CITRUS FRUIT FARMING

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22300, 24 December 1935, Page 15

CITRUS FRUIT FARMING

Sir, —With roi'crenco to the letters of "Small Grower," "Taurauga" and "Lemon Grower," regarding market prices of lemons anil remedies suggested for improving the prospects of lemon growers, may I be permitted to offer a few observations. Liko all other primary products, lemons are subject to the law of supply and demand. "Small Grower" some time ago put his lemons on a glutted Wellington market, which, he says, yielded him only 2s 6d per case, and yet lemons realised up to 8s a case, and Now Zealand grapefruit to 16s a case at the Auckland City Markets on December 17. It appears that about sufficient lemon trees have now been planted to cope with the requirements of New Zealand for the present and the near future, therefore it behoves citrus growers and prospective planters to increase the acreago of New Zealand grapefruit, sweet oranges and mandarins in approved varieties. The first-named has already gained public favour, and it will be a lon* timo before the supply overtakes tho steadily-increasing demand for this appetising breakfast fruit at prices yielding a very satisfactory remuneration to tho producers. Authorities are agreed, and it has been amply demonstrated, that there can be no question, but what extensive plantings of sweet oranges, and mandarins also, will provo a safe and profitable venture to those who have the vision and foresight to "get in" early and establish groves. The demand is great; the market sure. Why not take advantage of it ? Okanok Groweb.