PLANTING OF STRAWBERRIES

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 77, Issue 82, 7 April 1934, Page 13

PLANTING OF STRAWBERRIES

MANURING ADVISABLE. When the new strawberry plants arrive they should be planted at the fust opportunity, preferably during showery weather. The earlier the plants are put in before the winter, the better established they will be for fruiting. Pests and diseases are so widespread among the strawberries, that many take the wis c precaution of dipping the new plants in insecticide (.nicotine sulphate at summer spraying strength), before planting. This dipping kills aphides or other insects i which may be infesting roots or leaves. The plants are afterwards rinsed in clear water and planted at once. In recent years the practice of sterilising by hot water treatment has found favour as a means of combating disease and pests, and ensuring healthy stock. The plants are placed m netting bags and immersed in water kept at 110 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. The plants are afterwards dipped in cold water, then dried and planted immediately. In most gardens preparation should consist of trenching and working the manure into th e top soil. The plants mostly root in the top Gin. Basic slag can be broadcast at the rate of per square yard, or failing that, a mixture consisting of five parts suppcrphosphate can be applied as well as three parts of sulphate of potash at slb. pper square yard. The soil should be trodden fairly firm, and raked level for planting.