples and practically no inquiries for pears. Tho extensive plantings are widespread, tho Oratia district showing tho greatest increase. In this locality over 100 acres have been planted this year. Strawberries have responded well to tho recent rains, and they aro well forward in condition for tho time of the year. Growers expect to commence picking about the third week in October, which is about tho usual time. Most.plantations present a promising appearance, although there havo been the usual number of failures. There has been no great mortality as yet, although previous experience has shown that with a continuation of dry weather loss of plants may be expected in greater numbers.

Hothouse tomatoes in unhealed houses which have not been affected by the frosts of August are in good condition, while plants which have been substituted for those lost by frost are now coming forward satisfactorily. The first of the season's crop produced in heated houses is now being offered on tho market at prices approximating those realised at tho corresponding period last year. In all, more than the usual number of tomatoes lias been planted this year. Outdoor tomatoes are now coming along sufficiently well to set out early next month. Plantings have been lighter than last year, owing to the low prices ruling tho previous season, and to the fact that it was too late in many cases to replace lost plants. Vegetables generally are not well advanced, and crops will be later than last year. Onions are the only line to come forward early. These are in a satisfactory state; while there should be a good quantity available. Practically all other lines have been so greatly delayed by frost, followed by the spell of dry weather, that even with the recent fall of rain they have not been able to make up lost ground. New potatoes and early green peas, which are now coming forward, have been hi extremely short supply,' potatoes realising 5d per lb. and green peas Bd. The main supplies have been considerably retarded, in common with other vegetables, and will be considerably later this year than last.