CONTROL OF WEEDS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 25427, 7 January 1944, Page 4

CONTROL OF WEEDS

EXPERIMENTS IN AUSTRALIA The mechanisation of farming has made it necessary for the modern farmer to be something of a mechanic. It is further suggested (says the Melbourne Age) that as a result of experiments with new types of chemicals to control weeds, the up-to-date agriculturist may soon have to brush up on his chemistry. Federal officials concerned with rural production expect good results from experiments with chemical weed controls. Working in co-operation with the Commonwealth Directorate of Agriculture, American Army technicians have been experimenting in controlling weeds by spraying with chemicals. Experience gained in Ame-

rica was adapted to Australian crops and conditions, and the experimental stage has now been passed.

It is believed that the system of weed control by chemical spraying can be used on a commercial basis, particularly for certain vegetable crops. This new system of weed control will, it is expected, help, to overcome shortage of rural labour, cut down costs 'of production, and obtain

the best possible return for the grower. The Commonwealth Government is now sponsoring the first commercfel order for a chemical weed control, and it is hoped that the manufacture of this control will ae undertaken shortly.