THE JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF
AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA.
VOIiUME XYI. Parts 1-12.
IISIDEX.
Page
Abortion in Dairy Cows . . 308
Agricultural Education in
California . . . . 257, 339
Agricultural Education in
America . . 555, 665
Agricultural Education in
•Canada . . . . 577
Alcohol, Power . . . . 115
American Agriculture 257, 339, 385,
463, 555, 658
Antliracnose or Black Spot of
the Vine . . . . . . 420
Agriculture-
Honey Flora of Australia 107
Apple Culture in Victoria 16, 80,
129,204.355.454,648
Apples, Black iSpot of . . . . 479
Archer, R T.—
Annual Report on Herd Test-
ing . . . . . . 513
Automatic Feeders for Pigs . . 754
Babcock Tester on the Farm. . 396
Artificial Fertilizers —
iResidual Effect of Super-
phosphate . . 610
Review of Inspection for 1917 94
Artificial Fertilizers Act —
Jjist of Fertilizers Registered
for 1918 . . . . . . 39
List of Results of Analysis of
Samples (Season 1916-17) 48
List of Results of Analysis of
iSamples (iSeason 1917-18) 757
Andas, J. W.—
ilndigenous Fibrous Plants of
Victoria . . . . . . 600
The Sunflower . . . . 620
Automatic Feeders for Pisrs . . 754
Babcock Tester — How to Use . . 306
Beacom, W. F. —
Accidental Abortion in Dairy
Cattle . . . . . . 308
Dairying on a Small Area . . 710
Beet— '
For Sheep . . . . . . 53
Growinor at Maffra, Boisdale,
&c. — Xeed for Irrigation . . 417
Beuhne, F. R.—
Honey Flora of Australia . . 107
Page
425
420
479
713
341
180
420
568
479
364
176
367
365
Blackberty, Eradication of
Black Spot, or Anthracnose of
tlie Vine
Black Spot of the Apple
Bottling of Fruit
Boys' Clubs in California
Bracken, a Source of Potash
Brittlebank, C. C. (and Castella,
F. de) —
Notes on Vine Black Spot, or
Anthracnose
Downy Mildew
Brittlebank, C. C. (and Laidlanv,
W.) —
'• Black Spot "' and " Leaf
Curl"
Butter Export Season, Review of
Butter Fat in Human Diet, Im-
portance of . .
Butter, Fixing Price of
Butter, Grading and Grade
Stamping of
Californian Agricultural Educa-
tion, &c. :. .. 257, 339
Californian Thistle, Eradication
of . . . . . . . . 453
Canadian Agriculture . . 577
Castella, F. de-
Copper Fungicides for Vine
Diseases . . . . i592, 674, 735
Vaucluse District (France),
Notes on . . . . . . 493
Vineyard Spraying . . . . 141
Castella. F. de ' (and Brittle-
ibank. C. C.).—
Downy Mildew
Notes on Vine Black Spot, ot
Anthracnose
Castella, F. de (and W. Percy
Wilkinson) —
Culture of True Lavender
Castor Oil Plant and its Culti-
vation
Cheese, Home-made, How to
Make
Citrus Stock at Wahgunyah . .
Classes, Farmers' — Subjects, &c.
Clover, Subterranean, at
Flinders ,, ,. ,,
568
420
489
505
310
111
240
179
Index.
Page
Cool Store, Government — Scale
of Charge . . . . . . 763
Cows, Abortion in . . . . 308
Cows — Standard Test —
Keport, December Quarter,
1917 .. .. ..163
■Report, March Quarter, 1918 376
PvPpfirt, Year ended 30tli -lune,
1918 .. . .. r,18
Cream, Treatment of . . . . 500
Crop and Fallow Competition at
Xhill .. .. n.5
Croftve, R. —
Review of Butter Export
Season . . . . . . 364
Tabloiding of Primary Pro-
ducts . . . . . . 449
Dairy Farming — -Road to Suc-
cess in . . . . . . 10
Dairying and Price Fixing . . 367
Dairving on a Small Area .. 710
Davey, H. W.—
Diseases of Fruit Trees and
their Treatment . . . . 101
Hints on Weed Control . . 631
Diseases of Fruit Trees 101
Dogs, Mange in . . . . 64
Ducks, Rearing of . . . . 669
Esg-laying Competitions 1917-18
'—Report on . . . . 321
Eggs — Graph showing Highest
Wliolesale Prices. 1.5/4/17 to
14/3/18 . . . . . . 32r
Entomology —
Furniture and Timber Boring
Insects . . . . . . 214
Furniture or Powder-poat
Beetle . . . . . . 214
Pin-hole Borer .. ..220
.Rutherglen Bug . . . . 73S
Ewart, A. J.—
A Water Weed at Toorourrong 109
Xative Fibre Plants . . 747
Fallow Com]>etition at Goroke 370
Farmers' Field Day at Werribee 641
Farming in England in Early
Times . . . . . . 25
Farm Tools, &c. —
Automatic Feeders for Pigs.. 754
Work Bench for the Amateur 634
Fertilizers, Artificial —
List of those Registered for
J918 .. ..39
List of Analvsis of Samples
'Collected * . . 48
Residual Effect of Superphos-
phate . . . . . . 610
Review of Inspection for 1917 94
Fibrous Plants of Victoria 600, 747
Flax — ^Hints on Cultivation . . 447
French, C, Jun. —
Furniture and Timlier Boring
Insects . . 214
<Rutherglen Bu" . . . . 738
T'rxce
101
..713
Packing and
. . 236, 304, 741
— Regulations
51
. 199
-Farm of
Fruit Tree Diseases
Fruit —
Bottling of. .
■Standardized
Grading of
Fungicides Act
Under
Gooding, W. C.-
Gordon, G. S. —
Residual Effect of Superphos-
phate ....
Goroke Fallow Competitions . .
Government Cool Store — Scale
of Charges . .
Grading and I^ackinar of
Fruit . . . . 236, 304, 741
Grading and Grade-stamping of
Butter
Grass on the Western Plains . .
Hart, A.—
Duck Rearing
Egg-laying Competition, 1917-
18 — Report on
Turkey Rearing
Harte, L. J.—
Farming in England in Early
Times
Herbs-
Growing of ...
Lavender, True, Culture of . .
Herd Testing —
Advantages of
Report ■ — December Quarter,
1917
Report— March Quarter, 1918
Report — Year ending 30th
.Tune. 1918
Honey Flora of Australia
Morn, W — Dairy of . .
Horses —
Hereditary Unsoundness
.610
370
763
365
629
669
,321
626
. 25
617
489
193
163
376
513
107
710
Hints on Feeding . .
Stallions — Certification of —
Annual Report
Iowa State College of Agricul-
ture^— 'Xotes on
Irrigation in Beet Growing at
Maffra. &c. — •Xecessity of
Kansas Agricultural College —
Xotes on . .
Knight. Miss \. —
Bottling of Fruit for Home
Use
Laidlaw, W. (and Brittlebank,
CO —
'• Black Spot '■ and " Leaf
Curl " . .
Lavender, Culture of . .
'• Leaf Curl " of the Peach
Lerew, W. N. —
Hints on Feeding of Horses. .
Lime in Orchard, Influence of..
289, 426,
468, 679
.. 315
270
392
417
son
713
479
489
479
315
133
Index.
Packing and
Fruit 236, 304,
in South
Observations at
Competitions
Pag'e
Limewasli, Washington, How to
Make .. .. ..314
Longcrenong College — Fourth
Annual Field Day . . 1
Lucerne —
Growing of in South Gipps-
land .36
Manurial Trials at Werribee 497
Maffra Sugar Factory — ^Altera-
tions Suggested by Manager
as Result of Investigation in
America
Maize Ears — a Form for De-
scribing
Malice Wheat Experimental
Trials
Manurial Trials — •
Lucerne
^Vheat
!\Iange in Dogs
Meeking, E. —
Standardized
Grading of
Mess, A. —
•Liicerne Growing
Gippsland
Meteorological
Werribee
Motor Tractor Trials
IVTullett, H. A.—
'Goroke Fallow
— 'Report on
Lucerne Manurial Trials at
Werribee
iXhill Crop and Fallow Compe-
titions— Report on
Wheat Experimental Plots in
the Mallee, lfll7 Season . .
Wheat Manurial Trials,
1»13-18 ..
Wheat Varietv Trials, 1917-18
Murphy, E. W.—
Carrying Capacity of Land . .
Instructive Choice of Food
and Water by Stock
Western District Farm, a . .
McFadzean, J. S.- —
: Advantages of Herd Testing. .
Dairy Farming' — the Road to
[Success
Nhill Agricultural Society Com-
petitions
Packing and Grading of Fruit..
304,
^eacla Trees, Leaf Curl of
•escott, E. E.—
Herb Growing
Orchard and Garden Notes 60,
187, 249, 317, 380,
575, 636, 701, 766
Pomolooical Committee's Meet-
ing, 1918, Report of
Pomological Committee — Report
of 1918 Meeting
Page
125
416
183
89
497
222
64
741
36
182
727
370
497
65
89
222
168
629
55
705
193
10
65
236,
741
479
617
124,
508,
434
434
Pomological Notes
Potash — its Need and Sources
Poultry Farming — Does it Pay
Power Alcohol
Price Fixing and Dairying
Primarv Products — Tabloiding
of ..'
Rainfall in Victoria —
July to December, 1917
March Quarter, 1918
June Quarter, 1918
September Quarter, 1918
Red Poll Herd-
Records, 1910-11 to 1916-17..
Report for Year ended 30th
June, 1917
Research Farm, Werribee —
Farmers' Field Day . .
Lucerne Manurial Trials
^leteorological Observations
for 1917 . . . . . .
Residual Effect of Superphos-
phate
Wheat Manurial Trials,
1913-18 ..
Wheat Variety Trials
Richardson, A. E. V. —
American Agriculture 257, 339,
386, 463, 555, 658
Canadian Agriculture and Agri-
cultural Education
Ricketts, J. J. — •
Treatment of Cream
Rentoul, A. V. D.—
Does Poultry Farming Pay ? . .
Robertson, W. A. N. —
.Contribution to Study of
Hereditary Unsoundness in
Horses . . 289, 426, 468, 679
iSheep, Diseases of . . . . 410
Sheep, Drenching of . . 633
Stallions, Certification of —
Eleventh Annual Report . . 276
Robertson. W. C. (and 8cott, P.
R.—
Artificial Fertilizers — Review
of Inspection for 1917 . . 94
Rutherglen Bug . . 738
Sapindus Tree, Notes on . . 502
Sawers, G. C—
How to Make Home-made
Cheese . . . . . . 310
Scott, P. Rankin —
Fertilizers Registered under
Artificial Fertilizers Act for
1918 .. ..39
Scott, P. Rankin (and Robert-
son, W. O —
Artificial Fertilizers — Review
of Inspection for 1917 . . 94
Sefton, Mrs., Farm of.. ..195
58
751
115
367
449
121
313
504
764
158
157
641
497
182
610
222
168
577
500
751
Index.
Marcl) Quarter, 1918
Year ended 30th
1918
Choice of
Sheep —
Beet f or . .
Diseases of . .
Diarrhrt?a . . . . • •
Drenching of
Non-contagious Diseases
Tetanus or Lockjaw
Sheep Dip, Home-made
Silo for Ensilage or Gruln —
Plans and Specifications
Simpson, A. J. — Farm of
Soap Tree, Notes on . .
Soils, Bacterial Toxins in
Stallions, Government Certifi.-
cation of . .
Standard Test Cows —
Report, Deeeniber Quarter,
1!)17
Report.
Report,
Juno.
Stock — ^Instinctive
Food
Sugar Beet' — .Report of Manager
of Mafl'ra Factory on his in-
vestigations in America
Sugar Beet Culture in Colorado
Sixnflower, the
Superphosphate, Residual Effect
of
Tabloiding of Primary Products
Teachers' (School at Burnlev . .
Temple, F. R.—
Home-made Sheep-dip
Thistles —
Plants Proclaimed under
Thistle Act for whole State 446
Plants Proclaimed under
Thistle Act for certain Muni-
cipalities . . . . 447
Tractors, Motor, Trials of . . 727
Truffles in Vaucluse District,
France . . . . . . 496
Tuckey, F. J. — iLucerne Growing
on Farm of . . . . 36
Turkey Rearing . . . a 626
53
410
414
633
414
413
114
228
TOf)
502
119
276
163
376
&13
416
387
620
610
449
166
114
Page
Vaucluse District, Notes on . . 493
Vegetable Seed, Sowing of . . 251
Viticulture —
Antliracnose, or Black Spot.. 420
( (ipper Fungicides for Vine
Diseases . . 592, 674, 735
Downy Mildew . . . . 568
Planting and Reconstruction
of Vineyard . . . . 247
Vineyard Spraying . . . . 141
Weeds —
Blackberry, Eradication of . . 425
Californian Thistle, Eradica-
tion of . . . . . ■ 453
Hints on Control of.. .. 631
List of Plants Proclaimed
under Thistle Act . . 445
Water Weed at Toorourrong 109
Werribee Research Farm. See
Research Farm.
Weevils in Wheat .. .. 695
\^'heat—
Protection from Weevils . . 117
Treatment of Damaged Wheat 118
Federation — Successful Re-
sults in north-west of India 375
Weevil Pest in . . . . 695
Wheat Manurial Trials — 'Longe-
renong, Rutherglen, and Wer-
ribee, 1913-17 . . . . 222
Wlieat Trials at Longerenong
Agricultural College . . 2
Wheat Trials at Guyen . . 89
Wlieat Trials at Carwarp . . 89
Wiheat Trials at Cowangee . . 89
Wheat Variety Trials — ^Results
for 1917-18 ■ . . . . 168
Wilkinson, W. Percv (and Cas-
te! la, F. de) —
Culture of True Lavender . . 489
\\'illiams, W. L.—
Report of Visit to America to
Investigate Beet Sugar In-
dustry . . . . . . 410
Wilson, J. —
Silo for Ensilage or Grain . . 228
Vol. XVI. FARMERS' FIELD DAY, Part 1.
LONGERENONG COLLEGE.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
ti^
^
^»»
%
t^%
.'^-
TODDER RESERVES
i IICERNEHAY.OATEN HAY&STRAW:
^*»
The
Mortgage
Lifter —
BERSEEM
GLOVER
The rapidly increasing demand for BRUNNING'S
BERSEEM CLOVER shows how well this plant
is appreciated. Throughout Victoria, particularly
in the Irrigation areas, most gratifying and
successful results have been obtained.
Berseem is a splendid soil enricher of great
cleansing power. Planted prior to Lucerne it
cleanses and prepares the soil, thus ensuring a
more prolific growth. Berseem makes most
succulent fodder; highly appreciated by all stock
BRUNNING'S true Mesgawi strain of Berseem
is easily the best seed obtainable. Any enquiries
will be answered with pleasure. Why not write
at once ? Samples and prices promptly sent
on application — gratis.
Victorian Seed Warehouse
64 Elizabeth St., Melbourne
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
VICTOI^IA., A.XTSTR.A.LI A..
CONTENTS.— JANUARY, 1918.
PAOK
Fourth Annual Field Day — Longerenong Agricultural College ... ... i
The Road to Success in Dairy Farming ... ... J. S. McFadzean 10
Apple Culture in Victoria .. ... ■■ J. Farrdl 16
Farming in England in Early Times ... ... ••• ... ••• 25
Lucerne Growing in South Gippsland ... •■■ A. Mess 36
List of Fertilizers Registered under the Artificial Fertilizers
Act for the year I y 18 .. ... • P. Rankin Scott 39
Regulations, &c., under Fungicides Act
Beet for Sheep
Instinctive Choice of Food and Water by Stock
Points about Jibbing Horses
Potash — Its Need and Sources
Orchard and Garden Notes
Reminders ... ... ... " ...
51
53
65
56
58
60
62
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the Journal of the Department ot Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republish any matter are at liberty to do so, provided the Journal and author are
both acknoivledged.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postaee, is 3s. per aimum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
5s. for the United Kingdom and Foreien Countries. Single copy. Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Jan., 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Including Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Inspedion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. >V. JONES.
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springhurst, Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply
C. GORDON LYON/'Banyule," Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of all
kinds, Da'ry Farmers, and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
:: :: Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock :: ::
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather.
Price, 10/6
A limited number available.
Postage — Victoria and other States 1 /6, New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 Jan., 1918.]
Journal of Agricidtni-e, Victoria.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
BY D. McALPINE,
GOVERNMENT VEGETABLE PATHOLOGIST.
With Appendices by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologist),
on Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTernment
Entomologist), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
235 Pages (Cloth). 58 Full Plates. PrJrA ^ /- Postage : Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealand, 8d.;
176 Illustrations. II ICC, %J / British and Foreign, 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director 0(
Agriculturei Melbourne, Victoria. Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Ofiice Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and IV. Percy IVilkinson.)
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postage: C, Hd. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEIV METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION WITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage: C, Id.; N.Z., 2d.; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES: THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, Hd. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON AVINE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage :
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
By D. Mc Alpine, Government Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Postage: C. 2d.; N.Z.. 8d.: B. & F.. Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C. 2id.: N.Z., 9d.; B. & F., Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2j. Postage: C, Id. : N.Z..
3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C, lid.;
N.Z.. 5d. ; B. & F,. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage: C, 2A.; N.Z,.
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Applications acco-mpanied by Postal Note or Cheque covering price and postage to he forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to bt made by Pott Office Order.
10 Jan., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Leave nothing to Chance
Your Water Supply, especially.
Needs Forethought
We shall be glad to post you particulars of " Billa-
bong" Windmill Plants, which are doing good
service throughout Australia. The "Billabong"
Mill has been designed to meet Australian condi-
tions, and its valuable and exclusive features are
the result of many years manufacturing and selling
experience. It is made at our Melbourne works
by Expert Windmill Engineers, and is built for
hard service, and a long life. Made in sizes from
6 ft. to 20 ft.
Here are a few of the special features —
Ball-bearing Bedplate, Wheel-bearing Guide
Rod, Smooth-running Gears, Efficient Sail
Surface, Thorough Lubrication, Minimum
of Wearing Parts, Central Lift of Load.
Agents —
W.A.— >V. D. Moore & Co.
QLD.— Messrs. Dalgety & Co. Ltd.
S.A.— J. H. Horwood & Co. Ltd.
FREMANTLE
BRISBANE
ADELAIDE
Makers of
Windmills
and Pumps
Makers of
Troughing
and Fluming
Melbourne and Sydney
VI
JoiiiiKil of A (ificiiJfiire , I'icforia.
[10 Jan., 1918.
Two Separators with One Message
Save ! Save ! Save !
The "Viking"
Costs half the price of other high grade separators, which it beats
hands down for durabihty and efficiency. It skims every particle
of cream. The bowl is self-balancing, plates are shaped. There
are no discs to bend or get lost. Cleaning is easy and thorough.
A Month's Free Trial
given with every separator. Return at our expense it you are not satisfied. Made in various sizes.
15 galls, per hour to 1 15 galls, per hour. Two years' guarantee given with every machine.
Can be purchased for £1 Deposit, and £1 Monthly. Send for special catalog.
Last 400 "Favorite" Separators at present prices
These have just been landed. Future shipments will carry a big increase in price.
Buy one now and save pounds. The " Favorite" is the best household separator
for the man with one or two cows. A boy can turn it, and it works perfectly. Full
skimming capacity guaranteed. Only two parts in bowl. Easy to clean. Solid,
compact, strong, & efficient. This last 400 are sure to sell rapidly. Secure yours now.
No. 1 — 11 gal. per hour
No. 2—15 gal. per hour
Terms -£1 down
£ 1 monthly
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
1 1 0 - 1 1 4 Sturt Street, South Melbourne
Agent for Tangye Oil, Steam, and Gas Engines
[toxa
NO
Danger
of
FIRE!
THE WELL-KNOWN
RABBIT DESTROYER
In 2 lb. Tins, 28/- per doz.
FELTON, GRIMWADE, & CO., Melbourne
10 Jan., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Danger of Bush Fires
Owing to the recent continuous rains in the country, there is probably a greater
abundance of grass and other growth than has been seen for many years.
This increases the danger of bush fires in the summer months.
Be prepared, and gel
A Fire Fighter for 5 5/-
A tank on a waggon or dray, our 55/- Low Down Force Pump, fixed
to the tank, and you have a fine fire-fighting outfit, costing but a few
pounds, but possibly a saver of hundreds should a fire break out.
There are scores of these Pumps in use for fire-(ighting, because they're powerful and dependable.
The cylinder is 5 inches in diameter, with 2-inch openings for suction and discharge, double-acting.
draws 1,300 gallons per hour, and throws a jet of water 60 feet, with great force. Grand for
irrigating, spraying, and general work, such as washing buggies, windows, &c. All parts are easily
accessible ; you can take the pump to pieces in a few minutes with an
ordinary screw-wrench. Supplied as illustrated, with connections
for 2-inch suction hose, and 1-inch delivery hose, or with fittings
for 2-inch iron pipe ; both suction and delivery - 55/-
V'^'^ Proprietary Ltd
For Pumps and Piping
554-66 & 582-88 Collins Street,
MELBOURNE
Est. I860
CREDIT FONCIER
-^
Loar
UP
In
A
and from \\ per c^
in n\ years.
Loans granted
made (reehold at a
N
Loans may be
charge if paid off w
Forms may be
by writing to —
The Inspe
IS on F<
TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATI
sums from £50 to £2,0'
t 6 per cent. Intere
nt. in reduction of principal, whic
on Freeholds, or Crown Leasehc
ny time on payment of the balanc
0 Charge for Mortgage Dei
paid off on any half-yearly pay day
ithin the first five years, but no pen
' obtained at any Branch of the Sta
!ctor-General, The State Savi
JZABETH STREET. MELBOURP
^irms
ON
30
St
\i pays off the loan
Ids which could be
e of Crown Rents.
ed
, subject to a small
alty after five years.
te Savings Bank, or
mgs Bank,
4E.
Journal oj Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Jan., 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education.
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world.
The Sessions commence MARCH and SEPTEMBER, and Students may be enrolled at any time.
Alternative Coartea — Total Fees
(a) Diploma Course .. Three Yean,
(i) One Year'i Course.
The CoUege containt modero and well equipped laboratory and le<!ture hall, tingle bedroomi, recreation and
(ports grounds.
01 the 5,913 acres of farm land at Doolcie, 1, 000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and chsmpioD
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS. — Agriculture, Animal Husbandry. Poultry. Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management. Building Construction for Farmers.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
£25/-/- per annum.
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER.
This CoUege is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age.
AREA OF FARM, 2.336 ACRES.
MAIN BRANCHES OP FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raising. Dairying.
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit. &c.
Total Fees— £2S oer aimum.
Full particulars obtainaUe from T. J. PURVIS. Esq.. Sect <>tary. Council of Agricultural Education.
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire. Marine, Fidelity Giaraatee, Plata
Glasi, Perianal Accident and Sickness,
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tatian. Pablic Risk. Motar Car, and Bart lary.
Insupanee
Society ltd.
Mm- INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECO;^MEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
10 Jan., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Carron
Boxes at Oil Caps.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
stood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wheels Guaranteed for 3 years against Breakage, &c.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. l^ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36' and 32' dia. 4' Tyres. Table, 9i x 5i feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 cwt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 cwt.
These Wheels are guaranteed and will last for all time.
Higher Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to SO ton*.
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP— Truck body, and all classes of little Wagons for Farm and Station work.
Wagon. Shipped to all Ports in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
:: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
UVE STOCK OWNERS
You know what a good thing whole Linseed is for Stock.
MEGGITT'S PURE LINSEED MEAL
is ALL Pure Linseed
Nothing whatever is added to it. It is ground up fine. It is cooked and
all ready for immediate use. No boiling is necessary.
It is NO TROUBLE to FEED to CALVES,
COWS, HORSES, PIGS, SHEEP & POULTRY
It is recognized throughout the world as the very best obtainable food for Stock.
AND the price is - on Rails, Melbourne
lOO lbs. 11/6 SO lbs. 6/- 20 lbs. 2/6
Obtainable from all Stores and Butter Factoriei.
In country districts sufficient only is charged by your Storekeeper to cover the cost of freight to
your district.
Dept. A,
Full particulars for Feeding all Stock.
HARRISONS, RAMSAY, Pty. Ltd.,
666 Bourke St.,
MELBOURNE.
Journal of A f/ricidture, Victoria.
[•10 Jan., 1918.
W & W 581
^^fel^
V
Fig 233. Ornamental Fig. 211 Ornainental Fig 188b OrnatnenUl
Handgate. 4 ft high
Handeate 4 ft. high
Handgate 4 ft high
CYCLONE Pty. Ltd.
459 SWANSTON STREET
MELBOURNE
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
-Propy. Ltd.-
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and 'CORNINA MANUFACTURERS
-ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR
GRAIN TO US.
«
BOX 53.
G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
=J
10 Jan., 1918.]
Jovriwl of AgriciiJture, Victoria.
R.
State Recruiting Committee
of Victoria
"The strong man of military age
who claims the right to pursue
normal peaceful avocations when
his country is at war, pleads
guilty, however involuntarily, to
aberrations of both mind and
heart
yy
ENUST TO-DAY
G. J. C. DYETT, Captain,
ORGANIZING SECRETARY.
Jnurnttl of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Jan., 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Managing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD. Esq., LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE. E«q.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN, Esq. DAVID HUNTER. Eiq.
This Company Acts as Executor or Joint Executor of Wilis, Administrator, Trustee sf
Settlements, and Agent for Absentees under Po%wer of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices — 1 13 Queen St. (Corner of Little CoIIins-st.), Melbourne
"1000 TREES & STUMPS
GRUBBED OUT"
Thus writes Mr. J. Sutherlstndf Parwan.
" I am very well pleased with the Grubbers, as they are doiiif; very good w^rk With mine I have
close on 1 ,0(iO trees and stumps grubbed out. I have done all this work myself without any assistance.
So I consider the Grubber has more than doubly paid for itself."
Pull The "IWIONKEY WINCH" will save time, labour and money on
particulart your land clearing, is always ready, and can be worked in
from^ the very roughest country and in any class of timber.
TREWHELLA BROS. pty. ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
from a Vidorian Deposit.
CROP CSttOWN AT BRIDGEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orders can now be supplied and fall information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy. Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
10 Jan., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS !
91
LYSAGHTS
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
Burnt Lilydale Lime
FOR THE LAND
Farmers who have not used BURNT LIME should try it. The action of Burnt Lime on the
land is IMMEDIATE. The demand for Building Lime having slackened owing to the War,
Farmers have the opportunity of getting a supply of the WELL-KNOWN LILYDALE
UME. ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide,
Work*—
CAVE HILL.
LILYDALE.
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL,
Sole Proprietor,
OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE.
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Office
LONDON
Melbourne Offic*
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Batter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Acconnt
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Chief AcenU in Victoria for the PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
JnurndJ of Agriculture, Vicforu
[10 Jan., 1918.
PRODUCERS
Increased Cost of Labour
Increased Cost of Farm
Materials and Implements
Increased Federal Taxation
Increased State Taxation
MEANS THAT
CO-OPERATION
Is not a Luxury but a Necessity
Become a CO-OPERATOR
and Economize both in
SELLING AND BUYING
NOTE THE COMPANY'S PROGRESS
Last Year's Turnover - £ 1 ,954,026
Bonuses declared to date - £56,998
THEREFORE, SUPPORT THE
Gippsland & Northern Co-Operative Selling
and Insurance Co. Ltd.
492494 FLINDERS LANE, MELBOURNE
A. W. WILSON
General Manaser
J
10 Jan., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
XV
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
And Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
J. COCKBILL,
Boned ust :: s
Manufacturer
OFFICE: 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. Telephone 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES. SHEDS, &C.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL. OUTSIDE PAINTING
Wholesale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
-FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS-
Obtainable
from all
Storekeepers
BROOKS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
^ YES, I AM SURE
Your eyes are under a constant strain all day ; they are
your most valuable possession, and neglect in
the early stages may lead to eye strain.
DAIRY AND INCUBATOR THERMOMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.D.
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
'PHONE 6778
for an appointment.
Estab.
32 Years
E.WOOD,
EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
95 Elizabeth St., Melb.
LONDON.
LIVERPOOL.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. MELBOURNE. VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA.
NOW AVAILABLE .". BULLETIN SI.
BEE-KEEPING in VICTORIA
By F. R. BEUHNE. Government Apiculturist.
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 23 chapters (illustrated) dealing with various phases oJ
BEE-KEEPING, and specially adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING. Postage: Commonwealth. Id. ; New Zealand, 2*d. : British and Foreign. 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price arid postag-e, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria-
Journal of Agriculture., Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
THE NEW STORES AT VICTORIA DOCK
have a capacity of 310,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 155,000 boxes of
butter, or 105,000 cases of fruit, or 140,000
carcasses of Iamb and mutton.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chjunbers
dire<5l into the ship's hold. Ele<5tric motor power totals 820 H.P.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected with the Cool Stores by diredt lines ; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Vidtoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable produces are provided.
EXPERT OFFICERS
are conne<5ted with every Branch, so that any one requiring information
regarding the produdtion, preparation, and shipment of produce can rely
upon being promptly supplied with up-to-date information upon jJl matters.
THe JOURNAL
OP
^h department of Mgricufture
OP
VICTORIA.
Vol. XVI. Papt 1. 10th January, 1918.
LOXGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE.
Fourth Annual Field Day.
INCREASED INTEREST SHOWN IN THE WORK.
Practical Application of Scientific Method.
(Abridged from the Wimmera Star.)
A large and representative gathering of farmers assembled at
Longerenong College on Saturday, 24tli N^ovember, to inspect the experi-
mental work which is being carried out at the institution. When the
first field day was held some four years ago, it was not contemplated that
its influence and popularity would extend so rapidly. ISTot only has there
beeii an increasingly large gathering each year, but many of the farmers
travelled considerable distances to be present. There were men present
from Dimboola on the west, Murtoa and Lubeck on the east, Toolondo
on the south, and Pimpinio on the north. The weather was threatening,
and the high winds raged all the afternoon, yet upwards of 200 farmers
attended the gathering. It was a prosperous-looking gathering, and the
fleet of fine motor cars standing along the whole length of the plots
spoke volumes for the prosperity of the Wimmera.
The visitors assembled at the entrance of the stud cereal field, where
they were welcomed by Mr. A. C. Drevermann, Principal of the College.
The Mayor of Horsham (Mr. S. G. Knight) introduced Mr. A. E. V.
Richardson, Agricultural Superintendent of the Department of Agricul-
ture, who took the visitors in hand, and explained the objectives of the
field experiments.
Mr. Richardson stated that the experiments in progress comprised
the following investigations : —
(1) Permanent fertiliser trials.
(2) Permanent rotation tests.
(3) Rate of sowing and time of seeding trials.
(4) Variety of wheat trials.
(5) Selection plots.
(6) Crossbred wheat plots.
] 6483.
2 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. | 10 Jan., 1918.
The permanent rotation plots were commenced in 1917, and were
designed to test the merits of eight different systems of crop rotation,
of which only two are at present practised in the district. It was really
a com])arative test of eight different systems of farming. Twenty-three
plots, each of half an acre, were dcA'oted to this section. The plots
were designed to test whether the cropping capacity of the land could
not be increased by more frequent cropping, and the adoption of rota-
tions suited to the changing economic condition of the district. Sheep
were becoming more and more valuable, and the time was now rapidly
approaching, if it had not already come, when it would pay to grow
forage croj^s for feeding off with sheep. Such practices would increase
the fertility of the soil, increase the stock-carrying capacity of the farm,
and should result in higher average yields per acre. We had confined
our attention almost exclusively to wheat. It had paid well, but the rise
in the price of animal products would gradually lead to an alteration in
the existing method of crop rotation — wheat-, pasture, bare fallow.
The rotations which were being tested at present were the follow-
ing :—
(1) Wheat continuously.
(2) Wheat after bare fallow.
(3) Wheat, pasture, bare falloAr.
(4) Wheat, barley, pease.
(5) Wheat, oats, pease.
(6) Wheat, oats, bare fallow.
(7) Wheat, oats, pasture, bare fallow.
(8) Wheat, rape, barley, pease.
Farmers would note that barley and pease were introduced into
these rotations. Barley was a very hardy crop, and would thrive in
the very driest areas. It was a quick-growing cereal, and would
always give 50 to 75 per cent, higher yields than wheat, given equal
cultivation. There was, however, no regular export trade for barley,
but the surplus barley of the Mediterranean countries was eagerly
bought by Gi-eat Britain, and there could be no doubt that, after the
war, an export trade would be developed in barley. It could be sown
late, and it made excellent grazing for sheep, was ahvays a reliable
crop, and gave heavy yields of grain. Yields of up to 70 bushels per
acre had been obtained from the College soil. It made excellent silage,
and they would see later in the afternoon two silos filled with barlej-
ensilage. Over 12 tons per acre of silage was obtained from the barley
crop this year. Barley seemed fitted to be the great stock food of
Victoria, corresponding to the maize crop of the United States, over
2,000,000,000 bushels of which were fed annually to live stock. The
six-roAved Cape barleys gave the greatest yield per acre, but the two-
rowed malting tyi^es were the most valuable from the maltster's point
of view.
