SEASONAL NOTES.

New Zealand Journal of Agriculture, Volume 44, Issue 2, 20 February 1932, Page 134

SEASONAL NOTES.

THE FARM.

Reviewing the Feed Position.

As the first step to the making of plans for future work many farmers will find it very useful at this season . to review their position in respect to feed. Generally the position will give rise to anxiety rather than to satisfaction. Because of the prevailing unfavourable season stocks of hay and silage are much lower than they would have been had the season been a normal one. This is reflected in the fact that hay is already being sought at prices exceptionally high relative to the current prices of farm produce. In addition, the unfavourable season also leaves the supplementary fodder-crop position less satisfactory than it usually is. It will probably prove advisable to consume in late summer reserves of feed, including silage, which normally would serve for the winter period.

Linked with this unfavourable feed position is generally a weakened financial standing, which naturally makes farmers anxious to spend every penny of outlay to the best advantage. It may be said with certainty that some, in their eagerness to exercise economy fully, are so drastically reducing expenditure as to be really practising harmful parsimony or false economy, which at times may prove very far-reaching and enduring in its undesirable influence. It is not always advisable to meet a period of low prices by indiscriminately drawing tight the purse-strings. Expenditure, indeed, provided it is judicious, is at times the essential accompaniment of efficiency. Phosphatic top-dressing, a matter of seasonable and vital importance, aptly illustrates this.

Autumn Top-dressing with Phosphates.

Of the' several measures which may be employed to assist in relieving the position, dressing with phosphates, especially superphosphate and, in suitable districts, basic slag, well deserve pride of place. Two main facts relative to phosphatic top-dressing are sufficient to indicate what course should be taken. In the first place, over wide areas the profit from such top-dressing was so great, on the old scale of prices for farmproduce, that there still is an attractive profit in the returns at the present prices. Indeed, at times it is only by taking advantage of the profits available by means of phosphating that farming can be made to pay at all. In the second place, not only have recent years been marked by a swing- in popular, favour to the practice of autumn application of phosphates in contradistinction to spring application, but critical examination of the position has shown that this swing is essentially sound. Direct financial considerations may lead some to incline to spring top-dressing ; spring application may mean escaping from the payment of about four months interest on the cost of the manure ; it may mean that no payments for fertilizer have to be made until well on in the producing season, in which the greatest amount of benefit from the manure is obtained. These considerations may seem sufficient to justify spring top-dressing until they are weighed against the advantages which usually are attached to autumn top-dressing with phosphates.

Quite - an important advantage of February to April top-dressing is that,- prior to the dormant winter period, it usually brings about an appreciable increase in valuable growth. If the top-dressing is done at an early enough date, some of this increase may be particularly useful this year in maintaining dairy production towards the end of the season. Certainly in view of the prospective winter scarcity of feed, any additional

growth of the pastures in April and May this year will be especially welcome as a means of keeping the stock in good condition to face the severe late-winter spell that usually occurs.

Another important advantage of autumn top-dressing lies in the fact that while it stimulates growth -in early spring practically to the same extent as would a similar amount of spring top-dressing, it is declining in the intensity of its influence by the time. summer arrives, and so does not bring about such a rush of early summer growth as does spring topdressinga rush of growth which at times is so difficult to control effectively as to become an impediment to economical grass-farming.

Autumn top-dressing with phosphates may be summed up as the most important measure available for obviating the winter and early spring shortage of feed, which at the time of writing threatens so many, and which if not removed to a satisfactory extent- will beget serious consequences in the next producing season. . . .

In cases in which it proves impossible to completely top-dress farms in the autumn two classes of pasture should be singled out for priority in attention. Firstly, the better-class pastures, such as those containing a relatively large amount of rye-grass, should be dressed prior to inferior ones. The former, as a rule, have capacity for greater absolute response to top-dressing. This is suggested by the fact that a 20-per-cent. increase in growth of a good pasture has greater value than a 20-per-cent. increase of a relatively poor pasture. Secondly, young pastures should as a rule be given priority in a restricted top-dressing programme to older and possibly worn ones. This view is based on the belief that it is more economical to take proper care of the young pastures, and thereby to maintain them at the best possible standard, than later to have to. face the difficult and costly task of repairing or renewing them.

Emergency Catch-cropping.

While top-dressing is the major matter in regard to which one should be careful not to allow false economy to replace true economy it may well be kept in mind, during current circumstances especially, that. the work of growing special forage crops is one in respect to which the avoidance of expenditure may be unwise. Fortunately there is available a range of suitable forage crops which, sown in the late summer or early autumn, become available when during this year, and frequently in other years also, they may • be critically needed. ...

Land having . grown such crops as oats, wheat, maize, millet, soft turnips, or rape, may be ploughed immediately these crops are removed, and then sown without delay in temporary pasture, oats, or barley in the way described in these notes last month. If the land to be sown in such crops is so hard as to make satisfactory skim-ploughing impracticable, then cultivation with disks set with plenty of cut will frequently serve as a satisfactory alternative to the skim-ploughing. Such crops, and particularly the temporary pasture, should be sown with as little delay as possible.

In preparing the land for catch-crops it is not necessary to reduce the surface layer of soil to a fine condition. Indeed, the presence of small clods at times proves a distinct advantage. The clods , prevent the caking of the surface which at times takes place in a fine surface layer of soil under beating rains, and eventually they are broken up by natural weathering. To stimulate rapid vigorous growth the forage crops mentioned above should be sown with liberal dressings of fertilizers in which superphosphate is prominent. . .

Utilization of Summer Feed.

Those who have practised ensilage are usually in a better position to face the critical late summer period than are those who have not. In the

first place, fields from which silage was saved at a suitably early date are likely to provide a substantial aftermath of green feed, which will prove particularly valuable, as in its characters it meets the specific needs of the season. In the second place, if necessary, silage saved during the current summer may be fed at this stage. Some who look upon their silage as a reserve of winter feed may be reluctant to feed it in the summer, but if the supply of summer feed is definitely inadequate the feeding in summer of silage intended for winter is normally well justified, particularly if it is from leafy growth. Under such conditions it will give handsome immediate returns, and there is always the possibility that .it will not be so acutely needed in the winter, for even if the autumn is not particularly favourable, one may, between now and winter, have recourse to cropping here mentioned.

At times one sees maize and millet grown as green-feed crops kept too late. Frequently, rather than take the risk of having them become too woody or of having them cut down by frost, it is advisable to utilize them earlier and to employ the land thereby rendered vacant by growing one of the catch-crops mentioned. Any portion of maize or millet that cannot suitably be used as green feed should be conserved as silage, unless the amount available is so small as to make this course not worth while because of the high proportion of wastage accompanying a small lot of silage. When the amount available does not justify ensilage then it may be made into hay, and in doing this it is well to remember that it is usually somewhat difficult to dry to a safe condition the comparatively coarse stalks of these crops.

Lucerne Culture.

During March a cut of hay or green feed is commonly available from lucerne fields. After such a cut, if weeds are a menace, and dry conditions prevail it is likely to be advantageous to run over the crop with tine harrows, or other harrows fitted with teeth possessing the fine points necessary to avoid undue injury to the lucerne plants. Pertinent to this matter is the fact that more harm than good has at times been done to lucerne crops by inappropriate surface-cultivation. Cultivation may be considered unsuitable if because of its severity, or of the nature of the implements employed, it destroys an appreciable number of the lucerne plants. Hence the use of flat-toothed cultivators which cut the stems or main roots of the lucerne, proves inadvisable. If much cultivation is needed to rid lucerne of invading plants of grasses and clovers, then it may be. sound practice to use the lucerne chiefly as a grazing area from which probably it will be possible to obtain not more than three cuts a year ; the total value of the grazing and these three cuts is likely to be greater than that of the yield of the thin crop of lucerne alone, and, further, the cost of cultivation is not incurred'. '

The Pastures.

Pasture establishment is another matter in respect to which some may be led into a course involving grievous false economy —grievous because if, on the score of outlay, a weakness is allowed to creep into a permanent pasture at its establishment, the annual influence of this weakness will be multiplied according to the life of the pasture. One of the matters that allows of a reduction of outlay, which, however, is linked with a much greater reduction in eventual efficiency, is the purchase of rye-grass seed. Commercial perennial rye-grass may broadly be divided into two classes—false perennial, much of which is on the market, and true perennial, which is on the market in limited quantities and at a much higher price. Field experience demonstrates that even at the higher prices it is real and substantial economy to use the true perennial type in the establishment of permanent pastures.

