WORK FOR THE WEEK

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLV, Issue 21216, 10 December 1938, Page 15

WORK FOR THE WEEK

FLOWER GARDEN Pick off all dead flowers from roses and shorten hack young wood as this will have the effect of keeping the bushes sturdy. Spray periodically to prevent damage by pests or fungoid diseases. Occasional applications of liquid manure, applied soon after the buds term, will greatly improve the quality of all herbaceous plants, shrubs, etc. Keep the hoe going among all growing plants as this is the best method of keeping weeds in check. Areas of rough grass in which bulbs are naturalised may now be scythed as most of the bulb foliage has ripened off. Where desirable such areas may now be mowed throughout the summer. When dianthus have finished flowering cuttings should be taken to grow on a stock of plants for flowering next reason. The cuttings should be three inches in length and cut neatly across just below a leaf joint VEGETABLE GARDEN Although very difficult this season, weed control is essential for the production of maximum crops. Weeds not only rob the crops, but many harbour pests and diseases which spread to cultivated plants. Deep and frequent hoeing will greatly improve the tilth of the soil. Swedes required for winter use should be put in before the end of the year. Sow in drills about 20 inches apart, and thin the plants to about six Inches when large enough to handle. Sowings of all manner of winter vegetables such as carrots, long beet, curly kale and savoys should be made before the holidays so that the plants have plenty of time to grow before the end of summer. Thin out growths on currant and gooseberry bushes in order to allow sufficient light and air to ripen the fruit. Spray apples and pears to prevent damage by slug and codlin moth. Tomatoes should be firmly staked taking care that the ties are arranged to allow for the enormous expansion of girth due to normal growth. They should be examined periodically and all lateral growths removed, especially those which spring from the base of the plants.