THE HOME GARDEN by R. W. FALCONER

FRESHLY GATHERED VEGETABLES ARE HEALTH GIVING During the Autumn the harvesting of vegetables is often delayed, hence the true value and nutrient is lost with the exception of the types which may be stored for winter use. With such produce as lettuce, cabbage or the leafy type of vegetable, much value is lost especially if they are cut. It is estimated for instance, that lettuces could lose at least fifty per cent of vitamin C content within hours after cutting, therefore it is essential that successional sowing of the above type of vegetable be prudently organised during the planting season in order that over-supply does not eventuate. It a continuity of fresh vegetables is desired, now is the appropriate time to plan for winter, and it is most essential especially in the colder parts of the country, that autumn plantings take place early. For instance, in the Northern parts of the North Island, onion seeds for spring transplanting should be concluded by the end of March or early April at the latest if strong healthy plants are to be obtained. Winter lettuce, cabbage and cauliflowers should always take their place in the garden and be established during April and early May. Always transplant on moulds for winter harvesting. Many home gardeners experience trouble after planting carrot seeds. It is recognised that wire worms and other pests create the difficulty. If this trouble is evident, Horticultural Naphthalene should be used. It is a good plan to cover the area planted with this preparation after sowing of the seed. It is usual for trouble to occur a few days after the seedlings appear. Another trouble is Aphis which often cause young seedlings to turn a sickly yellow colour and if the infection is severe, often kills the plants. This trouble can be controlled if sprayed when first observed, with a solution of Nicotine Sulphate, one ounce to four or five gallons of water. It is also a good plan to add a spreading agent such as a liquid soap or detergent.

HUMUS FROM SAWDUST At this time of the year most gardeners are considering the means for building up a supplementary supply of humus for their gardens to be used for the next spring and summer planting, therefore it is often difficult for those living in confined areas to obtain animal manure or rotted hay from stack bottoms etc. and therefore it is suggested that in the hunt for humus-forming organic matter with which to enrich the soil, gardeners seldom think of sawdust, yet it is wholly a plant product, which will decompose to humus and plant foods. During the period of decomposition it is unobjectionable and inexpensive. The disadvantages are that it is coarse and tough and ineligible for immediate use when fresh, and if incorporated in the soil of the garden will undoubtedly create an acid condition, unless scientifically handled. Sawdust can contribute usefully to the restoration and maintenance of soil fertility. Briefly the main disadvantages are that it takes some time to decompose and the key to success as a humus-forming agent is to weather it before incorporating with the soil. For instance, it should be exposed to sun, wind and rain and turned frequently. Another useful way of weathering it is to use it as a summer mulch, an inch or two deep around perennial plants, around fruit trees or shrubs. As previously stated, if the material is to be used in the compost heap, small quantities should be incorporated regularly and the entire volume of compost thoroughly forked or turned over at approximately eight-weekly intervals.

SPRAYING PRECAUTIONS With the advent of modern sprays, especially Sytamic and Toxic materials, for instance, Nicotine Sulphate, Malathion, etc., extreme caution should be taken. 1. Avoid contact of the concentrated material with the skin and mouth. 2. Wash off any liquid spilled on the skin, using soap and running water. 3. After spraying, cleanse all exposed parts in a similar manner. 4. Keep liquid out of reach of children. 5. Avoid eating, drinking or smoking during spraying operations. 6. Leave the spraying areas should headaches or tightness of the chest develop.