It Avould be noted that peas were introduced into these rotations.
Peas were a most valuable crop, mainly because of their renovating
effect on the soil, and the fact that they assimilated nitrogen from the
air and stored it up in the soil for the use of subsequent crops. It was
proposed to feed these pea crops down with sheep when the peas had
formed grain. This would enable the harvesting to be done Avith the
30 J-\N., 1018.] Field Day, Longerenong College. 3
niiiiinmiii of cost. With some of the rotations, the fertility of the soil
would increase year by year. With others, the fertility would be
depleted. The results from these tests would become more and more
interesting every year, because the effect of the rotation would be
reflected in the yields of wheat obtained from each.
Passing on to the permanent fertiliser plots, Mr. Richardson said that
four years' results had now been obtained. The results showed that
superphosphate was the most effective of all the phosphatic manures —
more effective than basic slag, bonedust, or a mixture of basic slag and
super. By means of a blackboard, he showed the following results : — •
Treatment.
Average yield
for 4 years.
Increase over
Unmanured
Plot.
Value of Increase
over Unmanured
Plot.
Net Profit per acre
over Unmanured
Plot.
(1) No manure
(2) Super., | cwt.
(3) Super., 1 cwt.
(4) Super., 2 cwt.
Bushels.
22-8
28-9
30-6
32-4
Bushels.
6-1
7-8
9-6
£ .s. d.
l"4 6
1 11 0
1 18 6
£ s. d.
\"-2 6
1 6 0
1 8 6
It would be seen that at Longerenong, over a period of four years,
the average increase of the -g-cwt. plot over the unmanured plot was
6.1 bushels, worth, at 4s. per acre, 24s. 6d., and the net profit, after
deducting the value of the fertiliser, was 22s. 6d. Similarly, the 1-cwt.
plot gave a net increase of 7.8 bushels over the no-manure plot, worth
31s. per acre, and the net profit over and above the unmanured plot
was 26s. per acre. The highest gross and net return Avas obtained by
the 2-cwt. dressing.
These results showed conclusively that liberal dressings of fertiliser
were more profitable than lighter applications, and that it would pay
farmers in the district to fertilise more liberally than they had hitherto
done. Here, at the College, the regular practice was to sow 1 cwt. of
super, per acre over the whole farm area, and the yield of the crops
during the past three years had certainly been justified by results.
There was no danger from liberal dressings of fertiliser on the Wimmera
soils, for they were well charged with lime, and could stand heavier
dressings than country devoid of that ingredient. There w^as an added
advantage from the liberal dressings, inasmuch as the stock-carrying
capacity of the farm was increased, because of the indirect effect of
the fertiliser in stimulating the natural herbage in the year the land
was lying in pasture. Heavy dressings of fertiliser meant big crops
of wheat, and heavy growth of herbage on the stubbles following the
wheat, which meant more sheep could be kept and bigger returns
per farm.
Mr. Richardson pointed out that neither nitrate of soda, sulphate of
potash, nor lime, either singly or in combination, appeared to be
required on Wimmera soils. This was a decided advantage, for these
fertilisers were someAvhat costly in application. Farmyard manure
gaA-e excellent returns, and in wet seasons there was no manure that
could approach it. It was, however, particularly suitable to Avet soils,
L
4 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
and the moister districts. The results of the tests sliowed that in dry
seasons it tended to make the wheat too flaggy, and depress the yield.
Considerable interest was manifested in the rate of seeding trials, and
the time of sowing tests. There were twenty-four plots in this section.
Federation wheat was sown in June at the rate of 30, 45, 60, 75, 90,
and 120 lbs. per acre. Another series of plots, with the same dressings,
were sown in mid-July.
It was pointed out that, with early sowing, the best results were
obtained by seeding at the rate of 60 to 75 lbs. per acre, whilst the late
sowing, as much as 75 to 90 lbs. were required per acre to give the same
stooling and the same yield. It was noted that, with the lighter seedings,
the heads were well developed, but scanty, but with the heavier seedings
the heads were puny, but very numerous.
View of Stud Cereal Section. Experimental plots. Longerenong Agricultural
College.
Many farmers stated that it would be very difficult to say which of
these series of plots would yield best. This explained the necessity of
getting the absolute yields with the harvester to determine finally which
rate of seeding relative to time of sowing gave the best returns. In this
same section, two early, two mid-season, and two late-maturing wheats
were sown early in June, and another series of the same wheats sown in
mid-July. Here, again, there were remarkable divergences in appearance
of crop, and in probable yield.
In the variety wheat section, consisting of |-acre blocks of different
varieties, were some new crossbreds which have done well in field tests
at the College. Bobs and Federation, Clubhead and Yandilla King,
Indian F and Comeback, Kedskin and Yandilla King, looked particu-
larly promising, and the future performances of these will no doubt be
watched with great interest.
10 Jan., 1918.] Field Day , Long ere,nong College.
1,^.
^
The section wliicli awakened
the greatest interest among the
farmers was the selection and
crossbred section.
Mr. Eichardson congratulated
the _ Horsham Agricultural
Society on its progressive work in
establishing wheat selection com-
petitions for farmers. There
were ten entries this year, and it
was hoped that the inauguration
of these wheat selection competi-
tions would lead to a much
greater interest in the value of
selection as a means of improving
the yielding capacity of our
wheats. In the selection and
crossbred plots were seen a num-
ber of new crossbreds undergoing
trial preparatory to their cultiva-
tion on large plots. They were
grown side by side with such
favorites as Federation, Yandilla
King, Dart's Imperial. In these
plots, selected barleys — Oregon,
Squarehead, Shorthead, Cape,
Pryor, Gisborne, and Kinver.
Pryor was decidedly the best of
the two-rowed malting types,
being remarkably early, with
plump grain, and remarkably
thin in the skin. Of the six-
rowed Cape types, Oregon showed
out to advantage. These barleys
gave promise of heavy yields, but
in places, owing to weakness of
straw, they were lodging. It was
pointed out that this could be
partly corrected by later sowing
and the choosing of types suited
to resist lodging. Considerable
interest was manifested in a
natural cross between two-rowed
bearded barley and six-rowed
skinless. The crossbred type
possessed two rows of grain like
the pollen parent, and was bald
like the OAmle parent.
The long rows of crossbreds
undergoing fixation preparatory
to trial in field plots created the
6
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
greatest interest. Mr. Richardson explained in simple language
the manner in which wheats were crossed, and the way in which
the characters of the parent were transmitted to the progeny.
In the second generation, or the " variable generation of the crossbred,"
every possible combination of characters in the two parents tended to
'iw'-i«4^ -
vy » «- »/y ,
'if
" Prosperity in the Wimmera."
Portion of group of forty-five motor cars assembled at College Oval.
Visitors arriving at Experimental Plots.
appear in the progeny. The task of the breeder was to isolate the
most promising types ; cultivate them separately, and test them side by
side with the most prolific types. If one could judge by appearances,
]0 Jan., 1918.] Field Dai/, Longerenong CoJlerje. 7
there can be no doubt that many valuable crosses are awaiting exploita-
tion. The visitors ])assecl through these crossbred plots, closely
examining the numerous promising types in the second, third, and
fourth generation.
y^i^f
4
aK J'S^^H
1
t
fff
Mr. Richardson explaining Methods of Cio&s-breeding Wheat.
A Lecturette at the Manurial Plots.
During the course of discussion, the subject of takeall in wheat was
brought up. It was pointed out that the disease was very prevalent in
the Wininiera this year. It was caused by a fungus, but the fungus,
unlike smut, could not be cured by pickling, because it attacked the
wheat plant after it had made considerable growth. It may kill the
l)lant outright before the heads are formed. That was takeall. Or the
L
8 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
plant may form heads witlioiit grain. That stage of the disease was
called " Avhiteheads." Both '' takeall " and " whiteheads " were phases
of the one disease. The only cure was a good system of rotation, and
using oats in the rotation. Oats are immune from attack, but barley
grass and certain natives harbor the disease. The best cure for takeall
land was: — (1) Burning the stubble of the affected crop. (2) Fallow-
ing the land, and keeping the fallows clean from native grasses which
harbored the pest. (2) Sowing an immune crop like oats. (4) Follow
the oats with a bare fallow preparatory to sowing wheat.
SPEECHES.
An adjournment was made to the College buildings, where, in the
main class-room, afternoon tea was served. The crowd filled the large
room. Mr. P. Learmonth, president of the Horsham Agricultural
Society, rose, and after honouring the toast of " The King," proposed
a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Richardson for the very instructive
demonstration to which they had been treated. He said that more and
more the farmers of the district were learning to value the experimental
work done here and elsewhere in their interest, and to-day many were
putting into practice the lessons that they learned, and were already
reaping substantial monetary benefit by so doing. He was sure that
many instructive lessons had been learned that afternoon, both by the
farmers and by others interested in farming, which showed them that
still greater wealth could be won from this wonderful fertile Wimmera.
The society which he had the honour to represent were endeavouring
by every means in their power to foster the spread of advanced
methods among the farmers in this district, and that their efforts
were already bearing fruit was shown by the active interest that
was being taken in the carrying out of the new selection competition,
for which there were ten competitors. The suggestion out of
which that competition sprang was thrown out at a similar gathering
a couple of years previously by Mr. Richardson. These things took
time and trouble, but they were worth it. He had much pleasure in
moving a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Richardson, and hoped that that
gentleman would visit them on many a similar occasion in the
future. (Applause.)
Mr. Richardson, rising to respond, said that he thanked Mr. Lear-
month and those present for the very hearty vote of thanks accorded
him, but afiirmed that his part in the proceedings was light compared
with that of the quiet, steady effort of the staff of the College, which
had really loaded the gun that he had fired. To Mr. Drevermann,
Mr. Munro, and Mr. McTaggart, much of the credit was due; but there
was one present in the room who had laboured unceasingly in previous
years, and by that labour had paved the way for the present satisfactory
results. He referred to Lieutenant Ivan Tulloh, Avho two years ago
laid down the hoe for the entrenching tool. The same quiet,
painstaking and thorough qualities that distinguished Field Officer
Tulloh's work on the plots showed out in his military record in Gallipoli
and France as a private, then as Sergeant, then as Lieutenant, and was
evidenced further in the honorable scars of battle he bore. He hoped
Lieutenant Tulloh would come back to them to carry on the
work. (Cheers.)
10 Jan., ]91<S.] Field Day, Longerenong College. 9
_ Mr. Rodgers, M.H.E., proposed the toast of " The College." He
said a great change had come over the institution in recent years, and,
indeed, in the conduct of agricultural training and experimental work
in the State generally. That change, he maintained, had been brought
about by the men at the head of agricultural matters, and by the loyal
co-operation of their staffs. He referred to Dr. Cameron, Director of
Agriculture, and to Mr. Richardson, the Agricultural Superintendent.
There were none of the old-time, dress-suit methods with them. They
went to work with their coats oif. They got right next to the farmer,
and that was what was wanted. He asked those present to do all in
their power to support this good work. If it was good, it was worth
fighting for. He ventured to say that the Wimmera plains were the
finest wheat belt in Australia. Their prominent position had been
brought about by three factors — (1) the soil, (2) the men of the right
temperament, (3) the loyal co-operation of scientific agriculture. The
soil was a veritable gold mine, but it had only been partially exploited.
Its further development rested on what aid science could give it, and
that was a great deal. He noted five other returned soldiers in the room,
and extended them a hearty greeting. (Applause.)
Mr. Drevennann, responding, said that it gave him great pleasure
to see such a large and influential gathering present. He liked people
to come and visit the place. He appreciated both their sympathy and
their honest criticism — both were helpful. He welcomed visitors at all
times. He came here six years ago, and had been steadily at work,
loyally supported by the staif. They could see the result for themselves.
There were many new buildings, and, he was proud to say, an air of
businesslike prosperity about the place. Much remained to be done,
but it was most satisfactory to see such a large and enthusiastic
gathering there that day. It gave them fresh courage to go on with the
work. On behalf of the staff and himself, he again thanked them.
The Mayor of Horsham, Cr. Knight, speaking on behalf of the
visitors, spoke in glowing terms of what they had all seen that day, and
in a spirited address supported all that Mr. Eodgers had said.
n^SPECTION OF THE FARM.
The visitors then inspected the farm buildings and live-stock, under
the guidance of the Principal (Mr. Drevermann) and the Farm Manager
(Mr. Munro). Considerable improvements have been effected in the
farm buildings during the past three years. The stable is being
extended to accommodate twelve more horses. A new feed-house for
the dairy cattle has recently been erected. Two silos have been filled
with barley ensilage. Berkshire and Yorkshire pigs looked comfortable
and well-housed in the pig-sties. In the dairy the milk records, giving
the weight of milk of each cow and the percentage of butter fat in the
milk of each, roused attention. JSTot the least interesting was the fine
stamp of lads undergoing training to become the producers of the future.
Forty lads are in attendance, and this is the maximum accommodation
that has been provided. The visitors spent the best part of four hours
in making an inspection of the plots and buildings ; and, judging by the
many expressions of appreciation, the afternoon was most enjoyable
and instructive for the farmers of the district.
10 Journal of Ar/riciiJtitrc, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
THE ROAD TO SUCCESS IN DAIRY FARMING.
Bj^ J. S. McFadzean, Senior Dairy Supervisor.
Here in Australia as in most other countries there is a general
tendency for the rising generation to leave the country districts in order
to seek employment in the cities. Yet the normal man desires an out-
door life, and undoubtedly many of those who now live in the city would
exchange the " cribbed, cabined and confined " way of their daily
routine for the freedom of country life, if only they were sure that
agriculture could be made profitable.
No one who has given consideration to the question will dispute
that the wealth of the State depends on the rural workers. As a class,
farmers, graziers, orchardists, &c., are a wealthy as well as wealth-
producing i^eople, though, of course, many following these occupations
will never attain financial success. Still it is the individual and not
the occupation that is usually to blame if the rural venture proves a
failure. The energetic, thoughtful man will succeed in whatever branch
of agriculture he takes up, just as the indolent or indifferent worker
is almost doomed to failure.
It is comparatively easy to get a small start in dairy-farming,
consequently cveiy year a number of people take up this branch of agri-
culture. Some succeed ; some drift along just barely keeping afloat
on the financial tide ; some fail. Failure is in a few instances caused by
misfortune; but more often non-success arises from the idea that the
business is a simple one, and consequently the beginner does not set to
work to learn it in a sufficiently determined manner.
For the recruit in dairy-farming there is much Avork for both his
brain and hands. The occupation calls for a close study of a wide range
of subjects in all of which a good practical, as well as theoretical, know-
ledge is essential to success. The symbolic archway illustrated here will
be found useful to remind, not only the beginner, but many an older
dairy-farmer also, of building-stones which must not be left out of his
business.
A good foundation is an absolute necessity for every project,
and the dairy-farmer will find that a determination to succeed will carry
him to his objective. The individual lacking persistency is very apt
to fail in any business, as misfortune usually falls to every one at some
time; but to those blessed wdtli determination the setbacks of fortune
serve to develop latent resources, and result in the successful grappling
with trouble. On this foundation energy and thrift are next required.
That energy is essential will soon be recognised ; and, as dairy-farming
is a business which sometimes demands a daylight-till-dark seven-days-
in-the-week attention, the lazy man does not stop long at it. Energy,
thrift, and the dairy herd have saved many a farm from financial
disaster, Avhile laziness and waste have as often resulted in the loss ot
both herd and farm. Thrift is the judicious husbanding of resources
until necessity calls for their use, but it is a qualification that is too
often confounded with meanness or parsimony. Good management
requires that tlirift be shown by never using up money or fodder unneces-
sarily, but on the other hand parsimony must on no account be allowf"*
to prevent the proper feeding or housing of the stock.
The value to the farmer of a constant study of all matters pertaining
to his business cannot be overestimated, for it brings to him a knowledge
10 Jan., 1918.] The Road to Success in Dairy Farming.
11
12 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
of advanced methods of feeding, breeding, and care of stock, and may
further result in much saving of labour through more systematic
working. It should, however, be remembered that all published theories
have not passed through the test of practical application, and conse-
quently the dairyman must use common sense in his studies, so that
only the useful material may be taken into account.
' Systematic working is a powerful factor to success in dairy-farming.
Long as the days are, time must not be wasted. Everything should be
made as convenient as possible for the work, and advantage taken of
every natural facility in the location. All stock are surprisingly regular
in their habits, and consequently regularity in their feeding and handling
suits them, and may be turned to some little advantage in time saving.
Left to themselves, cattle generally graze over certain areas, drink, and
rest at fairly regular hours, and the regular milking hour wnll usually
find the cows at hand each day; especially if stall-fed at milking it will
very seldom be necessary to go for them. By working to regular hours
and on a definite system there is little chance of any work being
neglected or temporarily overlooked. Systematic Avorking is the greatest
labour-saving proposition ever devised.
Good cultivation and silage storage are inseparable from good dairy-
farm management. Both must be part of the system, each helping the
other, and both assisting in building the archway to success, l^othing
will clean the land of weeds so quickly as harvesting the crop to the silo
before weed seeds are shed; and once in the silo there is no danger of
the seeds germinating afterwards, as with hay or chaff fed to stock.
The silo turns the weeds into fodder, and there is an end to them. The
full silo, as well as haystack, are possible on almost every Victorian
dairy farm, and no risk should be taken by allowing an unfavorable
season to find the reserve supply short. In time of drought, silage has
no monetary equivalent. The dairyman with silage knows so well its
value, and how nutritious it is for the stock, that money cannot buy it
from him. A full silo is the best investment a dairy-farmer ever has. The
basis of milk production is an ample fodder supply. The stock must be
always well fed if they are to milk well. To allow dairy cows to get
low in condition at any time will result in a reduced annual milk yield
from them. To overfeed stock is to waste fodder, but to underfeed is the
worst of bad management.
The advisability of keeping only bulls that are both pure bred and
from first class dairy stock is now generally recognised, and breeders
having young bulls of this class have no difficulty in disposing of them
at satisfactory prices. By breeding heifers from stock of good milking
ancestry it is possible to increase each year the production of the herd,
but the bull used must be the best possible obtainable. Nothing but the
best should satisfy the progressive farmer, and no bull should be disposed
of until it is possible to obtain a better one. An increased annual yield
of milk or butter — or both — vn\[ result from the judicious selection of a
milhing-pedigree hidl, and this section of the archway is absolutely
indispensable.
All fencing on the farm must be kept in good repair or much trouble
through loss of time and damage to crops and stock will occur. A neigh-
bour's bull mixing with the herd may seriously interfere with the
season's breeding programme, while there is also the possibility of either
owner's bull being injured through fighting. Recovery of straying stock
10 Jan., 1918.] The Pi,oad to Success in Dairy Farming. 13
may also take up valuable time, and usually more time is lost in sucli
unnecessary work than would have been required to repair the fencing
in the first place, and the fence must eventually be put in order. Half-
an-hour on repairs may save hours, or even days, of work later on.
Crops are only safe from stock when behind secure fencing, for if cattle
once find they can break through a fence they do not fail to try again.
As indispensable adjuncts to a good food supply, good water, salt,
and honemeal should always be within handy access of the cattle. Good
water near at hand makes for the comfort of the stock ; and, particularly
with heavy milking stock, it is very important that the cows should
not have to travel far for water, or hustle with others of the herd to get
their fill. Further, where cows have to wade through mud to reach the
drinking water, chapped teats and otherwise injured and dirty udders will
result, which makes for loss of time in the milking shed ; and if the dirt
gets into the milking bucket the quality of the produce will also be
affected. It is far more preferable to keep the cows clean than to
use up time and labour in washing off mud before each milking. Where
the udders, flanks, and tails of the milking herd are allowed to become
fouled with mud, dust, or other dirt, it is almost impossible to produce
clean good-keeping milk.
If there is not a natural supply of salt, as in brackish water, it is
necessary that salt as well as honemeal should be kept where the cattle
can get to it frequently. The clean, white, steamed, and crushed bone
should be obtained for this purpose, and not the bonedust that is sold
for manure. Salt and honemeal have special value as aids to digestion,
and particularly when the pastures are dry.
Unless a dairy-farm is very favorably situated in regard to natural
shelter, such as may be provided by hedges or low-branched trees, it will
prove an economical policy to rug or house the milking herd in the
colder winter weather. Rugging has an advantage over housing in that
the stock may be also kept comfortable outside on the grazing paddocks
during the day, w^hen rain or cold wind would otherwise drive them
to seek shelter. Rugged stock keep in better condition on a given
quantity of feed than those not similarly cared for, and are thus able
to uphold a good flow of milk during the cold months, when dairy
produce is highest in price. Care of the milking herd is always profit-
able to the farmer.
That there is a practical necessity for reasonable cleanliness in dairy
u'orTc is not universally recognised by those entering into this business.
The majority of people are fairly careful in the general handling of food,
but there are some who are extremely careless in their treatment of food
products, whether intended either for use by themselves or by others, and
such dairy-farmers are a continual source of trouble to those who have
to retail and use their produce. The keeping quality of both milk and
cream is greatly impaired by contamination with any form of dirt, as
souring quickly ensues, and its market value is consequently reduced.
In either cheese-making or butter-making the factory manager looks for
milk or cream to reach him in as fresh, clean, and cool a state as possible,
so that he may have a chance to make good produce therefrom. Inferior-
quality milk or cream will not make into good cheese or butter, and its
market value is, in consequence, not the highest. The farmer who con-
sistently supplies milk or cream to the consumer, retailer, or 'factory
in a fresh, clean, and cool condition will always command a higher price
14 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
for his produce than those who sell inferior-keeping produce. His gain
may not be more than from a halfpenny to a penny per gallon of milk
or pound of butter fat, but even this reward of cleanliness amounts to
a fair sum in the course of the year. It is in the flush season, when milk
and cream are plentiful, that the careful farmer receives the greatest
benefit, for his produce is then in demand. The careless or dirty farmer
usually persuades himself that he is getting just as much for his produce
as those do who exercise more care in its handling; but the buyers of
dairy produce are keen business men, and have just as many oppor-
tunities of equalizing matters as buyers of other goods. An occasional
can of milk or cream, returned for being sour or otherwise deteriorated,
may easily be forgotten by the producer, and its loss will make a differ-
ence of a penny per gallon on several consignments, but it is not the
careful farmer who loses in this way. The careless man deludes him-
self badly on this subject. He pays, and pays heavily, for dirty, slovenly
work, because pennies lost soon amount to pounds. Cleanliness in dairy
management is an essential building stone in the archway to success.
In fact, every stone showm in this figurative archway is of equal
importance, for none can be left out without endangering the construc-
tion. Careful attention to every section will make the perfect structure,
but tlie one that is, above all, most indispensable, and in which every
care should be taken to make it perfect, is the centrepiece, or keystone —
the tested dairy herd.
The question of on what minimum-yield basis dairy cows should be
culled is one every farmer should answer for himself. It is a matter of
actual cash returns over the cost of production. What is the return
from each cow per year, and what does it cost to produce it? The
returns are shown in actual cash received; in the expenditure should
be included the cost of grazing, cultivation, fodder purchased, calf food,
labour of milking, delivery of produce, and upkeep of farm plant. The
net income will show the farmer the financial result. The testing of his
herd will show him which cows are bringing in a reasonable return, and
those which he is wasting time and money in keeping. One point, how-
ever, should be borne in mind by all, viz., that 500 gallons of milk, or
200 lbs. of butter fat, per cow per year can be obtained from a herd by
systematic working, and, therefore, no dairy farmer should be satisfied
with less. When that standard is reached, further progress will quickly
follow.
The most difiicult part of herd testing is to make a start. Those who
have not begun are always apt to persuade themselves that it is not neces-
sary in their particular case. The surprise comes when it is found how
many cull cows the herd has carried, for any untested herd is a particu-
larly good one in which 10 per cent, of the cows are not so unprofitable
that they ought to be replaced with better ones, and there is no time like
the present for doing it.
Under the gradual increase in the cost of labour that has taken place
during recent years, and which is still going on, the profit from dairy
farming under the no-testing method is s^Deedily growing less. On the
other hand, where cows are regularly and systematically tested, and
calves are as systematically raised from these tested cows mated with
milking-pedigree bulls, and culling out of the poorest milkers is con-
tinually going on, the milk yield from the herd is gradually on the
increase. Consequently, under systematic working, the higher price of
10 Jan., 1918.] The Road to Success in Dairy Farming. 15
labour does not in the same measure reduce the returns as on those farms
where the cows are not tested and properly bred from. Here, then, lies
the solution of the labour difficulty on the dairy farm. The hours of
working cannot be increased, nor can the feeding cost per cow be cut
doAvn ; but the average production of the herd is possible of substantial
increase on every dairy farm by the combined system of testing, culling,
and breeding on right lines. Sooner or later this fact must be recognised,
and protracted delay means money lost in consequence. In this figurative
archway — but particularly in the keystone — lies the effective solution of
the labour difficulty on the dairy farm.
FERTttlZERS.
Untold Wealth in the Pacific.
The difficulty of obtaining fertilizers and the high prices ruling for
same has caused for some time past much anxiety among agriculturists.
Mr. A. Harris, member for Waitemata, referred to the matter the other
night, and pointed an exceedingly attractive way out of the difficulty for
farmers, and at the same time an opportunity for Australia and New
Zealand to profit considerably at the expense of the Hun.
The member explained that midw^ay between the Marshall and
Solomon Islands lies Nauru or Pleasant Island, and Ocean Island,
two of the most valuable spots on the face of the earth. The islands
are of coral formation, and for untold ages have been the rookeries of
sea birds, which have deposited guano that has impregnated the
limestone, forming phosphate rock 40 feet in depth. The estimated
quantity of phosphates is upwards of 500,000,000 tons, and the value
of this enormous mass of fertilizer is estimated to rival the famous
nitrate fields of Chili. In point of fact, said Mr. Harris, this Nauru
and Ocean Island phosphate possesses 85 per cent, manurial value as
against 27 per cent, for the best English, and 12 per cent, for New
Zealand phosphates — in other words, 1 ton of this island phosphate is
equal in manurial value to 3 tons of the best English and 7 tons of the
New Zealand product.
Before the war these islands belonged to Germany, and Japanese
steamers took away weekly cargoes of the rock to Japan, where it was
manufactured into superphosphates, and large quantities were regularly
imported by New Zealand freezing companies to mix with their blood
manures. The Japanese paid 1 mark (approximately Is.) per ton
royalty to the German Government for the rock, and 1 mark to the
native owners.
A few days after war was declared, the Union Jack was hoisted
over the island by the British agent at Christmas Island, and Mr. Harris
urges that representations should now be made to the Imperial Govern-
ment for the transfer of these islands to Australia and New" Zealand,
thus serving the double purpose of helping to keep Germany out of the
Pacific and of adding considerably to the wealth of the Commonwealth
and Dominion. He points out, moreover, that it would be possible for
the New Zealand Government to bring phosphate from Nauru and
Ocean Island, manufacture it into the highest quality superphosphate,
and sell it to farmers at half the pre-war price, — Farmers' Union
Advocate, 21/7/17.
16 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
APPLE CULTURE IN VICTORIA.
By J. Farrell, Orchard Supervisor.
(Continued from page 588, Vol. XV.)
The Production of New Varieties.
Wliile most of the better varieties of apples cultivated here are
importations from other countries, some have had their origin here.
These, however, have been produced by chance rather than as the result
of careful experiment in self-pollination or the cross-pollination of two
varieties.
The aim of our horticulturists should be to win from I^ature's
inexhaustible store fruit trees endowed with qualities suitable for our
soil and climate. The fruit of the early ripening varieties of apples
at present cultivated is, on the whole, of a somewhat inferior kind and
not of good-keeping quality, and the production of an apple resistant to
black spot and bitter pit would bestow an incalculable benefit on our
fruit-growers.
The zeal with which breeders of animals endeavour to improve the
breed of their flocks and herds is an assurance of national prosperity.
Recent experiments in the raising of wheats have led to the production
of varieties better suited to Australia than those preAdously cultivated,
and it is obvious that there is a wide field here for experimental work
in evolving apple trees that will be characteristically constituted to meet
local conditions.
Owing chiefly to the crossing of certain varieties hitherto practised,
those now cultivated, although of fixed types and endowed with their
individual variety characteristics, are incapable of reproducing, even
from their self-fertilized pips, trees with characteristics similar to those
of the parents. And the ten pips of any apple. Avhether cross-fertilized
or not, may produce as many new varieties. Speaking generally, how-
ever, pips maturing from cross-fertilization should be employed in the
evolutionary process, as they are more plentiful and shoAv higher
development than those self-fertilized.
When producing a new variety by crossing two of those at present
cultivated, and in order that its pedigree may be correctly recorded, it
is necessary to carefully remove all the anthers of the floret to be cross-
pollinated as soon as its petals open and before the stigmas assume the
condition of receptivity, so as to obviate the possibility of self-pollina-
tion. Care should also be exercised to prevent the introduction of pollen
other than that of the selected variety.
In order to prevent insects coming into contact with the cross-
pollinated flowers until their fruits have set, these blossoms should be
enclosed in paper bags or gauze, but after this period has passed, how-
ever, the covers may be removed and the young fruits allowed to develop
under normal conditions.
Labels bearing the name of the variety from which the pollen was
taken, or other necessary notes, should be attached to the twigs sup-
porting the cross-pollinated blossoms.
Plate 141 illustrates the method of crossing Eome Beauty with London
Pippin, and vice versa. It Avill be observed, however, that the central
10 Jan., 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
17
vertical sections of tlie blossoms with the pistils intact and two stamens
on each side are shown, except in the case of those ready to be subjected
to cross-pollination and markd (i»), and here all the stamens have been
removed. The Rome Beauty blossom, Fig. 1, (a) shows the relative
position of the stamens to the pistil, but it appears like (&) when all
the stamens are cut aAvay. When the anthers of the London Pippin
flower, (c) burst, and liberate the ripe pollen, they are placed in contact
with the receptive stigmas of (&). The cross-pollinated flower is then
covered, as explained, to prevent its further pollination through the
agency of insects, &c. When the young fruit has swelled to the condi-
tion of {d), the protective covering may be removed. The cross-sections
(e) and (/) were taken from the ovaries of Rome Beauty florets while
in the condition of (&) and {d) respectively. Fig. 2 depicts London
• e
Fig. I
rfg.2
f
Plate 141.
Fig. 1. Method of crossing Rome Beauty
with London Pippin.
Fig. 2. Method of crossing London Pippin
with Rome Beauty.
Pippin crossed with Rome Beauty, and the lettering of the specimens
in this case may be read in the light of the explanation given in con-
nexion with Fig. 1.
During its development the fruit should be kept free from insect
pests and fungus diseases, and when fully matured on the tree it may
be removed to ordinary or cool storage, or the pips may be taken
from the fruit and kept in a dry cool place until required for sowing.
If the pips are sown about the beginning of August in rich sandy loam or
other friable soil and covered to a depth of about 2 inches, provided
favorable weather conditions ensue, a high percentage of the young
seedlings will have attained a height of from 4 to 6 inches by the end
of October. During some seasons, in certain localities these growths
18
J nurual (if Afiricitlfvrc. Victoria. [10 Jan.. 191S.
continue to develop until they are of sufficient strength to enable them
to be used, as scions in the following spring.
Plate 142 illustrates the development of the young seedling from
the pip. Fig. 1 (a) is a Jonathan pip (natural size), (fe) .shows an
oppn capsule with the kernel adhering to one side, and (c) is the kernel
taken from the open capsule (rf). Fig. 2 shows elongation of the radix
with the seed-lobes still enclosed in the capsule, (l)) gives further
lengthening of the root and shows the seed-lobes having changed in
colour from white to dark green in consequence of appearing above the
soil and developing chlorophyll. Specimen (c) gives higher develop-
ment of the cotyledons between which the first two seedling leaves
appear; while {d) shows these in a further advanced stage, and also the
second pair of young leaves. It may be noticed that when the seedling
Plate 142.
Fig. 1. Jonathan pips (natural size).
Fig. 2. Development of seedling from seed.
has reached this stage of development lateral root hairs begin to appear
along the main root. Usually, until the little root system is estab-
lished and the first three pairs of seedling leaves are produced, the
invigorating materials stored up in the cotyledons supply most of the
requirements of the tree.
The pips from which the eight seedlings illustrated in Plate 143 were
gro'UTi were taken from trees the names of the varieties of which are
given below the plate. The seeds were sown on 16th August, and the
trees were photographed on 26th JSTovember, 1916.
Testing ISTew Varieties.
When new varieties are produced, careful tests with a view to deter-
mining their fruiting characteristics, &c., should first be made, and the
10 J.AN., 1918.] Apple Cultvre in Victoria.
19
llffff^iin^^rlfiHi^ljlililiiiiliiiilli^iHIHlin»
20 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan.. 1918.
resiilts correctly noted. To make a test of this kind, procure during
early spring a portion of seedling Avood produced the previous year and
graft it on an outer and rather pendulous growth of an established tree.
