ROOT CROP V. WHEAT.

Patea Mail, Volume III, Issue 289, 23 January 1878, Page 2

ROOT CROP V. WHEAT.

{To the Editor of the Patea Mail.) Sia. —Having been engaged in various parts of New Zealand, from my earliest years,- in the cultivation of the soil and the care of cattle, and hating been now for some years a fanner in this district, I trust I may presume to give my opinion of the capabilities of its soil and climate. At first sight, I thought it would be well adapted for the raising of grain crops, but further observation has convinced me that it is better suited for raising root crops and grass. Grain,- while growing, appears excellent, and until cut down, is most deceptive. In the harvest field, when you lift a sheaf, it feels- light, because the grains are not sufficiently numerous, nor properly filled. Any person may test this lor himself. Besides,-in the harvest season, the weather" is generally broken and unsettled, causing damage and loss of crop from wet. Grass and roots are not easily affected by tins weal her, and all grow luxuriantly, anc' to perfection. From this, I judge that beet root sugar would be a profitable manufacture here, and give a great impetus to the district’s prosperity. For this purpose, I would have an Association of Banners formed,- consisting of at least 100 members, each to subscribe £lO, and bind themselves to cultivate from a half to an acre of beet root. These acres ot beet,- and £ 1000 of money, would give this scheme a fair trial, and possibly the Government might subsidize the manufacture. 1 understand the seed would be furnished bv the Government gratuitously. And I believe the Editor of this paper, would lend his aid, in collecting information, and distributing it to the public. ►Should any influential agriculturist put this scheme in motion, he will find my quota of inone}’, and acre of beet root willingh' forthcoming.—l am, &c., P. PETERSON, Jilv. Spring Hill, near Hawcra, January 18.