It is impossible by eye examination to discriminate with any assurance between seeds of the true and of the false perennial classes of rye-grass. But fortunately the careful purchaser is not without reliable guidance in the matter. He may use certified seed, which is sold in officially sealed sacks and which to the best knowledge of the Department of Agriculture consists of true perennial rye-grass. Purchase of certified seed forms the best available guarantee that true perennial rye-grass is being secured. Farmers unable to secure certified seed may with distinct advantage to themselves have samples of rye-grass lines which they contemplate purchasing submitted to the violet ray test by this Department. This test, which is carried out free of charge for farmers, enables good rye-grass to be distinguished, with accuracy sufficient for farmers’ purposes, from inferior rye-grass.

At times farmers may be inclined to lower their outlay on pasture seed mixtures by reducing the amount of cocksfoot used. As a rule this is most undesirable. Frequently in the past the amount of cocksfoot used for permanent pasture has been too small. Almost universally in New Zealand including land on which one should aim to build up a rye-grass and white clover dominant sward cocksfoot is of outstanding value from December onwards in providing feed during the summer period in which rye-grass and other useful pasture species are making but scant growth. At times the tufty habit of cocksfoot has been accentuated by the small number of plants in the sward due to the use of less seed than could have been advantageously used. Generally the minimum amount of cocksfoot that should be used is io lb. an acre, and the amount rises to 15 lb. for conditions more suited to cocksfoot than to rye-grassfor example, dry conditions of the east coast of both Islands, apart from areas where rye-grass seed production may be a major consideration.

In the interests of true economy the purity and particularly the germination of all pasture • seeds, including certified lines, should be ascertained. New Zealand cocksfoot and New Zealand white clover seed almost invariably give pasture plants markedly superior to those from imported seed. The matter of pasture seed mixtures was dealt with in some detail in these notes in August, 1931, and in February, 1931.

Topping of pastures as described in last month’s notes may be advisable in March. As grass harrowing during a dry spell is seldom advisable, it will be good practice on many farms as soon as March rains occur to push ahead with harrowing, in order to distribute the droppings which have been allowed to accumulate during the dry conditions.

—R. P. Connell, Fields Division, Palmerston North

THE ORCHARD.

Spraying Operations.

In those districts where hatchings of codlin moth continue well into March it may be necessary to again apply an arsenate spray to all varieties that are as yet unpicked. The control of red mite should on no account be delayed, otherwise winter egg-laying will commence, thus making the task infinitely greater.

Cultivation, Irrigation, and Cover-cropping.

In many of the fruitgrowing areas March is a favourite month for sowing the orchard cover-crop. A good seed-bed is essential, and in most soils the working into the ground of a light dressing 2 cwt. per acre — super a little while prior to sowing will materially assist the crop. In dry areas, where water is available, much can be done in-the autumn to prevent the spring die-back common in those localities, by judicious

irrigation to keep the soil in an evenly moist condition. In such areas the winters are dry, and the tree-roots if left dry in the autumn will remain so until the irrigation the following spring.

Faults to avoid in handling Export Fruit.

When a crop of high-grade fruit has been produced every effort should be made to place it either on the local or the overseas market in .first-class order. . Although speed is essential, it should not be the governing factor in any operation in orchard or packing-shed. With the experience now gained by the older growers and the assistance rendered by the Orchard Instructors to the less experienced, there should be little trouble in gauging the maturity at which to pick the fruit. Quite a lot of fruit has to be culled out and rejected through faulty work in the orchard. Inexperienced and rough pickers should be very closely supervised. A pulled out stalk, a finger-nail' mark, stalk punctures caused when pouring the fruit into the cases, bruises by dropping fruit into the picking bag, bucket, or case, the exposed point of a nail or a projecting splinter of wood in the orchard boxes, warped timber in such boxes, and the overfilling of picking utensils and cases these help to swell the heap of fruit which is unfit to be marketed.

On no account should fruit be allowed to remain in the sun after being picked, and every effort should be made to cool down the fruit before packing. If the wagon or truck is too high, or too highly loaded, the cases of unpacked fruit cannot be handled with ease, and bruising often results. On the other hand, too low a conveyance is liable to make the fruit dusty. In the cartage of the fruit out of the orchard, which should be done in a well-sprung vehicle, some bruising can be avoided by filling up holes here and there and rough levelling of the surface over which the conveyance has to travel.

Where it is possible to allow the. fruit to stand a day or so after picking before grading and packing the skin will harden considerably, and much surface-marking will be avoided. The Sturmer in particular is benefited by this treatment, as when newly picked it is liable to show every finger mark.

In the packing-shed there should be nothing but what is required for the business in hand. It should be laid out to give the maximum light, efficiency, and space for easy working. The handling here requires the -same extreme care ; the grader needs to be kept in good running-order, and frequently cleaned to get rid of the oily matter which, in combination with dust and other deposits from the spray on the fruit, sets into hard lumps. Overfilled bins are often a source of bruising and stalk puncture.

In packing, efficiency must not be subordinated to record breaking ; the learner especially should learn to pack properly and to eliminate every superfluous movement before endeavouring to speed up. Pressure with the hands at the ends of the cases as the fruit is being packed, and the turning of the fruit in the right direction on the top layer, will help considerably to avoid injury when lidding. The cases must be well filled with a reasonably large bulge. The nailing-down man should remember that much depends on him in avoiding case-marks and bruising when placing on the lid and when nailing down. A badly driven nail often means trouble; if, projecting inward a punctured fruit will often result; if outward probably someone’s ripped hand and a dropped case.

Fault can at times be found even in the labelling. • If a poor paste is used the case may reach its destination minus a label. Again, the stamping of the particulars on the labels often leaves much to be desired, and when such cases reach the overseas brokers’ stores the marking is

hardly decipherable, being either faded out or blurred. In both these instances the identification marks of grower, variety, size, &c., have gone, and the grower wonders why his returns are short. -

These are some of the “ little ” matters which influence the amount of cull fruit in an orchard, and which if given proper attention. will go a long way towards keeping up the high reputation we have gained for our fruit.

Miscellaneous.

In Southern districts budding should be completed as soon as possible. Where frosts are not anticipated, and the stocks are still in good condition for working, the work may be carried out during March. Stocks already budded should be watched, and when the buds have “ taken ” the knife should be run through the tie on the opposite side of the stock to the buds, leaving it to be gradually pushed off.

In picking for local market as well as for export it is very unwise to be short-handed and allow the picking to get behind. If the work gets ahead of the grower and there is danger of his running one variety late all the time, it is often better to cut out temporarily a variety and get on to the next, so as to keep abreast of them as they mature.

— W. R. Lloyd Williams,

Orchard Instructor, Alexandra.

Citrus Culture.

The continued dry weather being experienced is having a retarding effect upon the development of the trees, and very little can be done to assist them. However, it will be wise to carry out some cultural operations during the coming period. This will break the surface, which will more readily retain the showers that may fall. Dry weather, if prolonged, places an undue strain upon the trees at a time when the young fruit is developing, and every assistance should be given them to help withstand this strain. Care should be taken, however, to prevent an undue amount of wood growth during the autumn, as it is in the winter following that a great deal of damage to immature shoots may occur. Any fertilizers that may be applied should not be of a highly nitrogenous nature, but consist mainly of phosphates and potash. An application of a slow-acting nitrate, such as blood and bone, would not force the wood growth and could be used with safety.

If trees have been making strong growth the pinching of shoots should not be neglected. Moreover, all old and worn-out portions of branches should be removed.

There will not be a great deal of picking to be done at this period of the year, but all lemons which have reached a good marketable size should be gathered, irrespective of whether they are yellow, silver, or green. No advantage is gained by leaving them on the trees, as the next season’s crop is now being developed, and everything that will place undue strain upon the trees should be avoided.

If thrips are in evidence the trees should be sprayed with Black Leaf 40 at .1-800. This can be added to the bordeaux mixture when, spraying for the control of verrucosis.

L. Paynter, Orchard Instructor, Auckland.

POULTRY-KEEPING.

Culling the Flock.

Even under the normal conditions that existed a few years ago heavy culling had to be resorted to if really payable results were to be secured from the poultry business ; but at the present time it is obvious that drastic culling is imperative if a reasonable profit is to be secured over

the cost of production. The coming month is the best period of the year in which to. detect the weak hens and to choose the birds which will prove profitable for another season, also to select the birds for the breeding-penjust before the hens show signs of taking a rest prior to moulting.

Ability to judge on form at this stage will prove a valuable asset, for by possessing the necessary keenness of eye to pick out the birds not constructed on egg-producing lines a poultry-keeper is in a position to weed out the drones, reduce the food bill, and thereby increase the profit from the payable layers. To those who do not possess a trained eye for laying-form the culling of the poor layers, even at this , period of the year, may prove a matter of great difficulty.

