DRY SMUT ATTACKS THE WHEAT CROPS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18939, 9 December 1929, Page 10

DRY SMUT ATTACKS THE WHEAT CROPS.

MAY AFFECT YIELD ON LIGHTER LANDS. Dry smut has made its unwel come appearance in North Canterbury wheat crops, especially in those on lighter land. The heads of wheat affected bear only a small proportion to the whole, but as no grain can form in those heads the yield will be affected, in some cases by perhaps up to half a bushel an acre. W heat on. the heavier lands managed to maintain its growth during the drought, and has consequently not been visited by smut. The disease forms blackly over scattered heads, but will not affect the quality of the grain sample, as the smut blows off in the wind long before the binder gets to work. The disease leaves a grainless stalk. Though the crops are looking well after the recent rains, the rural chorus is: “Another little drop wouldn’t do us any harm.” There will be comparatively little straw with the wheat this year, which will mhke for easier and less expensive harvesting, but this will be more than counteracted by the smallness of the yield from the lighter lands. TJie heads of wheat are short and contains fewer “pickles” than usual. Upon the weather conditions from now on will depend whether the grains fill out boldly or become pinched and shrivelled. Wheat on the heavy lands should fill out well. Oat crops lack the usual amount of straw, due to checked growth The heads are filling out fairly well, and conditions being favourable, there should be some bright and weighty chaff about after harvest. The first blue tints from linseed in flower are adding to the attractiveness of the countryside. Rape is being sown as opportunity offers, and turnips will shortly be in and above the ground.