ANSWERS TO PUZZLED GARDENERS

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 212, 26 November 1927, Page 28 (Supplement)

ANSWERS TO PUZZLED GARDENERS

F.W., Waimitia.—The flower submitted for identification is the New Zealand Orchid Pterostylis Banksii. called by the. Maoris tutu kiwi.

A.H.C., Grey Lynn.—The sample of worm will hatch out later into a rooteating grub and is best destroyed, bichloride of mercury, watered over the damp ground, 2oz. to 6 gallons of water

Salsify or Vegetable Oyster.—This is one of the best of our root vegetables, and is rapidly increasing in popularity. It is cultivated in the same way as the parsnip, and if grown in well i repared soil will produce large, smooth roots. Failing this, they are inclined to fork. Cooked in any form, salsify is wholesome, appetising, and nutritious. The peculiar oyster-like flavour is most apparent when sliced and fried. It may also be served and eaten as asparagus. It is one of the best remedies for indigestion. Most of its medicinal value lies in the milk which exudes from the skin. ’J he surface should, therefore, be broken as little as possible. This is best avoided by boiling whole and peeling afterwards. Salsify succeeds best in light, well-drained soil which should be dug deeply, and kept free from weeds. Sow the seed one inch deep in drills. 12 inches apart, an 1 thin out to six inches apart in the rows. In autumn lift and store like carrots.