The time of moulting gives a good indication of productive capacity. All things being equal as regards the time of hatching, feeding, and general management, it is usually the poorly constituted bird which goes into an early moult, and there is no place for the early moulter when poultry are being kept for profit. It is a good rule, therefore, to eliminate the early moulters, and this point cannot be emphasized too much. Drastic culling should take place of all birds that are on the point of terminating their second laying-season ; in fact, no hen of this age should be retained on the plant unless it is such a creditable member of a laying strain, and of such undoubted constitution, that it will pay to retain it for breeding purposes.

Many of the second-season layers will probably carry their old feathers right into April, and this fact will indicate even to the inexperienced eye that they will go on laying. Obviously such birds should not be culled until they give indications of taking a rest prior to moulting. Apart from early moulting as indicating the conclusion of the individual fowl’s normal laying-period, the following • points may be mentioned. Being overfat or above the normal weight of the breed are indications of weak constitution, as are also dull eyes, feathered face, sluggish, appearance, and shrunken abdomen development to the. extent that the point of the breast-bone comes in close contact with the pelvic bones, which also contract, in contrast to the bird which is in a condition to continue producing. The apparent shrinkage of the comb, with consequent disappearance of the bloom, is another sign that the bird is about to discontinue laying.

Not only should the second-season layers be heavily culled, but birds which are terminating their first laying-season should also be carefully gone through and any weak specimens eliminated. In the case of the first-year layers the culling may be light, but it should be remembered that it is unwise to retain any bird on the plant, quite irrespective of its age, which does not promise to return a good net profit.

In the work of culling it is important that the different ages of the birds be taken into consideration, particularly when the time of moulting is taken as the chief guide to productive capacity. For example, the first-season layers will usually moult before the second-season birds, especially if the latter were selected as late moulters at the conclusion of the first laying season. This indicates the necessity for having a distinguishing mark on all birds for age determination. Another matter which should be taken into account is that a sudden change of food, the supplying of inferior food, or failure to provide the food necessary for heavy eggproduction, may suddenly force even a good layer into a premature moult. In such circumstances as referred to in the two latter cases, the earlymoulting rule is of little value, especially to the ordinary poultry-keeper. I would emphasize the point that if none but payable stock are to be retained on the plant for future laying and breeding purposes, it is of vital importance that the best specimens should be selected and the drones

got rid of before the general moult sets in ; the signs which indicate high or low laying-power do not manifest themselves after the moult has fully set in. Another advantage in culling the drones before the change of plumage takes place is that they can be marketed to better advantage. From a poulterer’s point of view the bird in moult is difficult to dress and does not present an attractive appearance.

It would be a mistake to cull at the present time birds of any age that show signs of being in a laying condition. These signs consist in the bird having no indication of moulting, and possessing red combs and a fullness of the abdomen, which is soft to the touch, and which has an active business - like appearance. Such birds can be culled when they show indications of casting their feathers.

In regard to the management of the birds which are to be retained) some discretion must be exercised. The best of the late moulters which it is desired to retain for the breeding-pens next season should be kept by themselves, and an endeavour made to check their production by providing a light diet in which forcing food such as meat is eliminated. It is a mistake to force the selected prospective' breeding-birds to the limit for high egg-production, as the heavy drain which this entails on the system will make a bird unfit to. produce eggs with the strong germs so essential for getting stock of good constitution.

From now onwards those birds that are retaining their laying condition, and which it is intended to cull, should be given a heavy meat diet in order to secure every possible egg from them before they are disposed of. Through being subjected to highly forcing conditions it is possible that an old bird may become affected with ovarian disorders, such as protrusion of the oviduct, but trouble in this connection will be reduced to a minimum if the great bulk of the meat ration is fed separately and not included in the mash mixture.

In selecting breeding-specimens first consideration should be given to points which indicate the possession of constitutional vigour. It should always be remembered that the best layers and late moulters are not necessarily the best breeders, although it is true that the best breeder is always a late moulter. Something more is required. What should be aimed at is good size of body, laying type, and a type in which indications of utility and breed characteristics are blended with constitutional points. Regarding desired size, I may say that it is not the diminutive layer that is recommended, however well she may have laid, nor the exaggerated type evolved for the fancy show-pen, but the medium, modified type in which egg-producing power has been developed with little harm to breed characteristics and standard weight requirement. Such birds may not lay as many eggs as the smaller type, but usually they can be depended upon to produce larger eggs and to possess the necessary breeding qualifications for the maintenance of desirable characteristics in a strain over a period of years. Furthermore, both they and their progeny will return better prices when disposed of for table purposes. gggl

No effort should be spared in securing the best possible specimens for future breeding purposes. Just as there is a type of bird specially suitable for table purposes, and which converts the bulk of its food into flesh, so also is there a type indicating by its .appearance the power to convert food into heavy egg-production, as well as the power to reproduce progeny with desired laying-capacity. There are, of course, exceptions to every rule, and it does sometimes happen that a bird not conforming to a desired laying type will be a heavy producer, but it is rare that such stock can be depended upon for the building-up or for the maintenance of a uniform laying flock. —p q Brown, Chief Poultry Instructor, Wellington.

THE APIARY.

Requeening of Colonies.

Attention must be given in the autumn to replacing queens which are found to cease breeding early in colonies in normal conditions with ample food. In all probability they are too old or have been injured in some way. In any case they require to be superseded as soon as possible by young queens. It is a good plan to rear as many queens as possible and have them cared for in nucleus colonies later to be introduced to full colonies where needed. It is in the spring that young queens reared in the autumn prove so valuable. Their laying-powers are at their best, consequently the colonies build up rapidly ; moreover, there is less tendency for the bees to swarm.

Autumn Feeding.

In some districts after the main honey-flow is over a fair amount of nectar is gathered, sufficient to keep the bees breeding and for them to store a little surplus. However, where weather conditions are not favourable the colonies’ needs may require to be supplemented in order to promote late breeding. Too often beekeepers are tempted to extract too close when making the final extraction; consequently the sudden curtailment in the food-supply checks breeding, and the colony goes into winter weak in young bees. The amount of stores in . the hives is of paramount importance, and the first thought of the beekeeper in the autumn should be that of foodsupply. There should be at least 30 lb. to 40 lb. of honey in each hive ; and where there is this quantity or more and it appears to be diminishing rapidly the colonies should be additionally fed. It must be remembered that it is in the autumn that the beekeeper lays the foundation for his next season’s crop ; consequently he must concentrate on wintering his bees in the best condition possible.

Precautions against Robbing.

During the next month or so, with very little or no honey-flow, bees are likely to rob the weaker hives. Do not encourage this by exposing honey, combs, syrup, &c. Contract the entrance of the weaker hives, as this gives the inmates a better chance to protect themselves. All operations with the hives should be performed expeditiously, and if feeding is necessary carry out . this operation late in the afternoon, and then with every precaution to keep the bees quiet. If robbing should start, all operations in the apiary had better cease. Contract the entrances to the hives being robbed, and throw wet grass or weeds loosely on the alighting-boards so as to prevent the entrance of the robbers. If robbing cannot be checked in this way it may be advisable to shift the affected colonies to another situation in the apiary. *

Uniting Weak Colonies.

It is well to make a, note of any weak colonies and any that are not doing well, as these are likely to succumb during the winter and early spring. It is by far the better plan to unite them with others rather than winter them, as they frequently become a prey to robbers, and are in that case a danger. A simple method of uniting may be practised by placing the weaker hive on top of a stronger one and placing a sheet of newspaper between the two hive-bodies. In the course of a few days the bees in the weaker hive will eat their way through the paper and. unite peaceably with the bees in the stronger colony. —E. A. Earp, Senior Apiary Instructor, Wellington.

HORTICULTURE.

Club-root Control.

The club-root'fungus, P'lasmodiophora brassicae, is frequently the cause of serious loss among garden crops of cabbage, turnips, and. others of a similar kind. The roots become distorted, their functions disturbed, and the plants are starved. The fungus attacking the crop may originally be in the ground, or the trouble may be caused by setting out infected plants. It is most serious when the ground is inclined to be wet and acid, as these conditions favour the growth of the organism.

The remedy recommended to combat this serious disease has been to attend to drainage and make a liberal application of lime, but while improvement has been obtained in this way the results were frequently far from satisfactory. It is a matter of great congratulation that- the Mycological Laboratory of the Plant Research Station, at Palmerston North, has carried out experiments and demonstrated that by attention to detail this remedy may be most efficient. The summary of the evidence and conclusions contained in the January number of the Journal demand careful study by market-gardeners and those growing vegetable crops, as what has proved a remedy for this trouble in field crops of rape and turnips can be applied with equal advantage to other crops of the kind. The experiments draw attention to the importance of the kind and quantity of lime used, the method and time of application, and the danger of destroying the good effects of the lime by drilling in the seed with a manure that is to any extent acid.

