Our Sweet Pea Number.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLII, Issue 20, 19 May 1909, Page 39

Our Sweet Pea Number.

THE SUGGESTED NORTH ISLAND COMPETITION R- SIDNEY WARD. hon. secreJ I | tary of the New Zealand . ] I f Sweet Pea Society, writes: — / “In connection with your notes anent the possibility of holding a representative sweet pea show for the North Island. I would like to point out that this matter has been under consideration for at least twelve months, and that arrangements for such a show are nearing completion. In January last the N.Z. Sweet Tea Society was formed for the special purpose of holding championship shows, at least for the North Island. The history of this Society commences some twelve months ago. Interest in sweet pea growing was awakening then in Taranaki, and the Stratford Horticultural Society took a leading part in the movement, placing a large share of its prizes at the disposal of the sweet pea classes in 1908. In September last the president and secretary of the Taranaki H.S.A., who were present at the Auckland Society’s daffodil show, were commissioned to ascertain what support Auckland sweet pea growers would give to a representative North Island show, to be held in Stratford in 1910. Much * sparkling ’ water, however,- was

showered on the scheme (let us blame Fleet Week), so that the delegates returned discouraged. But in spite of this, in January, 1909, the N.Z. Sweet Pea Society was launched, with some misgivings. The birth was the signal for discontented grumblings from various quarters, but now the young and ambitious Society has gained the support of several prominent growers, and the temporary committee is on the point of publishing a schedule for the first representative show, to be held in Stratford on or before the 15th of January. 1910. At this show substantial challenge cups and bowls will be awarded in conjunction with gold and silver medals of the N.Z.S.P.s. offered by the Stratford Horticultural Society, ami it is hoped that a full gathering of growers will confirm the action of the local committee by establishing the N.Z.S.P.S. on a firm

basis and laying such plans as may seem fit for future annual meetings. Now that the Dominion is able to produce its own seed, and enthusiastic cultivators grow the vines with greater care, we may hope for seminal variations of some importance to the world perhaps, surely then the time is ripe for the foundation of a society that will affix its seal of approbation to such ‘ sports ’ as may appear worthy—perhaps a ‘ Henry Brett ’ Spencer, or a 1 Mrs. H. A. Fox waved,’ or a new and glorious fringed ‘Trevethiek’ —who knows? Indeed, I have every reason to believe that we shall see the fruition of these splendid anticipations.” [One result of our special sweet pet number is that we have discovered a Society which has sufficient go and enterprise to take up the scheme we have been advocating. Well done. Taranaki! May success crown your efforts! We would respectfully suggest to the committee having charge of the arrangements that if it is possible the proposed show should be held about the second or third week in December, in order to give the Auckland growers a chance of competing. November is the best month for the Auckland province. but no doubt this is too early for Taranaki or Welling ton. Should the time we have suggeste I be too early for Taranaki, then have the date as early as possible in the New Year. We shall be pleased to publish details as the effort proceeds, and invite all those interested to keep us posted.—Yeronica.]

Mrs. Herbert T. Wood ("Tc Kohangw,” Masterton) writes:—“As an ardent lover and enthusiastic cultivator of sweet peas, I write to thank you for your contributed articles in the "Graphic.” By myself they have been deeply appreciated, and acted quite as a stimulus. I was fortunate in securing first prize for collection of 12 best sweet peas at our March Show, and intend making every effort to win more laurels next year. I like Mr. Bradfield’s idea of having a North Island Sweet Pea Competition, and hope his idea may take definite shape soon.” | We are always pleased to hear from our readers, and it is gratifying to know that one’s efforts are appreciated. We shall esteem it a favour if our readers will note any difficulties they meet, sportive stocks, etc., which may be of general interest, and send particulars along. Photographs are always welcomed. and we bespeak the co-operation of ail sweet pea growers for our next special. We trust our correspondent may be successful at next show. She will no doubt be gratified to observe that the North Island Competition is being taken up, and is in a fair way of being the event for sweet pea growers this coming season. —Veronica.]