FIREBLIGHT

Hokitika Guardian, 14 December 1927, Page 3

FIREBLIGHT

RISK IN HAWTHORN HEDGES. AVELLINGTOX, Dec. S. The Department of Horticulture has now completed the survey of hawthorn hedges in the Nelson district which was asked for by fruitgrowers, and u is established that there is considerable number of hawthorn hedges within the fruit-growing area. In the event of fireblight making its appearance these hedges would exercise a great inti lienee on the position. Firehlighi appears to spread in a most uncanny manner, hut it is found that steppingstones in the form of plants are necessary and no such stepping stones exist between the North and South Islands. The Department is convinced, therefore. that it will he some years ycl before firehlight makes its appearance in the South Island, though the possible transference of the blight is re cognised.

Notwithstanding this (act, Iruitgrowers in the South Island will b-> well advised to take time by the lorelock. and proceed with the gradual elimination of hawthorn hedges an the substitution of some more suitable form of hedge growth. A\ ith thi done, should firehlight make its appealnnce in the South Island, action will not have to be taken for the removal of these hedges and confusion will not be caused by their presence. One basic principle is recognised: hawthorn and fruit trees cannot possibly grow side by side satisfactorily in any district when firehlight is present.