The scion should contain six or eight leaf buds, and the tongue graft
should be employed. In this position on the tree the scion, if of fruitful
character, will blossom two or three years after the time of grafting.
The longer the scion and the more pendulous its stock the sooner the
stage of fructification will be reached. When the test proves that a
variety is capable of producing only fruit of inferior quality, it may
be destroyed, but those yielding apples of good quality should be retained
and further experimented with in relation to their adaptability to our
many soil and climatic conditions.
When the preliminary, but obviously most essential, test reveals
that the fruiting characteristics of a new variety are sufficiently
encouraging to warrant the further experiments already mentioned, tests
Plate 144.
Fig 1. Apple produced on a Statesman sport.
Fig. 2. Apple from the original Statesman wood of the same tree.
should be made to try its adaptability to the conditions obtaining in
the various fruit-groAving districts of the State. When success attends
the latter tests, specimens of the fruit, accompanied by a report con-
taining all the particulars relating to its production, should be for-
warded to the Commonwealth Pomological Committee for the considera-
tion of its nomenclators. Should they consider the variety of sufficient
merit to bestow on it a name, this would subsequently appear alpha-
betically listed with the others in the catalogues of enterprising nursery-
men. As the variety comes into general cultivation, its habit of growth,
pruning requirements, and other particulars should be carefully noted,
so that its characteristics in every respect might be, at least, as well
understood as those of others at present grown.
Vaeieties Evolved through Sports.
The wood of varieties evolved through sports usually retains the
characteristics of the parent tree, the deviations from the original being
10 Jax., 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 21
mostly noticeable in the colour of the fruit. Occasionally, however,
the size and shape of the fruit are somewhat affected, but the flavour and
aroma of the original is usually retained.
It is assumed that one example will suffice to illustrate these state-
ments.
Plate 144, Fig. 1, is a photograph of an unnamed apple produced
on the sport of a tree of the Statesman variety growing in Mr. Hy.
Chandler's orchard at Bayswater. The apples of this sport are dark
red, like highly coloured Eokewood. Fig. 2 is the normal Statesman
taken from the same tree. Mr. Chandler, who is a nurseryman as well
as an orchardist, is so favorably impressed with the appearance of his
red Statesman that he has decided to propagate trees from this sport.
Occasionally trees or portions of trees propagated from sports revert
to the original by producing fruit typical of the parent variety. The
Glengyle Red may be mentioned as one of those most noticeable for
performing in this manner. It is a sport from the Rome Beauty, and
the character of the wood and habit of growth of the tree have not
altered, but the fruit, instead of being like that of the Rome Beauty,
is of a deep, rich, red colour. This is an improvement that warrants
the propagation and extensive cultivation of the Glengyle Red, and the
reversion of the fruit's colour to that of the Rome Beauty may, at the
time of propagating trees of the former variety, be prevented by care-
fully selecting buds from a tree which produces fruit of fixed type and
colour.
The necessity for the evolution of varieities characteristically con-
stituted to meet the various locality conditions, and thus facilitate a
higher commercial achievement as well as more satisfactorily meeting
the public requirements, is generally realized. These, as well as the
other objectives of the industry, may be attained by the further judicious
application of science to fruit growing.
The Mahstteistance of Varieties Capable of Supplying Modern"
Market Requirements.
In establishing a modern apple orchard the fruit-grower should
select a small number of each of the early and late blooming varieties,
and thus insure the cross-pollination of their blossoms. Those chosen
for planting in any locality should previously have proved their
adaptability to its soil and climatic conditions, and the question whether
the fruit from these varieties Avould suit modern market requirements
should be considered. Though much information dealing with
these essential details has been disseminated by the experts and
others interested in apple growing, yet inspection of the
districts reveals that obsolete varieties and some of those unsuitable
for cultivation under the individual district conditions are still
occasionally planted. Although sometimes mistakes of this kind are
made through the prospective fruit-growers taking their information
exclusively from publications of other countries where the conditions
governing apple production are different to ours, very often it is due
to the neglect of the orchardist to listen to opinions based on knowledge.
Such a person usually selects his trees in haste ; they come to maturity
in due time, but he repents at leisure. Fortunately, however, instances
of this kind are becoming rare.
22
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1018.
Utilizing Obsolete Sorts as Stocks for Profitable Varieties.
When the folly of ])laiitiiig undesirable or non-reuiunerative varieties
in a locality becomes apparent, as a result of experience gained by their
subsequent cultivation, no time should be lost in substituting suitable
and profitable sorts. The best method of attaining this object is by
cutting down the trees, and, if the stocks, including the root systems,
are sound and healthy, grafting on varieties proved locally to be suitable
to the district and profitable. If the stem be short, the crown and
Fig. 1. Fig. S
Plate 145.
Fig. 1. Rome Beauty scions on Mr. Gladstone stocks.
with three main arms.
Fig. 2. In this case four main arms were employed.
Commenced
portions of the leaders radiating from it may be retained and utilized
as a foundation for the new superstructure. Formerly the wedge and
strap-grafts were used, but during recent times the bark-graft has been
most generally employed. This method consists of making a vertical
slit, about 2 inches long, downwards from the edge of the sawcut in the
bark of the stock with the grafting knife. Then the scion, of yearling
wood of the selected variety containing three or four leaf buds, is pre-
pared by tapering it off to a point on one side about 2 inches long.
The point of the scion, with the cut next the wood of the stock, is
10 Jan., 1918.J
Apple Culture in Victoria.
23
inserted in the cambium and forced downwards to the full extent of the
tapered part, opposite the slit in the bark of the stock. The pressure
opens the incision in the bark of the stock and pei'mits of a long union
of the cambiums of the stock and scion. When the work is carefully
executed, weather conditions being favorable, but few of these grafts
fail. A sufficient number of scions, usually from three to six, with
which to form the branch system and make a callus sufficiently extensive
to cover over the wound before the wood commences to rot and thus
prevent its decay, should be employed. When the scions have been
placed in position, a piece of strong string firmly tied around the stock
Fig. 1. Fig. 2.
Plate lie.
Fig. 1. Jonathan grafted on to Northern Spy stock.
Fig. 2. Same tree after thinning out of leaders completed.
about 1 inch from the saw cut prevents the further opening of the
splits in the old bark. Then a covering of grafting wax or earth
excludes the air from the Avounded parts until the grafts are firmly
established.
The grafting operation should be performed in early spring, when
the sap commences to rise in the stocks, and greater success is achieved
when the wood required for scions is removed from the trees during
winter and heeled in to become partly wilted before being required for
use.
In warm districts particularly, the stems should be covered with
hessian or other material to protect them from the sun until such time
24 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
as the foliage of the scions has sufficiently developed and capable of
performing its necessary function.
Plate 145 shows Rome Beauty scions grafted on Mr. Gladstone
stocks. Fig. 1 was a tree whose branch system was originally com-
menced with three main arms, while in the case of Fig. 2 four were
employed.
In re-establishing branch systems on trees of the old high stemmed
type, instead of retaining portions of the original branch structures, as
illustrated in Plate 145, the stems should be cut about 12 to 15 inches
above the ground level. When the scions are grafted on these stocks, and
subsequently scientifically and regularly pruned, trees of the modern and
approved type are substituted for the inferior and badly constructed
ones.
Plate 146 depicts a tree being reconstructed as described. The
original variety was ISTorthern Spy, and the scions are Jonathan. Fig. 1
shows the scions making strong growth and having arrived at the stage
when it is advantageous to remove the weak, superfluous, young leaders,
so as to concentrate the growth in the uniform, nicely spaced ones being
retained. Fig. 2 is a picture of the same tree and illustrates its condition
when the operation of thinning out the leaders was completed.
{To he continued.)
Of the plants growing in ISTew South Wales, over a thousand species
have been examined for hydrocyanic acid and cyanogenetic glucosides.
Sixty of these gave positive results Avith sodium picrate paper. These
include forty-four species native to New South Wales in seventeen
natural orders.
Some plants, well known to be cyanophoric in Europe, when grown
in this State have never given any reaction, although tested in all
seasons.
Only a few were found to evolve free hydrocyanic acid, naturally,
but all showed the presence of a glucoside and enzyme.
When the natural enzymes in these plants were killed by boiling
water, the reaction to sodium picrate paper ceased; if then a few drops
of emulsin, prepared from sweet almonds, were added, positive reactions
were again obtained, showing that in all cases the glucosides present
in the plants were capable of being hydrolysed by emulsin.
Of the sixty species stated, twenty are grasses, and these include
eleven species indigenous to this State. The Sorghum vulgare examined
by Dunstan and Henry was found to lose its glucoside when 14 inches
high, while the Australian-grown plant retains it when 4 feet high, and
mature. Both glucoside and enzyme slowly disappear with air-drying.
One hundred and fifty species of grasses were tested svstematically
for seasonal variations, and some were found to give negative results at
particular seasons. Two species of grasses alone evolved free hydro-
cyanic acid, and only one of these is available for grazing. This is the
only one, except the sorghums, which has been associated with fatalities
among stock.
Among the non-cyanogenetic grasses 33 species contained emulsin-
like enzymes.
10 Jan., 1918.] Farming in England in Early Times. 25
FARMING m ENGLAND IN EARLY TIMES.
By Professor Walter J. Harte, University College, Exeter.
This article, reprinted from the Journal of the British Dairy Farmers*
Association, Vol. XXIX., 1915, shows in an interesting way the manner
in which our forefathers held their land and cultivated it. That it was
satisfactory the history of the times shows, for was not England known
as " Merrie England," and did not "every rood of ground maintain its
man " ? To those of our English pioneers who chance to read this article
and come from farming families many of the terms used and explained
will, perhaps, be known. To such readers the article should prove
instructive. It is also interesting to know how our ancestors lived and
worked. — [Editor.]
Those engaged in trying to elucidate what is called History are
sometimes expected to show an omniscience which is not demanded of
other searchers after Truth ; for there is a history of
" shoes and ships and sealing-wax,
of cabbages and kings,"
to mention only a feAV of the subjects of my all-embracing department.
So, when your Committee honoured me with an invitation to read a
paper to you, I at once had to disclose some of my limitations, and to
confess that I had very little in my stock that was likely to be suitable
for this meeting. When my offer of "Farming in England in Early
Times " was accepted, I realized that my ideas about the words " farm "
and " dairy " were very vague, and, of course. I went to consult Sir
James Murray's New English Dictionary. There I found that no
satisfactory Teutonic etymology was known for the word " farm," but
that it was possibly a late form of the Latin word " firma," which
signified a fixed yearly payment, and then a lease, and then a tract of
land held on lease for the purpose of cultivation, and from that the
name was applied without respect to the nature of the tenure. As for
" dairy " it is derived from " dey," which is Middle English for a female
servant, and dairy is a place where the function of the dey is performed.
Then it means the room or building in which milk and cream are kept
and made into butter and cheese, and, lastlv, that department of
farming concerned with the production of milk, butter, and cheese.
This did not give me much assurance that the pa|per which your Com-
mittee had accepted from me would be to the point at a meeting of
British Dairy Farmers, for there is not much in it about milk and
butter and cheese. However, I was cheered by the thought that under
modem conditions the production of one set of commodities involves
the subsidiary production of a great many other by-products, and my
optimism was strengthened when at the Eastgate I gazed into the
windows of that distributing centre with the ecclesiastical name and
saw displayed there an array of commodities which certainly did not
come from milk ; and the sight caused me to hope that my contribution
would not be too wide of the mark, unless, indeed, the Cathedral Dairy
has a special dispensation or some benefit of clergy which is at present
unknown to history.
The Norman conquerors found England divided up into self-
supporting villages, which soon came to be known as manors. For
the pur,poses of our story we need not go into the consideration of the
26 Journal of Af/riciilttu-e. Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
legal and other differences between the Saxon village and the Norman
manor, so let us at once try to picture to ourselves what this agricultural
unit was like. The system seems to have been the outcome of a very
early method of annual re-allotment of arable, which expressed the
old sense of kinship, linked with a determination to secure some kind
of equality. With its concentration of huts and barns and the close
proximity of its arable and pasture, it was a very suitable arrangement
for a time when all able-bodied men were liable to be called off for
n-urposes of fighting.
At the head of the village was the lord, with rights and duties
pertaining to hi& holding. He would have his manor house of stone,
containing at least a hall, a dormitory and a solar. The dairy would
be attached to the manor house. There would also be a grange for
storing corn, and probably a garden and an orchard. The ground
would be ciiltivated right up to the doors of the house, for a park or
pleasure-ground is a modern development. The church would probably
be far larger than was needful for the religious services of the com-
munity; but it had many uses, besides that of divine service, and in
some cases we find it used for storing corn. The village mill would
belong to the lord, who would rent it to a miller, and the villagers were
compelled to have their corn ground at it. The mud or wooden cottages
of the inhabitants would lie along the highway, each with its enclosea
croft or close. The arable land lay in open fields, and was worked on
what is called the " Two-", or else the " Three-Field " system. Under
the latter system the whole of the arable land of the village would be
divided into three great fields. On one of these was a crop of wheat,
on the second a crop of barley or oats, while the third field lay fallow.
Each field was divided into long narrow strips, separated from one
another by balks of grass, and the tenants would occupy scattered
strips in different parts of these open fields, some holding many separate
strips and some only a few. The lord also would have his portion,
which he farmed for himself through his bailiff. His was called the
"demesne land," and it was sometimes held in strips and sometimes
held in severalty. In addition to the three arable fields, there were the
meadow for hay, the pasture ground and the waste, and in time an
enclosed pasture which was very valuable ; and every man who had
strips in the arable had a proportionate share of the hay meadow,
and certain rights of pasturage, and (unless they were definitely
asisigned to others) over the waste and over the fallow and gleaned land,
for the oxen, horses, or sheep required on the arable for work or manure.
In Tudor times pasture in common was of three kinds: (1) common
close, where each man was stinted ; (2) tended common where cattle
went before the herdsman, and where stints prevailed; (3) the lord's
outwoods, where the lord was not stinted but the tenant was. This
" shackage," as it was called, is considered by Professor Conner to be
a species of common custom, originating in mutual forbearance as to
trespass.
But this is far in advance of the early village economy. However,
as time went on enclosed pasturage increased, and we note such names
as " Cow Down," " Sheep Down," " Pig Marsh." These divisions
mark the growing importance attached to live-stock.
These rigjhts over the land were su]:>plemented by common of
e&tover and common of turbary, the former being the right of taking
wood for repairs and for fuel, and the latter the right of cutting peat
for fuel.
10 Jan., 1918.] Fanning in EngJand in Earli/ Times. 27
Professor Gonner distinguishes common " appendant " from
common " appurtenant." The former being the right to common on
the part of the possessor of a freehold created before the Statute of
Quia Eniptores. It was limited to pasture for the animals necessary to
plough and manure the soil, was proved by mere possession of such an
estate, and would be proportioned to the holding. Common " appur-
tenant " consisted of rights attached by grant or prescription to a
freehold or coipyhold, including pasture for beasts other than those for
ploughing and manure, also estover and turbary, and of this proof
might be required. This latter shows that times were changing — new
holdings had been erected and a variation of methods of cultivation had
arisen, the proportion of arable to stock being no longer constant.
Common was no longer regarded merely as a means of maintaining
arable land in efficiency, but some part of it existed for immediate
profit by pasturage.
At first common right was a necessary complement to the rural
economy, then it became a source of special profit, then by some a
system of common was valuable as a means of chance gains. In the
nineteenth century the idea of a public interest or right appears.
To put it shortly, the holding of arable lands gave a right over
some part of the yield of other lands, and generally, too, over the lord's
waste. Later the poor came to enjoy minor rights of common, and
turned out ,pigs and geese, gathered fuel, and even pastured a cow, but
these privileges began on sufferance and were really a trespass.
On some manors the lord exercised the right of feeding sheep over
the lands of the tenants during certain seasons of the year, and even
of having the tenants' sheep folded on the demesne fields for the sake
of the manure. Then in time we find the grantingr of rights over land
attached to a house or cottage without aral3le land ; and the next step
will be a grant to men who hold no land on the manor, though these
might be restricted during hay-time.
In copyholds we find the right of pasturing beasts other than those
used for agriculture, namely, sheep, swine, goats, and geese, in pro-
portion to the holding and the capacity of the area, unless a definite
iium.ber is mentioned in the document.
This open field system was usual all over the greater part of England
150 years ago, and there are a few survivals even at the present
time. Sir J. B. Phear, in the " Transactions of the Devonshire
Association " for the year 1889, describes such a field at Braunton.
There is found what is called " The Great Field," consisting of about
350 acres of level ground made up of small unenclosed plots.
There are some sixteen parcels, each divided into strips separated
by a balk. Each parcel is marked off by a stone sunk in the ground
at the corners. Most of the holdings are small, there being 491
strips to about fifty-six owners. Apparently here all the villeins had
freed themselves, fo^ their successors are emancipated from all the
original " servitudes " and are freeholders.
Walter of Henley, a farmer and perhaps a bailiff on an estate
belonging to Canterbury Cathedral, who wrote in the thirteenth century,
shows clearly that the farming at this time was " subsistence " farming,
"id only the surplus crops were sold at the local markets or at
the annual fairs, after the wants of the village including part payment
of labour, had been satisfied.
Besides the demesne land, there were sometimes estates of free-
holders who paid quit-rents to the lord. But most of the land would
28 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918
ba held by villeins, bordars, and cottiers, who held by fixed and com-
mutable services. The normal holding of a villein was a virgate, or
yardland, of 30 acres, whilst the cottier would have only a cottage
and a garden and at the most 5 acres.
The following extract, which is a translation from the " Exeter
Domesday," gives one an idea of the village of Braunton to which I have
already referred: "The King has a manor called Braunton which
King Edward himself held and it was answerable for one hide. This
can be ploughed by forty ploughs. Of it the King has one carucate
of land and one plough, and the villeins have thirty ploughs. There
the King has forty villeins and thirty bordars and four serfs and 100
sheCip and 40 acres of coppice and 2 acres of meadow and 40 acres of
pasture, and it returns yearly 16 pounds by weight.
" Algar the priest has one hide of land in Braunton which he holds
in alms of the King. This can be ploughed by eight ploughs. Of it
the priest has one virgate and three ploughs in demesne and the
villeins have three virgates and five ploughs. There the priest has
three villeins and twenty-three bordars and five head of cattle and
twelve swine and 100 sheep and ten goats and 20 acres of pasture, and
it is worth 50s."
The work of the village was done by the co-operation of all the
inhabitants, and we must remember that practically all men were
landholders. There was community in cultivation but not in owner-
ship.
The demesne was cultivated by dcipendents v/holly maintained
by the lord and by the part-time services of the villeins, each of which
would have work somewhat as follows : He would have to plough in
the spring 4 acres, and to supply two oxen for the plough-team three
days in winter, and three in spring, and one in summer. Each would
work for his lord three days a week, and perhaps pay a yearly toll of
money, say 2s., a hen and a score of ^ggs. Each cottier
would work one day a week. The following quotation gives us the
duties of one Hugh, son of Chrispian, at Haghe, who held a messuage
and a quarterium of land. He was to pay Is. a year in rent,
to carry dung at a ^d. a day, or to give l^d. instead. He was to
plough and to be fed or to pay 6d. for the year's work. He was to
gather nuts for three days or to forfeit l|d. He was to supply one
man in harvest or pay 2s., to plough half an acre for winter and another
half for Lent corn or pay 7d. He was to shear sheep and lamps or
pay Ad. a day, to hoe and be fed or forfeit |d. a day. To collect stubble
for three days before dinner and receive a ^d. or forfeit lid. To give
a hen of the value of 2d. and a cock worth lid., and find a help for
the thatclier or forfeit fd. These services would in process of time be
commuted for a money payment. The terms would be written down
and a copy kept by the tenant, who would then become a copyholder.
The cattle, sheep and swine would be looked after by village
officials, the herdsman receiving about 2d. a quarter for each beast, and
the swineherd Id.
A writer in the sixteenth century called Fitzherbert gives what
he considers to be the duties of a wife in the life of the manor- — " It is a
wyves occupation to wynowe all maner of cornes, to make malte, to
washe and wrynge, to make heye, shere corne and in time of nede to
helpe her husbande to fyll the mucke wayne or doune cart, dryve
the plough, to loode heye, corne, and such other, and to go or ride to
10 Jan., 1918,] Farming in England in Early Times. 29
the market to sell butter, chese, mylke, egges, chekyns, capons, hennes,
pygges, gese and all maner of comes."
For hay-making additional labour was often obtained from a dis-
tance if possible. The means of supporting winter stock depended
upon the supply of hay, so the bailiff, after calculating his resources,
killed down for salting, about St. Martin's Day (11th November), as
many sheep, oxen and calves as exceeded his means of sustenance.
It is obvious that this system of farming involved an intricate
mesh of mutual privileges and obligations, and it must have required
a very tactful bailiff to get anything like a moderate amount of work
out of the parties concerned, because we must remember that tenants
could not be dismissed as can the modern labourer, and besides it
would have been impossible to find others to fill up the vacant places
even if it were desirable to do so.
The small freeholder on a manor, where such existed, was really
better off than the lord, as the former was liable to no wardship and
could dispose of his property as he desired, whereas the lord was re-
sponsible to his overlord for all feudal dues. The wealth of the lord
was derived less from the profit of the demesne land than from the
fines, quit rents, compositions, tolls on fairs, markets and ferries, profits
from manor courts, and similar incomings, which though trivial indi-
vidually amounted in the aggregate to a considerable sum.
One naturally asks how it was that a system which from our point
of view was so very inconvenient prevailed for such a lengthy period.
The answer &eems to be that when once in working order the method
formed a complex system hard to alter, especially as the art of land-
surveying was unknown; that custom, which is difficult to break even
at the present time, was in olden times an impassable barrier to experi-
ment and progress; that it insured an equitable distribution as far as
the quality of the land was concerned; that it showed up any very
bad husbandry or extreme negligence, and, if it did not facilitate the
improvement of the land, it at any rate kept it from becoming wor&e.
Before proceeding I must draw your attention to the two-field
system at work on some estates. In one of these fields there would
be a crop growing, and in the other there would be three ploughings
in the course of the year. We find an interesting modification of
this method when each field was divided into half fields and then each
was " cropped " every alternate year, but the half which bore wheat
one year would be sown with barley next time it was " cropped." Thus
a four-field system was introduced, and this was very easily changed
into four-course husbandry in the eighteenth century with the intro-
duction of turnips, making a rotation of wheat, turnips, barley and
clover, and thus avoiding the necessity of keeping one field fallow,
as in the old system.
And now before we go on to describe the changes brought about
by the Black Death in the reign of Edward III., let me give you a few
details about what was produced on the manor, and the expenses
entailed in cultivating it.
In 1340 beef or mutton cost about ^d. a lb." In London
in 1533 beef cost ^d. and mutton fd. a Ib.f But the meat
must have been stringy and tough, and diseased meat was cooked
and eaten. "Walter of Henley writes (about 1270) : "If one of your
sheep dies, put the flesh at once into water and keep it there from
* Multiply by twelve to get the approximate value now.
t Multiply by four to get the approximate value now.
30 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. | 10 Jan., 1918.
daybreak till nones (3 p.m.), then hang it up to drain thoroughly, salt
it and dry it ; it will do for your labourers." And Tusser in the
sixteenth century recommends that diseased pigs should be slain, salted,
packed, and the pork sold to the Flemings.
Even as late as 1547, the average weight of oxen purchased for
the Navy was less than 400 lbs. English sheep suffered from scab
before the end of the thirteenth century, and the affected parts weje
treated with tar mixed with butter or lard.
The most important animal in mediaeval economy was the pig.
These animals fed in fields after harvest and in woods. We read of
them also in the towns. Thue Stow in his " Survey of London " says
that they fed on the dung hills, and in the Act Books of the Exeter
City Chamber I have found frequent notices of men who were brought
before the Justices for keeping pigs in the City contrary to regulation.
The returns to agriculture were very low in these days of sub-
sistence farming, and it is very difficult to form any sure estimate as to
comparative values, for the prices quoted only represent the surplus
on the estate sold after the requirements of the inhabitants had been
satisfied, the first care being to make the manor as self-supporting as
possible. Besides, the imperfect means of communication caused
great variations in price, the cost of carrying corn by cart with two
horses and a man about 1340 being estimated at Id. a ton per
mile. But this would vary very much according to the time of the
year and the demand for horse work on the farm.
Wheat was the customary food of the people, though barley was
sometimes mixed with wheat in allowances to farm servants. Wheat
was sometimes malted, but barley was chieflv used for beer, and oat malt
common. However, the chief use of oats was for horse food, although
oatmeal was used for the broth or porridge.
Walter of Henley advises that 2 bushels of wheat should be
sown to every acre. This seems to have been done by the bailiff him-
self. A return of between 6 to 8 bushels was considered satis-
factory, after the land had received three ploughings, at a cost of
fid. an acre, and harrowing at the cost of Id. Ploughing
was done by oxen yoked in a team of eight, although we find horses
used in some places. But oxen were more satisfactory, because after
they were past work they could be used for food. It is estimated
that each person would require one quarter of wheat for his sus'enance
during: the year, which would mean that there must have been as many
acres under cultivation as there were inhabitants. Professor Thorold
Rogers estimates that the population in 1340 was between 1.500,000
and 2,500,000. This would mean that between 4,500,000 and 7.500,000
acres were under cultivation. We must remember that a great majoritv
of the inhabitants, even of the towns, were engaged in agriculture, and
the long vacation still enjoyed by the Law Courts and the universities
is said to have been due to the fact that all were required in the harvest
fields between the months of June and October.
The corn appears to have been cut high on the stalk, and the
stubble was mown after the crop was gathered. A method of threshing
corn is mentioned in Marshall as peculiar to the West of England, the
ears being beaten on a cask, so that the straw which was required for
thatching should not get bruised. Fitzherbert, in 1523, says: "In
Somerset they do shere theyr Avheate verv loAve ; and the wheate strawe
that they purpose to make thacke of they do not threshe it but cut
10 Jan., 1918. ] Farming in England in Early Times. 31
off the ears and byiid it in slieves and call it rede." Matthew Paris
gives the price of wheat in 1244 as being 29. a quarter.
Iron was a most serious item among the commodities which the
bailiff had to buy. Some came from Sussex, the most important iron
district in England until the " Industrial Revolution " of the eighteenth
century, and some came from Spain. The practice at first was for the
bailiff to buy the raw material in bars at one of the great fairs and
employ the village smith to make it up. But this plan was abandoned
after the Black Death, and the bailiff bought the article itself from the
smith, a procedure which points to the fact that the economic position
of the latter must have been much advanced. The price of iron before
the plague was about 4s. a " hundred," and after that calamity it
reached an average of 9s. 6d. In 1500 the price of wrought iron
averaged between £5 and £8 a ton, but by 1570 it was about double
that amount.
Horseshoes for riding horses must have been very thin and poor.
In the fifteenth century they were about 2s. a dozen for fore
shoes and Is. 6d. for hind, but by the end of the sixteenth century
they had risen to between 3s. and 4s. a dozen for each kind. Those
used in husbandry were far cheaper, being about 8d. a dozen.
The great expense of iron explains the fact that cart wheels were
frequently made solid, cut from the section of a full-grown tree.
Wooden ploughs and harrows with wooden pega were used, and so the
land was scratched rather than ploughed. The share of the plough
must have been a very slight affair, having a wooden frame with an iron
point to it. Steel was employed for the tips of the cutting edges of
iron tools and was four times, as dear as iron. Canvas had to be bought
for mill sails and bags, and millstones were a heavy item in a bailiff's
accounts. In 1331 the bailiff of Cuxham purchased five in London at
the cost of £15 16s. 8d., and there were further expenses incurred in
getting them carried to Henley by water, and thence on carts to
Cuxham. The best stones came from the neighbourhood of Paris and
from Andernach on the Rhine.
Candles and suet were sometimes dearer than butter, and all fats
were dearer than meat, for a cow might be made to yield milk and so
provide butter in winter, but the farmer could not give animals the
means of putting on flesh — still less fat ! So while meat was about
Jd. a lb. fat cost about l|d. or 2d. Candles averaged 2d.
a lb. They were therefore a rare luxury, and used on the
farm only at lambing time. Rushes soaked in grease were
the ordinary substitute for lighting purposes. The wick of the
best candles was made of cotton which came from Sicily and Italv.
Suet was used for candles and also for lubricating cart wheels and
mill machinery, and for dubbing leather.
Cows were, of course, kept for butter, cheese and milk, but the
milking of ewes was also a common practice in mediaeval times, and
Walter of Henley estimated that ten ewes were as productive in milk
as one cow. Fitzherbert says: "In the poore of the peeke (high)
countreye and such other places where as they use to mylke theyr
ewes they used to wayne theyr lambs at twelve weekes old and to
mylke theyr ewes five or syxe weekes." Milk was sold almost always
at Id. a gallon.
Clieese and butter were produced on almost all estates, the latter
being made all through the year, and it was often melted. It was used
for sheep-dressing and cart grease as well as for food.
32 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
The manufacture of cheese commenced at Christmas and coa-
tinued till Michaelmas. The price probably averaged about l|d. a
lb. Two cows would produce a wey* of cheese during the season,
besides half a gallon of butter each week if the pasture was good.f
From this it appears that some of the cheese was made of skimmed
milk. Rennet was used, and the curd was put into a vat and pressed
through cloths.
The custom grew up of letting out the produce of the cows and
ewes at annual rents, the cows at about 6s. a year and the ewes at
Is., the " deye " taking the risk and the owner supplying the food. The
reason suggested for this plan is that it was almost impossible for the
bailiff to check the management of dairy.
It is surprising to learn how very small was the amount of wool
which the mediaeval sheep provided. The average weight of a fleece
at Stockton, in Sussex, in 1267, was 1 lb. 1 oz., and the weight
was seldom more than 2 lbs. The quality also was coarse and
the fibre full of hairs. As to the price, Professor Rogers estimates
that the average between the years 1260 and 1400 was just over 2s.
the clove of 7 lbs. The same authority notes a great variation in the
prices of different districts in 1454; for at Leominster a stack of
364 lbs. fetched £13, and in Sussex only £2 10s. But wool does not,
as a rule, appear in the bailiff's accounts, as its sale was effected by
a 8,pecial officer. After the shearing it was put up in canvas packs
and sometimes stored in the church.
Eggs, poultry, and also pigeons, wero exceedingly abundant. Honey
did not fetch a high price. Professor Rogers thinks that bees were not
commonly kept, but it looks rather as if bee-keeping was universal,
and that there was, therefore, no market for honey. It was certainly
much used instead of sugar and also in the manufacture of mead. The
same authority thinks that rabbits were introduced into England about
the year 1200. As they seldom wander more than 100 yards from
their homes they would spread very slowly. They were quite dear in
1270, the price being 5d. each.
There were very few vegetables; onions, leeks, mustard, peas, and
possibly cabbages and nettles, were grown in the gardens; apples
and sometimes pears, in the orchards. Ale, made without hops, and
cider were drunk in great quantities. Wine also was made in England,
but not as generally as some suppose, the word vivarium\ being mis-
taken in manuscripts for vinarium.^
The constant recurrence of the name " Fish-ponds " throughout
the country reminds us that whenever it was possible our forefathers
insured a constant supply of fish in their immediate neighbourhood.
It was a dear commodity, but a very important article of diet, as it
was the only animal food that the Church permitted during its fasts.
It was also in great demand during the winter, to relieve the monotonous
round of salt meats which our ancestors had to' endure; but they did
not restrict themselves in their choice as much as we do, for we find
whale and porpoise, conger and eel all considered choice dishes.
The Black Death was certainly the most terrible epidemic in
mediaeval times. It reached the coast of Dorset in August, 1348.
and rapidly stpread over England. It was a time when the
science of statistics was unknown, and consequently we get the most
* lf>e lbs. t Walter de Henley.
X F'ishpond or warren. !| Vinejard.
10 Jan., 1918.] Farming in England in Early Times. 3$
exaggerated reports as to the mortality of the time, but it seems reason-
able to conclude that nearly one-half of the labourers in England
perished. This disaster jerked men out of the old ruts and necessitated
changes in the conditions of tenure and occupation, whilst it finally
resulted in the completion of the commutation of services into money
rents which had been going on slowly for some time. In many places
the calamity was so temble that there were none left to till the land
or tend the flocks. Tenants died off and land went " a-begging."
