THE ELDERBERRY.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 13524, 22 February 1906, Page 8

THE ELDERBERRY.

TO TOE EDITOB. Sir,—Will you kindly permit mc, throujrh the medium of your paper, to point out to the authorities concerned, .and to the general public, the grave danger to which our beautiful native bush is exposed by the rapidly-increasing growth of elderberry throughout it. I regret to see that tho crusade against the elderberry, which was commenced over a year ago, has not been maintained, and that the weed is rapidly spreading. 1 believe that the elderberry has been declared a noxious weed; and, if that is correct, why is it allowed to spread unchecked? Jf I am not out of place in making the suggestion, I would suggest Unit the City Council vote, a sum of money and secure the services of two good men who are in need of work. The duties of these men would be to thoroughly root out nol only tho large trees, but also the numberless small seedlings which infest the bvsh, and may very quickly assume large dimensions. I am quite assured that the money would he profitably spent, and would be. (he means of exterminating a weed which at present threatens lo overwhelm and seriously jeopardise the beauty, if not the existence, ol our native bush. I also police that people aro allowing it to grow unchecked in their gardens and backyards. These people should be compelled to root it oul, for it would be of little avail lo clear (ho hush and allow it (o grow in Ihe vicinity, r.s it nropagaKs rnnidlr from seed. Another matter I would like to call attention lo is the state of several of tho dower Ix-ds and shrubberies in the city, notably those at the top of Dundus street and in Canoiigato street. These plots hare been allowed to become ovorvrown with weeds, which greatly mars their effort. When I mention this T don't wish to imply thai Mr 'fannock has been neglecting his duties,, as I have no doubt Hint he and his staff have their hands full in attending to the Bofaniciil Gardens and other reserves, ami thev deserve <rreat praise for (he admirable stale in which they are kept. Trusting llicse mailers will obtain the attention lliey deserve.—l am, etc.. February 20. ISO 6. Native.