APPLE GROWING

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8441, 29 May 1913, Page 8

APPLE GROWING

Msot people hope at some time or other to retire to a small farm, away from the hustle of things and to live in an easy and comfortable style. The idea is a good one, but the ways, means and conditions ought first to be most carefully studied. There should above everything be surroundings and an occupation of a light and pleasant kind. Probably the best method of attaining this end is apple growing. The lif© is a free and easy one, giving a great deal of leisure without restrictive conditions such as in dairy farming and the usual order of farm Ifo. The work is always light, and easily learnt, and is one which amply repays the farmer for his initial outlay and his labour. To those to whom this idea appeals we direct attention to an advertisement on Ruby Bay apple lands. Ruby Bay, Moutere, is close to Nelson, and is a delightful spot, sunny, sheltered and picturesque. It overlooks the water, and would appear to be the ideal spot for a home. The land is considered by many to he the finest in New Zealand for apple growing and fruit culture, that at any rate is the opinion of such experts as Mr Frank Walker, of Tasmania, and Mr Thomas Horton, New Zealand’s leading orchard-nurseryman. As an indication of how profitable apple growing is, there are many people who are clearing on an average over .£6O per acre net annually. This estimate is considered quite conservative, as some growers are getting as much as £IOO per acre, while- at least in one instance £•230 has been secured in one year off one acre. When the light nature of the work and the healthy surroundings are considered, such results would seem almost too good. Apparently the apple industry is going to develop enormously, as quite apart from growing for local consumption there are bit; possibilities in exportation. There is a big demand abroad for Moutere apples, a demand which at the present moment is altogether too great for available supplies, so that it seems assured growers will never lack markets. *