This was a serious state of affairs for the lord and threatened him with
ruin. For the only time in English history the landlords competed
for the services of labour, and wages rose enormously in spite of the
attempts made by Parliament to keep them down, and the price of all
commodities to which labour added the chief value was often more
than doubled. The attempts of the lords to compel men to go back
to weekly labour failed, and it was necessary to plan a new system,
or rather make use generally of a system which had been already
evolved in some districts. This was what is called the " stock and
land lease," in which the lord leased the land and provided the stock
upon it. It did not, however, continue for more than fifty years,
presumably because tenant farmers became opulent and were able
to purchase their holdings. Then there was the ordinary lease which
became the usual method, although before the Black Death it wa»
most uncommon, except on some estates owned by the Church or by
other corporations. In many other cases after 1348 the lords were-
only too willing to alienate small parcels of the land. Grants of
demesne were made at new quit rents, and free-farm rents became
general. These fixed rents at first seemed high, but agriculture-
improved, and they were easily borne.
Professor Rogers illustrates the state of affairs from extracts taken
from the accounts of Merton College, Oxford. This corporation held
lands situated in a great many counties, north, south, east and west,
and even before the plague some of its lands were held on lease. After
the plague all its lands, except those near Oxford, were let* with the
stock, and the rents were payable in money and com.
Only in the Eastern Counties did the great land-owners continue to
practise agriculture on their own account.
But the most noticeable policy pursued at this time was the
conversion of arable land into enclosed shee,p walks. It was impossible
to obtain labour to continue the old routine, and there was a great
demand on the Continent for English wool. The enclosures then of
the fourteenth century did not displace labour, but were necessitated
by a dearth of that commodity, and with them capitalist farming
may be said to begin. There was wool for sale instead of merely
subsistence farming, and farming became a business which was
expected to yield a return from the prices fetched in the market.
Moreover, by the end of the fifteenth century convertible hus-
bandry had been introduced in some districts. This involved the
breaking up of the permanent fields and the formation of six separate
closes. Three were set aside for corn, with the rotation of wheat,
barley and fallow, a fourth was for the pasturage of cows, a fifth for
sheep, and the last was retained for meadow. This enclosure for
tillage and grazing combined was a benefit to the community; more
* Basingstoke for twenty-one years.
16483.— 2
34 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
com and food were produced, and the demand for labour in hedging
and ditching increased.
It was not until Tudor times that we heard general complaints that
■enclosure involved depopulation. The dissolution of the monasteries
threw almost one-third of the land of this country into the hands of
"new" men, and they were determined to work their new estates
for a profit. The most lucrative kind of farming at the time waa
sheep-breeding. The result was a cry through the land that " sheep
were the devourers of men." The distress caused by the conversions
of arable to pasture reached its height in the reign of Edward VI., but
the trouble did not end until, with the growing prosperity enjoyed
during the reign of his sister Elizabeth, the population increased,
and it paid to grow corn, and was no longer good management to
graze only and not to till.
Capitalist sheep-farming led to the rise of a new phenomenon,
namely, competitive rents. Mediaeval rents were, as we see, practically
fixed ; they were quit rents, and corresponded to the value of the
labour services of which the lord was deprived by commutation. But
rent under the new conditions became a payment for the use of the
soil, and tlie landlord came to expect a sum that represented the value
of the land when used in the most remunerative way.
Although the greater part of English arable land was 'worked on
the open field system until the middle of the eighteenth century, there
were districts where the method had been abandoned long before,
and some which were probably taken into enclosed cultivation from the
start. Salop, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Somerset, Devon, Wilt-
shire, Berkshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Kent, Surrey, and Sussex had
all been enclosed before the seventeenth century, and the same is
probably true of Cornwall. Indications of very early enclosure are
to be found in the very irregular form of fields, also in the smallness of
their area, and in the thickness of the hedges and the high banks
which surround them. Enclosed fields are to be expected in the dis-
tricts which were occupied by the Saxon invaders in the later periods
of their conquest; where the area was enlarged and cleared of forest,
or drained after the original settlement had taken place; and also
where new demands arose from the arrangements for providing for
the wants of the adjacent town, and the town, moreover, would tend
to dra-.v off people from the country-side, and those left would be
driven to pasturage, because that made the least call on their reduced
numbers. Nor muat we forget that the proximity of a flourishing
town was subversive to custom and encouraged men to farm for
profit instead of for mere subsistence. We hear that Devon-
shire was so full of cloth-making by the middle of the seventeenth
century that food and wool had to be imported to sU|ppIy the needs
*of the inhabitants. Next we must notice that hilly, forest or moor-
land would soon prove unsuitable for an arable system. Further the
demand for wool would encourage the formation of enclosures, the
advantages of which were obvious as far as pasturage was concerned.
Then new land turned out of the wild and held in severalty would show
up all the disadvantages of the open field system and cry out for a
change.
There is no documentary evidence of these early enclosures, for
where tenants had no rights, or had ceased to have rights, the process
would go on without leaving any evidence as to date, for there would
10 Jan., 1018. 1 Farming in England in Early Times. 35
be no protests, and no legal transactions. However, there is the
Statute of Merton of 1236 to show that enclosure was proceeding
even at that early time, for it grants to the lord the right of " approve-
ment "* of as much land as he liked, provided that his action did not
interfere with the legitimate claims of the tenants.
The counties bordering on Wales are said to have been affected
by the condition of agriculture in that Principality where coaration
did not exist. Professor Gonner, whose book on " Common Fields and
Enclosure " is indispensable for the student of this subject, observes
that where this was absent common right over arable after harvest
would also vanish, and one of the difficulties of enclosing would be
removed.
Marshall, writing in 1805, found that there were no common fields
in West Devonshire. He saw that there the cultivated lands were
all enclosed, having the appearance of having been formed from a
state of common pasture, in which state some considerable part of the
district remains. The better parts of these open commons evidently
had formerly been in a state of aration. lying in obvious ridges and
furrows and generally with the remains of hedgerows. — He suggests
that this condition had arisen from the custom of the lord of the manor
having the privilege of letting portions of common land to tenants
for them to take one or more crops of corn, and after that it was allowed
to revert to grass. Thus the lord would get the wild land tamed and
would keep it in grass.
Enclosure of land for sheep-farming certainly took place in the
fifteenth century, but probably it was rather the enclosure of common
and waste than of arable. Also frequently demesne land was con-
verted into pasturage. Enclosure for pasture was not always for wool,
but for food when the district was near a growing town population.
Between 1550 and 1700 we get the enclosure of a great quantity
of land hitherto wholly wild or in scant use in Cornwall.
The enclosures of this period are connected with the growth of
farming, the new land brought into cultivation being largely arable;
and this is especially true of the newly-drained areas. It is at this
time also we notice the growing importance of the dairy, and the
Gloucestershire Vales, West and North-East Wiltshire, with the
Cricklade and Aylesbury districts, are all given by Professor Gonner
as being enclosed by the end of this period. In Surrey, Sussex, and
Kent the enclosures were probably made from the wild at an early
date, but not for arable purposes. Much of the arable, though re-
maining " open," was held in severalty, and was not subject to common
rights of pasture. The " enclosed " condition of Kent was fully
recognised in Burton's Anatomv (1621). Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex
also appear to have passed through their stages of enclosure at a very-
early date. In Somerset there were very large enclosures from the
wild in early times, and also enclosures of open fields, especially around
Taunton, and in the north-east. There was enclosure of demesne and
possibly of common fields in the sixteenth century, and also probably
of land from wild, and we may say that practically the bulk of this
county was enclosed by 1700.
Great interest was shown in farming in the seventeenth century.
Whilst in the sixteenth we have only two writers of any importance,
* En(!losur«.
22
36 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
Fitzherbert and Tusser, in the next century there were many more,
including Markham, Weston, Plattes and Taylor. Englishmen
were interested in Flemish and Brabant methods of cultivation. It
was at this time that the Cambridgeshire fens were drained, and also
Hatfield Chase, near Doncaster, whilst the salt marshes of Essex and
the low lands of Norfolk were banked against the sea, thus providing a
largely extended area of good pasturage.
On the whole it would seem that, in spite of the Civil Wars, English
farming industry throve in the seventeeth century, and we find that
the rents of both arable and pasture rose decidedly, though Professor
Rogers attributes the rise to the demand made for land by tlioee who
had proSipered by the growth of trade.
There is only one more development to be mentioned, and that is
the introduction of turnips into the regular rotation of crops by Lord
Townshend about the year 1730.
And now I must bring my remarks to a close, with the hope that
I have not taken you with me so far into the past that you will be
unable to return to the consideration of those modern conditions which
are 8o essential to the successful prosecution of the art of dairy farming
in modern times.
LUCERNE GROWING IN SOUTH GIPPSLAND.
By A. Mess, Dairy Su'pervisor.
Lucerne when properly treated ranks among the most valuable of all
fodder crops. Certain climatic conditions, suitable soil, and ample
moisture are necessary for its success, and when these are present it
stands without an equal for rapid growth and prolific yields per acre.
That lucerne can be grown in the hill country of South Gippsland
without irrigation has been profitably proved by Mr. J. F. Tuckey, of
Carrajung. Mr. Tuckey's farm is situated 1,000 feet above the sea level
in hilly country, which is really a continuation of the Blackwarry
Ranges. The soil is rich dark chocolate with a semi-porous subsoil.
Ten acres have been sown down with lucerne — four with Hunter River
seed in April, 1913, and six Avith French Province in November, 1914 —
and now over the whole paddock there is a splendid growth, which
flourishes through the hot summer months, when all other pastures have
withered.
An easterly slope was selected for sowing. After ploughing about
8 inches deep, the land was reduced to a fine state of inellowness and
tilth for the reception of the seed, which was sown broadcast (18 lbs. per
acre), with a dressing of 1 cwt. of superphosphate to the acre.
During last year the lucerne was cut four times — in Septemjber, about
the end of October, in the middle of December, and for a fourth time
towards the end of January. The first two cuttings were of an average
height of 3 feet ; the other two were not quite so good. The first tw^o cut-
tings were not required for feeding, as there was an abundant growth of
grass at the time, and therefore it was made into silage, which subse-
quently proved to be of excellent quality. A common idea with many
landholders is that, no matter what kind of fodder is put into a silo —
thistles or grass of any description — good ensilage is bound to be the
10 Jan., 1918.] Lucerne Groiring in South Gippsland.
37
result. A little reflection will, however, I think, convince most that the
better the material put into the silo the better will be the quality of the
ensilage.
Tlie third and fourth cuttings were fed direct to the cows, fifty-five
being kept all through the dry months. A certain quantity was cut
Second cutting — October, 1916.
Third cutting — <six weeks' growth.
every day with a mowing machine, and, after being allowed to wilt in
the sun, was carted to the paddocks on a sledge, and fed to the cattle.
A few acres of lucerne means an abundant supply of green succulent
fodder through the summer months — one of the great essentials for
keeping up the milk supply. Dairying occupies the chief attention of the
38
Jouni'il of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
bulk of the landholders in South Gippsland, and its jjermanence will
depend to a great extent upon the provision of sufficient quantities of
artificial fodder for the dairy herds. There is no other fodder plant
that will, at the same cost, and from the same area of land, produce as
much fodder per acre as lucerne. Wherever soil and climate favour the
Good type ' ' machines ' ' for converting lucerne into milk.
One of the ' ' machines ' ' — a profitable investment.
cultivation of lucerne, every dairyman Avould do well to follow the
example of Mr. Tuckey, and set apart for it a certain area of his holding.
If irrigation can be applied, so much the better; when well established
and thoroughly irrigated it will yield from six to eight cuttings during
the season, and for stc-ck-owners lucerne may justly be termed the
" Chieftain of the Fodder Plants."
10 Jan., 1918. J List of Fertilizers Registered. 39
LIST OF FERTILIZERS REGISTERED UNDER THE
ARTIFICIAL FERTILIZERS ACT FOR THE YEAR 1918.
P. Rankin Scott, Chemist for Agriculture.
Under the provisions of the Artificial Fertilizers Act, all manufac-
turers and importers of fertilizers are bound to submit for registration
on or before the 1st November in each year, a brand for each fertilizer
they intend offering for sale during the following year. In addition
to his full name and place of business, and the figure, trade mark or
sign to be associated with a fertilizer to identify it, each applicant is
required to gi^'e a statement of the percentage composition of the fertilizer
for which registration is desired in respect of its nitrogen, phosphoric
acid, and potash, showing the forms in which they occur, and the retail
price of the fertilizer. The list of registered brands that have been
accepted is to be found on pages 42 to 46 of this issue.
The term " form " has reference to the combination of the fertilizing
constituent with other constituents. On the combination of the essen-
tial element with other elements largely depends the availability of
the fertilizer.
A fertilizer according to the Act is any material containing nitrogen,
phosphoric acid or potash which has been manufactured, produced, or
prepared in any manner for the pui'pose of fertilizing the soil or supply-
ing nutriment to the plant. The brands registered include only nitrogen
and phosphoric acid.
TJnit Values.
In order to arrive at the unit-values for the year, the Chemist of
the Department of Agriculture, from the result of the analysis of
fertilizers set forth in the applications for the annual registration of
brands, and taking into account the constituents Avhich have a com-
mercial value, and the value thereof, in the simple fertilizers in which
they occur, calculates the average unit-values of such constituents. Such
average unit-values form the basis for calculating the values of all
fertilizers for the period during which any registered brand continues
in force. A table showing the different unit-values fixed for the year
1918 is shown on page 41.
These values serve a useful purpose, as they enable a purchaser to
compare the value of various brands. To determine the value, multiply
the percentage of the constituent as guaranteed by the unit-value fixed
for the same, according to the form in which it occurs, and the result
will return the value for that ingredient. When a fertilizer contains
more than one ingredient, this method of calculation must be repeated,
and the several results totalled in order to ascertain the value of the
fertilizer.
Take, for example, a bone fertilizer and a bonedust —
Bone fertilizer containino — -
Per cent.
Unit-Value.
Value per
ton.
Nitrogen
. . 4.75
X
14s.
Od.
£3
6
6
Phosphoric acid —
Citrate, soluble
. . 8.25
X
5s.
Od.
£2
1
3
Citrate,
insoluble
. . 6.75
X
3 s.
6d.
£1
:i
/
Total
. . ] 5.00
£()
11
4
40 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
Bonedust containing —
Nitrogen . . . . 4.00 per cent.
Phosphoric acid . . . . . . 18.00 per cent.
Mechanical condition —
Fine bone . . . . . . . . 33.00 per cent.
Coarse bone . . . . . . . . 67.00 per cent.
Nitrogen in Fine Bone . . . . 4.00 X 33
100
Nitrogen in Coarse Bone .. .. 4.00 X 6~
100
Phosphoric Acid in Fine Bone ., 18.00 x 33
lOJ
Phosphoric Acid in Coarse Bone .. 18.00 X 67
lOij
Per cenl . Unit-Value. Value per ton
Nitrogen, fine bone . . 1.32 X 16s. Os. £112
Nitrogen, coarse bone .. 2.68 X 14s. Os. fl 17 6
Phosphoric acid, fine bone . . 5.04 X os. Od. £1 !) 8
Phosplioric acid, coarse bone 12.06 X 3s. 6d. £2 2 3
Total . . . . . . £6 10 7
= 1 .32 per cent.
= 2.68 per cent.
= 5.94 per cent.
= 12.0o per ce;it.
Besides the slight variation in the method of calculating the value
per ton of these fertilizers, the foregoing illustration is intended to
draw attention more directly to the difference in the form of guarantee
required for these fertilizers.
Bonedust is a fertilizer made from crushed or ground bones, and its
value depends largely on (a) the percentage of nitrogen and phosphoric
acid it contains; (b) the degree of fineness of the particles of bone.
Bone fertilizers differ from bonedusts in that they contain other
materials, such as gypsum, marl, superphosphate, and rock phosphate.
The latter material is added on account of its high phosphoric acid
content. The addition of rock phosjihate does not tend to make the
fertilizer as available as one made wholly from bone. Therefore, no
brand is registered as a bonedust Avhich contains any of the materials
mentioned.
Basic Phosphate.
This fertilizer is of recent introduction, and owes its appearance
on the list of published brands to the shortage of supply of Thomas
Phos]5hate. It is prepared locally by mixing superphosphate with
sufficient lime to neutralize all the free acid, and convert the super-
phosphate into a less soluble form. Superphosphate so treated contains
its phosphoric acid mainly as citrate soluble, and thus bears some
resemblance to Thomas Phos]ihate, but differs therefrom, however, in
the degree of fineness of its particles, being much coarser grained. The
finer the particles composing a fertilizer, the more surface will be exposed
to the action of the various agencies in the soil. Superphosphate, when
applied to the soil, undergoes a process of reversion. The phosphoric
acid of the superphosphate is mostly sohible in water. When super-
phosphate is applied to land, the soil water will dissolve the phosphate,
and bathe, within certain limits, the particles of soil it may reach.
Meeting with small particles of lime, iron, and alumina oxides, it
enters into combination with them and reverts to a less soluble
condition, and is deposited as a thin coating. A more intimate mixture
is obtained with the soil by superphosphate than would be got through
10 Jan., 1918.] List of FedlUzprs Beglstered. 41
the use of basic phosphate. Further, as this fertilizer is prepared by
mixing lime with superphosphate, it is reasonable to suppose that no
advantage is to be gained by substituting this fertilizer for superphos-
phate on soil containing a fair percentage of lime.
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10 Jan., 1918.] Regulations, &c., Fungicides Act. 51
REGULATIONS, ETC, FUNGICIDES ACT.
The following regulations under the Fungicides Act, which have been
approved by the Executive Council, will probably be of interest to
our readers : —
2. The label to be used in connexion with the sale of any fungicide, insecti-
cide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer shall be plainly printed or written in
black ink or other indelible substance. Every label to be affixed to a parcel
or packet not exceeding one pound in weight shall be in size two inches long
by two inches in breadth, and to parcels or packets exceeding one pound in
weight it shall be in size at least four inches long by two inches in breadth.
3. The percentage of arsenic trioxide (AS^O:)) contained in any fungicide,
insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer shall be shown on the label.
4. The percentage of arsenic trioxide (AS^O^) contained in arsenic shall be
shown on the label.
5. The percentage of arsenic pentoxide (AS^O^j) contained in any fungicide,
insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer shall be shown on the label.
6. In any fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer made or
prepared from lime and sulphur the percentage of sulphur rendered soluble and
the amount of dilution with water required to make the spray suitable for use
shall be shown on the label.
7. The percentage of each principal active ingredient contained in any
fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer shall be shown on
the label.
8. The percentage of nicotine contained in any preparation of tobacco shall
be shown on the label.
9. In the case of oil emulsions sold as fungicides or insecticides the per-
centage of light oil shall be shown on the label.
10. In the case of fungicides or insecticides containing an essential oil the
percentage of essential oil shall be shown on the label.
11. In the case of fungicides or insecticides containing coal tar or coal tar
derivatives the percentage of phenol shall be shown on the label.
12. In the case of fungicides or insecticides containing compounds of calcium
t^e percentage of calcium hydrate (CaHjOt.) uncombined or of calcium oxide
(CaO) uncombined shall be shown on the label.
13. In the case of potassium cyanide or sodium cyanide or mixtures of the
two when used as or in the preparation of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin
destroyer, or weed destroyer, the percentage of cyanide calculated as potassium
cyanide (KCN) shall be shown on the label.
14. In the case of formaldehyde or solutions or preparations containing
folmaldehyde when used as or in the preparation of a fungicide, insecticide,
vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer, the percentage of formaldehyde which is
present in or may be evolved from such solution or preparation shall be shown
on the label.
15. The quantity of water to be added to any arsenical preparation to make
a suitable dipping fluid to be used for dipping cattle and the amount in pounds
of arsenic trioxide (ASoOj) contained in every 400 gallons of the dipping fluid
so prepared shall be shown on the label.
16. The quantity of water to be added to any preparation to make a suitable
dipping fluid to be used for dipping sheep and the names and quantities in
pounds of the active ingredient or ingredients contained in every 400 gallons
of the dipping fluid so prepared shall be shown on the label.
17. In the case of mixtures of any proclaimed fungicides, insecticides,
vermin destroyers, or weed destroyers, the proportion of such fungicides, insecti-
cides, vermin destroyers, or weed destroyers shall be showTi on the label.
18. Any purchaser of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed
destroyer may immediately on purchase of same give written notice to the person
in charge or apparently in charge of the premises of his intention to have the
same analyzed, and shall off"er in his presence to —
(a) divide a sample into three approximately equal parts;
(5) place each such part in a separate package and seal or fasten each
such package;
52 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
(c) place on each such package ft lahel stating the name so far as known
to him of the occupier of the premises or of the person apparently
having possession, custody, or control of the lot from which such
sample was taken, and the date and time of taking;
(d) deliver one of such parts to the person in charge or apparently in
charge of the premises;
(e) retain one of such parts for future comparison, and
(/) forward the other of such parts together with the prescribed fee for
the analysis of same to the Chemist, Department of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
When a fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer is sold in
packages containing not more than two pounds avoirdupois net weight thereof,
the conditions of this clause shall be deemed to have been complied with if three
unopened packages of the preparation are dealt with in the manner indicated
under (c), (d) , (e) , and (/) above as if they were the three parts into which
the sample is to be divided.
The Inspector appointed under the provisions of this Act may take all
measures considered necessary to enforce the requirements of the Act regarding
a defective sample so submitted.
Fees.
19. Tlie following fees are prescribed for the services referred to: —
. s. d.
For each analysis of a vermin destroyer . . . . . . 10 6
For each analysis of a weed destroyer . . . . . . 10 6
For each constituent estimated in a fungicide or insecticide 10 6
Penalties.
20. Any person who shall be guilty of a breach of or who shall fail to comply
with these Regulations shall be liable to a penalty for the first offence not
exceeding Five pounds and for any subsequent offence not exceeding Twenty
pounds.
Hereunder is an extract from a proclamation regarding tlie standard
quality of materials intended for use as fungicides, &c.
Arsenate of Lead. — Lead Arsenate is any compound of Arsenic and Lead.
It shall contain not less than 25 per centum of Arsenic Pentoxide (AS0O5)
combined with Lead and not more than 1 per centum of water-soluble Arsenic
compounds calculated as Arsenic Pentoxide (AS;,0&) both calculated on the
dry basis.
Arsenic shall be of one of the following standards: —
(1) Pure Arsenic shall contain not less than 98 per centum of Arsenic
Trioxide (ASsOj).
(2) Commercial Arsenic shall tontain not less than 88 per centum of
Arsenic Trioxide (AS^Og).
(3) Impure Arsenic is Arsenic containing less than 88 per centum of
Arsenic Trioxide (AS0O3).
Bordeaux Mixture, Bordeaux Paste, or Bordeaux Powder is essentially Basic
Sulphate of Copper, and shall contain Basic Sulphate of Copper equivalent to
not less than 50 per centum Sulphate of Copper (CuSo.i5Ht;0) calculated on a
dry basis, and shall not contain an appreciable quantity of uncombined Copper
Sulphate.
Copper Acetate is neutral Acetate of Copper. When used as or in the pre-
paration of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer, it shall
contain not less than 30 per centum of copper calculated on the dry basis.
Copper Sulphate or Blnestone is a compound of Copper, Sulphuric Acid, and
water. When used as or in the preparation of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin
destroyer, or Aveed destroyer, it shall contain not less than 98 per centum of
pure Copper Sulphate (CuSo4-5H20) .
Crude Petroleum Emulsion or any preparation of crude petroleum shall
contain at least 50 per centum of Crude Petroleum.
Lime is the product obtained by burning Calcium Carbonate. W'hen used
as or in the preparation of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed
destroyer, it shall contain not less than 85 per centum of Calcium Oxide (CaO),
10 Jan., 1918.] Beet for Sheep. ^
and not more than 5 per centum of Calcium Carbonate (CaCOg), and not more
than 2 per centum of Magnesium Oxide (MgO).
Lime-Sulphur is any preparation or compound made from Lime and Sulphur.
When used as or in the preparation of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer,
or weed destroyer, it shall be wholly soluble in water.
Oil Emulsions. — Red Oil Emulsion or any preparation of Red Oil shall
contain at least 50 per centum of Red Oil, and shall not contain any residual oil.
Paris Green is Aceto- Arsenate of Copper. It shall contain not less than
50 per centum of Arsenic Trioxide (AS^Os), and not more Arsenic in water-
soluble form than is equivalent to 3* per centum of Arsenic Trioxide (AS^jOs).
Sodium Arsenate is any compound of Arsenic Trioxide (AS2OTT) and Soda.
Standard Cattle Dip is any concentrated dipping fluid to which the term
" Standard " is applied. It shall contain, when diluted in accordance with
directions which shall be shown on the label, not less than eight pounds of
Arsenic Trioxide (AS^-Oh) in solution, not less than one-half of a gallon and
not more than one gallon of Stockliolm Tar, not less than two pounds of Soap
or its equivalent of Tallow or Saponifiable Oil, and not less than two pounds
and not more than four pounds of Caustic Soda or its equivalent in Sodium
Carbonate in every 400 gallons of the dipping fluid.
Sulphur is the element sulphur whether in its natural or refined state.
When used as or in the preparation of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer,
or weed destroyer, it shall be designated in accordance with its mode of produc-
tion, such as " Flowers of Sulphur," '• Sublimed Sulphur," " Precipitated Sulphur,"'
"' Roll Sulphur," " Natural Sulphur," &c., &c.
Tar used in the preparation of dipping fluids shall mean Stockholm tar,
pine tar, or wood tar, which shall be free from mineral or coal tar.
Verdigris is essentially Basic Acetate of Copper. When used as or in the
preparation of a fungicide, insecticide, vermin destroyer, or weed destroyer, it
shall contain not less than 32 per centum of copper calculated on the dry basis.
Vermin Destroyer. — Any special preparation used as a vermin destroyer shall
be designated in accordance with its principal active ingredient, as for example,
" phosphorus vermin destroyer," " strychnine vermin destroyer," '' arsenic vermin
destroyer," &c. Phosphorus vermin destroyer shall be of such a nature that
when prepared for use according to the directions given by the manufacturer or
vendor, and placed in close contact with dry wood, wood shavings, dry grass,
or dry straw in an air oven at a temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit for
three hours, it shall not cause the ignition of such substance on stirring.
BEET FOR SHEEP.
New Zealand Experiments.
Feeding Value of Silver Beet.
In ISTew Zealand there is something of a boom in the .cultivation of
silver beet as feed for sheep ; and the attention of fat lamb raisers and
others in Australia should be directed to a plant that, even allowing for
all differences of climate, should give a good account of itself on the
mixed farm where sheep take their proper place in the rotation.
Its freedom from insect pests and fungoid diseases, its great
prolificacy in producing a wealth of stem and leaf (giving in 'New
Zealand quite six feedings-oif with sheep in twelve months' time from
date of first feeding), its resistance to drought and severe frosts, its
apparent freedom from the properties that cause scour or_ bloat_ in
sheep, the appreciation of all classes of farm stock for it (trials
having proved that it is relished before rape, kale, or roots), and its
fairly high-feeding value, place it in the forefront of forage and root
crops grown for stock in New Zealand at the present time. The
remarkable results obtained in 1912 at the Canterbury Frozen Meat
54 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
Company's experiment farm at Belfast, and at other farms in the'
South Island, where co-operative field experiments were conducted,
prove in a practical way its possibilities for the feeding and fattening
of all farm animals. At Belfast, a quarter of an acre was sown with
silver beet on the 9th October, 1911, and was ready to feed off in the
last week of Februaiy, 1912. Owing, however, to a flush of other food,
the silver beet was not used for stock feeding until March, 1912, from
which date until the 1st March, 1913, it was stocked at intervals with
sheep, and fed off six times. The results from this quarter-acre show
that one acre would approximately carry 1,014 sheep for 84 days.
The weight of stems and leaves was 210 tons per acre, this weight of
forage being produced within twelve months from the date of first
s-tocking. It should be emphasized that the plants were by no means
exhausted after the sixth feeding, and would have continued to give
further feedings but for the fact that too long a period had been
allowed to elapse between one or two of the foldings. Some of the
plants had thereby thrown out seedstalks, with the result that their
feeding value for subsequent growth was impaired. It was therefore
decided not to keep further records.
The value of silver beet in the fattening of sheep was further
demonstrated by several feeding tests conducted last year; in two
instances the sheep put on at the rate of 1 lb. a day live weight. Silver
beet demands careful management in feeding off. Let the farmer never
make the mistake of growing more silver beet than he can effectively
control and feed off completely at the right periods. It is a crop
that cannot be trifled with. It is, indeed, only when silver beet is
managed to the best advantage that its great value as a forage crop
is realized. Care must be taken not to allow the plant to seed.
The crop is generally fit for feeding in about four months from
sowing. Immediately the outer leaves show an indication of taking
on a yellow tinge the stock should be put on the crop, and here comes
in the first danger. The procedure depends upon the number of sheep
to be fed. The hurdles or break-fence should be placed to enable the
sheep to feed off the beet in seven to nine days, or in a shorter period
if possible. The plant shoots away very rapidly after being eaten
down, and should stock remain upon it a day too long they would eat
the young shoots coming away, and therefore retard the second growth.
The principal feeding off of silver beet is not obtained in the first, but
in the following season. Therefore, the main object of the grower
should be to nurse and conserve the crop, in order that the most
valuable forage to be secured in a subsequent season may be as abundant
as possible. Say that the first feeding has taken place in March; then
the second feeding should be obtained in June. The plant will continue
to grow throughout the winter, and in the spring it provides its best
and most abundant forage. It is at this time of the year that silver
beet shows up to the greatest advantage. But even with the remarkable
spring feed it affords, silver beet, if properly managed, will again
provide good feed about the following March, and again in mid-Avinter
— a fact proved by the experience at Belfast, IST.Z., where the 1911-sown
crop provided excellent feed in March, 1913, and was ready in a month
again for another feeding.
— The. Farmer, Perth.
10 Jan., 1918.] Instinctice Choice of Food hy Cattle. 55
IXSTI^^CTIVE CHOICE OF FOOD AND WATER BY
STOCK.
By E. W. Murphy, Dairy Supervisor.
It is remarkable how cattle will seek special substances Avbicli tbeir
systems need omng to defects in tlie food supply. Top dress a part of a
field where cripples and paralysis are prevalent, and then observe the
fondness of the stock for the treated portion. In country where long-
continued stocking has caused exhaustion of the soil, bone-chewing by
cattle is quite a usual thing. How do the animals know that the bone
contains phosphoric acid and lime? They cannot be seeking for fat, as
any bone at all is chewed, and bone ashes will be eaten with avidity if
placed within their reach, and will produce a very marked improvement
in their health. The eating of dead rabbits by cows — so common in
some districts — is an undoubted sign of a lack of minerals in the herbage.
It is surprising to note, in some districts where bores or wells have
been put down, that cattle will refuse to drink the water in dams supplied
by surface catchment when they have tasted the supply from under
ground, l^ear Penshurst there is a farm which has a large, clean dam,
which was cut off by the railway line from a portion of the j^addock,
and for the waterless part a well was sunk and a hand pump erected.
The owner, an ^ged man, desirous of avoiding unnecessary pumping,
sometimes drives the cow^s to the dam to induce them to drink from it,
but without success, and they will wait for hours for an opportunity to
go to the trough for the mineral water, which has markedly improved
their condition. On another farm not far away the water supply is
from a bore, and the water, though mineralized, evidently does not
contain enough lime, as the cows eagerly lick the limewash off the cow-
shed.
Frequently I have been informed of coWs eating rabbit droppings.
The explanation of this is that the animals are seeking phosphoric acid
— a substance in which the excreta of rabbits is usually rich, as a result
of their feeding on the best grass and roots.
Salt-bushes are known to be very nourishing and wholesome feed,
but, unless protected, they are soon eaten out. It is very strange that
pastoralists should neglect these valuable plants, which would materially
lighten the troubles of dry periods.
I am acquainted with a dairy farm on a bank of the Wannon where
dandelions grow freely. The owner has an outer block upon which cows
become weak and crippled, and it has been noticed that when they are
brought to the river paddock they show a decided preference for the
dandelion, and quickly improve in condition. Apparently the deep-
rooting plants have some tonic virtues, and they are believed to act
also as a digestive stimulant. In many of the better cow paddocks
near Hamilton dandelions grow abundantly, while the areas most
troubled with paralysis have very little of this plant. Yet I have
recently seen a field in the Coleraine district wdth plenty of dandelion
growing on it when all the stock was very badly crippled. This paddock,
56 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [ 10 Jan., 1918.
however, was on a tableland, and the herbage, other than dandelions, was
of an inferior quality, such as blue and scarlet pimpernels, sorrel, and
lobelia, which are all of a tonic nature. On a, small holding such as this
cattle have not much opportunity for instinctive choice, but if there is
a bone they will not miss it, and licks of salt will be much appreciated.
POINTS ABOUT JIBBING HORSES.
Methods of Management.
One of the most exasperating experiences a man can have is to buy a
good-looking horse and find, when he puts him to work, that he is a
jibber. So confirmed are some animals that wlien full strength is
required, they " chuck it up," and will not pull an ounce. If an aged
horse he is incurable, and can never be relied on, so the sooner he is
passed out the better. What makes a horse jib ? Most young horses, if
properly handled, take to the collar freely enough to start with. There
are ample reasons why. Many a good-tempered, free puller has been
ruined by overloading and overdriving before the muscles of his
shoulders have become seasoned to the pressure of the collar. The driver
of a young horse should never expect him to pull a load to start with.