The trials prove that an amount equivalent to i oz. per square yard of burnt lime, freshly air-slaked, is most effective ; but it must be applied some time before sowing or planting, so that it may have time to complete its work. This interval should be at least three months, and preferably twelve months ; and it is important that the lime should be intimately mixed through the upper layers of the soil in which the roots grow. Finely ground carbonate of lime may be used at double the above rate stated, but it is somewhat less satisfactory. Smaller doses of burnt lime are sometimes effective, even so small as | oz. to the square yard, when properly applied and given time to act, but this appears to be a minimum dose.

The effect of applying freshly air-slaked burnt lime to the soil in an intimate manner is to counteract acidity, and is the natural and peculiar action of an alkaline or basic substance. Obviously this action would be discounted by drilling an acid manure with the seed ; for this reason superphosphate and even basic super, as well as many special mixtures, should not be used when this disease is present. The experiments demonstrate that the manure used should be of a strongly basic nature, such as basic slag or a mixture of equal weights of superphosphate and freshly slaked lime.

Vegetable Crops.

The onion crops demand consideration at this season. During the coming spring and summer these bulbs are scarce, unless obtained from overseas, and such types are unsuitable for use in salads. Mild white onions, so useful for this purpose, are not good keepers, but, by sowing them during the month of March and planting out in early spring, a good supply may be obtained when they are in demand, there being usually a considerable shortage at that time. They should be sown thinly on soil that is moderately rich, so that growth may be steady.

The main crop of keeping onions so largely grown in Canterbury is sown in spring in that comparatively dry locality, where there is little danger of fungus disease and good weather for harvesting in late autumn can generally be relied on. In milder and moister localities the danger from disease is greater, and the prospects of good harvest weather at that period

are not so good. For these reasons it is customary in the latter localities to sow the crop during the month of March for planting out in spring. This results in the bulbs being in a forward condition before the period when disease is more troublesome, and allows of early maturity during more favourable weather

Onion crops recently harvested should have the roots and tops well dried off and then be stored in such a manner that they will not heat. The small bags of open texture and slatted boxes used by shippers are interesting methods of doing this, also the old method of weaving bulbs on strings. But almost any method which admits air freely to all parts of the stack is suitable. The store must be clean and airy, dry and damp-proof, to secure the best results. Such conditions are also suited for the storage of ripe pumpkins that are so useful during winter and early spring.

Other hardy vegetables sown now for spring planting and cropping are cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, and spinach. These crops are most popular in the milder districts. The tender type of lettuce grown, is rather subject to fungus diseases during the winter, when the seedings are much exposed to cold wet conditions. Under such circumstances they are sometimes given the protection of a cold frame and sashlights, and the warm close atmosphere which is then often developed is about as injurious as the opposite extreme. Such crops under glass should be given plenty of air and grown as hardy as possible. When water is necessary it should be given in the morning of a warm day so that the foliage may be dry before evening.

On a moist soil rich in humus the popular celery crop is grown with least trouble. Its quality and appearance depend on the sticks being clean and well blanched. Where a variety of the excellent golden self-blanching type is grown this is a comparatively easy matter, even when six or eight rows are grown close together. These and other types may be blanched by placing boards of sufficient width on edge down beside each row or multiple row. In fact, any method which excludes the light, without pressing so closely as to interfere with the growth is effective. In dealing with very large areas the rows may be carefully moulded with soil from the alleys. This treatment is best given when the usual growth is almost completed. Trimming, water, liquid manure, or any other necessary attention should be given just before moulding up for blanching, which may take from three to six weeks to accomplish.

Shorthorn carrots, turnips, and other seedling crops sown last month will require prompt attention with the hoe in fine weather in order to prevent the competition of weeds.

A soil may be richly stored with plant-foods that are not available. There is nothing so important generally for making them available as humus—material formed by the decomposition of animal and vegetable matter. Apart from any good material it may contain, its action on the physical condition of the soil is indispensable to fertility. For this reason as soon as a plot is released from cropping it should be sown down in a green cover-crop, unless it is required immediately for another purpose. Economy demands that a cover crop at this season should be quick-growing and hardy. Among those of that class generally sown are oats, barley, vetches, horse-beans, or white mustard. When these crops commence to flower it may be taken as an indication that growth is about completed, and they should be turned under, as any delay will be not only a loss of time but of quality in the material.

Rhubarb is another crop which thrives in a soil where humus is abundant. Where this crop is to be planted the land should be trenched or subsoiled in the autumn and well stocked with this material. If a small dressing of superphosphate is then given, before planting in the spring, the results should be satisfactory.

Tomato Crops : Under Glass and Outside.

The tomato crop under glass will in most instances have been harvested, and the busy grower generally will be giving attention to other crops. The glasshouses will be neglected, the old vines wither on their supports, the land will dry out, and plant insects and fungus diseases will have an excellent opportunity of becoming thoroughly established. This would not so much matter if a good rotation of cropping could be arranged, but where it is customary to grow tomatoes year after year in the same house great cleanliness is necessary, or pests and diseases get a stronger hold each year. It is therefore necessary, for many reasons, to take immediate steps to carefully remove and burn the old tomato-vines and thoroughly clean the house by spraying or fumigation, as may be necessary. When that is done light cultivation should be given, and the land sown down in a cover-crop. This crop is generally of a hardy nature, and thrives best at this season with ample ventilation at all times.

The outside crop is now being harvested. The boxes should be well filled with fruit of even maturity. This may be done economically by clean picking at regular intervals. Great interest is now being taken in the preservation of juices and pulp, and the improvements being made in the methods may be expected to increase the demand for ripe fruit at the peak of the harvest when there has often been so much waste. By preserving the fruit and juice at lower temperatures the flavour, aroma, and other qualities are retained, which increase its value and will undoubtedly make it more popular.

When selecting plants for seed more attention should be given to constitution and cropping-capacity. Too much attention cannot be given in making this selection, and the seed from each plant should be kept separate so that the type eventually will be as uniform as possible.

Berry Fruits.

Where new plantations are to be made it is well to remember that the success of the crop depends very much on how this is done. The fibrous roots of these plants lie very close to the surface, and only shallow cultivation can be done when once they are established. For this reason the subsoil should generally be well broken up and fertility deepened by turning in plenty of humus. Specially important is it that all twitches and bad weeds should be entirely eradicated ; to plant out on land where there is any doubt in this respect is definitely unwise and should not be done. In such a case the land should be devoted to annual crops, which will allow the cleaning process to continue.

Where well-cured farm manure is not available in sufficient quantities, established plantations of bush fruits should be sown down now with a good cover-crop that may be turned in early and so maintain the supply of humus. This is most important where the land is light and such materials are rapidly consumed. It is generally advisable to make an application of phosphatic manures before sowing this crop. It should not be necessary to state that these operations must only be done when the land is dry and friable, but there are many who repeatedly break this important rule in agriculture ; where the land is heavy the result of such a breach is deplorable.

The Homestead Garden.

Bright colours in the home garden are very arresting, but not less pleasing to many are the plants of curious and uncommon form that are so useful when interspersed among either a shrubbery which may appear a little dull or a bright patch of bloom that may be otherwise monotonous. In either case they give remarkable character to the picture, and for that reason are very valuable and demand the careful consideration of those who are planning to plant.

Among our native plants we have many very suitable for this purpose. So long as the land is of fairly good quality no position is too exposed for the cabbage- tikauka, to flourish—even in localities somewhat dry. Of course, some can see no beauty in common things, especially when they are abused as this plant is so often ; but the garden artist who places the cabbage-tree or a group or row of them in the picture with careful consideration will reveal great beauty in this tree lily with fragrant flowers. In the same class, but more particular regarding environment, are the tree-ferns and nikau palms, which demand shelter from winds, and ground that is always moist. Localities with a rainfall of 36 in. per annum and upwards can usually provide this ; there they may be used with confidence, and, if they are skilfully placed, with great effect. The black tree-fern, mamaku, Cyathea medullaris, is the favourite, but the silver species, C. dealbata, does well where more shade is available. In the colder districts the hard tree-ferns, Dicksonias, should be planted. These are unsuitable for planting in new gardens, but may be placed in position when shelter is established. Many of the older gardens could be improved by such additions.

Among shrubs and trees of this class there is the very hardy puheritaiko, Senecio rotundifolius, and the more tender pukanui, Mevyta Sinclarii, with very large leaves. The lancewood, horoeka, Pseudo panax crassifolium, with its well known unique character; and for the North and warmer districts in the South the puriri, Vitex lucens, with its highly embossed leaves and cherry-like fruit.

