DUNEDIN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 15788, 12 June 1913, Page 11

DUNEDIN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.

The following are the chief features in the annual report of the Duncdin Horticultural Society:—

The season has been a most unfortunate one from an horticulturist's point of view, and this has been a drawback'in the year's work; but the faet that wo have kept all oiii' engagements in the matter of shows is a subject of congratulation. Tho balancesheet shows that the crcdit balance has been diminished by £35 fe 7d, and this is explained by more liberal treatment in the matter of prize money. Taking weather conditions into consideration, the quality of exhibits has been really good, I'liere is evidence of increased interest in the narcissi competition, owing. 110 doubt, to the adoption of the classification of the Royal Horticultural Society. In tho Winter Show it is pleasing to note that new exhibitors are appearing in tho arena. In this connection there is an increase in the number of exhibitors that grow chrysanthemums in open ground. As far as exhibition is concerned tho outstanding feature of the shows of the year was the exhibit of fruit at the Winter Show. Hie fruit was excellent, »nd it is to ho hoped that it may become a «iill more striking feature of the May Bhow. By encouraging the Otago Central fruit-growers to send their fruit to the shows for exhibition, tho society can do its part in furthering the interests of the province. It would bo a step forward for the society if a two days' show could be arranged in May, when most of the exhibits arc quite as good on tho sccond day as on the first. Mr Larnaeh (secretary of the society for 10 years now) was granted leave of absence for six months. He will get in touch with kindred societies at Home, and no doubt this society will bo the gainer by his experience. Tho committee has encouraged by tho horticultural societies that nre springing up in the suburbs, and . in conncction with the churches, by the loan

of trestles and table-tops, as well ns by personal interest in judging and advising.