HOW TO WATER SEEDLINGS

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 934, 29 March 1930, Page 28

HOW TO WATER SEEDLINGS

Very often the beginner, full of enthusiasm over a newly-sown vegetable patch, will keep the soil moist by careful attention for a day or two, and, under the impression that he has watered them sufficiently, relaxes his efforts and allows the bed to become dry. This is where the fatal mistake is made. The regular supply of water during the first day or two after sowing will cause the seeds to sprout, and if they become dry, even for a few hours, after once sprouted, the germ shrivels and the seed perishes. It is therefore apparent that the surface of the soil must be kept continually moist until the young plants are established. In very hot weather, and where midday watering is not practicable, shading may be resorted to. Canvas shades are best, but a good substitute is obtained by using a light covering of straw, bracken or some similar material.

A species of South American sisal, or agave, allied to the flax plant, flowering in the garden of Mr. H. Mays, of Birkenhead. The plant flowers only once in 17 years and bears pretty, white, waxy flowers. It is very prolific and hardy as the seeds which are thrown off, no matter how they fall,

always put out roots and right them selves. The product of this plant i akin to hemp and is similar to that o New Zealand flax, though of a finer am whiter texture. Its fibre is largel; used in plaster work.