Beside the water, our flax varieties, harakeke, should have a place, and toetoe, Arundo conspicua, which raises its plumes in midsummer. There are small ferns for every spot that is shaded and sheltered ; and many homesteads in high country are ideally situated for growing our native alpine herbaceous plants. Planted with a suitable selection from this and other lists recently published the homestead gardens will be not merely beautiful and comfortable, but of great interest, and they will effectually preserve what has often been called the incomparable flora of New Zealand. — w . c Hyde, Horticulturist, Wellington.

REVIEW.

Wool Quality : A study of the Influence of Various Contributing Factors, their Significance and the Technique of their Measurement. By S. G. Barker, Ph.D., Director of Research, Wool Industries Research Association. H.M. Stationery Office, London, 1931. Price 21s.

A grant from the Empire Marketing Board has made it possible for members of the staff of the Wool Industries Research Association in Britain to carry out a considerable amount of work in order that a more definite meaning might be given to the word “ quality ” relative to wool. The past and present rather haphazard use of this word in the wool trade is cogently summed up in the first paragraph of the book under review in the following words : “ The exact definition of the term ‘ quality ’ as applied to wool has proved to be an enigma which has defied precise solution from time immemorial.”

The book is confined in the main to a study of those aspects of quality which affect the wool-sorter's estimation of the spinning properties of a wool, and a highly technical subject has been so treated that it makes attractive reading for those who are deeply interested in the subject. The

author has attempted to summarize not only the results of the work of his co-workers, but also that of most other workers whose endeavour it is to measure the various attributes of wool and to improve its manufacturing performance. Therefore, a good deal of the material in the book is not new, but has been summarized and brought together under one cover.

The subject-matter is well arranged in general so as to give a continuity to the reading, but since reference is made to wool-sorting in the first section dealing with wool-classing, the two might well have been grouped together rather than separated by a fairly large section dealing with woolgrease. This latter section deals fully with the importance of the grease, both to the fleece and to the manufacturer.

The most important section in the book is probably that dealing with the techniques used for measuring the various attributes of the wool fibre, and the history of these methods. Particular reference is made to the work carried out in the Research Association’s laboratories, which has shown that there is a definite mathematical relationship between the fibre fineness of the. various qualities of wool-tops, and it is pointed out that this should form a basis for an international agreement on standards for the various grades of wool.

Further sections deal fully with other fibre characters, such as crimp, contour, length, &c., the chemical and physical constitution and the structure of the wool, and a number of defects which limit the spinning-qualities of the fibre. In this latter section reference is made to the improvement which has been made in branding-fluids, and the attempts which are being made to introduce new and better types of wool-packs. Tn the summary it is admitted that, although much has been learnt in recent years about the various properties of the wool fibre, there is still much to learn before a full and concise answer can be given to the question, “ What is wool quality ? ”

With due respect to Dr. Barker and his colleagues, exception must be taken to the statement on page 270 that the defect of weak or rotten wool “ appears to be confined to New Zealand.” Only one of many types of weak wool is referred to — i.e., that due to bacterial breakdown of the wool fibre— to say that it is confined to New Zealand is erroneous. A ■similar defect was reported from Australia some time ago, and is present most likely in the clips of most wool-producing countries, though as yet not specifically identified.

The bibliography contains reference to over six hundred publications bearing on.the subject, but even then it cannot be said to be exhaustive, since among other points no reference is made to Sutton’s work on woolgrease, although several pages of the book are devoted to this aspect of the work.

The book is clearly printed on good paper, and is well illustrated by good photographs, drawings, figures, and tables which serve to demonstrate clearly the points made. It forms a very useful addition to the literature of wool, bringing together as it does under one cover most of the present-day technical knowledge of the subject. This is particularly valuable in the case of research workers and teachers overseas, where it is often difficult to obtain copies of articles published in other countries. The book should prove useful also to managers of woollen mills, since it deals with the effects of recent research on certain phases of manufacture. At the same time it might quite well find a place as a work of ■reference in the libraries of those secondary schools and colleges .where -wool is studied as part of an agricultural course. D J S

WEATHER RECORDS: JANUARY, 1932.

Dominion Meteorological Office

January proved to be a less pleasant month than the preceding two. It was remarkable for the persistence of strong westerly or north-westerly winds, Auckland Province being the only portion of the country to escape them. Temperatures were low for January, December having been a warmer month at many places.

Rainfall. — In the North Island the rainfall was much below the averagein the eastern districts of the South Island, too, there was a deficit which, though at most places not large, was especially detrimental owing to dry conditions having existed for many months previously. Frequent showers were experienced in Otago, except for the extreme northern portion. On the whole of the west coast of the South Island the rains were heavy. Indeed, the complaint there was of too much rather than too little precipitation. In Nelson and Marlborough, also, there were good rains. • In the greater part of the North Island the rain amounted only to about half the average. Parts of the west coast, the Bay of Plenty, and also Whangarei experienced more normal conditions. In western districts of the South Island, and most of Otago, the experience was the reverse of that in the North Island, some places receiving almost double the average fall for January. From Hanmer Springs ' southward to Oamaru and its back country, the total was less than the average, and much of the rain was too light to be of much benefit.

Temperatures. Though eastern districts experienced many warm days while the north-west winds were blowing, changes were frequent and the nights were generally cool. The mean temperature was between 3 0 and 4 0 F. below the normal for January in places exposed directly to the westerly winds. East of the ranges the departures were much smaller. Frosts occurred in parts of the South Island on the 2nd, and some damage was done to tender crops. A second frost, on the 31st, was rather more severe, and extended to parts of the North Island.

Winds.- The prevalence of north-west or westerly winds has already been mentioned. In the Taranaki Bight and Wellington Province, generally, those of the 3rd and the 26th were the most severe, some damage being done. The desiccating nature of the westerly winds accentuated the effects of the drought in the eastern districts.

Storm Systems.— The weather generally ’ was of the type characteristic of spring rather than summer. Westerly'depressions moved from Australia with- unusual speed and regularity. Most weeks saw the advent of two of them, the total for the month being ten. Several were deep to the southward, but their northward extensions were generally poorly developed. The second of the depressions was a complicated one, the weather remaining unsettled from the 2nd to the 5th. The greater part of the Dominion received moderate to heavy rain during this period.

On the 9th a cyclone developed on the east coast of Australia and passed to the southward of New Zealand next day. It brought heavy rains to Taranaki and the western half of the South Island.

This storm was followed during the 14th to 16th by one which, unlike the others experienced during the month, had a good northward extension. A centre developed in this northern portion, and heavy rains were recorded over practically the whole of the North Island. In . the north-central portion, especially, the falls were very heavy.

The last storm of moment passed on the 28th and 29th, when rain was again widespread. The heaviest falls were in western districts.

Orange-tree killed by Milk. The Orchard Instructor, Gisborne, reports that a ten-year-old orange-tree at Patutahi died recently as a result of skim-milk having been thrown around its trunk.

PERENNIAL RYE-GRASS SEED CERTIFICATION.

A supplementary list will be published in a later issue of the Journal, together with a table showing number of areas and acreage under each certification class. -Fields Division.

Compensation paid for Stock and Meat condemned. Compensation to the amount of £17,225 was paid out during the financial year 1930-31 for animals condemned in the field for disease under the provisions of the Stock Act, and £14,496 for carcasses or parts of carcasses condemned for disease on examination at the time of slaughter at abattoirs, meat-export slaughterhouses, &c., under the provisions of the Slaughtering and Inspection Act.

THE “NEW ZEALAND CURD TEST” AND MILK GRADING.

The curd test as a method of judging the quality of milk for cheese-making has been before factory managers and milk suppliers since the writer introduced it at many meetings of suppliers in 1901. The chief shortcoming of this test hitherto has been the attention required during the day.

Recognizing that compulsory milk-grading would necessitate the use of an efficient practical test, an endeavour has been made to avoid much of the attention hitherto required by the curd test. The writer has suggested that the bottles containing the milk, and later the curd samples, should be placed in racks which can be housed in a container, the temperature of which can be controlled, as required, by the use of steam or electricity. This idea has been developed with the assistance of Messrs. G. F. V. Morgan and M. Syron of the Dairy Division. The milk samples may be warmed in this container for renneting. Imperial -pint bottles with cardboard stoppers are used. The bottles are fixed in the rack so that they retain their place when their containing rack is revolved. A small electric motor or a small belt from the factory main shaft can be used for revolving the horizontal shaft in the container for the test-bottle racks. When the curd is ready for breaking the power revolves the rack at the rate of about twenty-five to thirty revolutions per minute. This breaks up the curd in the bottles. The temperature inside the container is raised to about ioo° F., and the revolving is continued until the curds are “ cooked.” The cardboard disks are then discarded and the tops of the bottles are covered with gauze which is supported in its position but so that whey may escape when the bottles are inverted. The whey is drained by giving the rack half a • revolution, which inverts the bottles. The curds are thus allowed to drain, the temperature of the container being maintained until the curds are ready for examination in six to seven hours from the time of adding the rennet.

