In the GARDEN by PRACTICAL

Evening Post, Volume CXV, Issue 39, 16 February 1933, Page 7

In the GARDEN by PRACTICAL

This co nmn Is Intended principally for Hardeners with small plots, and ths aim Is to make it as practical and useful as possible. Inquiries on any matter of Harden" Ing interest will be welcomed. The rule for correspondence Is that all communications must be accompanied by the name and address of the writer, not for nubllcation, but as.a guarantee of good faith. This rule will be strictly adhered to This is your column—make use of it ' "

THE WEEK'S WORK

VEGETABLE GARDEN. The main work at the present time is keeping the various --crops growing and harvesting those which are matured. Onions^ garlic, and shallots may be lifted as soon as the tops ripen. They should be allowed to lie on the surface for a few days, turning them over to ensure drying ok all parts. . Outdoor tomatoes should be ripening now. Tho leaves which are s-Hwling the fruit sprays may be reduced by half to allow the sun to get at them. . ' ■ Weeds must be suppressed and the soil between tows of vegetables be loosened frequently. Vacant plots should be dug over and, if not required for followingcrops, sown down in lupin for digging in. " Keep beans and, peas well watered, giving occasional liquid manure and, where possible, a mulch. These vegetables should be picked regularly to keep up a supply—this is particularly necessary with beans. Marrows and pumpkins may be picked as soon as mature. Cut with as long a stalk as possible and store in a dry, airy place.

FLOWER GARDEN.

Dahlias soon go out of flower if allowed to form seeds. All dead blooms should be picked off and tho plants be well watered and h_-v Q liquid manure once a week. Chrysanthemums should be kept in healthy growth by keeping the soil well stirred about the roots and by frequent watering. Spray the plants,with Bordeaux mixture at the first sign of rust. Insect pests may be kept in check by spraying with "Black Leaf 40" or "arsenate of lead." Plant all spring-flowering bulbs where space permits. Avoid fresh animal manures unless buried deeply. Sow seeds of perennials and biennio's in sheltered seed beds or in ' boxes under glass. • Remove or dig under all spent annuals and manure or lime the vacated. Burn all disease-infected plants and primings. ;'. Mildew is prevalent at ' this season, and spreads all over the garden if the' infected plants' are : buried or thrown on the rubbish heap.