FRUIT-GROWING.

Dominion, Volume 6, Issue 1836, 23 August 1913, Page 8

FRUIT-GROWING.

CO-OPERATIVE DEMONSTRATION ARBAS. The Fruit Division of tho Department of Agricullturo has extended the system of co-operative experiments 60 us to cmbrace a series of practical demonstrations in difflaront parts of tlio country, whereby thoso who intond planting orchards, as well as thoso already in tho business, may gather a deal of useful information. Inquiries made at headquarters as to the naturo of the work proposed elicited the information (that this year there' will -I>j established twenty-four co-operative experimental plots in different localities, in addition to the-twelve demonstration plots thait 'havo already been planted. The conditions -under which theso plots are being established aro practically on the lines followed by tlio i'tekls Division in its ca-operativo tests with farmers with grain, fodder, variety, and mauurial tests, except of courso that they will extend over a much longer period. Each plot will bo of about two acres in extent. 'lUie Deportment finds the trees, selects tho site, and the varieties to bo grown. The iarmer works tho land; plants tho trees, and does t'ho pruning and cultivation, under general directions from the orchard instructor in the district. The agreement is for seven years, during which time every feature in connection with, the proper caro and management of a commercial orchard will liavo been, demonstrated. Each plot ■will be planted with trees of different varieties to ascertain their suitability to tho district Besides this, modified inanurial tests will be undertaken to find out bow different artificial fertilisers affect the fruit and the growing plant. Tho pruning will be conducted with a view to allowing various methods. When this ■work is in progress notification will bo mode to all friutgrowers in the locality, so that they may have an opportunity of attending. Tho same, privileges will apply to spraying operations later on. When tho rapid extension and importance of the fruit-growing industry throughout tho couuitry is taken into account, tho value of eucli experiments cannot be over-estimated. They mean that the, State is undertaking to superviso a miniature commercial orchard Itoiu the beginning until the fruit trees aro in full bearing, While during the whole currency of the experiment an instructor will superintend all the detail work which is essentially necessary to ensure the healthy growth of tho tree and its products.

It is reported that growers aro showing groat eagerness to assist in tho work, so much so that the Department has been unable to meet all the invitations for cooperation. Tho plots selected aro spread over as wide a range of the Dominion as possible, so that every locality may to sorvod.