The bottles may be washed in the container by using a revolving brush fixed to the container shaft. They can afterwards be sterilized in the same container and held there until required on the receiving stage for further samples. —W. M. Singleton, Director of the Dairy Division.

AREA OF GRASSLAND TOP-DRESSED, 1930 31.

The following table, supplied by the Census and Statistics Office, shows the area of grassland in New Zealand top-dressed during the twelve months ended 31st January, 1931. Particulars of kinds of fertilizer and quantities of fertilizer and lime applied are not available for the period under review.

ANSWERS TO INQUIRIES.

IN order to ensure reply to questions, correspondents must give their name and address, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith Letters should be addressed to the Editor.

MORTALITY AMONG PIGS AFTER CASTRATION. J. K. G., Opunake : —

f . - For the last three years deaths among my pigs, seemingly from castration, have been about io per cent. The pigs swell up after cutting, pine away, and finally die. There are no symptoms before cutting. I always use kerosene freely after cutting. Kindly advise if kerosene is harmful, also as to treatment of the trouble generally.

The Live-stock Division :—

In all probability the deaths have occurred as a result of abscess-formation after castration has been carried out. Strict cleanliness of operating knives and surroundings must be attended to at the time of castration. Immediately after castration, owing to irritation at the site of operation, it is not unusual to see pigs contaminate the wound. Therefore clean surroundings are absolutely essential. A weak solution of one of the standard disinfectants is to be preferred to kerosene as an antiseptic. Young animals suffer less from the effects of castration than older animals. It is advisable to operate at an early age. Further information on the subject will be found in the Department’s Bulletin No. 150, “ Castration of Pigs and Calves,” a copy of which has been sent to you.

SHY BEARING APRICOT-TREE “ Amateur/’ Taradale :—

I have an apricot which has only borne half a dozen or so fruit each year for about five years. Seven years ago it had a small crop, perhaps a bushel, while a smaller-variety apricot standing next to it bears a splendid crop every year. Could you suggest what is the reason of it not bearing fruit, and the treatment to be adopted ? The fruit are very large and richly coloured, and the tree appears quite healthy, though it does not increase in size.

The Horticulture Division :—

The experience with your apricot-tree is similar to that in other fruitgrowing districts, with the exception of Central Otago and parts of the Coromandel Peninsula, where good crops of most varieties can be depended on, if late frosts do not occur. The outstanding characteristic of those localities is the low rainfall, which seems to suit the crop, specially at the time of setting. The small variety that crops well consistently is probably that known as Newcastle, which commonly has those generous qualities. Treatment. that may be expected to encourage other varieties to bear would be to plant the trees on the sunny side of a wall and train them as espaliersa' method of production that is too expensive for commercial purposes. Possibly a variation of the pruning system would have some effect.

ARTICHOKE TOPS FOR ENSILAGE. “ Butterfat,” Tauranga : —

Could the young tops of Jerusalem artichokes be used for ensilage ? The artichokes are self-sown and fine in the stalk; they could be mixed with Japanese millet and red clover.

The Fields Division :—

The fact that the tops of artichokes are not greatly relished by stock would indicate that the quality of ensilage made from them would probably be low. However, this should not deter you from converting them into silage, as even weeds such as Californian thistle can be utilized in this manner. With regard to

the mixing of these tops with Japanese millet and red clover, we would suggest that you ensile the artichoke tops separately (if sufficient bulk of them is available), as both millet and red clover are of superior quality for this purpose, and would consequently make better ensilage if kept apart from the tops. You may then at a later date be able to arrange your feeding-out so as to give springing and milch cows the millet and clover ensilage, while dry stock might receive the artichoke tops, or a portion of them with millet and clover ensilage.

ESTIMATED YIELDS OF WHEAT, OATS, AND BARLEY.

The following estimated average yields. per acre of wheat, oats, and barley for the season 1931-32 have been compiled by the Census and Statistics Office from reports furnished by Inspectors of the Department of Agriculture throughout the Dominion, and issued under date 10th February :—-

In accordance with the above estimates, the total yield of wheat for the season 1931-32 should be approximately 6,660,000 bushels, as against an actual yield of 7,579,153 bushels for the season 1930-31. . ■

The proportion of oats threshed for the five seasons ending with 1930-31 averaged 26-57 per cent, of the total area under that crop. Assuming that a similar proportion is threshed this year, the total yield of grain should be approximately 2,850,000 bushels, as against an actual yield of 3,376,609 bushels for the season 1930-31. .

Assuming that the percentage of the barley area threshed remains the same as last year, the total yield of grain should be approximately 530,000 bushels, as against an actual yield of 837,696 bushels for the season 1930-31.

FERTILIZER IMPORTATIONS: DECEMBER QUARTER.

Following are particulars of importations of fertilizers into New Zealand for the quarter ended 31st December, 1931 :■ —•

Sulphate of Ammonia: United Kingdom, 1,575 tons. Nitrate of Soda: Chile, 670 tons. Basic slag : United Kingdom, 125 tons ; Belgium, 430 tons. Char dust and bonechar : Australia, 20 tons. Guano : United Kingdom, 15 tons ; Madagascar, 793 tons ; New Caledonia, 3,600 tons. Rock phosphate: Ocean Island, 18,120 tons; Nauru Island, 20,986 tons; Tuamotu Archipelago, 7,376 tons. Superphosphate: Netherlands, 100 tons. Phosphates (other): United Kingdom, 25 tons ; Belgium, 100 tons. Kainit : France, 9 tons ; Poland 50 tons Muriate of potash: France, 10 tons. Sulphate of potash: Belgium, 5 tons; France, 48 tons; Germany, 200 tons. Potash (other) : Belgium, 5 tons; France, 171 tons; Germany, 415 tons; . Poland, 206 tons. Sulphate of iron: United Kingdom, 9 tons ; Australia, 11 tons.

No. Station. Total Fall. Number of Wet Days. Maximum Fall. Average 1 January 1 Rainfall. . North Island. Inchers. Inches. Inches. I Kaitaia .. .. 2-03 8 o-97 4-36 2 Russell . . i-94 7 0-50 3-48 3 Whangarei .. 4-3i 8 2-02 3-84 4 Auckland 1-14 7 ' . 0-30 -6i 5 Hamilton .. .. .. 1-97 9 I -09 3-70 6 Rotorua 2-83 6 2 • 16 4-04 7 Kawhia .. 3-31 8 1 -08 3-24 8 New Plymouth . . 3'45 10 I -oi 4-25 9 Riversdale, Inglewood 5'33 12 1-38 7-36 IO Whangamomona . . 3-73 5 1-32, . 5'33 ii Eltham . . 2-32 7 o-75 3-47 12 Tairua .. 2-08 8 0 • 84 3-87 13 Tauranga I -20 5 0-50 4-n 14 Maraehako Station, Opotiki ,3-65 7 2-60 3'70 15 Gisborne . . I -29 8 o-37 2-77 16 Taupo .. .. • .. 2-05 6 1-41 3-36 17 Napier .. . . ■ , ■. . 0'44 ' 7 0 • 27 3-02 18 Hastings 1 • 12 7 o-55 1-99 19 Taihape . . i-33 9 0-50 3-13 20 Masterton . . .. 1-49 • 8 0-82 2’55 21 Patea .. ... 2-67 8 o-75 3-4 22 Wanganui 1 -70 7 0-79 2-79 23 Foxton . . .. . . o-94 4 0-58 2-09 24 Wellington .. ■ . . • 16 11 ■ 0-82 2-8i South Island. 25 Westport • 11-52 19 3-52 8 • 20 26 Greymouth 9-74 18 3-78 9-27 27 Hokitika .. 19-59 21 5’47 9-82 28 Ross 19 • 66 15 4'34 n-59 29 Arthur’s Pass ... . . 15-48 13 2-82 io-66 30 Okuru . . ... 19 • 12 19 3-03 12-26 31 Collingwood .. 8-64 10 1 -96 6-28 32 Nelson ... .. .. 3’39 8 i-34 2'74 33 Spring Creek 2-26 8 o-75 • 07 35 Hanmer Springs . . 3-oo 11 o-97 3'55 36 Highfield, Waiau . . 2-96 37 Gore Bay 1-32 8 0-40 2-41 38 Christchurch .. o-86 13 0-31 . 2 • 17 39 Timaru . . 2-12 . 15 o-44 2-17 40 Lambrook Station, Fairlie . . 2-01 ' 12 0-31 2-34 41 Benmore Station, Clearburn 2 • 78 15 0 • 67 2 • 66 42 Oamaru .. 1-77 18 o-33 2-04 43 Queenstown .. ' 4-°3 16 0 • 78 2-75 44 Clyde 2-84 12 o-94 1-77 45 Dunedin 3'92 18 0-85 3-33 46 Wendon 2 • 80 14 0-50 3-L5 47 Gore . . . . .. 3-08 48 Invercargill 5-84 21 o-75 3-93 49 Puysegur Point 10-64 26 1-14 7-10 50 Half-moon Bay .. .. 6-22 21 o-97 4'34

Rainfall for January, 1932, at Representative Stations.