The task should be gradually increased as the horse becomes accustomed
to the work, and gains confidence as his shoulders harden. In all cases
a man should be watchful and see that his horse, especially if a young
one, is not getting winded or showing signs of over-fatigue b}^ breaking
out suddenly into a heavy sweat. Before he stops of his 0"vvn accord pull
him up with a sharp " whoa " ; lift the collar and let his shoulders cool
for a minute or two; do something to the harness while he gets his
wind. By doing this the ajiimal goes freely again, and is not cowed. If
the shoulders are over-heated and tender, and he is out of wind, violent
means to make him go render him frightened, then obstinate, and on the
right track to become a jibber.
Why a Horse Jibs.
Many horses are unreliable pullers and real jibbers when a heavy lift
is required, through bad " seating " for the collar. In some the muscles
of the neck come out to the point of the shoulder in quite a ridge. On
such a horse the collar never sits steady, and when an extra pull is neces-
sary its pressure is all on that muscle and not evenly distributed. A
horse with a neck like that will never be able to stand up to a heavy lift
like the one with shoulders that seat the collar more comfortably. He
jibs because he cannot stand the strain, and to attempt to make him go
with the whip renders him worse. There are horses which are born
rogues, whether draught, light harness, hacks, or racehorses, the last-
named very frequently to the dismay of the o-v\mer and backers. A
harness horse should never be allowed to begin jibbing. By carefully
observing how he is going the driver can usually circumvent it. Many
spirited free-goers have naturally tender shoulders, and after a spell, if
10 Jan., 1918.] Points about Jibbing Horses. 57
only for a week or two, become a bit " collar proud." Such a horse
should never be suddenly asked to do heavy pulling before he has had
a turn round in an empty dray or any other light work to get his
shoulders thoroughly warm. To bluster and bounce such a horse is the
sure way to make him, if not a jib, certainly a rogue. Another cause of
jibbing is over-driving, when, perhaps, the horse is winded, and stops
virtually from exhaustion. Whipping it on again, and, as some bad
drivers do, keep on whipping when the animal is going its best, is not
the thing. This treatment will ruin any young horse, because, whether
he goes or stops, he is being whipped.
Ai* Instance Given.
An example shows the effect of such treatment. A good spring-cart
mare was being broken in to harness by an impetuous man. The mare
took to the collar beautifully, and was driven all over the place. After
dinner the man put it in again for another run, with the collar cold and
the shoulders tender. She w^ould not start. The cart was pushed into
the street, and the driver commenced to flog her. Being spirited, she
played up, but eventually went off at a great pace, with the owner still
flogging her. Next day the performance was worse, and eventually
what originally was the making of a good worker, took to jibbing and
throwing herself down. She was turned out as of no use. After having
a spell she was sold to a widow, who knew nothing about the animal's
reputation. Taking her kindly, and not overloading her to start with,
and by looking after the shoulders, the widow (who had not been taken
in, as some had thought) made a thoroughly staunch worker of what was
sold as a jibber, but was nothing of the sort. The habit was not con-
firmed, and after the spell, being tractable and handled properly, she
was all right.
Another Illustration.
Another illustration of a rogue and jibber combined can be quoted.
This was a horse with a bad shaped, prominent muscle. A farmer broke
it in at light ploughing and harness work. The horse was a bit heavy
for his buggy, and was sold to a tradesman, who had country rounds and
often heavy loads. The animal was most difficult to fit with a collar
that would not rock. However, he was put to work, and some days
would go fairly well, and on others work or stop when and where he
liked. To flog him was no good. Only one driver could get that horse
to do his round. This man used to watch his every action, and at the
first sign of stopping would pull him up, get down, rattle the back of
the cart, look round the harness, &c., for a minute or two, then get up
and start him off again. By adopting this plan that man got him to
work fairly well, but with others he would stop dead, and all the kno-mi
expedients, or flogging, to make him go, were of no avail. He started
when he liked. What was wrong here was a bad-shaped neck, bad seat-
ing for the collar, combined with a roguish temper. This horse was
quiet in every way, but unreliable, and always would be. The life of
a driver of a jibbing horse is never monotonous, because he must be ever
on the watch to stop him before the animal stops himself. By practising
this system regularly, and not overloading at first, many a reputed jib
can be turned into a fairly reliable worker, which a thorough rogue never
58 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 J ax., 1918.
will be. Having pitched battles with horses inclined to jib nearly
always end either in the man's defeat or in spoiling the horse. If a
mare is a confirmed rogue, or bad tempered, it is not advisable to breed
from her, as the progeny are likely to inherit her bad qualities. —
" H.R.," in The Weekly Times.
POTASH.
ITS NEED AND SOURCES.
Prior to the war the German Kali or Potash Syndicate absolutely
controlled the potash industries of the world, the output from the
famous mine at Stassfurt alone being nearly £6,000,000 worth of material
a year. The hold that had been secured was quickly made manifest, for
as accumulated stocks became exhausted, the prices of all potash salts
advanced to a very high figure. Caustic potash advanced from £36 per
ton to £400 per ton. Pearl ash, potassium chloride and sulphate are
unprocurable. The effect of this has been felt in all industries requiring
potash, and in agriculture the position is really serious, for, as potassium
sulphate — which is the principal compound used as the source of potash
in fertilizing manures — is practically unobtainable, this necessary and
important salt is left out of all fertilizers at present on the market.
All authorities agree that potash is essential for the maintenance of
the soil's fertility, and, to show the justification for this agreement,
and the serious results that will ensue by the removal of potash from
fertilizing mixtures, the results of experimental plots of ])otatoes will
be of interest. Using the ordinary fertilizing mixture without potash,
a yield of only 2 tons 16 cwts. was obtained, as against 8 to 10 tons
per acre with potash present.
In experiments with mangel-wurzels by the addition of potash, the
total yield was increased from 12 to 29 tons, and the sugar yield from
0.797 ton to 2.223 tons. All soils, excepting volcanic and granitic in the
virgin state, require potash. Plants which secrete quantities of sugar,
starch, and other carbohydrates, such as beets, sorghum, potatoes,
onions, maize, like^vise the various kinds of fruits, require much potash
for their development.
Apart from the increased yields by the addition of potash, it is
specially noteworthy that its presence imparts increased vigour to plants,
and thus enables them to resist diseases to which they may be subject.
We in Australia are drawing on the reserves of potash present in the
soil, and it may, in some cases, be some time before its loss is made
manifest; but already in Queensland, Avhere pineapples and bananas are
grown, the reserve is exhausted. In the fruit-growing districts of New
South Wales, also, these crops are suffering from the lack of potash.
The position is no doubt serious, but remediable, for the sources
from which potash may be obtained are many and various. In Europe
and America, efforts are being made to establish the potash industry,
and investigations instituted in order to secure the necessary salts under
10 Jan., 1918.] Potash. 59
the most economical conditions. In Australia, the matter has been
engaging the attention of the Commonwealth Advisory Council of Science
and Industry. The cliief possible sources of potash are: — (1) The
ashes of various plants, seaweeds. (2) The water in which sheep's wool
has been scoure(J. (3) Brines and residues of salt lakes. (4) Kesidues
from the manufacture of cane sugar, &c. (5) Fume, as obtained from
cement works as flue dust. (6) Potash-bearing rocks, as alunite, leucite,
felspar, mica, &c.
The Council came to the conclusion that, of all these possible sources,
alunite Avas the most immediately promising. It was necessary,
liowever, first to ascertain by experiment the best method of extracting
potash from the local deposits of this mineral, since each deposit of
alunite varies somewhat in composition, necessitating diiferences in
treatment. The experiments were carried out at the Melbourne Univer-
sity by Mr. F. W. Janes, working under a committee consisting of: —
Mr. A. J. Iliggin, lecturer in raetallurgy; Professor Orme Masson,
professor of chemistry; and Mr. V. G. Anderson. The results of the
experiments, together with much information as to alunite, and
especially as to the deposits in Australia, have now been published as
Bulletin 3 of the Advisory Council, which can be obtained post free
from the Secretary, at 314 Albert-street, East Melbourne.
There are at present three known deposits of alunite in Australia —
two being in South Australia — one at Carrickalinga Head, on St.
Vincent's Gulf, about 40 miles south of Adelaide; and the other near
Warnertown, 17 miles from Port Pirie.
The alunite from Carrickalinga Head is of exceptional purity and
evenness of composition, with a high and very uniform potash value.
In the deposit at Warnertown, though of high grade, yet the proportion
of soda to potash somewhat diminishes its value. The third, which has
been described as the biggest deposit of alunite in the world, and from
which shipments have been made to England for many years, is found
at Bulahdelah, 'New South Wales, about 60 miles north of ISTewcastle.
Alunite is a hydrous sulphate of aluminium and potassium, but, generally
speaking, it contains, in addition, sodium, silica, oxide of iron, lime,
magnesia, chlorine, and phosphoric acid. It usually occurs as a
massive, finely-granular rock, or in nodular masses, varying in colour
from white to red, according to the nature and extent of the impurities
present — the pure mineral being white. It is insoluble in all acids
except strong sulphuric acid upon heating, but is readily soluble in
caustic alkalies. Under varying methods of treatment, and at different
temperatures, it yields products of considerable industrial importance,
such as potash alum, aluminium sulphate, alumina, potassium sulphate,
and sulphuric acid. As potash for fertilization is perhaps at present
the most necessitous of our requirements, it may be pointed out that the
results of experiments carried out by the Bureau of Soils, Washington,
United States of America, show that roasted alunite was, on the average,
more effective than either high-grade potassium sulphate or chloride.
The increase of crops resulting from the addition of raw alunite was
14 per cent., roasted alunite gave 40 per cent., and potassium sulphate
and chloride showed about 38 and 31 per cent, respectively, corresponding
amounts of potash being used in each case. The best i-esults were
60 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
secured with from 50 to 100 lbs. per acre. These facts indicate that we
have at our disposal a fertilizer for the supply of the much needed
potash salts.
The Bulahdelah deposits are in a most favorable position to furnish
a product of this description, and can be treated at a low cost. The
plant required would not involve a large outlay of capital, and the
process is so simple that no difficulty should be found in successfully
carrying it out from the start. It should at the same time be recognised
that the ultimate success of this industry depends on the treatment to
be accorded to the German Potash Syndicate in the future. If the Germau
imports are stopped, or the supply of potash is not available as at present,
then alunite offers the simplest solution of the problem for the quick
production of a high-grade product at a reasonable outlay, with every
guarantee of success. The problem is not so much a chemical or
mechanical as an econontic one. Given favorable conditions, Australia
should be easily able to supply her needs of potash salts without delay
from her deposits of the mineral alunite.
— Communicated by the Commonwealth Advisory Council
OF Science and iNorsTRY.
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., PomoJogist.
The Orchard.
If the work has not already been done, the orchard should be kept
in constant cultivation so as to conserve the abundant spring rains.
Should the siunmer become hot and dry, this will be a very neces-
sary precaution. Even where the soil had been previously well
cultivated, the cultivators should again be run over the surface, as
any hot weather will cause the soil to crust, which would be the means
of dissipating a very considerable amount of soil water. Every effort
should be taken to retain this moisture, so that the fruit crops shall
have all they require for their perfection. To further attain this end,
no weeds should be allowed to grow in orchard soils.
Bl'DDING.
Young trees, or old trees that have been previously cut down in pre-
paration for budding, may be worked towards the end of the month.
It is advisable to select dull, cool weather for this operation, so that the
sap may run more freely, and that atmospheric conditions may not have
too drying an effect on the bud. The operation of budding is a very
simple one, and is easily performed. To gain a successful end, the sap
should be flowing freely, so that when the cuts are made the bark should
" lift " or " run " easily, and without any clinging or tearing of the
fibres, and it should separate freely from the wood. The bud selected
should be firm and well matured, and should show no signs of premature
10 Jan., 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 61
growth whatever. It should be cut from the scion with a shallow cut,
and if any wood be left in the cutting it should be taken out of the bud.
A smooth, clean spot should be selected on the bark of the stock, and a
T-shaped cut made, the vertical cut being longer than the horizontal
one. The bark at the point where the cuts meet should be raised, and
the bud inserted between the bark and the wood of the stock. The bud
should be gently pressed down into position, and then bound with soft
twine, string, or raffia. If the bud be too long for the cut, the top may
be cut off level by means of a horizontal cut. With practice, it will soon
become possible to take the buds so that they will need neither cutting
nor trimming.
After two or three weeks the buds should be examined to see if they
have " taken," that is, if the bud has united thoroughly to the stock.
When this occurs, the tie may be cut. If a growth be desired at once,
all wood above the bud may be cut off some short distance above the
bud, so as to prevent any bark splitting, and consequent loss of the bud,
and so as to throw the bud out at a fair angle. Ultimately this should
be properly trimiued.
If desired, the bud may be left dormant throughout the autumn and
winter till spring. In this case, the branch should not be cut oif, but
left on till the usual winter pruning.
Summer Pruning.
The profuse spring rains have caused a vigorous groAvth in the
fruit trees. In order to more economically utilize this abundant
growth, it should be now summer pruned, particularly on the apple
and pear trees. Care should be observed that as much of the
leafage as possible is retained on the tree. Unduly long laterals of
fruiting trees may be shortened back, always cutting to a leaf.
Unnecessary terminal leader growths, of which there are sometimes three
or four, all strong growing, may be reduced to one, retaining this one
as a leader. In no case should this growth be cut or interfered with in
any way.
The results of these cuts will be to divert the sap which Avas flowing
into growths that would subsequently be pruned, into more profitable
channels, so that weak buds and growths may be strengthened, and
induced into fruit bearing.
Vegetable Garden.
The work in this section is much the same as in the flower garden.
Good mulching and regular soil stirring will be the work for the month.
As soon as any bed is cleared of vegetables, it should be manured and
well dug over in preparation for the next crop. Deei? digging is always
desirable in vegetable growing. If any pest, such as aphis, or cater-
pillars, or tomato weevil, have been present, it would be advisable to
burn all the crop refuse, or to destroy any insects that remain, and to
give the plot a dressing of gypsum, or of Clift's manurial insecticide.
Keep the tomatoes well waterediand manured, pinching out surplus
and strong grown laterals. In early districts the onion crop will be
ripening. In late districts, or with late crops, the ripening may be
62 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jax., 1918.
hastened by breaking down tlie top. An autumn crop of potatoes may
be planted. Cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, and celery plants may be
planted out.
Flower Garden.
January should be a busy month in the garden. It may be necessary
to water frequently, and after every watering the surface should
be well loosened, and stirred with the hoe to keep it moist and
cool. More cultivation and less water is a good rule to be obser^'^ed.
The hoe should be used more, and the hose less in summer, greater
benefits will accinie, and the water bill will be considerably reduced.
Mulchings with straw, grass, »&c., are very useful just now. The mowings
from laws form valuable mulching. Waste tobacco stems are also
valuable as a mulch.
Dahlias, chrysanthemums, and other tall-growing, slender herbaceous
plants will require support in the way of stakes. They will also need
mulching considerably. These plants should receive no check whatever,
and should be continued with a regular even growth right through the
season. Another desideratum is that soils should be well drained, as
plants of all descriptions thrive better in well-drained soils.
A sharp look-out should be kept on these plants for attacks of red
spider. If this insect appears, a good spraying of tobacco solution or
benzole emulsion should be given.
Constant watch will need to be kept for the various small caterpillars
that attack the buds of these plants. Spraying with a weak solution
of paris green and lime, or similar insecticide, will be useful. Hand-
picking should also be resorted to.
REMINDEHS FOR FEBRUARY.
LIVE STOCK.
Horses: At grass. — Supplement dry grass, if possible, with some greenstuflF.
Provide plenty of pure water and shade shelter. In stable. — Supplement hard
feed with some greenstuff, carrots, or the like, and give a bran mash once a week
at least. Avoid over-stimulating foods, such as maize and barley. Give hard
feed in quantities only consistent with work to be performed. Stable should be
well ventilated, and kept clean. When at work, give water at short intervals.
Always water before feeding. Great benefit will result in supplyinnf horses — ■
more especially young ones running at grass — with a lick. The following one
is recommended: —
Salt . . . . . . . . 20 parts
Lime . . . . . . . . . . 20 parts
Superphosphate . . . . . . . . 10 parts
Sulphate of iron . . . . 5 parts.
By having troughs constructed that will protect tlie lick from rain a considerable
saving will be made.
Horses at grass require their feet attended to at frequent intervals, otherwise
deformity of feet and lameness may result.
10 Jan., 1918.] Reminders. 63
Cattle. — Provide succulent feed and plenty of clean water easy of access; also
shade and salt lick in trough. Have each cow's milk weighed and tested for butter
fat regularly. Rear heifer calves from those that show profitable results. Give
milk at blood heat to calves. Keep utensils clean or diarrhoea will result. Do
not give too much at a meal for the same reason. Give half-a-cup of limewater
per calf per day in the milk. Let them have a good grass run or lucerne, or
half-a-pound of crushed oats in a trough. Dehorn all dairy calves except those
required for stud or show purposes. Keep bulls away from cows.
Pigs. — Sows about to farrow should be supplied with short bedding in well-
ventilated styes. All pigs should be provided with shade and water to wallow in.
There will be plenty of cheap feed available now, and there is a good marg-in
between cost of feed and price for fat pigs. Read Bulletin No. 16, May, 1!)15.
Pigs should be highly profitable animals to feed now.
Very coarse cross-bred ewes are usually not in season until this month. Where
grazing sheep or ewes for future breeding and shearing are required, good fleeced
merino rams, if procurable, should be used with these. Quality and quantity of
fleece, as well as carcase, should be kept in view for several years to oome. Should
there be among the rams to be used any distinctly inferior to the others, keep them
back for twenty-one days, giving the best rams the first three weeks, being sure the
ewes are in season. Narrow, inferior rams are almost invariably active, rapid
workers compared to sheep of more substance. Keep salt available. Drench any
weaners scoviring. If necessary to feed do not wait until in-lamb ewes are \veak
before commencing. When on continuous dry feed sheep move directly off camp
to water towards evening each day before feeding. When water becomes inferior,
or scarce, and available to in-lamb ewes irregularly, losses with both ewes and
lambs before and after lambing appears to be more prevalent.
Avoid moving good woolled sheep unnecessarily in heat and dust of summer.
Poultry.- — Chickens should now be trained to perch ; they will be more healthy.
Provide plenty of green feed and give less grain and meat. Avoid condiments.
Keep water in cool shady spot and renew three times each day. Keep dust bath
damp.
Birds showing symptoms of leg weakness should be given 1 gi'ain of quinine per
day (three months old chickens, ^ grain) and plenty of milk.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — See that haystacks are weatherproof. Cultivate stubble and fallow,
and prepare land for winter fodder crops. Get tobacco sheds ready for crop. In
districts where February rains are good, sow rye, barley, vetches, and oats for
early winter feed.
Orchard. — Spray for codlin moth. Search out and destroy all larvae. Cultivate
the surface where necessary and irrigate where necessary, paying particular atten-
tion to young trees. Fumigate evergreen trees for scale. Continue budding.
Flower Garden. — Cultivate the surface and water thoroughly during hot
weather. Summer-prune roses by thinning ovit the weak wood and cutting back
lightly the strong shoots. Thin out and disbud dahlias and chrysanthemums.
Layer carnations. Plant a few bulbs for early blooms. Sow seeds of perennial
and hardy annual plants.
Vegetable Garden. — Continue to plant out seedlings from the seed-beds. Sow
seeds of cabbage, lettuce, cauliflower, peas, turnip, and French beans. Keep all
vacant plots well dug.
Vineyard. — February is the best month for the " Yema " or Summer bud graft
(see article in Journal for January and February, 1917). Select scion-bearing
vines; mark with oil paint those conspicuous for quality and quantity of fruit,
regular setting and even maturity.
Sulphur again, if oidium is prevalent, but avoid applying sulphur to wine
grapes too short a time before gathering.
Cellars. — Prepare all plant and casks for the coming vintage. An ounce of
bisulphite of potash, or a couple of fluid ounces of bisulphite of soda solution, to
each bucket of water used to swell press platforms, tubs, &c., will help to keep
it sweet. Keep cellars as cool as possible. Complete all manipulations so as to
avoid handling older wines during vintage.
64
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
MANGE IN DOGS.
Mange as commonly found in dogs is of two varieties, each due to
the rapid growth in or on the skin of mange mites or acari. One
variety which causes intense itching is known as sarcoptic mange. The
symptoms are small red patches, extending, which the dog contlunously
rubs; they may be on any part of the body, but generally commence
on the head and ears and lower line. The skin is red and inflamed, and
has small papules and vesicles not unlike those of eczema. The hair
falls off and the skin becomes thickened and grey and scurfy. The
disease spreads quicklj^, and in a few weeks the whole body may be
involved, the dog becomes poor and miserable. Treatment, says the
Veterinary Lecturer (Mr. F. E. Place, B.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.) demands
the destruction of all bedding and the disinfection of sleeping places,
otherMdse a cure is impossible. A soda bath should be given, and when
dry half the body should be dressed with a mixture of flowers of sulphur
4 ozs., liquor potasse 2 ozs., oil of tar 2 ozs., and olive oil to a pint. In
four days to a week he should have another soda bath, and the other
half of the body should be dressed. A week later all the grease should
be removed by another soda bath, and in most cases the dog will be
cured.
The other form of mange is known as follicular, and occurs in two
forms, pustular or squamous, i.e., in mattery heads or scurfy scales.
It generally begins round the eyes, and spreads to the face and forehead,
it then appears on the feet and legs, especially inside the elbows, and
gradually extends over the body. The first symptoms are patches of
baldness, the skin is hot and purplish, with papules and piistules; as
the patches increase in extent the skin thickens and puckers into folds,
especially about the head, and there is a peculiar offensive smell, and
the skin turns a slaty grey, cracks, and blood oozes, and often there is
a dropsical swelling about the head. The dog seldom scratches, but
shivers and shakes himself. Eor treatment a satisfactory dressing is a
mixture of formalin 3 drams, glycerine 2 ozs., methylated spirit 2 ozs.,
oil of cloves 3 drams, olive oil 3 ozs., almond oil 3 ozs. This is applied
daily, and there is a reddening and swelling of the skin; after a few
dressings the pustules dry, become scaly, and disappear; the skin
becomes soft and healthy. Sulphur ointment is then applied for a few
times, and followed by a daily dressing of formalin v dram, glycerine
1 oz., tincture cantharides 1^ drams, salicylic acid \ dram, methylated
spirit 1 dram, almond oil 2 ozs., olive oil 6 ozs.
The hair begins to grow, and the worst case is cured.
The squamous^or scaly type is more generally found in small pets
than in farm dogs, and requires less drastic but more persistent treat-
ment.— {^Journal of Agriculture, South Australia, May, 1917.]
-^•^^?r^<%^:^
10 Jan., 1918.1
J ourntil of Agriculture, Victoria.
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Jouriud of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Jan., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
Red Poll Dairy Herd
This Herd's Record under the Government Herd Test, including all dairy
breeds, is the third best in the State. It contains the first cow in order o{
merit amongst all breeds for 1914-15, and the third for 1915-16; also the
Winner of the Weekly Times Butter Test at the Melbourne Royal Show, 1916
Stt Individual Records of Cows on opposite page.
Proof of DUAL PURPOSE CHARACTER is eiven by the Prices for Culled Cows in
the Fat Stock Market reaching to £27 10s. and £29 10s. ; by a cow yielding 1,000 gallons of
milk containing 448 lbs. butter in a year and selling at butcher's auction for £22 7s. 6d.;
and by cows in milk weighing upwards of 1,500 lbs. live weight.
The Bulls in Use include —
LONGFORD MAJOR (Imported)
Dam's Record 14713 lbs. milk
G. Dam's „ 10548 ,.
6 years average 10548 lbs. milk
4 .. .. 9155 „
BELLIGERENT (Imported)
Dam's Record (1st milking) 7144 lbs. milk.
Dam's Dam t
Sire's Dam's
Sire's D. Dam's
G. Sire's D. Dam's
G.G. Sire's D. Dam's
G.G.G. Sire's D. Dam's
14533 lbs,
10370
9510
10215
12565
10088
lilk
4 years average 12871 lbs. milk
7 ,. ., 9354
12
7
10
2
8033
9386
8853
9754
BULLi CALVES are sold at prices based approximately on the actual milk and buttar
fat record of the dam at the rate of Is. per lb. of butter fat yielded.
(NOTE. — AH the bull calves of 1916 drop have been sold, and choices from cows to calve
this season have been booked ahead of calving. The demand for bull calves is so strong
that farmers contemplating purchase are advised to study the records of the herd published
in the February (1917) Journal of Agriculture and book their orders ahead, stipulating
choice of bull calves from, say, three of the recorded cows.)
Inspection of the Herd is invited.
Visitors will be met at the Station on notification to : —
Mr. R. R. KERR, Dairy Supervisor j
or State Research Farm, Werribee.
Mr. ED. STEER, Herdsman J
Application for purchase to DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE.
10 Jan., 1918.]
JovDud of A gricultvre, Victoria.
Goveri
unent Herd of R
edf
>oUs
MILK RECORDS
Th* fisuret below refer to the cow's best lactation period. Details of each
cow's yearly performance
since the establishment of the herd are given in the Journal for
February. 1917.
Eacb cow's avers^es ior all lactation periods will be famithed en application to tbe Director of Arricnltnre. |
cows
NAMES.
Days
Weeks
Milk,
Average
Butter
Commercial
Price of
in Milk.
in Milk.
in lbs.
Test.
Fat (lbs.)
Butter (lbs.)
Bull Calf.
Muria , .
365
52
14,972
5 9
885
1,008
43 Guineas
Birdseye
365
52
9,146
6-5
597
683
29
Netherlana
365
52
11,506
4-3
490
560
24
Vuelta . .
289
41i
7,750
6-2
485
653
24
Persica . .
351
50
9,607
4-9
480
647
23
Cuba
337
48
10,464
4-5
478
645
23
Bullion . .
321
45i
10,928
4 3
469
535
23
Virginia . .
344
49
10,252
4-4
457
520
22
Pennsylvania
348
49J
10,607
4 1
437
499
21
Sumatra
290
41i
9,232
4-6
431
492
21
Violet III.
365
52
• 9,172
4-7
427
488
21
Egypta . .
327
46i
10,646
3 9
418
477
20
Phillipina
365
52
8,213
4-9
400
456
19
Mexicana
282
40i
8,641
4-6
400
456
19
Lily
365
52
8,525
4-6
392
448
19
India
365
52
8,556
4-6
391
445
19
Europa . .
347
49J
8,765
4 4
387
441
19
Kentucky
338
48
9,893
3 9
382
436
19
Goldleaf
362
51i
8.415
4 4
378
431
18
Picotee . .
365
52
8,490
4-4
371
424
18
Primrose League
365
52
8,000
4 4
363
403
35
(imp.)
La Reina
329
47
6,712
6 13
344
394
17
Pipio
334
47i
6,802
4-8
326
372
16
Mongolia
283
40
7,483
4 33
323
369
16
Turka . .
279
39i
6,395
4-9
316
360
15
Britannia
329
47
7,637
3 9
301
343
15
Samoma
365
52
6,198
4-75
294
335
14
Asiana . .
279
39i
5,933
4-9
292
333
14
Tennessee
311
44i
6,706
4-2
283
322
14
Alpina . .
344
49
7,094
4 0
283
322
14
Sylvia . .
301
43
6,286
4-84
256
292
12
Hispana
365
52
6,574
3 6
242
276
12
Africana
303
43
5,082
4-72
240
274
12
Tasmania
325
46
6,112
4 52
231
264
11
Canada . .
275
39
4,918
407
200
228
10
P
iEIFERS (1st Milking completed, 191
5-16)
Carribea
365
52
7,142
4 35
310
364
16 Guineas
Japana . .
357
51
7,788
3 63
283
322
14
Serbia . .
365
62
6,092
4-45
271
309
13
Itala . .
365
52
6,346
409
260
297
13
Oceana . .
365
52
6,247
4 11
256
292
12
Russia . .
365
52
6,413
3-96
254
290
12
Panama
288
41
5,997
4-23
254
290
12
Ontario
365
52
6,059
415
251
286
12
Soudana
346
49
5,486
4-54
249
284
12 „
Pacifica
365
52
4,979
4-88
243
278
12
Laurel . .
325
46
5,554
4-86
226
267
11
Barbery
359
51
5,387
3-72
200
228
10
Congo , .
296
42
4,449
4-21
187
213
10
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Jan., 1918.
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T. A. J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
J'. J. Carmody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knight.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Kenyon, C.E., and othem.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T.A.J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. O. H. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. //. T. Eauterby.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Caincnm, D.V.Sc, M.H.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawer.i.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. O. Baxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T. A. J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
Dr. S. S. Cameron and others.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Mceking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. If. A. N. Robertson. B.V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. Richardson, 3f.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. O. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1913-14. W. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, ETC,
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. R. Beuhne.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1914-15. W. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. 5. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
I Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring;
I I!ees, Feeding Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
I ing, Some Vintag-e Considerations, Spring Frosts,
I Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato.
A PROMINENT FARMER'S
OPINION OF
!!
Mitchell"
Harvesters
" From the time the three "Mitchell" 6 ft.
Harvesters were started till they finished
950 acres, we never had a single hitch or
stop with any one of them. The crop
went up to 12 bags to the acre, and they
made a remarkably good sample, and pull
easy. Four horses would pull them but
with five horses a good pace can be kept
up all day. I have worked and owned
various other popular makes of Harvesters,
but I can honestly and conscientiously say
the "Mitchell" is absolutely the best, and
I must compliment your firm on turning
out such a good and reliable machine. I
can honestly recommend the "Mitchell"
Harvester to any farmer wanting a machine
as an excellent one."
H. A. PAECH, Walla Walla, N.S.W.
As these 3 "Mitchell's" handled
this 9SO-acre 12-bag crop with-
out a single hitch, don't you
think it's safe to handle yours?
Ask for Catalogues of our Farm and Dairy
Machines, and please say you saw this Ad.
MITCHELL
& Co. Pty. Ltd.
WEST FOOTSCRAY, MELBOURNE
SHOWROOM: 596 BOURKE STREET. MELBOURNE
And at Bay-street, Sydney.
Agencies in all Chief Towns.
10 Jan., 1918.1
Joui-nal of Af]iiciiltvre, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MELBOURNE. VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA
NOW AVAILABLE
BULLETIN 31
Bee-Keeping in Victoria
By F. R. BEUHNE,
: Government Apiculturist.
Comprising 1 26 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated)
dealing with various phases of Bee-keeping, and specially
adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING
Postage: Commonwealth, Id.; New Zealand, 22d. ; British & Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
This Journal
offers exceptional
: : advantages : i
To Stock Owners,
Produce Agents
and Stock Sales-
men, Implement
Makers, Sellers
of Milking Ma-
chines and Dairy
Utensils, Orchard
Appliances and
Materials, and all
Farmers' Supplies
for Advertising
10,000 copies per month Guaranteed
Circulation throughout the Country
Districts of Victoria and amongst
Farmers of the Commonwealth, reach-
ing also country professional men,
tradesmen, schoolmasters, teachers,
and the like. Exceptionally satisfac-
tory results have followed the adver-
tising of Stud Stock in this Journal.
fhT6ZTca:":sJ:s: Mr. J. J. WRIGHT and Mrs. HEMMING
c/o Editor. Department of Agriculture. Melbourne.
Jouriud of Agriculture, Vicforia.
[10 Jan., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
I
1^* NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of
all kinds, Dairy Farmers and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding
Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due
Dates, Females with Record of Progeny,
Sires with Record of Service, General
Service Record, Pedigree Charts, Milk
Fat and Butter Records for Dairy Stock
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is
strongly bound in half leather. A limited number available.
Price, 10/6
Postage — Victoria I /6, other States and N . Zealand 2/8 extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and
Postage, to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittsnces from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 Jan., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
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PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2s. 6d.
Postage, Id.
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet. 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly " or " Weekly."
By Professor A. J. Ewart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS, AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C, Hd.; N.Z.,5d.; B. & F.. IOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II.. lOs. Postage : C. 2d.;
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By C. French, F.E.S., Gooernment Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts I.
each. Postage: Parts I. and III., C, Id.; N.Z., 3d.
II. ai
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Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
xxiv Journal of Agiicidture, Victoria. [10 Jan., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES.
FACILITIES
are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the various kinds of
produce, so that dired shipments on their own account may be under-
taken. The Government ownership and condud of Cool Stores places
producers in an independent position, and, in addition, preserves an
open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in perishable
produds.
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
will receive, handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs,
Fruit, Meat, Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for
producers and exporters.
PRODUCE
to the value of over £27,000,000 has been treated at the Govern-
ment Cool Stores.
Government Cool Stores. Telephones.
