THE WEATHER AND THE CROPS.

Waikato Times, Volume XX, Issue 1652, 6 February 1883, Page 2

THE WEATHER AND THE CROPS.

Thk long spell; of dry, hot weather we' have experienced has had a most 'deplorable effect upon* the pasture lands,' more espeecially those in 5 the basin of the Waikato and Waipa. There is, indeed, very little grass of any kind to be seen except clover, which here and there, on lands that have not been too heavily stocked, still yields a fair bi.te for cattle. Dairying operations have been seriously impended, and' we understaiur that, the supply of milk to the Te Awamutu Factory has continued to fall off to such an extent that, unless a change for the better takes the work of cheese-making will have to be suspended. That such a contingency should 1 be, possible so early in the season' is most unfortunate. So far as the grain crops are concerned, the season has been most propitious. Despite the scarcity of labour, farmers have been enabled to get the wheat into the .stack without loss, and though a quantity of grain, principally oats, yet remains -to get in the great bulk, of the harvest work in Waikato proper is over, and those most deeply interested in grain growing would thankfully receive raiu. In the outlying districts the condition have not been the same. At Matamata, for instance, the harvest has, indeed, been interrupted by wet weather, while in the Fiako and VVaitoa districts showers have been frequent. Root crops of all descriptions have suffered terribly, while the gardens are in a deplorable condition. Waikato has generally been blessed with large potato crops, but this year if the farmers succeed in raising enough for domestic use and seed they may consider themselves fortunate. For the last day or two the barometer has been falling, and yesterday a distinct change m the ■ weather took place, culminating in steady showers last night. The rain comes too late to do good to the roots, but it will, I of course, have the desired effect on the grass.