Name. Address. Name. Address. Poverty Bay. Allen, W. Mata where. Poverty Bay- —ctd. Jones, G. W aerengaahika. Alley, A. J. M. .. Manutuke. Jones, T. R. Ormond. Anderson, J. Waerengaahika. Judd, A. J. Patutahi. Atkins, J. Patutahi. Judd, A.R. and C. P. • Patutahi. Atkins, W. Patutahi. Kane, T. Matawhero. Baillie, T. Waimate Valley. Kent, H. Makaraka. Baird, W. Waerengaahika. Knight, L. A. . . Repongaere. Barber, W. E. Hexton. Lange, H. D. C. . . Matawhero. Barr, J. P. Te Karaka. Lawless, D. Manutuke. Bell, H. Hexton. Linklater, J. Waerengaahika. Black, E. R. . . Manutuke. Lynn, T. . . Manutuke. Bolitho, N. G. Waerengaahika. Miller, R. C. and Ormond. Boyd, J. Manutuke. H. R. Briant, S. D. Patutahi. Mills, D. Makauri. Brown Bros. Waerengaahika. Moore, H. Makaraka. Brown, J. B. ;. Waerengaahika. Moore, R. H. Waerengaahika. Bull, W. C. Te Karaka. . Mortleman, A. .. Makauri. Butler, P. Patutahi. Mullan, B. P. Waerengaahika. Cameron, A. J., Waerengaahika. McIntosh, A. . . Patutahi. Estate O’Grady, D. Makauri. Cameron, R. Patutahi. Paku, O. Whakaki. Campbell Bros. .. Hexton. Paulson, A. E. W aerengaahika. Candy, A. E. Waerengaahika. Peakman, W. Whakaki. Carroll, A. T. Wairoa. Pilmer, W. C. Makaraka. Carroll and Cooper Patutahi. Read, F. Makauri. Clark, W. Opou. Reeve, E. A. Hexton. Cooper, H. Patutahi. Roche, J. . . Hexton. Daulton, J. E. '.. Manutuke. Rogers, J. J. Makauri. Davies, J. Ormond. Russell, J., Estate R.M.D., Gisborne. Duncan, A. Waerengaahika. Scott, Mrs. C. Makauri. Dunstan, T. J. . . Matawhero. Scott, G. .. Waipaoa. Fenton, R. G. Waerengaahika. Scott, R. Puha. Fisken, R. C. .. Matawhero. Sherrill, A. E. Ormond. - Frazer, E. W. Waerengaahika. Smith, G. V. Patutahi. Frazer, T. Whangara. Smith, W. W. .. Bushmere. Gibson, C. Matawhero. Staples, W. Makauri. Gordon Bros. Mangapapa. Stevens, A. E. Patutahi. Gray, C., Estate . . Hexton. Stuart, F. Patutahi. Gray, S. T. Hexton. Symes, H. .. Nuhaka. Habgood, F. Patutahi. Tavlor, J. Ormond. Hair Bros. Patutahi. Teitjen, C. W aerengaahika. Hansen, R. Hexton. Tombleson, T. W. G. Nuhaka. Haraki, W. Whakaki. Torrie, J. aerengaahika. Hills, M. P. Te Karaka. Hills, M. P. Ngatapa. Ngatapa. Tullock, H. R. . . Tullock, H. R. .. Te Karaka. Holden, T. Hexton. Turner, J. Makauri. Huka, I. Whakaki. Waiherere IncorGisborne. Hunt, J. Hexton. poration Irwin, F. A. Patutahi Whitlock, J. Makauri. Jackson, W. G. . . Waerengaahikai Williams, H. C., .. Muriwai. Jobson, W., Estate Manutuke. Wilson, G. Bushmere. Johnstone, J. G. Waiherere. Witters, G. .. Hexton.

Name. Address. ! Name. Address. Hawke’s Bay. Agnew, J. Mangateretere. Hawke’s Bay— ctd. Holden, L. S. .. Mangateretere. Alexander, J. .. Puketapu. Holmes, P. C. . . Whakatu. Allen, A. W. Tomoana. | Horner, V. T. L.. . Waipukurau. Allom, G. S. Havelock North. Houston, C. Hastings. Anderson, C. . . Mangateretere. Hunt, A. Tar ad ale. Anderson, E. H. Whakatu. J oil, V. H. Pakipaki. Apperlev, H. G. . . Hastings. | Jones, H. G. Mahora. Ashworth and Gavin Pakowhai. Jones, H. Pakowhai. Avison, 0. D. Haumoana. Kenderdine, J. A. Otane. Baird, A. J. Raupare. | Klingender, G. W. Meeanee. Beatson, G. D. . . Hastings. Knowles, W. C. .. Pakowhai. Beattie, J. Twyford. ! Kyle, T. Raureka. Bolt, Mrs. M. K.. . Hastings. Lane, M. .. Te Awanga. Bone, C. Hastings. , Langdon, W. H. Haumoana. Boyle, D. J. Pukahu. , Lascelles, P. W. . . Mangateretere. Bridgman, J. Mahora. Lister, H. H. Clive. Bridgman, S. G. . . Haumoana. Llovd, J. Clive. Bridgman, T. Mahora. Lloyd, J. H. Mangateretere Burge, A. J. .. Twyford. Logan, J. F. Waipawa. Burge, F. Twyford. Logan, W. Otane. Burgess, T. . . Meeanee. Loughnan, C. A. Otane. Burns, H. H. Twyford. Manson, A. Twvford. Burns, W. F. M.. . Hastings. Mardon, H. Mahora. Byford, W. J. .. Haumoana. Marshall, Mrs. E. M. Hastings. Carly on, — Poukawa. Masters, A. J. ... Twyford. Clark, H. R. Waiohika. Masters, L. Twyford. Couper, E. D. Havelock North. Merrikin, G. Hatuma. Cranko, D. Mangateretere. Morrin, T. V. Hastings. Crawford, H. Havelock North. Murphy, P. B. . . Mahora. Currie, D. Twyford. Murphy, Mrs. P. B. Mahora. Currie, T., sen. .. Twyford. McCool, J. Mangateretere. Donnelly, W. H. C. Pukahu. McCutcheon Bros. Fernhill. Drummond, P. . . Puketapu. Macdonald Bros. Havelock North. Elliott, D. H. .. Haumoana. Macdonald, J. .. Meeanee. Emmerson, T. Raureka. McGaffim, A. Elsthorpe. Evans, F. E. Twyford. Mackay, A. C. Mahora. Evans, H. S. Pukahu. McKeesick, H. J. Haumoana. Fernie, D. Pakowhai. McKeown, G. Mangateretere. Field Bros. Waimarama. McLean, A. Twyford. Field, G. C. Waimarama. McLeod, D. E. . . Raupare. Freeman, S. Haumoana. McLeod, D. E. . . Fernhill. Frogley, R. Mangateretere. McLeod, H. Raupare. Gilbertson, H. R. Havelock North. McLeod, W. Pakipaki. Gillies, J. Tomoana. McLernon, P. Mahora. Glazebrook, H. M. Tomoana. McLernon, P. Mahora. Maraekakaho. McNab, J. A., sen. Twyford. Goodrick, C. F. . . Mangateretere. McNab, J. A., jun. Twyford. Gregory, R. .... Clive. McRobbie, I. W. Waimarama. Griffiths, R. . . Twyford. McRobbie, J. A. Havelock North. Guthrie, T. . ... . Clive. Neagle, P. P. Meeanee. Haldane, C. Hastings. Nelson, E. M. Mangateretere. Hardy, G. F. • . . Pukahu. Nicholl, P. G. . . Twyford. Harris, J. H. . . Hastings. Nimon, Mrs. E. . . Havelock North. Harris, L. E. Clive. O’Neill’s Estate . . Mahora. Heard, F. ,T. , ... Hastings. Orbell, A. Clive. Heeney, Mrs. M. Mahora. ’ . Otene, B. Tomoana. Heeney, T. P. Mahora. Otene L. Tomoana. Herbert, H. L. .. Mahora. Otene,, T. Tomoana. Heynes, W. Clive. Panapa, T. Tomoana.. Hill, A. E. Mahora. Parsons, P. . . Meeanee. .