•) Office: 10383 Central
VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley Street) j Engineer-in-Charse : 10332
Doncaster - - 397 Canterbury
Diamond Creek - - 151 Heidelberg
Tyabb - -
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telephone 93 80 Central.
By Authority: Albert J. Mtjilbtt, Government Printer, Melbonrne.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
POULTRY FOR SEHLERS
Cockerels and Pullets
Bred from the following matings
WYUNA WHITE LEGHORNS-DISTINCT STRAINS
each
Wyuna Special Mating - - - - - £l 1 0
Cosh No. 1 Special - - - - - _ I 1 Q
Subiaco No. 1 Special - - - - - 1 1 0
Cosh-Swift X Moritz 110
Cosh-Swift X Fulham Park - - - - - 1 1 0
A limited number of Cockerels from Trap-nested Hens
(250 upwards) x Moritz Cocks - - - 2 2 0
The Moritz Cocks are full brothers to the sire of pullet which laid 315 eggs at
Bendigo Single Pen Competition, 1916-17— World's Record.
Orders may now be booked from the Poultry Pens
at the Wyuna Farm for delivery from March, 1918
RHODE ISLAND RED COCKERELS
£1 : 1 : O £2 : 2 : O
Note.-W. N, O'Mullane's Champion Burnley Pen (1 91 4- 1 91 5). which
established the still unbeaten world's record of 1 ,699 eggs, was the progeny of a
hen hatched from a Wyuna sitting. This pen recently realized £75
VICTORIAN
RAILWAYS
=^
PICTURESQUE VICTORIA
® ® ®
SUMMER
EXCURSIONS
The Victorian Railways issue Summer Excursion Fares to the
Seaside, Mountains, Rivers, Lakes, and Caves,
from 1 5th November till 30th April.
MOUNT BUFFALO
Excursion Fares all the year
round.
First-Class Special Inclusive
Week Tickets
covering Transport and Accommoda-
tion, at "The Government Chalet,"
are issued on Mondays by the
6.15 a.m. train, and on Fridays by
the 4 p.m. Express train, at £>6
Excursionists wishing to travel by motor
from Bright may do so, weather permitting,
on payment at Bright of 3/- extra.
Special Inclusive Week
Excursion Tickets
all inclading Accommodation, &c.
HEALESVILLE
Rail, Coach Drives, &c., 7 c)ays, £3 3/-
WARBURTON
Rail, Coach Drives, 6cc., 7 days, £3 5/-
MOUNT BUFFALO
See other side.
Write to the Government Tourist
Bureau for full particulars.
Victorian Government Tourist Bureau
Opposite Town Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne
Full Information supplied in regard to Excursions, Tourist
Resorts, Accommodation, &c. Tickets issued daily.
Handbooks, Maps, and Hotel Guides Free on application.
Telephone Nos. 2898
and 2899 Central.
GEO. H. SUTTON.
Secretary for Railways.
Vol. XVI. NHILL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY Part 2.
ANNUAL CROP COMPETITIONS.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
^TRALIA.
w' ■"■
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 5/-.)
~^T ^^^'^ ^£^ <^^ Tfm-
^fc:.*' :< * <
SOW BRUNNINGS
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BRUNNING'S
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Many are the advantages gained by sowing
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Victorian Seed Warehouse
64 Elizabeth St., Melbourne
THE J OUR JN A I.
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
VICTOR.I^A^, ^^U-STR.A.IL.1.^.
CONTENTS.— FEBRUARY, 1918.
Xliill Agricultui-al Sooiet}' Annual Crop and Fallow Competi-
tions ... ... ... ... ... H. A. JliUlett, B.Ag.Sc.
Apple Culture in Victoria ... ... ... J. Fair ell
Wheat Experimental Plots in the Mallee, 1917 Season //. A. Mullett, B.Afj.Sc.
Inspection of Fertilizers — Review for Year 1917
P. JRankin Scott and Will C. Robertson
l)isea.ses of Fruit Trees and their Treatment ... H. W. Davey, F.E.S.
The Honey Flora of Victoria
A Water Weed at Toorourrong
Xursery Stock ...
Home-made Sheep Dip
Power Alcohol
Wheat Storage Problems
District Rainfall in Victoria
The Stabled Horse
Orchard and Garden Notes
Reminders
F. Ii. Bfuhne
A. ./. Eicnrt, D.Sc, Ph.D.
F. I!. 7\
I pie
/;. A'. Pc':cott. F.L.S.
NEW YOW
•OTANJC,'..
65
80
89
94
101
107
H»!)
Ill
114
115
117
121
1 ■_>■_'
1-24
127
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the Journal of the Department ot Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspajiers wishing
to republisli any matter are at liberty to do so, xn-ovided the Journal and author are
hoth achtoicledqed.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in iv:lvanee
and includes postage, is 3s. per annum for the Commonwealth and New Ze.al.ind, and
OS. for the United Kingdom and Foreisn Countries. Single copy, Threepence.
Subscrif.tions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Meli)Ourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by tlie Department of Agriculture
will be supplied b\- the latter.
JoKnial of Af/?'icuffure, Victoria.
ni Feb.. 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Including Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID, G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES,
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
Inspection of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springhurst, Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON,"Banyule; Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of all
kinds. Dairy Farmers, and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
:: :: Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock :: ::
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather.
P„J^ _ 1 a /R ^ limited number available.
rriCe, IV/O Postage— Victoria and other States 1/6, New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
4
Feb., 1918.]
Journal of AiiricuU me, Victoria.
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Joiiinal of Ar/riciiHu'-e, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
^^\ NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. McALPINE,
government vegetable pathologist.
With Appendices by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologist).
on Eel Worms;
and
C. French. Jnr. (Corernment
Entomologist), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
235 Pagei (Cloth). 58 Full Plates. PrirA ^ /■ Postage : Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealand, 8d.:
176 Illustrations. 1 I ILC, KJ/ British and Foreign. 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director Of
Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria. Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and W. Percy Wilkinson.)
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postage : C, l^d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Papef, 6d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id. ; X.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., (Jd.
NEW METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION "WITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Ls. Postage: (J., 1 ^d. ; N.Z.', 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON WINE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, ^d. ; S.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4<1.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage :
C, Id. : X.Z., 4d. ; H. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
By D. McAlpine, Government Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Postage: C, 2d.: N.Z., 8d.; B. & F.. Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C, lid.; N.Z., 9d.; B. & F.. Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. Postage: C. Id.: N.Z..
3d.: B. & F.. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C. 1*d.;
N.Z., 5d.; B, & F., lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage : C. 2d. ; N.Z..
8d. ; B. & F., Is. 4d.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Chequ* covering price and postage to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
11 Fpb., 1918.]
JoiiriKil nf A i/riciilt iin , ]' icforiti .
ii
BILLABONG Centrifugal
PUMPS
SHAFTPIG.— The shaft is of suitable
diameter, and supported in long journals
lined witji " Velocite," an anti-friction
hearing metal of our own make, and of
which users speak very highly.
WATERWAYS.— The water-vays are
spacious, and the divided suction prevents
undue thrust on the spindle.
For raising large quantities of Water
tor Irrigation and other purpcses.
This Centrifugal Pump embodies
many notable features — a result of our
long experience in Pump manufacture.
It is made at our Melbourne Works of
good quality materials and by expert
Pump Engineers.
BEARINGS.— These are of the parted
type, rendering perfect accessibility, and
new liners may be cheaply fitted if
necessarv.
STUFFING BOXES. GLAND. ETC.
Stufting Box and (JIand are strong, well
made, and accuralL-ly fitted.
LUBRICATION. —A most important item— especially in highspeed machines. This
Ijuiiil) iN cfpiipped with large oil wells and ring system. A brass .ring hangs over the
>haft and dips into the oil well below ; as the shaft revolves the ring and oil are
carried with it. Therefore, so long as there is oil in the wells continuous and
thorough lulirication is maintained while pump is working. (All excess oil finds its
way into the oil wells again, thus eliminating waste.)
BED PLATE.— The pump is well
made, carefully assembled, and is mounted
on a massive i)ed plate-^ the whole forming
a very high-class machiiie.
SWIVELLING DEVICE.— Ihis is
readily adaptable to ground of varying
formation, but to meet special conditions we
can supply certain sizes with end suction,
and will forward particulars to enquirers.
The efficiency of our pumps •aken under actual test is 75)4 per cent,
consider, for a stock line of pump, altogeiher aliove tlie average.
PRICE LIST ON APPLICATION
This, we
Near
G.P.O.
&SON|
'Phone
8385
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Fluming, &c., &c.
391-403 BOURKE ST., MELBOURNE
And at 324-330 PITT STREET, SYDNEY
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Feb., 1918.
Two Separators with One Message
Save! Save! Save!
The "Viking"
Costs half the price of other high grade separators, which it beats
hands down for durabiUty and efficiency. It skims every particle
of cream. The bowl is self-balancing, plates are shaped. There
are no discs to bend or get lost. Cleaning is easy and thorough.
A Month's Free Trial
given with every separator. Return at our expense if you are not satisfied. Made in various sizes.
I 5 galls, per hour to 1 I 5 galls, per hour. Twro years' guarantee given with every machine.
Can be purchased for £,\ Deposit, and ^1 IVIonthly. Send for special catalog.
Last 400 "Favorite" Separators at present prices
These have just been landed. Future shipments will carry a big increase in price.
Buy one now and save pounds. The " Favorite" is the best household separator
for the man with one or two cows. A boy can turn it, and it works perfectly. Full
skimming capacity guaranteed. Only two parts in bowl. Easy to clean. Solid,
compact, strong, & efficient. This last 400 are sure to sell rapidly. Secure yours now.
No. 1 — 1 1 gal. per hour
No. 2 — IS gal. per hour
Terms -£, 1 down
£. 1 monthly
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
no -114 Sturt Street, South Melbourne
Agent for Tangye Oil, Steam, and Gas Engines
proxA
NO
Danger
of
FIRE!
THE WELL-KNOWN
RABBIT DESTROYER
In 2 lb. Tins, 28/- per doz.
FELTON, GRIMWADE, & CO., Melbourne
11 Feb.. 1918.1
Journal of A firiculture, Victoi'la.
We stock Most
Tools for FARM,
HOME & WORKSHOP
Farm Drills
These Drills are absolutely reliable in quality
and workmanship. Perfect Drills — strong,
rapid, and complete.
Post Drill "A'
Drills J inch hole to centre of 12
incli circle, hand power. £2/i/0
Pr»«f Dfill "R" ■'^""*' 5 '"^'^ '""^^ ^° centre of 12
1 Uol Lyilll O inci, circle, hand-power, self-feed,
double-jceared.
£2/12/.
Po«f Ofill **(^" Drills 1 inch hole to centre of U
1 USl l^Illl \^ inch circle, hand-power, self-feed,
double-geared. t'i/l/Ci
Post Drill "D"
As illustrated. Drills IJ inch hole
to centre of 16 inch circle, hand-
power, self-feed, doiible-seared. Has extension cr.ank
and variable feed. Drill spindle bored for J inch straight
shank drills. Feed has run of 3 inch upright column ;
drill spindle and feed screw are of steel. Total height,
49 ins. ; upright column IJ ins. diameter. £4/12/-
w^"""^ Proprietary Limited ^«— — ^
554-66 & 5S2-88 Collins Street,
MELBOURNE
CREDIT FONCIER
Loans on Farms
UP TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATION
In sums from £50 to £2,000
At 6 per cent. Interest
and from \\ percent, in reduction of principal, which pays off the loan
in n\ years.
Loans granted on Freeholds, or Crown Leaseholds which could be
made freehold at any time on payment of the balance of Crown Rents.
No Charge for Mortgage Deed
Loans may be paid off on any half-yearly pay day, subject to a small
charge if paid off within the first five years, but no penalty after five years.
Forms may be obtained at any Branch of the State Savings Bank, or
by writing to —
The Inspector-General, The State Savings Bank*
EUZABETH STREET. MELBOURNE.
Journal of A f/r/cultnre, Victoria.
[11 Feb., 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education.
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world.
The Session* commence MARCH and SEPTEMBER, and Students may be enrolled at any time.
Three Y'
ree Tears.
Total Fees
£25/-/- per annum.
Alternative Courses —
(a) Diploma Course
(i) One Year's Course.
The CoUege coDtaini modem and well equipped laboratory and ledure hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres o( (arm land at Dooicie, 1,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS.— Agriculture, Animal Husbandry. Poultry. Fruit GrowinK.
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Fanners.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER.
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age.
AREA OF FARM. 2.336 ACRES.
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing. Fat Lamb Raising. Dairring.
Irrigation of Fodder Crops. Fruit, &c.
Total Fees— £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainaUe from T. J. PURVIS. Esq.. Seci <>tary. Council of Agricultural Edneatioa,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire. Marine, Fidelity GaaraBtee, Plate
Glass, Personal Accident and Sickness.
Emrloyers' Liability. Werkaen's Cemren-
satira. Pablic Risk. MaUr Car. and Bwrflary.
Insupanee
iety Ltd.
I*r- INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
11 Feb.. 1918.1 jDurnai of Atjiicnlt iiit, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
''THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Carron
Boxes & Oil Caps.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
stood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wbeels Guaranteed for 3 years against Breakage, &c.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. 1^ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36' and 32' dia. 4' Tyres. Table, ^ x 5^ feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 cwt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 8 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 cwt.
These Wheels are guaranteed and will last for all time.
Higher Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to 20 ton*.
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP— Truck body, and all classes of little Wagons for Farm and Station work.
Waeons Shipped to all Ports in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: :: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
LIVE STOCK OWNERS
You know what a good thing whole Linseed is for Slock.
MEGGinSa LINSEED MEi^
IS ALL Pure Linseed
Nothing whatever is added to it. It is ground up fine.
It is cooked and all ready for immediate use. No boihng is necessary.
IT IS NO TROUBLE TO FEED TO CALVES,
COWS, HORSES, PIGS, SHEEP & POULTRY
It is recognised throughout the world as the very best obtainable food for Stock.
AND the price is on Rails, Melbourne
lOO lbs. 11/6 SO lbs. 6 - 20 lbs. 2/6
Obtainable from all Stores and Butter Factories.
!n country districts sufficient only is charged by your Storekeeper to cover the cost of freight
to your district.
Dept. A, Full particulars for Feeding all Stock.
HARRISONS, RAMSAY, Ply. Ltd., ^tfef bourne:
Journal of Affricnlture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
Orclane :::;
A ^^^^W— ^^^— ,^_^^,^irwi-**'^ GET OUR
- ^^^^^^^^^^^^^ CATALOGUE
Fig 233. Ornamenial Fig. 211 Ornamental Fig. 188b OrnatnenUl
Handgate. 4 ft high Handgate 4 ft. high Hnndgnte 4 ft- high
CYCLONE Pty. Ltd.
469 SWAN8TON STREET
MELBOURNE
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
-Propy. Ltd.-
OATMEAL. SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and'CORNINA" MANUFACTURERS
■ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR
GRAIN TO US.
\
BOX 53.
G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
♦
11 Feb., 1918.1 JoiinidJ of A r/rieii/t iii( , I'ictoria.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If lOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, i OU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
Jdiinitil of A (/ncidt lire, l'icf(jria.
m Feb.. 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Managing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD. Esq.. LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE. E»q.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN, Esq. DAVID HUNTER. Esq.
This Company Acts as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trustee ef
Settlements, and Agent for Absentees under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices— 1 13 Queen St. (Corner of Little Collins-st.), Melbourne
" MONKEY " =AND= "WALLABY " JACKS
For
GRUBBING
TREES
and
STUMPS
and
^ GENERAL
^i' HEAVY
LIFTING
Oar complete illustrated catalog is free, if you have one use it, if you haven't WRITE US TO-DAY!
TREWHELLA BROS. Pty. Ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
from a Vidorian Deposit.
#
CROP GROWN AT BRIDGEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orders can now be supplied and full information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy. Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
11 Feb.. 1918.
Journal of Afjricidtiiie, Victoria.
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS !
II
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber iVIerchants throughout Australia.
BURNT LILYDALE LIME
FOR THE LAND —
Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should try it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Immediate. The demand for Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Lilydale Lime.
'■ ANALYSIS go as high as 98°. Calcium Oxide.
Apply —
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, p,„S„„. OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works— Cave Hill, Lilydale, Tel. Lilydale 4.
Tel. Central 5726.
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Office—
LONDON
Melbourne Office
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Batter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Account
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Cfcitf AieaU in Victor!, fer tkc PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
Journal of A i/ncnlt n if , Victoria. [11 Feb.. 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
THE NEW STORES AT VICTORIA DOCK
have a capacity of 310,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 155,000 boxes of
butter, or 105,000 cases of fruit, or 140,000
carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Produce can be placed on conveyori at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chambers
diredt into the ship's hold. Eledric motor power totals 820 H.P.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and conneded with the Cool Stores by diredt lines ; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Vidoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable produds are provided.
EXPERT OFFICERS
are conneded with every Branch, so that any one requiring information
regarding the produdion, preparation, and shipment of produce can rely
upon being promptly supplied with up-to-date information upon all matters.
11 Feb., 1918.1
Joiiinfil of A f/nriilt lire, Victoria.
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
And Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
J/^l^^l^Off f Bonedust ::
• V^V/V>1VJD11^1^9 Manufacturer
OFFICE : 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. Telephone 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES, SHEDS, &C.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALI. OUTSIDE PAINTING
IVhoUsale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
-FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS-
Obtainable
from all
Storekeepers
BROOKS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
^ YES, I AM SURE
Your eyes are under a constant strain all day; they are
your most valuable possession, and neglect in
the early stages may lead to eye strain.
DAIRY AND INCUBATOR THERMOMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.D.
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
'PHONE 6778
for an appointment.
EstAb.
32 Years
E.WOOD,
LONDON.
EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
95 Elizabeth St., Meib.
LIVERPOOL. SYDNEY.
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted in all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are eligible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointments in the
Commonwealth and State Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full particulars apply — ■
The DIRECTOR, Veterinary School, PARKVILLE, VICTORIA
JourncJ of Agriciiltiire, Victoria. [11 Feb., 191!
DEPARTMENT of AGRICULTURE
Graded Seed Wheat
1918 DISTRIBUTION
Select Bred Graded Seed of the following varieties
of Wheat will be available for distribution early in
Special Federation
1 y lu
Currawa
Yandilla King
Gluyas
Dart's Imperial
Warden
Major
Penny
Also small quantities of the following : —
College Eclipse
Commonwealth
King's Early
Marshall's No. 3
Early application is necessary ; Orders will be booked
according to priority of application
Price, 6/- per bushel
For further particulars apply to the Director of Agriculture,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
rne journal
OF
^fte department of Mgricufture
OP
VICTORIA
Vol. XVI. Part 2. 11th February, 1918.
NHILL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY ANNUAL CROP AND
FALLOW COMPETITIONS, 11H7.
Beport of Mr. H. A. Mullett, B. Ag. Sc. '■ ■. -
I liave much pleasure in forwarding my report on the Nhill Crop
and Fallow Competitions for the year 1917.
I understand that this is the sixteenth competition that has been
held under the auspices of your society, and I take the opportunity
of congratulating the society on its singular achievement. To the value
of the work, the very high standard of farming so widespread in your
district bears eloquent testimony.
REVIEWING PAST CONDITIONS.
Early Thought Directed Mainly to Manurial and Cultural
Problems.
Being keenly impressed while in your district with the value of these
competitions in promoting —
1. The best farming practices;
2. A healthy spirit of rivalry among farmerc. ;
3. A rapid disseminatio'U of the latest information available;
4. Publicity of special methods of the best farmers.
I have inquired into their history. From reports kindly placed at
my disposal I have been able to peruse the remarks of the variousi judges
who have officiated from time tO' time. These reports also contain certain
figures, and, taken serially, a striking nicture of advancement unfolds
itself.
Every judge admitted that he had learned something from the best
farmers of the district, and details of this knowledge were noted for all
to read in his report. In addition, the adjudicators made nuggestions
from information gained in other districts, and generally made available
details of advanced practices that had been determined by experimental
work here or in other parts of the world to be of fundamental importance.
17260
66 Journal of Agriculture, Victona. [11 Feb., 1918.
Thus in 1900 Dr. Howell, when acting as judge for Mr. Trumble's
prizes, urged the more extended use of the seed drill and also
the widespread use of superphosphate. He recommended rotation
farming, and laid emphasis on the value of sheep to the wheat
farmer. In 1903 Mr. Lee stated that the annual manurial dressing in
use was from 40 to 45 lbs. super, per acre, but that no farmer used more
than 56 lbs., while some used as little as 28 lbs. He advocated increas-
ing the dressing to 56 lbs., and pointed out the need for the better work-
ing of the fallow.
Mr. Knight advocated the cowing of rye grass and melilotus
with the oat crop in order to produce a quick growth of feed on the
stubbles, a practice which has spread far and wide from the few who
used it in those days.
Later Attention Directed Towards the Seed as Well.
So far it will be noticed that all the attention had been directed to
manurial and cultural problems, but Mr. Gamble in 1903 broke new
ground by directing attention to the care of the seed — the use of pure
graded pickled seed. He also advocatd provision for fodder crops for
sheep on the fallows.
By 1911 great strides had been made, and our agricultural
practices and the factors that underlie them had taken a very
definite shape. Mr. Richardson, the judge on that occasion, focussed
attention on the use of pedigree selected seed, and he clearly crystallized
modem farming knowledge in five fundamental principles for success in
the Wimmera. They are: —
1. Early fallowing.
2. Careful working of the fallow.
3. Liberal manuring.
4. Rotation of crops.
5. Use of select bred, graded and pickled seed.
Attention Directed to Methods for Inducing the Spread of
THESE Practices.
" These principles," said Mr. Richardson in his report, "have been
proved by actual test. What was needed was to put them into praictice
— to induce the many to do what the few had proved so profitable."
Later Mr. Temple Smith laid stress on theoe principles, and also
suggested the increased uce of sheep on farms, and the provision of
fodder crops for them in the rotation. Again he directed attention to
the utilizing of water in existing swamps and catchments for the growth
of small areas of irrigated crops, and suggested the further exploitation
of underground water for the same purpose.
All the judges have laid stress upon the necessity for the development
of the aesthetic side of farm life.
Results — Rapid and Widespread Application of the Best Methods.
On ©very side, the visitor finds evidence of the use and the rapid
spread of these practices, which the best farmers have discovered for
themselves, or have been induced to adopt in order to comply with the
society's rules, or which have been suggested to them by the various
judgeo.
One is impressed with the splendid stretches of well worked fallows
free from weeds and adequately mulched, fallows that stand second to
11 Feb,., 1918.] Nhill Agricultnral Society Competition.
67
none in the State. Again, a visitor icannot fail to notice the great
number of cool and convenient residences that have been erected, each
with its flower and vegetable garden, and well provided with young
shelter belts of trees. Efficient and commodious farm outbuildings are
to be seen evervwhere.
Tiie .lii.^Uittii; Side of Farm Life. A Farmer's Up-to date Home near Nhill.
Type of Farmer's Home and Garden that is becoming popular in the NTiill
District
The nececeity for good water supplies as well as for fodder reserves
has received attention from most of the farmers.
Turning to the manurial question, inquiry shows that the average
manurial dressing is now about 56 lbs., but that the best farmers are
1 z
68 Jounuil of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
^ — _ — .
using up to 70 and 80 lbs. on the black ground, and as much as 1 cwt.
on red ground. In this connexion it will be noticed that the dressings
advocated are heavier than those recommended fifteen years ago ; but it
should be remembered that many crops have been taken off the ground
sine© then and that efficient working of the fallows has rendered greater
Another Farm House.
Labour Saving Device — An Elevator being used to build stack of loose hay.
crops possible by storing up supplies of water and by making available
greater supplies of plant food. Phosphorus is the most deficient element
in Wimmera soils, and a 30-bushel crop will take out as much phosphorus
as is contained in 1 cwt. of superphosphate.
11 Feb., 1918.] N hill A firicultural Society Competition.
69
Furthermore, the experimental plots at Longerenong have demon-
strated that on the black soil the use of 1 cwt. of superphosphate has
been most profitable for the past five years.
A Twenty-horse Stable being erected by Mr. R. Blackwood, Kiata East.
Dome type, cheap, airy, storm-proof and convenient. Pitched with
Stawell stone.
Interior of Mr. Geo. Crouch's Stable, showing good stamp of working horses.
Well-headed crops' pure and true to type, with a fine table-top
appearance, proved to be almost invariably grown from pedigree seed
of such prolific varieties as Federation, Yandilla King, Penny, Dart's
70 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
Imperial, &c., showing that care and attention to seed was not being
neglected.
The rotation — fallow, wheat, oats and grass for j:iheep — appears to be
genei-al, and where it has been faithfully carried out, the take-all disease
hag been suppressed. The only places where take-all was noticed this
year were on very large farms on which land had been sown out to grass
for a number of years, and no oat crop grown l>etween the successive
wheat crops, even though several years had elapsed between the two crops.
Owing to the slowness with which grasses tend to establish themselves
on the stubbles in the Wimmera, the wild oat, which does so readily, finds
many advocates, but all admit that it causes serious loss to the succeed-
ing wheat crop and would welcome a substitute. In this connexion the
attention of Nhill farmers ie, directed to a series of permanent rotation
plots which were established last year at Longerenong College. They
comprise tests between ten different systems of farming, including the
A Group of Working Draught Horses at Nhill in splendid condition.
Wimmera rotation and rotations in which pear, rape or barley figure.
These experiments will be continued from year to year, and the recults
over a series of years should throw considerable light on the question as
to whether forage crops for sheep can be successfully and profitably
grown in the Wimmera.
Many other instances might be given to illustrate the spirit of progress
in the Nhill district. Perhaps the best is that shown in the following
table prepared from the estimated yield^i in the competition " Best Half
of Farmers' Wheat Crop (not less than 75 acres)," submitted by the
various judges. The figures, which I give with some diffidence, as they
are merely the judge's estimates, and it may be argued that they repre-
sent the increasing optimism of the later-day judges, show a steady
increase in yield over the whole period.
The average estimated yield for the five years 1903-7 was 18 bushels,
while the average estimated yield for the five years 1912-17, not includ-
ing the drought year (1914), was 28 bushekt, which is double the district
11 Feb., 1918.] Nhill Agricultural Society C'otnpetition.
71
average for a like period. I give these figures for what they are worth,
but am satisfied that they aJSFord silent testimony of the comparative
efficiency of your modern agricultural practices, and show a meritorious
exhibition of solid progress.
Details :
Year.
Highest Yield.
Lowest Yield.
Average.
1903
19 bushels
12 bushels
16J bushels
1904
20 „
10 „
16
1905
24 „
16 „
20
1906
23 „
14 „
20
1907
24 „
16 „
19i „
1908
26 „
18 „
2U »
1909
Not available.
1910
38 bushels
18 bushels
29 bushels
1911
35 „
21 „
24J „
1912
36 „
18 „
24^ „
1913
36 „
22 „
29^ „
1914
Drought — no competition.
1915
34 bushels
24 bushels
30 bushels
1916
34 „
26 „
29
1917
37 „
27 „
2U „
Note. — It is interesting to note that in the drought year of 1914 the average
yield of Lowan was higher than that of either Borung or Kara Kara.
THIS YEAR'S COMPETITION.
Results.
Turning now to the competition itself, I would like first of all to con-
gratulate the whole of the competitors on the splendid crop^ and fallow
shown. Excessive wet has placed some in an unfavorable position, and
they are to b© commended for the public-spirited action in entering under
these conditions.
In Section 1—" Best Exhibited Half of Farmers' Wheat Crop " (not
less than 75 acres), I have placed the competitors in the following
order : —
1st. Mr. Robert Blackwood, Kiata East
2nd. Mr. C. H. Roediger, Lorquon
3rd. Mr. John Collins, Woorak
94
93
92
The results were generally in favour of summer fallow, heavy dressings
of superphosphate and the use of select -bred pedigree seed.
Mr. Blackwood showed some exceedingly heavy crop, compricing
Currawa, Penny and Federation. The whole crop was very level, true
to type and free from disease, but there were wild oats present. On
the day of judging, the Currawa, though very heavy, showed no tendency
to go down; but I was sorry to notice, when passrang four days later,
that portion of the crop at least was likely to go down. However, as the
judging must be made on the appearance on the day, Mr. Blackwood
lost no additional marks.
72
Jdttnud of Agriculture, Victoria.
"11 Feb., 1918.
The crop was sown with 60 lbs. of seed and 60 lbs. of manure on
black ground, and 80 lbs. on red ground. It was sown the first week
in June on summer fallow after oats; the pickling was with bluestone.
Mr. Roediger comes a good second with a splendid crop of Penny and
Yandilla King. This crop was not aa heavy as Mr. Blackwood's, jjut it
was absolutely free from wild oats, and had a remarkably level table-top
Portion of Mi. E.obert Blackwood's first prize crop — Currawa and Penny.
Portion of Mr. C, H. Roediger 's second prize crop — ^Yandilla King and Penny.
appearance. It was well headed, and true to type, but there was a
little take-all present. It was a really desirable crop, just the right
height, but Mr. Blackwood's much heavier yield and freedom from
disease won him the day.
11 Feb., 1918.] Nhill Agricvltvral Society Competition.
73
Mr. Roediger's crop was sown this year deeper than usual, with
80 Ibo. of seed, on account of niiice. Generally he sows 50 to 60 lbs.
of seed. The manure was from 60 to 65 lbs. The crop was sown in
winter fallow, and the seed was pickled in bluestone, 1 to 8 gallons
strength, in a definite manner.
Mr. Collins showed a very heavy and creditable crop of Federation,
which was gi-own on summer fallow, uojing 63 lbs. seed and a similar
quantity of manure. The crop was eaten off by sheep, and there were
twelve cultural operations involved in working the fallow.
A young farmer, Mr. Thiele, of North Yanak, showed a clean, level
crop of Federation, free from wild oats, and true to type. Mr. Thiele
is living on a property upon which several other families failed to make
a living, and his crop merits a good deal of praise.
Mr. Pargeter, Woorak West (summer fallow and 70 lbs. manure) ;
Mr. S. C. H. Treloar, Lorquon (summer fallow and 50 lbs. manure);
Mr. Goodwin, Kaniva, are all young farmers who showed creditable
crops, and men who promise to figure prominently in future competi-
tions.
The following are the details for —
Section I.
■§
i
H
2
Name and Locality.
Variety.
^ g
^45
li
=3 m
SO
'S 2
s t.
11
Ho
Ph
p,
■3
1
Possible Points
15
15
20
15
35
100
Robert Blackwood, Kiata
Penny
12
15
19
13
35
94
East
Currawa
Federation
C. R. Roediger, Lorquon. .
Penny
Yandilla King
15
14
20
15
29
93
John CoUins, Woorak
Federation . .
12
15
19
13
33
92
E. H. Thiele, North Yanak
Federation . .
14
14
20
15
26
89
R. L. Pargeter, Woorak West
Federation . .
11
14
17
12
28
82
A. W. Goodwin, Kaniva . .
Federation . .
12
14
17
11
25
79
Geo. Grouch, Kaniva
Federation . .
13
12
19
12
26
82
C. F. H. Riechelt, Woorak
Penny
11
14
17
12
26
80
West
Federation
Golden King
S. C. H. Treloar, Lorquon
Federation . .
11
14
16
13
26
80
David Duthie, Lorquon . .
Lots and
Federation
12
13
17
12
26
80
W. H. Treloar and E. F.
Lots and
11
10
16
11
25
73
Schultz, Lorquon
Federation
NOTE. — The marks allotted for yield do not represent bushels, but are proportional to them.
Mr. J. B. Marshall, Lorquon, easily wins the Mallee section with
100 acres of Penny, grown from pedigree seed. This was;' a remarkably
good crop for Mallee land, and should yield close on nine bags to the
acre. It was clean, well headed, and true to type, but a little take-all
74
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
was present. This crop was sown in fallow land that had been out on
grass for two years; 60 lbs. of seed was used, which is 10 lbs. heavier
than usual; manure 50 lbs. After ploughing, the fallow was' scarified
twice, and harrowed twice.
Mr. McKenzie's crop was not up to his usual high standard. At
Mr. Thiele's place, an interesting example of the comparative prolificacy
of barley and wheat on Mallee land was noted. Federation wheat and
Cape barley had been sown on fallow ; from the Federation, between
five and six bags per acre will be harvested, but fifteen bags per acre
were being stripped from the barley.
Section II. — 'Mallee Crop — Best 100 Acres.
p.
H
2
%
tS
•=iS
^
Name and Locality.
Variety.
ft
-•
£ p
2; p
3 C
p.
o
fHc:
p^c
fm^
So
<
H
Possible Points
15
15
23
15
35
100
J. B. Marshall, Lorquoii . .
Penny
14
14
20
14
2(5
88
G. R. McKenzie, Glenlee . .
Federation . .
11
12
17
13
21
74
E. H. Thiele, Yanac North
Federation . .
