RAISING SPRING SEEDS

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Volume 81, Issue 13, 8 October 1937, Page 13

RAISING SPRING SEEDS

For the next two or tliree montns most of our readers Avill be busy with the seed-sowing, and a few hints concorning the most successful methoda adopted for this importanfc operation should not be out of place, Where space of inclination is not available for seed beds. or only a few seedlings are required for the home plot, the adoption of wooden or even tin receptacles may be utilised to advanta'ge. These receptacles, or "fiats" as they are more commonly termed, may be const^ucted to any 'dimensiou, although the'amateur would do well to be guided by the handy size generally adopted by the nursery folk. These are about 14 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 3^ inches high, and may be made from old kerosene cases. butter boxes, or such like cut into the desired size. Most serviceable flats may be acquired by eutting a kerosene tin in halves, lengthwise, which will give two ideal receptacles measuring approximately 14 inches by nine inches by 44 inches. A a few holes should be bored or pierced at the bottom for drainage. Now take tk few crocks, ciaders, or small broken

stones to form the base of the filling. Then fill up with soil, which should he reasonably rich, light and loamy in texture, and fine sifted. This should be packed in the box lightly. and levelled to about three-quarters of an inch from the top. We always advocate sowing the seed in narrow drills, straight little rows about l£ inches apart and made with a sharp-pointed stick or skewer. The seed should be scattered thinly and evenly, and covered to a depth in accordance with its si/.e. Most flower seed are barely covered, an eighth of an inch being ample for the majority of varieties. The soil should then be firmed down gently over the seeds with the palm of the hand or some flat object and then well watered. A covering of hessian calico, ur even glass and newspaper may be used to assist the germination. Little is gained, however, by artificial or liasty gemiihation. 'Place tlie boxes under the partial or diffuscd shade of some tree, and att'oid due protection agaiust the ravages of snails, birds, etc. Water regularly and judiciously. Above all, purcliase your. seed siqjplies from a reputable store. Cheap seeds are always a most unwise and very uusatisfactory method.