BENEFICIAL RAIN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26958, 18 December 1948, Page 3

BENEFICIAL RAIN

CEREAL CROPS SHOWING PROMISE

LITTLE INTEREST IN SEEDS

Rain has fallen throughout Otago this week, and the country is now well soaked. In Central Otago, in particular, good crops will be assured, given the usual hot weather in December and January. The Inquiry for wheat, oats, and barley continues, but supplies of oats are now unobtainable. The deliveries of wheat at present are barely sufficient for immediate requirements. All the new season’s lines of cereals will find a ready market. The demand for chaff is small, and the quantity coming to hand is just sufficient to meet requirements. Last season’s potatoes are now finished, but the new crop is coming to hand in ample quantities. The quality of the locally-grown potatoes is good. The market is being supplied from the auction marts. Little interest is being shown in the 'seed market at present, but there was an inquiry for cowgrass from overseas during the week. It is understood that this seed is required for the Continent, but buyers are not prepared to pay a premium for certified lines, or for Montgomery red clover. There is no inquiry for white clover at present. Stocks, however, are small, as there was a good clearance during the year. Merchants are still busy with retail orders, and the replacement of shortages is the only business being recorded in crested dogstail, Chewings flescue, brown top, cocksfoot, and ryegrass.