12
12
19
12
17
72
In Section 3 — Best Fallowed Land, not less than 100 Acres — I have
placed Mr. John Collins first, with 96 points; C. F. H. Reichelt
second, with 95; and Robert Blackwood third, 94. All these competitors
showed magnificent fallows, liberally mulched, free from weeds, and
showing a firm, consolidated seed-bed underneath, containing a high
percentage of moisture. Summer fallows in every case showed the
highest moisture content.
Mr. Collins showed 94 acres summer fallow, and 115 acres winter
fallow. The winter fallow had been disced after wheat, and subse-
quently received two discings and two other cultivations.
Mr. Reichielt's fallow had been worked eleven times, but the mulch
vas rather shallow.
Mr. Blackwood showed 160 acres summer fallow that had been
ploughed to 5 inches after oats. At the end of June it was run over
with a skim plough without a mould-board to gei"minate the weeds.
It was then harrowed after each rain. Mr. Blackwood lost points for
rather uneven cultivation on the loamy patched.
Of the remaining competitors, many whose farms are in crab-holey
country, were unable to work their land as much a£ usual. A few
fallows lacked moisture though the fallow presented a good appearance,
suggesting that the mulch had not been maintained, or had been only
recently applied.
Mr. Harvey Warner showed a piece of fallow, part of which had been
ploughed, and part scarified; the resulting crop will be interesting to
watch.
11 Feb., 1918.] Nliill Agn'cii/fiinil Society Competition. 75
Section III. — Best Fallowed Land — Not Less Than 100 Acres.
All Fallow to be Shown.
•S
Name and Locality.
Soil— Type.
a
SsS
3
r-'
>
^^
.
i^
?,
.4^
■3
u
0
m
25
0
25
25
H
Possible Points
25
100
J. Collins, Woorak
Grey black loam, sandy loam
patches on rises
24
2')
23
24
96
C. F. H. Riechelt, Woorak
Grey black clay loam, red clay
24
23
24
24
95
West
patches
R. Blackwood, Kiata East . .
Black clay loam, red clay
patches
23
25
22
24
94
H. Warner, Winiam
Grey black loam, red loamy
rises, clay patches
22
25
21
25
93
C. Crouch, Kaniva
Black clay loam, red patches
24
21
22
24
9i
D. Duthie, Lorquon
Red loam, rising t j grey black
loam on hill
21
22
23
25
91
A. V. Goodwin, Kaniva
Black clay loam, red clay
patches
21
21
23
24
89
R. F. KeUer
Grjey black clay loam, red
patches
19
24
22
22
87
Section IV. — Best Wheat Crop Grown on Fallow Land.
(Fallow judged 1917. Crop judged 1918.)
Most of the competitors in this section exhibited in No. 3, Mr. H.
Crouch, Kaniva, being the only exception.
■a
Name and Locality.
Soil— Type.
1
.a
>
5^
0
■3
•.^
£ 0
4S
0
1^
g
u
p^ia
H
Possible Points
25
25
25
25
100
J. Collins, Woorak
As in Section 3 . .
24
25
23
24
96
C. Reiohelt, Woorak West . .
,, ,,
24
23
24
24
95
R. Blackwood, Kiata East . .
,, ,,
23
25
22
24
94
C. Crouch, Kaniva
»,
24
21
22
24
91
D. Duthie, Lorquon
,, >>
21
22
23
25
91
H. Crouch, Kaniva
Very even paddock, black
clay loam
24
20
23
21
8';
R. F. Keller, Lorquon
As in Section 3 . .
19
24
22
22
87
Note. — Owiig to excessive wet a heavy growth of grass made its appearance on
Mr, H. Crouch's fallow. This was being fed off with sheep at the time of judging.
Although there was little mulch and there was still grass in the paddock, there was
abundant moisture, but it showed evidence of drying out and needs working after the
first shower.
76 Jounud of Agriculture, VidoiKi. [11 Feb., 1918.
In connexion with the fallows, great difference is necessary m the
treatment of red and black land. Tho::e farming black soil are in a very
favorable position, as they can work their land at any time, and this
has led to owners of red land refraining from competing. It has been
suggested that a separate competition be held exclusively for farmers
having red soil, and this appears to be a good idea, as it should result
in the solution of the problem of working this soil to the best advantage.
Summing Up.
This year's crop competition throws into strong relief the advantage
of summer fallowing, even in a wet season; and, further, it confirms the
value of the dressings of superphosphate, which are higher than the
district average. A glance at the marks allotted for yield shows very
clearly that three out of the four best crops were grown on summer
fallowed land, and that on each of these four crops;/ from 60 to 70 lbs.
Farm Competition Trophies won by Mr, Geo. Crouch, showing a long line of
successes — the result of thorough and up-to-date methods.
superphosphate was used. It is very probable that even heavier dressings
will prove payable on land that is thoroughly well worked if town with
prolific stiff-strawed varieties.
Suggestions : The Laboue Question.
It would appear that under the present economic conditions, the
factors for success are well known in the Nhill district. The great
task is to induce everybody to adopt them. Two agents which help
a very great deal in this work are the press and the competitions. As
the years roll by, and the farmr^ become smaller in area owing to sub-
division, it will be more imperative to obtain higher returns per acre.
When this state obtains, as pointed out in previous years, rotations
which include growth of forage crops for sheep must play an
important part; but there is one field that has not, so far as I know,
11 Feb., 1918.] Nhill Agricultural Society Competition. 11
been exploited in the Nhill district, and it is one which is prominently
before us at the present time: I refer to the moit eflScient use of the
labour available. Agriculturists are faced with a serious labour shortao-e
— a shortage which is not likely to be alleviated for a considerable time
to come. Many of the prinoiplea that are so essential for success in
wheat-farming, and which have been advocated as improvementsi on
existing conditions, need extra labour for their accomplishment, and
already farmers on every side find great difficulty in maintaining their
usual area under crop. Some who have large areas are turning their
attention to sheep-farming, but thore who have smaller areas cannot
increase their present flocks without the growth of forage crops — a work
which also demands additional labour.
The farming community is therefore faced with the necessity of either
reducing its wheat area, or lowering the quality of its work, and there-
fore its income, or else of utilizing available labour to better advantage :
Is there any practical way of doing this ?
The man on the land used to managing labour is naturally rather
sceptical regarding any real improvement under present conditions; but
if he is looking for a panacea that will solve every labour problem,
he will be icertainly disappointed. However, by a careful study of his
particular labour problem, and the application to it of certain general
scientific principles that have been found to be universally true, he can
do much to relieve the present shortage of labour and materially augment
hin bank balance.
Nhill farmers have learned to value the basic scientific wheat cultural
truths which form the ideal toward which efforts may be directed, and
which are modified by the farmer according to his particular condi-
tions; but the equally important, equally valuable, scientific labour
truths, which at the present time are but vaguely understood, when
formulated in clear, crystal form, will be equally as helpful.
There is nothing wonderful or startling in the application of science
to labour in this way. Advantage is taken of the fact that in the per-
formance of any piece of work consisting of a number of subsidiary
operations, waste of effort is very apt to occur. This has been demon-
strated by careful investigation of a large number of cases.
The principles that have been evolved from that investigation are
merely designed to discover the waste and eliminate it, and attempts
have been made to group many apparently different labour faults under
a common head, rendering them earder to detect and easier to eliminate
These principles were first worked out in America, and applied with
success to large industries there, and now form an integral part of the
factory routine of the huge munition plants in Great Britain, and
America as well. Their value in the economic utilization of labour has
been immeasurable. It remains to review these principles and to see if
they are of any practical value in wheat-farming.
The first basic principle is to seanch out the fJowest operation of any
series and to speed it up.
For example : If in the operation of chaff-cutting, there are five men
on a cutter, and the pitcher is the slowest man, then the slowness not
only affects the pitcher, but affects the whole five, and the valuable plant
as well — the original fault becomes multiplied at least five times.
78 Journal of Ayricnlt iirt, Vtcfortd. [11 Feb., 1918.
Again, take the operation of harvesting with the combined
harvester : Tlie driver is not careful to take a full cut ; the fault of the
driver is affecting the horses, the harvester, the bag-sewers, and perhaps
the waggoner carting iu. Or suppo&e one of the horses ic, a slow-coach,
then that one slow horse affects the pace of the whole team, the driver,
the harvester, the bag-&ewers:f, the carters, and sO' on.
These examples are typical of many, and the farmer, if he is to save
labour, must always be on the alert for that ' ' lazy pitcher, ' ' whether
it be man, horse, machine, or management, and then speed " him "
up. Careful thought will convince most that in the hurry and bustle of
seeding and harvest, much of the profit is apt to slip through our fingers
in this manner; but a thorough grip of these principles enables any one
to recognise instantly this fault and its consequences, instead of having
but a worried, hazy idea of what is wrong.
It is often difl&cult to arrive at what is a fair day's work for man,
machine, and horses^ under varying conditions — to know exactly what
ought to be accomplished when an operation is performed in the right
way. This can be done only by the keeping of accurate records, and
this is the second basic principle.
But it will be argued that the difficulty is not to know what to do,
but to induce the hired labour to do it, even allowing that no extra
effort is required from the workman ; and this is where the third great
principle comes to the rescue and says that for part of the extra work
performed, either by extra effort or by extra attention to a saving of
effort, a reward must be paid. In this connexion, it might be found
that it would pay fanners to offer efficiency reward to the workmen, say
in the shape of a small area of crop, which should be part of, and be
treated in exajctly the same way as, the bulk area, the stipulation being
that the farmer is to select a fair sample of the paddock (for the reward)
after the crop has been sown, which would insure the whole field being
properly worked.
This is a principle which might be capable of judicious extension if
rightly applied.
Among the wayD that readily occur to one by which a saving of time
and labour is often to be effected are the following : —
1. The use of a maximum amount of horse strength and up-to-
date implements of the largest size consistent with condi-
tions. The more extended use of labour-saving devices,
such as stack elevators, bag-lifters, pickling machines, &c.
The more extended use of the internal combustion engine.
2. Provision of a reasonable supply of duplicates, and the over-
haul of implements before the season starts.
3. Prevention of too great an overlap of cultural implements such
as spring tooth harrows, &c., by straight driving. Atten-
tion to driving of harvester and binder with full width
of cut.
4. Avoiding a waste of time through too much turning of
implements on headlands, or, say, carting of bags on har-
vester to a grain dump which is situated too far away.
5. Provision of an adequate supply of chaff. Serious loss often
occurs when press of work is heaviest if all hands have to
cease work every fortnight to cut chaff.
11 Feb., 1918.] Mi ill A (jii cultural Society Competition. 79
6. Care and atteutiou of working horses. The use and breeding
of horses with satisfactory pace. The making up of teams
so that slow horses do not beicome a drag on the rest.
Attention to the feeding of liorses, although, judging by
the appearance of those in the Nhill district, farmers there
have little to learn in this direction.
7. The stimulation of a healthy spirit of rivalry and competition
among the various workers in the field.
The excuse for mentioning these well-known faults is to focus atten-
tion upon them, for in the press of work all these, and a thousand-and-
one other^i are apt to be overlooked. Each in itself is perhaps small,
but the cumulative effect of the many is considerable. Keen attention
to them all will enable available labour to be utilized to a surprisingly
better advantage, and thus cause a saving of many pounds to the farmers.
The whole question of the profitable utilization of labour on farms in
Australia opens up a new and fruitful field for research. For instance,
a collection of work records would be invaluable, not only to districts
like Nhill, but also to the rest of the wheat belt of Australia. The
presence of representatives of the local and the metropolitan weekly press
during the judging will lead to wide publicity of the results, which, no
doubt, will stimulate the interest of farmers in the district who did not
compete as well as many others throughout the State.
I have to thank the various farmers for their generous hospitality
tendered to me, and the ready way in which they volunteered informa-
tion, which was often of great value, and I take this opportunity of
paying a tribute to the zeal of your untiring secretary, Mr. Chac. Towns,
whose efficient arrangements greatly facilitated the work of judging.
Heat Apoplexy in Pigs is generally met with in sultry or hot weather,
when the atmosphere is heavy or when housing conditions are not airy
enough. It is caused by insufficiency of oxygen, and usually occurs with
overfat pigs. Such an animal has very little room for lung expansion :
and there is only a small amount of ozone in the air during thundery
weather, so that sufficient oxygen does not enter the lungci to purify the
blood, and suffocation occurs. Drenching with cold water, and shelter
from the sun's rays, while allowing free exposure to the air, is the best
method to pursue when an attack occurs. Prevention is better, how-
ever, and giving access to pasture where there is shade and slielter and
water will usually keep the pigs healthy in summer time. The diet has
a good deal to do with maintaining healthy pigs in summer. The food
should not be a thick, solid mass, as in winter; but should be thinned
down with whey, skim-milk, or kitchen slops. Care should be taken
that all food is sweet and sound. — The Australasian.
80 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
APPLE CULTURE IN VICTORIA.
(Continued from page 24.)
By J . Farrell, Orchard Supervisor .
Management of Orcharb Soils.
The amount of cultivation required by orchard lands in order that
the highest returns may be obtained from these areas varies' according
to the class, of soil and climatic conditions prevailing in the
different localities. Generally speaking, two ploughings per year
are sufficient to keep most of our orchard soils adequately
loose to permit of their being maintained in a satisfactory
condition of tilth by the employment of cultivators or harrows
during the periods of growth. One ploughing 6 or 8 inches
deep, according to the quantity of surface soil, should be given as soon
as the first autumn rains have rendered the ground sufficiently damp to
enable the work to be satisfactorily executed. On this occasion the
soil is drawn towards the trees on both sides so that the furrows formed
between the rows and running with the fall of the land may act as
channels to carry away the surface water during the following winter.
The soil should not be then further broken up, but allowed to remain
in its rough fallowed condition and thus facilitate its pulverization, &c.,
through the various winter weather conditions and influences. When
with the coming of the spring this desirable structural alteration of the
soil has been achieved and the land assumes an early, dry, and friable
condition, due mostly to the perfect working of the surface water
channels, supplemented where necessary by a thorough system of sub-
drainage, spring cultivation may commence. If friable surface con-
ditions exist the land may be ploughed and cultivated, but when the
surface is of a rough, hard, or tenacious nature and likely to turn over
in lumps it should be worked with disc cultivators or harrowed before
being subjected to the spring ploughing. The main object of
this operation is to draw the soil away from the trees, and thus create
a level surface like that which existed prior to the autumn ploughing.
If the soil be of a tenacious character, the depth to which it is ploughed
should be slightly altered at each ploughing to prevent the formation
of a hard pan beneath the cultivated portion.
Plate 147 illustrates two oi'chard ploughs of the type mostly em-
ployed by our fruit-growers. Fig. 1 shows a single furrow plough
suitable for small orchards. The shifting principle of the handles and
the adjustable head-rack make it possible to plough the ground right
up to the butts of the trees, when ploughing either on or off. Fig. 2,
the double-furrow implement, is used in the larger orchard, and it also
is fitted with, shifting handles and liead-rack which enable it to plough
fairly close up to ihe trees, but tli© siugle-furrov/ is generally used to
complete this work. Three-furrow ploughs constructed on the same
principle are also obtainable. By the employment of these implements
the orchardist is saved the extra expense of hand cultivating the strips
around the trees.
If the orchard be situated in a dry, warm locality, and particularly
if the soil be of a porous nature and liable to part freely with its
moisture on being ploughed, no time should be lost in bringing the
surface to a perfect state of tilth. A fine earth mulch, which prevents the
escape of the soil moisture through capillarity, is thus provided. This
11 Feb,., 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
81
desirable renderiug down of the surface may be achieved by the einploy-
nient of a spring-tooth harrow or disc cultivator according to the nature
of the soil. The one horse, nine tine, spring-tooth cultivator illustrated
in Plate 148 is the type in most general use in the gmall orchards. It
is shown in the illustration as running on the skid, but by the handle
and rack adjustments the teeth may be lowered to work at the desired
depth. This cultivator may be made to follow a straight course by
lowering the circular blades a few inches into the soil. Then by ret^u-
lating the pull on the draw chains the harrow will cultivate the soil
close up to the trees. Larger cultivators of this type are employed in
orchards of more extensive areas.
If the soil be hard and tenacious, and consequently not amenable
to working with the spring-tooth harrow, the ordinary disc cultivator
is ernployed to reduce the surface some distance from the trees to the
required state of tilth. To meet the contingency of working the
Plate 147—
Fig. 1. Single Furrow Orchard Plough of modern type.
Fig. 2. Double Furrow Plough constructed on similar principle to
that shown in Fig. 1.
portion between and around the trees, however, the one-way extension
disc cultivator shown in Plate 149 is brought into use. This cultivator
is so consitructed that the section of dished discs on the right cultivates
the soil right up to the trees, when set as shown, and to plough off, it
is only necessary to reverse the section by means of the adjustment.
The horse travels in line with the driver's seat on the extreme left, and
both are out of the way of limba. The section of circular discs, without
dish, under the driver's seat enters the ground and counteracts all the
side thrust.
Fruit trees often suffer considerable damage by having their branches
broken and portions of the bark of their stems removed by the old-
fashioned swingle tree and long trace chains still used in some orchards.
Particularly is this so when the work of cultivation is being performed
by incompetent or careless drivers. The chance of injury to the trees
may be reduced to a minimum by employing orchard harness of the
82
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
type shown in Plate 150. This harness is comparatively light, and the
steel tube forming the bow is held up by the hip straps, and the traces
being of leather, there is no rough surface to come into contact with the
trees. As the draught is adjustable from straight behind the horse,
when ploughing on or off, there is no liability of the bow chafing the
horse's legs.
The almost continuous and necessary alteration in the physical for-
mation of the surface of our orchard soils by ploughing and general
cultivation is carried on partly for the suppression of weeds. One of
the primary objects of cultivation, however, is to aerate the soil by
Plate 148. — One-horse Spring Tooth Cultivator.
Plate 149. — The One-way Extension Disc Cultivator.
dividing up its particles, and thus encouraging bacterial activity, a
change so desirable in heavy, sour soils. A reason of no less import-
ance is to maintain the surface mulch by means of which the soil moisture
is conserved so that it may be available for the trees during dry
weather.
A third or cross ploughing is often given, where the surface soil is
of a nature that becomes hard and closely packed after rain or irrigation,
to maintain a state of intense cultivation; but, when practised, this work
should be carried out at a time when surface drainage would not be
interfered with. In the vast majority of orchards, however, the cross-
ploughing may practically be obviated by occasionally cross or diagonally
11 Feb,., 1918.]
Apjde Culture in Victoria.
83
working the land with the cultivators, when in a fit condition, after
rain or irrigation. By the use of a heavy roller, the lumps that often
appear on the surface of this class of soil, after the spring tooth culti-
vators especially, may be reduced to fine earth, which helps to conserve
the soil moioture, and the plant food which the lumps contain is made
available to the feeding roots of the trees.
In the British Isles and other cool climates, apples are fairly success-
fully grown without soil cultivation, but absolute failure has invariably
attended any attempts made here to emulate methods of the Old
Country in this regard. The orchard soils there being fairly deep and
rich, generally afford free drainage. They retain their moisture well
during summer, and are considerably benefited by being annually
pulverized to a considerable depth by the action of severe winter frosts.
Whereas, to obtain the equivalent and necessary physical alterations
of the soil so essential to the growth of trees in this country, we are
obliged to resort to intensive cultural operations.
'0.r.<
'Jl
Plate 150. — Modern Orchard Harness.
Cropping Amongst the Trees.
It is safe to state that by far the higher percentage of the areas under
apple culture in the various centres of the State has been established
on virgin soils. It is generally recognised that these soils, to whatever
individual classes they may belong, contain higher percentages of the
original elements essential to the growth of the trees, and to the regular
and plentiful production of fruit during a long series of years, than to soils
which have been depleted of those elements mainly through the pro-
duction of cereal crops.
Although much information regarding the undesirable practice of
growing cereals among fruit trees has, for many years, been dissemi-
nated by the experts, yet, inspection sometimes reveals orchardists who
still pursue the practice.
Plate 151 illustrates a crop of oats growing among four-year-old
Emperor Alexander trees. Since it is unquestionably desirable to plant
on virgin soil, as was the case in the orchard illustrated, it is obvious that
to grow subsequently a fodder crop, oats particularly, among the trees
84
Journal of Afjriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
11 Feb,., 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
85
86 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
is a practice that merits the most severe condemnation. Even though
strips including the whole of the young trees' root feeding areas be
reserved, and the fodded crops be sown on the areas between them, the
practice must still be condemned, for, as the crop grows, it partly
excludes the light and air from the lower limbs and foliage of the trees.
When their root pasturage extends to the cropped areas, the trees
commence to sihow a lack of vigour, and later the light yields of fruit
of poor colour usually demonstrate the undesirableness of cropping
orchard land.
Fruit-growers with limited capital commencing on small areas are
often compelled, through force of circumstances, to seek returns by
cultivating peas, beans, strawberries, &c., between the rows until the
trees come into bearing. Owing to the amount of manure and extra
working necessary for th© profitable production of these crops, their
cultivation between the rows is an advantage rather than a detriment
to the trees.
Compare the conditions under which the trees are growing in the
orchard depicted in the illustration under review with the block of
King David trees of th© same age, growing under a eiystem of clean
cultivation as shown in Plate 152. From a study of these illustrations
th© reader cannot fail to realize that further comment in this connexion
is unnecessary, and that no orchardist regarding the growth and fruiting
prospects of his trees as a matter of paramount importance, would grow
crops of hay among them.
Manuring the Orchard.
The value of orchard land from the fruit-growers stand-point may be
said to be rich or poor largely on account of the available elements of
the essential plant foods contained in it. At the same time the fertility
of the land also depends on the mechanical condition and structure of
the soil itself. Usually virgin soils suitable for apple culture contain,
in th© necessary proportion, the three elements of plant food, viz.,
nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash, which are required for the healthy
development of the trees, and the production of remunerative crops of
fruit. When it is found by chemical analysis or manurial experiment
that the supply of these ingredients has become gradually exhausted by
continuous cropping, it should be replenished by the application of
suitable manures and fertilizers to the soil.
Organic Manures.
Owing to the marked advantage that stable manure has over the
artificial fertilizer, apple growers generally use it, when procurable in
sufl&cient quantities, in preference to the latter. Not only does stable
manure contain nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash which represent
the three chief elements in plant food, but on account of its organic
nature, when incorporated in the soil, it produces humus. This means
that the physical, chemical, and biological natur© of th© soil is improved,
and th© humus provided absorbs and retains moisture in which the plant
food is soluble and available to the feeding roots of th© tr©es.
Proper drainage, good soil cultivation, with an occasional dressing
of lime when necessary, favours bacterial activity by counteracting soil
sourness or excessive and undesirable acidity.
Stable manure should be well rotted before being used in the
.orchard. Chemical changes taking place in its constituents through the
11 Feb,., 1918.] Apjjie Culture in Victoria. 87
process of fermentation aud decomposition render the plant food which
it contains amenable to assimilation by the soil, and fits it to be absorbed
by the feeding roots.
The amount of actual plant foods contained in animal manures is
small compared with the artificial fertilizers, and when the quantity of the
former procurable is not sufficient to meet the requirements of the
orchardists, fertilizers are used either by themselves or in conjunction
with the organic manures.
Organic manures improve the mechanical condition of all classes of
soil, but the benefits they confer are most apparent in loose sandy loams
and light cilurian soils of the retentive character. Their incorporation
in the former supplies humus, which absorbs and retains moisture, and
actsi as a repository for the plant food within easy reach of the roots.
As well as generally enriching the latter, the organisms in the manure
when decomposed multiply the soil's interspaces and prevent its packing
hard. The amount of stable manure necessary for a dressing depends
on the nature of the soil to be treated, its mechanical state and con-
dition of fertility, the health of the trees, and the fruit prospects of the
orchard for the following season. The best method of applying stable
manure is to spread a fairly liberal supply of same over the whole of the
trees' root-feeding areas during late winter, and it should be ploughed
under as soon as the soil conditions become favorable in early spring.
It is desirable that the crude plant food contained in the manure
should be made available in a soluble form for the feeding roots as soon
as growth commences. This object may be attained by the early plough-
ing in of the manure to promote its decomposition, and facilitate the
necessary chemical changes in its constituents which fit them for assimi-
lation by the soil.
Artificial Manures.
Fruit-growers with orchards in the proximity of cities have mostly been
obtaining their supplies of manure from stables connected with business
establishments.
Owing to the great increase in motor traffic during recent years,
however, the quantity available is becoming considerably restricted, and
the orchardists are obliged to make up the deficiency with artificial
manures.
It is realized that, owing to the apparent permanent shortage of
stable manure, together with the increasing cost of labour and other
expense in handling same, many orchardists will be obliged to rely
entirely on artificial fertilizers, with green manure to supply the humus.
The fertilizers in most general use are superphosphate and bone dust.
These are usually mixed in equal proportions, and, in the case of
orchards in full bearing, applied in quantities varying from 7 lbs. to
10 lbs. per tree according to circumstances.
When the soil is of a stiff nature and liable to dry hard, it is
advisable to mix this manure in the proportion of 2 of bone dust to 1 of
super., as the latter, when used continuously on this class of soil,
exaggerates the evil. But super, may, with advantage, preponderate in
a mixture for use on friable clay or sandy soil containing plenty of
humus.
This class of manure is generally applied prior to the flowering stage.
The land is first ploughed, and while in the rough the fertilizer is
distributed evenly over the whole of the trees' root pasturage, and then
harrowed in.
38 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
Trees growing on soils deficient in potasli are greatly benefited by
an occasional dressing of this ingredient, which also seems to exert a
special influence over fruit during its development by improving the
quality and making the colour more attractive.
It has been previously stated that the deep red, friable soils of South
Gippsland and Wandin produce large trees, which yield comparatively
light crops of poorly coloured apples, while those on the shallow Silurian
soils nearer to Melbourne grow only to average size, but return heavier
crops of highly coloured fruit. The larger trees denote that the red
soil is the richer in plant food, and in order to ascertain why, in the
matter of fruit production, it performs in a manner contrary to what
miffht be expected, samples typical of both soils were forwarded to Mr.
P. Rankin Scott, Chemist for Agriculture, for analysis and report.
Hereunder is a copy of Mr. Scott's report. Samples Nos. 1 and 2 were
of red surface soil and sub-soil from Monbulk, while Nos. 3 and 4 are
corresponding samples of Silurian soil from Tunstall.
"Nos. 1 and 2 from orchard, Monbulk.
Nos. 3 and 4 from orchard, Tunstall.
The samples on analysis were found to contain: —
Parts p
er 100,000.
I.
11.
III.
IV.
Nitrogen
... 212 ...
187
.. 117
... 58
Phosphoric
acid
... 96 ...
80
32
... 25
Potash
... 123 ...
98
.. 67
... 98
Lime
... 116 ...
44
.. 40
... 30
Magnesia
... 116 ...
74
... 92
... 136
Chlorine
8 ...
8
4
4
Reaction
... Slightly
acid.
Acid.
On No. 1 soil from Monbulk apple trees gre'w luxuriantly,
while on No. 3 soil from Tunfitall the growth was not nearly so
strong, but the yield of fruit was better and the apples more
highly coloured. The physical chara,cter of these soils was vastly
different, No. 1 being a nice friable red clay loam, while No. 3
soil was a light-coloured clay, and on the chemical analysis the
former would be expected to produce better crops than the latter.
Other points of difference are, however, worthy of note. I should
say that No. 1 soil would be more retentive of moisture than
No'. 3, and consequently the trees would have stronger growth.
No. 1 soil would also be less likely to pack hard on the surface,
thus causing increased evaporation, which, of course, tends to
check growth. The reason for the marked difference in the yield
and colour of the fruit grown on these soils is largely a question
of the physical icharacteristics of the soil. No. 1 soil is, however,
more likely to produce stronger growth of foliage from its high
content of nitrogen and its loamy nature."
Although apples cannot be profitably grown on these red soils, they
are specially adapted to the cultivation of small fruits, and during recent
years considerable areas in the Monbulk, Wandin, and Emerald districts
have been planted with raspberries, loganberries, passion fruit, and
strawberries.
{To he continued.)
11 Feb., 1918] Wheat Experimental Plots in the Mallee. 89
WHEAT EXPERIMENTAL PLOTS IN THE MALLEE,
1917 SEASON.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.
By H. A. Mullett, B. Ag. Sc.
Experimental work has been carried out, under the supervision of the
Department, at private farms in the Mallee during the last four years.
The purpose of the work is to determine the most suitable manurial
dressings and the best wheat varieties for the Mallee.
The trials were conducted at the farms of Messrs. H. W. Pickering,
Ouyen; P. G. Stewart, M.L.A., Carwarpj and H. F. Hecht, Cowangie
— three representative centres.
The past season in the Mallee was remarkable for the unusual rain
during the growing period. The total rainfall for 1917 was over 20
inches, representing a 50 per cent, increase above normal. The heavy
rains were responsible for an abnormal development of shoots and under-
growth, which to a certain extent interfered with the preparation of
the land for seeding. Damage was also done to some of the plots by
mice and rabbits.
1.— OUYEN CENTRE.
17.94 inches rain for year.
Manurial Trials — Sown with Federation wheat in duplicate plots, 45 lbs.
per acre.
No manure ... ... 17 bushels per acre.
30 lbs. superphosphate ... 17.4 ,, ,,
60 „ „ ... 18.6
90 „ „ ... 16.5
Variety Trials — Seed 45 lbs. per acre, with 60 lbs. superphosphate.
Gluyas ...
.. 23.2
bushels
per acre
Dart's Imperial ...
.. 21.4
Currawa
.. 18.7
Federation (acclimatised)
.. 17.7
Yandilla King
.. 17.2
Federation (Longerenong)
.. 16.5
Major ...
.. 16.3
Penny ...
.. 15.6
Federation (Rutherglen)
.. 15.2
2.— CARWARP CENTRE.
Total rainfall for year 20.16 inches. (Plots sown third week in May).
Manurial Trials — Sown with Federation wheat in duplicate plots, 45 lbs.
per acre.
No manure ... ... 11.7 bushels per acre.
30 lbs. superphosphate ... 15.9 ,, „
60 „ ., 16.1
90 „ ,, ... 16.9
90
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
Variety Trials — Seed 45 lbs. per acre, with 60 lbs. superphosphate.
Major ...
Penny
Mac's White
Currawa
Dart's Imperial
Federation (Longerenong),
Gluyas ...
Yandilla King
Federation (acclimatised)
Federation (Rutherglen)
Bunyip ...
19.8 bushels per acre.
19.4
19.4
18.8
18.3
18.3
18.1
17.8
16.4
16.0
11.2
Rate of Seeding Trials — Superphosphate, 60 lbs. per acre.
45 lbs. Federation per acre... 16.1 bushels per acre.
O I ,, ., J, iO.y ,, ,;
26 ,, , „ 12.7
15 „ ., ,, 11.8
Titne of Sowing Test — Federation seed, 45 lbs. per acre, with 60 lbs.
superphosphate.
May 18th . . ... 16.7 bushels per acre.
June 18th . ... 11.9
July 18th ... ... 6.8
July 18th (60 lbs. seed, 100
Ibr. superphosphate) ... 8.7 ,, ,,
Commenting on the results at Carwarp, the experimenter (Mr. P. G.
Stewart, M.L.A.) said that while the manurial plots did not show the
same striking differences as last year, they still showed in favour of
heavier dressings than were used in the district.
The time of sowing tests showed markedly in favour of the early sown
plots, in spite of the late season.
3._C0WANGIE CENTRE.
Manurial Trials — Sown with Federation wheat in duplicate plots, 45 lb&,
per acre.
No manure ... ... 22.2 bushels per acre.
30 lbs. superphosphate ... 22.7 ,, ,,
60 ,, ,, ... 26.2
Variety Trials — Seed 45 lbs. per acre,
with 60 lbs.
supei
phosphate.
Federation (acclimatised) ...
26.5 bushels per
acre.
Mac's White
25.3
Federation (Rutherglen) . . .
24.2
Major
24
Gluyas ...
23.3
Federation (Longerenong) . .
23.1
Currawa
22.1
Dart's Imperial ...
21.2
Penny ...
21.1
Yandilla King
20.2
11 Feb., 1918.] Wheat Experimental Plots in the Mallee.
91
It will be noticed that higher yields have been obtained at each of
the tlu-ee centres from the plots which received heavier dressings of
manure than are generally given by wheat-growers in the Mallee. In
the variety trials the same varieties have given somewhat conflictin«y
returns at the different centres. At Carwarp the list is headed by two
'•'i*''^* *«*'.-'4mi».
'#4^-i .IL ,A^&»<ii^.
-*i.
Manurial Trials, Cowangie Centre. Plot sown with 60 lbs. Manure.
Variety: Federation.
«i^^._
Variety Trials, Carwarp Centre, showing plot of Penny Wheat.
late wheats — Major and Penny — while at Ouyen these are at the bottom
of the list. Federation has again demonstrated its suitability for Mallee
conditions. Currawa, a late wheat, has also done well this season. At
the two centres where it was grown, Mac's White, a favourite Mallee
wheat, has beaten most other varieties, but it is a rather risky variety to
grow as it shakes badly.
