WATCH SOIL FERTILITY

Te Ao Hou, October 1956, Page 55

WATCH SOIL FERTILITY If the gardener expects to achieve success, and secure the best result from his efforts he will be well advised to replace the fertility of his garden, either by the addition of organic fertilisers or the digging in of compost or cover crops such as Lupins, Clover or similar vegetable matter. This is definitely necessary if success is to be achieved, in this very interesting and healthy recreation of gardening. First of all good seed is esential, if one is to expect the best for his efforts, in vegetable growing. All the work in the world will not give result if poor seed is sown, even if one gives closest attention to all other factors. A rich sandy loam, is well adapted to vegetable production, various other soils are suitable also, while stiff clays require plenty of humus for the purpose of assisting to break up the solid particles, and to assist in retaining moisture during dry spells. Sandy soils which are light in nature also require ample quantities of humus for the purpose of building up fertility and also to arrest leaching which occurs during very wet conditions. To obtain good crops the soil should be cultivated and hoed throughout the season. Use artificial manure sparingly, a little often should be the practice. Stirring the soil during the season, kills weeds, loosens the soil and this encourages root development, allows aeration of the soil and assists to conserve moisture by capillary attraction. The purpose of applying fertilizers to the soil, is to return to the soil, elements which have been removed in the production of previous crops, or on the other hand to improve land which is generally referred to as being naturally poor or lacking the essential elements. Well rotted stable manure is always beneficial and will build up soil fertility if ample quantities are easily obtainable. With artificial manure it is always helpful to remember that Nitrogen promotes growth, Phosphate gives fruitfullness while Potash gives resistance to disease, toughens the growth, and promotes quality and gives colour. When transplanting, always take care to avoid injury to the young roots when taking up the plants. Always plant as soon as possible after lifting, as air and sun tend to dry the plants and may cause injury, always firmsoil so that the plant can secure a firm hold, if possible the cool of the evening is the best time to transplant seedlings.