Name. Address. Name. I Address. 1 Hawke’s Bay— ctd. North Auckland. Person’s Estate .. Fernhill. North Auckland. Stevens, K. M. .. Maungatapere. Pickering and Waiohika. Hackett Auckland. Pimley, F. Waiohika. Mahora. Auckland. ' Smvth, R. C. Te Kauwhata. Potter, Mrs. 0. . . Fernhill. Potter, W. Fernhill. Fernhill. , Wanganui. Price, Little, and Puketapu. Birch, A. C. Marton. Wilson Ramsay Bros. Haumoana. Manawatu. Rathie, J. J. Clive. Bailey’s Estate . . Sanson. Ryan, T. Elsthorpe. I Buchanan, A. R. Kairanga. Satherley, F. Havelock North. Buchanan, R. H. Feilding. Simson, I. L. Tomoana. Callesen, J. Longburn. Sinclair, A. Mahora. Campbell, N. Awahuri. Skudder, A. Mangateretere. Fagan, H. J. Sanson. Small, C. E. Hastings. Henson, W. H. ... Feilding. ■ Smith, A. H. Poukawa. Parsons, S. Kairanga. Smith, E. . . Twyford. Perrett, J. Sanson. Smith, F. R. Raupare. Reid, D. W. Feilding. Speers, A. Pakipaki. Wilson, G. H. . . Bulls. Starnes, Mrs. M. A. Haumoana. Young, J. Awahuri. Stead, W. G. Raupare. Young, W. J. .. Kairanga. Stevenson, W. G. Havelock North. Struthers, A. Havelock North. Longlands. W air arap a. Struthers, J. Pukahu. Percy, A. J., Estate Masterton. Struthers, W. ■ Raureka. Yule, G. E. Featherston. Sweeney, L. Mahora. Symes, A. F. M. Mahora. Longlands. Marlborough. Tait, T. Twyford. Berryman, H. Ward. Tattersail, C. E. . . Pakowai. ■ Blick, A. Blenheim. Taylor, H. . . Pukahu. Goulter, C. P. Seddon. Taylor, J. Havelock North. Moore, T. A. Havelock. Taylor, W. Havelock North. Neal, J. F. Seddon. Thompson, C. H. Twyford. Nees, C. Okaramio. Thompson, D. P. H. Twyford. Nicolas, J. T. Ward. Thompson, J. B.. . Mahora. Smith, E. Spring Creek. Thompson, J. H. Mangateretere. and G. North Canterbury. Thompson, T. J. Mangateretere. Pakowhai. North Canterbury. Bailey, P. V. Springston. Thompson, W. P., Pakipaki. Bishop, R. G. Southbridge. Estate Boag, J. Brookside. Tiffen, D. N. Otane. Brookes, J. Brookside. Tod, R. H. Otane. Chamberlain, R. Ellesmere. Trotter, R. .. Hastings. Cross, A. E. . . Bennetts. Tucker, R. M. H. Waiohika. Cunningham, W. B. Brookside. Tucker, W. Whakatu. Forbes, G. W. Cheviot. Vance, Mrs. L. J. Havelock North. Galpin, H. Southbridge. Wake, A. E. Pukahu. Greenwood, A. C. Southbridge. Wake, B. Karamu. Grigg, G. H. Horarata. Wall, E. Mahora. Harrison, G. H. .. Cheviot. Wall, W. J. Hastings. Heslop, J. Brookside. Wattie, W. J. . . Mahora. Lili, D. Brookside. Wellwood, M., EsHastings. Marshall, D. .. Springston. tate Morgan, T. C. Tai Tapu. Wellwood, R. A.. . Mahora. McGregor, D. Ellesmere. White, W. J. Pakowhai. Nairn, G. Lakeside. Williams, H. B. . . Pukahu. Nutt, H. Motukarara. Wilson, F. H. . . Eskdale. Powell, C. N. Springston. Young, J. A. Haumoana. Russell, J .. Omihi. Yule, D. C. .. | Mahora. Skurr, K. Dunsandel.

Name. Address. Name. Address. N. Canterbury ctd. Otago— continued. Smith, T. J. Oxford. Jenkins, D. Kelso. Stevenson, J. Flaxton. Jones, J. Clifton. Stevenson, J. B. .. Spotswood. Murney, E. H. . . Tapanui. Stevenson, T. Spotswood. McRae, J. D. .. Waitahuna. Thwaites, W. Hororata. Pullar, J. G. Crookston. Walker, J. Dunsandel. Sim, S. .. Heriot. Williams, C. M. .. Wyllie Estate Kaiapoi. Southbridge. Sutherland, W. . . Clinton. Southland. ■ Mid-Canterbury. Ay ton, Mrs. I. B. Otautau. Doak, A. Barrhill. Barron, W. Morton Mains. Jones, C. H. ' Winchmore. Blue, A. Balfour. McDonald Bros. . . Meth ven. Brown, T. Otautau. MacKay, T., Estate Willowbv. Burgess, H. A. .. - Invercargill. Nicoll, E. F. Ashburton. Carter, G. H. Mandeville. Rutherford, T. Springburn. Clark, G. • .. Pyramid. Tilson, W. R. .. Hinds. Couser, W. Mataura II. ■ Wilkinson, H. R. Chertsey. Cowie, H. . . Otapiri R.D. 1 Cowie, W. J. Otapiri R.D. South Canterbury. Anderson, J. Brodie, R. Campbell, R. and P. St. Andrew’s. Rangitata. Kingsdown. Forbes, J. Fowler, W. Haigh, J. R. Hardiman, P. Hishon, W. P. . . Holmes, F. .. Kelly, N. Morgan, T. A. Mortimer, W., jun. McCully, W. D. . . Macdonald, J. .. Mackay, A. .... Mackay, G. Mackay, W. G. .. Mackenzie, D. Mackenzie, K. A. Waimumu. Winton. Waipango. Pyramid. Gardiner Bros. . . Hammond, R. .. Hide, T. E. Medlicott, S. Mee, J. P. D. Milne, J. H. McKenzie, H. O’Hara, J. C. Oliver, J. 0. J. . . Stewart, J. .. Talbot, P. R. Temuka. Fairview. Seadown. Waimate. Levels. Waimate. Waimate. Glenavy. » Temuka. Morven. Claremont. Riverton. North Chatton. Limehills. Waipounamu. Scott’s Gap. Gore. Wendon. Glencoe. Otawa. Limehills. Otapiri. Central Otago. McLean, D. H. . . Dip ton. McLeod Bros. Mandeville. Hunt, J. S. Maungawera. McNaughton, J. . . Wright’s Bush. Otago. . McRae, M. A. .. Wyndham. Nicholl, N. Kingston Crossing Blackie, W. . . Glenoamaru. ! O’Connor, J. Kingston Crossing Bradfield, W. Owaka. Riddle, H. J. Thornbury. Bunn, Mrs. A. E. Rongahere. Telfer, T. Brydone. Chittock, C. Waikoikoi. / Tuach, J. Croydon Bush. Coulbrough, D. . . Kelso. Walker Bros. ■ .. Wendon. Falconer, D. A. . . Kelso. White, R. S. Otama. Findlayson, P. Crookston. Wilson, C. South Hillend. Hayman, E. W. .. Tuapeka Mouth. Winsloe, J. G. E. Waikaka.

LIST OF GROWERS, SEASON 1931-32. Following is a list of growers who have had areas of perennial rye-grass seed inspected and passed in the field, in connection with the Government system of Seed Certification, for the season 1931-32 :

' Land District. Area of Grassland Top-dressed with Artificial Fertilizers once or more during Period. Area of Grassland Top-dressed with Lime during Period. Acres. Acres. North Auckland 408,978 54,727 Auckland . . . . . . 883,302 168,926 Gisborne .. . . . . 43 .059 1,835 Hawke’s Bay . . 123,232 9,223 Taranaki . . . . ■ . . . 327.914 - 32,862 Wellington . . 307,290 • 39,761 Nelson " ■ . 26,773 6,362 Marlborough . . 20,376 1,847 Westland 7.349 3,504 Canterbury .. 93059 40,681 Otago . . . . 62 ,702 23,H4 Southland 128,304 56,036 Total, Dominion 2,432,438 438,878

District. Wheat. ' Bushels per Acre. Oats. Bushels per Acre. Barley. Bushels per Acre. North Island 28-23 33-49 42-28 Nelson .. .. .. .. 19-04 21-08 18-16 Marlborough .. .. .. 28-18 30-73 28-07 Canterbury 23-76 26-25 27-54 Otago .. .. .. 25-69 33-99 29-59 Southland .. .. 35-7° 44-36 34-63 Average (estimated) for the Dominion, season 1931-32 24-44 32-56 28-79 • Average (actual), for the Dominion, season 1930-31 30-44 38-74 34-97