92
Journal of Af/riculuire, Victoiia. [11 Feb., 1918.
Perhaps the summary hereunder will most readily convey to readers
the result of the various experiments . Mac's White heads the list with
22.3 bushels per acre ; Gluyas and Dart's Imperial are next, while an
interesting comparison is afforded between select-bred Federation that
hai- become acclimatised, and select-bred Federation introduced from
other districts. The acclimatised Federation was more prolific than the
introduced Federation in two of the three centre^.
The faJct that the past two seasons have been phenomenally wet
should not be lost sight of in studying the lift. In ordinary years the
early varieties do better.
Cowangie Centre. — Plot Sown with Gluyas Wheat.
Variety Trials — Summary for three centres-
Mac's White
Gluyas ...
Dart's Imjoerial ...
Federation (acclimatised)
Currawa . .
MajoT
Federation (Longerenong)
Federation (Rutherglen)
Yandilla King
Penny
Bunyip
22.3 bushels per acre.
21.5
20.3
20.2
19.9
20.1
19.3
18.7
18.4
18.7
11.1 (eaten by birds)
Manurial Trials — Summary for three centres —
No manure
30 lbs. Superphosphate
60 „
90 ,,
yield per
acre.
bush.
16.9
18.6
20.4
19.5
Net profit per acre
Increase due over cost of
to manure. manure (wheat
at 4s. bushel).
bush.
1.7
3.5
2.6
11 Feb., 1918.] Wheat Experimenfal Flol.^ in the Mallee. 93
The summarized results of the manurial trials prove that 60 lbs.
superphosphate drilled in with the seed gave the most profitable return,
showing the net profit over and above the cost of the manure of 9s. 4d.
per acre, as against the no-manure plot, and 4s. per acre as against the
usual dressing given in the Mallee, viz., 30 lbs. The 90-lb. dressing
was not so profitable, and is probably too heavy for Mallee conditions,
even in wet years like the last one.
The average dressing used in the di&trict ranges from 30 to 45 lbs.
of superphosphate. Experience of the past season's results, as well as
that of previous years, has shown that this amount may be profitably
increased up to 60 lbs. per acre.
The whole of the results are important in that they confirm the fact
that the soils of the Mallee respond to fertilizers, and that> certain
varieties of wheat are more adaptable than others under conditions
obtaining there.
Experience shows that wherever the introduction of better farming
method^' are rendered feasible by the conquering of the Mallee shoots,
and overcoming other pioneering difficulties, wheat-growing is a highly
remunerative industry.
In submitting the results of experimental plots at Carwarp, Mr. G.
G. Stewart, M.L.A., writes at follows: —
' ' I notice a deal of criticism in the press as to why the Government
experimental farma cannot show a profit, and I have worked out the loss
to me occasioned by utilizing 30 acres of my land for experimental work,
as compared with 30 acres of the same laud not so devoted. The figures
are : —
Total yield experimental plots (area 30 acres,
includes spaces between plots) ... ... 380 bushels.
Total yield 30 acrer., Cui'rawa (field wheat), sown
side by side with plots ... ... ... 486 ,,
At 4s. per bushel this works out as under: —
380 at 4s., £76. 486 at 4s., £97 4e.
In addition, two full days longer were taken with the drill and two
extra days with the harvester. Allowing £2 per day for this work, it
makes a total loss of £29 4s. on the experimental plots compared with
the field wheat. This does not allow for the painstaking work of label-
ling, weighing, and tabulating the results.
I feel sure that the adverse criticism of the balance-sheets of the
experimental farms conducted by the Victorian Agricultural Department
arises from a lack of knowledge of the true character and objects of
experimental work. My experience has been that no farmer,
however expert, can conduct experiment work and make a
profit; the real profit is not shown by the actual results obtained at
the experimental farms themaelves, but in the increased productiveness
of the farmr, of the State as a whole due to such experimental work, and
there is a big field for investigation. I believe there are hundreds of
thousands of pounds lost annually to the farmer of this State in the wheat-
growing industry alone through sowing wrong varieties of seed, wrong
quantities of seed and manure, and sowing at the wrong time. If the
average farms in Victoria were farmed with the same skill as the best
farms of the State, it would mean an increase of millions of pounds
annually to the wealth of the State, without the expenditure of one extra
pound of capital or one hour more of labour."
94
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
INSPECTION OF FERTILIZERS.
A Review of the Analytical Results of Samples Collected
during 1917.
P. Rankin Scott, Chemist for Agriculture, and Will C. Rohertson,
Supervising Analyst.
During the season 1917 sixty-eight samples were collected of the
various brands of artificial fertilizers on th© Victorian market.
The majority of the samples were withdrawn from parcels at the
metropolitan concigning station, and from stocks at the factory. The
remainder were obtained from stocks on hand in country stores and
factories.
The samples collected included " superphosphates," " bone dust-
sviperphosphate, " " bone fertilizer-superphosphate," " superphosphate-
bone," " nitro-superphosphate," "market garden manure," "bone
dust," " blood-bone," " dried blood," and " animal fertilizer."
Approximately 60 per cent, of the parcels sampled consisted of
superplaosphate, and while this cannot be taken as an accurate guide,
owing to the fact that all consignments inspected are not sampled, yet
it serves to show the popularity of this form of fertilizer in Victoria.
An Analysis of the Analyses of Collected Samples.
The details of the analytical results of the samples collected have been
published. (See this Journal, January, 1917.)
On striking an average from the results of these analyses, and like-
wise computing the value, some interesting information is obtained.
A comparison between these figures and those computed from the
average guaranteed analysis is of importance in rhowing the farmer the
guaranteed value and its relation to the calculated value, i.e., the value
supplied.
For the purpose of simplicity, the fertilizers are dealt with separately.
Table I.
Superphosphate.
Phosphoric Acid.
Water
Citrate
Citrate
Soluble.
Soluble.
Insoluble.
Average
Average
Average
Calculated
charsred
Guaranteed
Value of
Season.
73
■6
_-
•6
per Ton.
Value.
Collected
tj
Samples.
•d
a
c3
-d
%
■a
-
■a
a
a
a
s
c3
P
c«
3
s
3
cS
o
o
3
3
Ph
O
N
O
Ph
o
f!^
O
%
%
o/
%
%
%
%
%
£ s. d.
£ s. d.
£ s. d.
1917 . .
17-32
17-00
0-73
0-50
0-81
0-50
18-86
18-00
4 15 0
4 16 8
5 0 1
1916 . .
17-70
17-00
1-18
0-63
1-36
0-90
20-24
18-53
4 7 6
4 10 9
4 13 9
I
11 Feb., 1918.]
Inspection of Fertilizers.
95
These figures are highly satiDfactory to the farmer, notwithstanding
an increase in the price of the fertilizer equivalent to^. approximately, 8
per cent.
The average guarantee is exceeded by the average analysis of the
collected samples; moreover, the average guaranteed value per ton
exceeds the average prices charged, while the average calculated value
of the superphosphate supplied exceeds, in turn, the average guaranteed
value.
If compared with previous year's figures (see this Journal, February,
1917), it will be noticed that there has been (a) an irucrease in the price
of the fertilizer, (6) a rise in the average guaranteed value, and (c) an
increase in the value of the collected samples.
The increase in price amounts to seven shillings and sixpence per
ton, the irucrease in guaranteed value amounts to five shillings and
elevenpence, while the increase in value of the fertilizer supplied
amounted to six shillings and fourpence.
This means in round figures a 10 per cent, increase in the price per
ton during 1917.
The increase in price is accompanied by a slight decrease in value.
■However, the superphociphate supplied is well above the guarantee, and
this fact should not be lost sight of, for it means that upwards of 3,000
tons of superphosphate have been handed gratis by the manufacturer to
the Victorian farming community.
Table II.
" Bone Dust-Superphosphate."
Nitrogen.
Phosphoric Acid.
Average
Price
Average
Guaranteed
Value.
Water
Soluble.
Citrate
Soluble.
Citrate
Insoluble.
Total.
Average
Calculated
Value of
Collected
Season.
ri
charged
»
s
i
per Ton.
Samples.
«
s
•3
•6
a
-d
rs
3
■o
a
a
a
(S
3
o
3
o
3
o
s
o
o
&H
O
^
25
^
O
p^
-'
;i4
%
%
%
%
/O
%
%
%
%
%
£ s. d.
£ 8. d.
£ s. d.
1917
2-06
1-50
9-00
^8-50
3 26
5-25
7-60
4-25
19-86
18-00
15 17 6
5 7 8
6 18
1917
Table III.
Bone Fertilizer-Superphosphate.
1-42 1-3.3 10-19 8-:
1-79 3-17 5-72 5-67 i 17-70 17-17 6 3 4 4 10 9 4 16 1
Table IV.
" Superphosphate-Bone or Bone Fertilizer."
1917 .. 0-78 0-75 14-06 12-75 0-96 1-22 2-90 3-53 17-93 17-50 5 13 8 4 13 6 4 18 10
It will be seen that the " Bone-Super " mixtures are placed under
three headings, viz., "Bone dust-supei-phosphate," "Bone fertilizer-
superphosphate," and " superphosphat€-bone fertilizer." The former is
96 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
a mixture of bone dust and superphosphate in equal proportions — a
mixture true to name, and the only grade of tliis class of fei'tilizer the
farmer is advised tO' buy. The second mixture consists of bone fertilizer
and superphosphates in equal proportions. As bone fertilizer is a
mixed manure in itself, containing rock phosphate, superphosphate,
organic refuse of varying kinds:, and quality, gypsum or marl, and a
small amount of bone dust, it will be readily agreed that this mixture
is totally different from " bone dust-superphosphate," and should not
be confused with the latter manure.
" Superphosphate-bone fertilizer " is similar in composition to
" bone fertilizer-superphosphate," with this important exception — the
former manure contains at the very least 75 per cent, of superphosphate.
The figures in Tablet II., III., and IV. will suffice to show the
respective merits of these mixtures^the values conclusively proving
"bone dust-superphosphate" to be the only admixture worth buying.
During recent years there has been a marked scarcity in " bone dust "
and the manure termed '^' bone-blood," which is produced as a by-
product at freezing and meat preserving works, and is really a highly
nitrogenous bone dust.
These fertilizers are much sought after in the southern districts of
the State, and the scarcity is viewed with concern by some members of
the farming community.
" Bone-blood " manures are rarely pla,ced on the market in the
simple condition. The freezing and meat preserving companies favour
selling the total output in bulk. This is. usually done by tender or
contract, and in some instances enterprising orchardists or other intense
culturists co-operate to buy the bulk, subsequently " dividing the
spoil."
On the other hand there are many instances of this valuable fertilizer
being bought by a broker or manufacturer. In the latter case it is used
to reinforce or fortify some other manure or admixture.
This manure or admixture, containing a low percentage o-f nitrogen,
may be totally unniitable to the farmer who is requiring the concen-
trated unmixed " bone-blood " or " bone dust."
J. H. Kastle, Director of the Kentuc~ky Experiment Station,
writes* — " There can be no doubt that large sums of money are annually
wasted in this State by buying fertilizers containing low percentages of
nitrogen and potash. These small percentages acTd a great deal to the
cost of the fertilizers, and do not give returns at all commensurate with
their cost. Ten times our annual expenditure could profitably be made
for fertilizers, but it should be made in general for phosphate and potash
salts to supply deficiencies, and to use in the growing of leguminous
crops to furnish humus, and nitrogen. Our fertilizer manufacturers need
to recognise the truth of this statement, and begin at once to supply
these materials in the unmixed condition to farmers at the lowest prices
possible."
In Victoria the most important fertilizers are those supplying phos-
phoric acid in readily available form. Hence we have our large output
of superphosphate.
Yet there is a demand for nitrogenous phosphatic fertilizers, and to
a lesser extent for nitrogenous and potassic manures.
The custom of growing leguminous crops with applications of phos-
phatic and potassic compounds, and siubsequently ploughing the green
* Bulletin 101, Jinie, 1915, Kentucky Exp. Stn.
11 Feb., 1918.] Inspection of Fertilizers. 97
crop under to ultimately suppy the soil with humus and nitrogen, is a
good one, but it is not always applicable.
There are districts in the southern part of Victoria where a dressing
of a nitrogenous phosphatic fertilizer such as " bone-blood " or " bone
dust " proves very useful, and the manufacturer selling this fertilizer in
the unmixed condition to the farmer at a fair price it- doing his country,
the farmer, and himself, a good turn.
" Breaking down " a fertilizer containing from, 4 to 7 per cent, of
nitrogen to " build up " another, so that it will contain from 0.75 to 1.5
per cent, of this element, is practically destroying the former fertilizer
altogether, and producing a mixture little better and more costly than
the original, which has undergone the "building up" process. You
cannot have the apple and eat it. Needless to say, in the compounding
of manures the unit value of the fertilizing elements or compounds,
viz., nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash, is considerably increased, and
it follows that this increase is greater when the manufacturer is asked
to mix.
The price of 1 per cent, nitrogen in "bone-blood " or " bone dust "
is increased both directly and indireictly wiien used in admixture.
From the economical stand-point the farmer shovild remember that
he pays a higher rate for nitrogen, phosphoric acid, and potash in
" mixed " fertilizers than he does for the same in the simple fertilizers.
It must be borne in mind that manufacturers produce fertilizers
according to demand, and the farmer should know full well that the
more he asks the manufacturer to handle fertilizers the higher will be
the price to be paid per ton. This is true in ordinary times, but during
the present era of stress and labour shortage the price undergoes a
marked increase.
Referring once again to the fertilizers mentioned in Tables II., III.,
and IV., viz., "bone-supers," the farmer should demand "bone
dust superphosphate." Failing to obtain this he should buy the manures
separately, and mix them on the farm, i.e., if the mixture is absolutely
essential.
The point to be impressed upon the farmer is this : Given that appli-
cations of phosphoric acid and nitrogen are profitable, apply nitrogenous
and phosphatic fertilizers, but apply them in the cheapest manner
possible.
This does not mean buying and applying the cheapest rubbish on
the market, but rather buying the high-grade simple manures at a
reasonable price, and either mixing them on the farm or applying them
to the soil in the simple condition.
Endeavours should always be made to keep the unit values of the
eosential fertilizing element or compound as low as possible.
During the past season the " mixed " fertilizer termed "bone ferti-
lizer-superphosphate," was sold at a monetary depreciation of 22 per
cent., whilst in the case of that sold as " superphosphate-bone "_ the
difference in value between the priceo charged and value received
amounted to 13 per cent, in favour ol the former. {See Tables III.
and IV.)
On the other hand, the single sample of " bone dust superphosphate "
collected, which was made by a country manufacturer, showed on the
unit value computation, higher value received than was charged for.
[See Table II.)
17260.— 2
98
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria, [11 Feb., 1918.
Table V.
NiTRO-SuPERPHOSPHATE.
NlTROGEN.
Phosphoric Acid.
Average
Price
charged
per Ton.
Average
Guaranteed
Value.
a
§
■6
1
g
u
Water
Soluble.
Citrate
Soluble.
Citrate
Insoluble.
Total.
Average
Value of
Collected
Samples.
'Season .
-d
si
■d
C
03
oi
C5
■d
o
■d
1
a
o
•d
a
o
•d
3
u
-d
c
3
o
S
o
1917
%
1-98
%
2 00
/o
13-45
%
13-00
0-63
0-39
1-46
7o
1-26
15-03
14-88
£ s. d.
6 10 0
£ s. d.
5 15 10
£ s. d.
6 0S
This fertilizer is another mixture, made by (a) reinforcing super-
phosphates with ammonium sulphates or nitrate of soda and a little
organic refuse containing slowly available nitrogen, or (b) reinforcing
superphosphate with dried blood. The samples collected analyzed well
up to the guarantee, and a glance at Table V. will show that the value
of the fertilizer supplied was satisfactory. The fact remains, however,
that the unit value of nitrogen in the ammonium sulphate, nitrate of
soda or dried blood, as the case might be, was considerably increased by
admixture.
Table VI.
Market Garden Manure.
NiTROQEN.
Phosphoric Acid.
Average
Price
cliarged
per Ton.
Average
Guaranteed
Value.
•d
g
-d
1
1
Water
Soluble.
Citrate
Soluble.
Citrate
Insoluble.
Total.
Average
Calculated
Value of
Season.
•d
u
o
■d
1
i
•d
■d
c
CS
s
6
a
3
o
■d
S
S
3
■d
c
o
PR
■d
fl
ci
a
3
O
Collected
Samples.
1917
%
4-06
%
4-00
%
8-03
0/
7-65
%
1-0-2
%
0-22
%
1-86
%
2-32
11-51
/O
10-19
£ s. d.
7 0 0
£ s. d.
5 16 4
£ s. d.
6 5 7
This fertilizer is simply another admixture of superphosphate, am-
monium sulphaite, and organic nitrogenous refuse. It contains a fair
amount of nitrogen, and is perhaps a serviceable mixture. The
analyses of the samples collected show that the manure is well above
the guarantee, but the price charged exceeds the calculated value by
approximately 15s. per ton (see Table VI.), and affords another example
of how the unit values are increased in " mixed " fertilizers. -
11 Feb., 1918.]
Ins'pect'wn of Fertilizers.
99
Table VII.
" BONEDUST."
Season .
1917
NiTROQEN.
Found.
Phosphoric Acid.
Guaranteed
0/
/o
4-2.3
Found.
%
20-21
Guaranteed
20-87
Average
Price.
charged
per Ton.
£ s. d.
6 5 0
Average
Guaranteed
Value
£ s. d.
7 17 3
Average
Calculated
Value of
Collected
Samples.
£ «. d.
7 18 6
The figures m this table are eminently satisfactory. The analyses of
collected samples agree with the guarantee, while the unit values as
shown by the value of the collected sample, are considerably lower than
tliose originally calculated at the beginning of the season.
Table VIII.
"Animal Fertilizeb."
NlTEOGEJJ-.
Phosphoric Acid.
Total.
Price
charged
per Ton.
Guaranteed
Value.
-
•6
a
Guarauteed.
Citrate
Soluble.
Citrate
Insoluble.
Average
Calculated
CI
o
•d
3
p
O
Found.
-a
-S
■6
O
6h
1
a
=8
|3
O
Value of
Collected
Samples.
1917
0/
3-13
%
3-00
I
%
4-40
4-00
%
12-44
0/
12- 00
%
16-84
%
16-00
£ «. d.
7 0 0
£ s. d.
5 3 6
£ .s. d.
5 8 8
p"" ^"^...c. x^x u.i^cx is ct ouue lertiiizer ot low grade. The analysis
u collected sample agreed with the guarantee, but the price charged
IS altogether out of proportion to the calculated value. Farmers can
do much better than to buy manures of this description.
Table IX.
"Bone-Blood."
Nitrogen.
Phosphoric Acid.
Price
charged
per Ton.
Guaranteed
Value.
Season.
B
o
"d
a
2
3
Citrate
Soluble.
Citrate
Insoluble.
• Total.
Calculated
Value of
Collected
Sample.
■6
d
5
o
■g
"3
as
3
d
3
O
|i(
•d
to
s
a
cS
o
1917 ..
%
6-74
%
5-50
%
5-18
%
6-36
%
7-21
%
7-03
%
12-39
%
13-39
£ s. d.
10 0 0
£ s. d.
7 12
£ .V. d.
7 16 5
2z
100
Journal of Agriculture, Yiriniia. [11 Feb., 1918.
This fertilizer was manufactured in another State, and freight and
shipping charges have increased its cost to such an extent that the cal-
culated value compares very unfavorably with the price charged, and yet
the fertilizer would probably show a profitable return to the farmer who
used it. It is high grade, in a fine condition, and unadulterated.
Table X.
" Dried Blood."
NlTROGEN.
Price
charged
per Ton.
Guaranteed
Value.
Calculated
Season.
Found.
Guarant?ed.
Collected
Sample.
1917
%
10-59
%
8-75
£ «. (l.
10 0 0
£ s. d.
7 13 1
£ s. d.
9 5 4
This sample of dried blood was a very fair one. The analysis of the
collected sample showed it to be well above the guarantee. The price
charged exceeded the calculated value, but in view of the great scarcity
of dried blood during the season this can readily be understood. The
fertilizer was in the pure condition, and would be fair value at the
price charged.
The analyses of all samples collected during the season were satis-
factory, not one single instance of a deficiency exceeding the limits
allowed by the Act coming under notice.
This is only as it should be. The farming community is being asked
to pay high prices for fertilizers, and it is only fair that they should be
of good quality and well up to the guarantee.
Correction.
In the Jounicd of Agriculture for last month, i>age 48, the result of
the analysis of Mount Lyell Superphosphate No. 1 (Sample 957) was
incorrectly given. It should have read: —
Phosphoric Acid.
Wiitcr Soluble.
17.27
Citrate Soluble.
0.62
Citrate Insolubli
0.69
Total.
18.58
I
11 Feb., 1918.] Disease!^ of Fruit Treei^. 101
DISEASES OF FRUIT TREES AND THEIR TREATMENT.
Bn H. [!'. Davty, F.E.S., Orchard Supervision Branch.
The number of pests that attack cultivated plants is legion, many of
which are now cosmopolitan, and this to such a degree that their country
of origin is not alwayr; known for a certainty. It is well known that
many plants and animals thrive better in a new country, than in the
one to which they are indigenous. Some of the reasons for this is the
absence of natural controls such as climate or the absence of parasites,
either insects or fungi. An abundant food supply always favours^ this
increase, and it is easily seen that where such crops as fruit trees are
grown year after year thif/ ensures an unbroken food supply to the
pests attacking them, whereas the same pests attacking plants under
purely natural conditions would have to travel greater distances to find
suitable host plants:.
In dealing with insect j^ests it should be borne in mind that the
mission of many insects is to assist nature in removing trees that are
low in vitality, so as to make room for healthy ones. This can easily
be proved by ringbarking a perfectly healthy tree, and noticing how
readily it is attacked by insects that previously left it alone. From
this we learn the necessity of keeping trees and plants in as thrifty a
condition as possible. In the economy of nature, many insects are
useful in lessening the seed production of some plants, and thus aid in
preventing their undue increase, but unfortunately they show no dis-
crimination when plants of a kindred nature are being grown for profit.
In combating injurious insects bv means of spraying, it is of the
greatest importance that this should be done thoroughly, and care
taken that no part of the sprayed plant is missed by the material, other-
wise such insects as aphides are in a very brief time able to again infest
the tree from a few surviving individuals.
With insects that secrete waxy filaments such as Woolly aphis, the
nozzle of the spray pump should be held close up to the parts to be
sprayed, so that sufficient force may be applied to wash away the floc-
culent protective covering beneath which the insect shelters.
The time of application, together with thoroughness, if combined
with some knowledge of the pest to be fought, is the essential for
success. Clean cultivation is also important, as, apart from its physical
effect on the soil, it also destroys cover for pests of various sorts. The
head-lands should be cultivated, for if allowed to support a riot of
weeds, these are a prolific source of invasion of enemies to the fruit-
grower.
The chief insects which the horticulturist has to combat may be
grouped as follows: —
1. Chewing insects that feed on exposed leaf surfaces.
Examples. — Pear and Cherry Slug, Pumpkin Beetle and most
caterpillars.
Treatment. — Spray with arsenate of lead.
2. Chewing insects that are exposed for only a short time.
Examples. — Codlin Moth, Light Brown Apple Moth.
Treatment . — Arsenical sprays. Picking affected fruit, and
bandaging.
102 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
3. Chewing insects living in tunnels eaten out by them in stems or
branches.
Example. — Cherry and Peach Borer Caterpillar.
Treatment. — Spraying is of very little or no value. Inject
carbon bi-sulphide into tunnel and plug up entrance with
soft clay.
4. Chewing insects that move freely about and often feed at night.
Exainjiles. — Weevils.
Treatment. — Arsenical sprays. Root borer traps. Jarring in-
sects from trees, 'collecting and destroying.
5. Suctorial insects, more or less permanently fixed to their host
plant.
Examples. — Scale insects .
Treatment. — Oil sprays or fumigation -ndth hydrocyanic acid
gas.
6. Suctorial insects that move about on branches.
Examples. — Aphides, Red Spider.
Treatment. — Oil sprayr, when trees are dormant and tobacco
sprays when trees are aictive.
7. Suctorial insects that are free-moving and active fliers.
Examples. — Rutherglen and other plant-feeding bugs.
Treatment. — ^Phenyle sprays.
8. Fly maggots infesting fruit.
Examples. — Fruit flies.
Treatment. — Destroy infested fruit by boiling, keep toil
beneath trees well stirred. Spraying is of no value.
From the diversity of insect pests attacking fruit trees, it can be
seen that before attempting to combat them a true diagnosis of the
disease must first be made, as in the case of disease attacking higher
life, otherwise the operator can have but little hope for success. If a
correct diagnosis be not made, a fungicidal spray may be applied when
it should have been an insecticide, or vice versd.
The following remedies given are those commonly advocated by
officers of this branch.
Codlin Moth. — The eggs are usually deposited on fruit or leaves at
intervaki of time. The caterpillar, on hatching, feeds for some time on
the hair-like threads in the eye or calyx of the apple, and later usually
enters the fruit at this point. This applies principally to caterpillars
of the first brood, later broods entering the fruit at any point. Spray
trees with arsenate of lead (1 lb. to 20 gallons of water) before the
calyx or eye of fruit closes ; give a second application from ten to fifteen
days later, and subsequent sprayings should be given at intervals of not
longer than thirty days, four or five sprayings being necessary — the
latter number for late varieties.
Cherry and Pear Slug. — Spray with arsenate of lead as soon as
leaves have developed, and while the fruit is small and green. A second
spraying, if necessary, can be made after the fruit has been picked.
Root Borer. — So far, the only methods adopted for coping with this
pest are by trapping and poisoning with arsenate of lead; trees sprayed
on warm days give better results, owing to the beetles drinking the
liquid, than on cool days. Trees should be regularlv examined for
beetles from spring until January.
Woolly Aphis. — Orchards in low-lying, damp situations are the most
difficult to keep clean, some varieties of apples, notably the Rokewood,
11 Feb., 1918.] Diseases of Fruit Trees. 103
Spitzeuberg, Statesman, Granny Smith, and Rome Beauty, amongst
leading varieties, being specially prone to attack from these insects.
Thoroughness in spraying is of the greatest importance, and
care should be taken not to allow galls to form, as after these
have developed the difficulties of eradication are enormously increased.
The spray should be applied first as soon as leaves have fallen, or even
earlier, and the second spraying should be given early in August. For
these applications use red oil at a strength of one gallon of oil to 25
gallons of water.' If aphis be present in summer, the trees may be
sj^rayed with tobacco water, made as follows: — Soak 1 lb. of tobacco
stems in \h gallons water (first placing tobacco in a bag); if washiup
soda is added at rate of \ lb. to every 50 gallons of water, it will
greatly assist in the extraction of the nicotine.
Peach Aphis. — The most effective treatment for these pests is a
thorough spraying with red oil in early spring or late winter at strength
of 1 in 30. For dealing with these aphides after the trees have become
active, make a thorough spraying with tobacco wash — 2 lbs. tobacco to
4 gallons water.
Mussel Scale. — Spray in early winter with red oil — ^1 gallon of oil
being used to 20 of water. All loose bark, &c., should be removed from
tree. Watch trees closely in spring (usually about November) for
young scales hatching, a tobacco spray at this time being very effective.
San Jose Scale.- — -The same treatment as recommended for mussel
scales during dormant period. For summer treatment, use the self-
boiled lime-sulphur wash at summer strength, choosing a
cool day for that purpose. Sixteen pounds of fresh burnt lime
or 13 lbs. of flowers of sulphur, will suffice to make 80 gallons of
winter spray or 240 gallons of summer spray. To prepare, place lime in
barrel which has previously been rinsed with boiling water to warm it ;
mix the sulphur in a convenient vessel with boiling water added dowly,
until the sulphur is well mixed into a somewhat stiff paste, then add
more boiling water, 4 gallons in all. The lime in the barrel should be
slaked simultaneously with four gallons of boiling water, and the
suphur mixture added. Stir the lot up well with a wooden spade or
flat stick, and then cover up with two or three bags to retain the heat.
If everything is done promptly, the mixture should continue to boil for
30 minutes. It is best used when freshly made.
Olive Scale. — During the winter months it is difficult to reach these
insects when infesting citrus trees, and the most effective time for deal-
ing with this pest is in March, either by fumigation or spraying. At
this time of the year these insects are mostly small and immature, and
the trees, having at this time ripened their growth, are less liable to
sustain damage from either gas or oil applications. Red oil may be
applied at a strength of 1 in 40. When this scale occurs on deciduous
trees, they can be treated with red oil at winter strength during the
winter months. The same treament can be given for the Red scale.
In dealing with scale insects it should be borne in mind that it is
difficult to destroy matured scales and their eggs, but when first hatched
the young are exceedingly delicate little creatures, and are at this stage
easily killed by almost any weak contact insecticide. But if they are
permitted to settle down and start feeding, they immediately commence
to form the protecting scale, and as this increases in size so the diffi-
culties in reaching the insect beneath becomes greater, and consequently
washes of greater strength become necessary.
104 Journal of Agriculture, Vicloria. [11 Feb., 1918.
Rutherglen Buy or Chinch Bug [Lygaeida). — These insects, often
wrongly called flies, are very destructive, feeding mostly on grasses or
shrubs, and in some seasons becoming very serious perts to the orchardist
and farmer.
When these bugs make their appearance in plague numbers, the
most effective treatment, as well as the cheapest, appears to be spraying
them with phenyle, the formula for its preparation being as follows: —
Boil 1 bar of yellow soap with 3 lbs. of washing soda until thoroughly
dissolved, then add 1 quart of phenyle and make up to 40 gallons with
water. If preferred, Benzole emulsion could be used at strength of
1 in 4, but this is a much more costly preparation than the phenyle.
Fruit Bugs (Pjirrhocoridce), commonly called Soldier bugs, are fre-
quently a pest in suburban gardens. They are exceedingly fond of
greasy bones, and if a few of these be laid down (the large bones are
best), where these insects most_ congregate, they will attack the bones in
large numbers, and they may then be easily killed by pouring boiling
water over them. This at the same time brings more grease to the sur-
face of the bones, thus keeping them attractive to the biigs. In dealing
with plant bugs, clean cultivation is of the very first importance.
Red Spider. — Spray when trees are dormant with red oil at winter
strength — 1 in 30.
Thriqys. — These insects are often troublesome to late blooming varie-
ties of apples, particularly the Five Crown and Rome Beaiity, and
especially so should the spring prove a dry one. Oil applications dviring
the winter months probably affords some slight jjrotection, but
thoroughly spraying the trees with tobacco wash (same strength as for
aphis) as soon as thrips start to become plentiful is the best method of
control. Spraying must be thorough to be effective. The mixture
should be applied at high pressure, and forced down on to the ends of
the buds rather than applied on their sides. The nozzle should be held
close to the buds, two or three sprayings being usually necessary. In
preparing tobacco sprays, the tobacco should not be boiled, but placed
in a bag and allowed to soak for three or four days.
Fungus Diseases.
Fungus diseases are caused by minute vegetable organisms attacking
plants of a higher order, and in some seasons the losses caused are very
serious, and humid conditions are very advantageous for most of them.
Where the drainage of land is bad, the conditions are usually very
favorable for the rapid propagation of these minute plants. In spray-
ing against fungus diseases, it should be borne in mind that treatment
should be always preventative rather than curative, for once these
organisms enter their host plant they are beyond the reach of effective
treatment. The aim of the horticulturist should be to coat with a
fungicidal spray the plant to be protected, so that the spore of the
disease, on germination taking place, would come into contact with the
fungicide that separates it from its host plant, and thus cause its death.
If the tree has not been protected bv coating it with a fungicide, the
spore on germination sends out mycelial threads, which find their way
beneath the skin of the host plant and commence to feed on its tissues.
The skin and tissue of the affected parts are killed, and it is the
inability of these dead parts to expand and keep pace with the growing
parts of fruit that causes the cracks in apples and pears when attacked
by Black Spot fungus.
11 Pkb., 1918.] Diseases of Fruit Trees. 105
Black Spot or Scab in Apples and Pears. — Spray trees as soon as
buds separate from one another, so that the spray can run down the
flower stalk, using either Bordeaux Mixture (6.4.50 formula) or Copper
Soda Spray (6.8.50 formula — 6 lbs. blue stone, 8 lbs. washing soda, 50
gallons water) ; for late or summer spraying, using this at half strength.
Shot Hole of Stone Fruits. — Spray with Bordeaux Mixture or
Copper Soda before flowers open. Spraying as soon as leaves have
fallen is advised for trees that have suffered badly from attacks of this
disease.
Peach Curl. — Spray with Bordeaux Mixture as soon as buds swell
in spring, and just before the leaf buds burst. A spraying with blue-
stone (1 lb. in 25 gallons of water) has given good results when imme-
diately followed by an oil apray at strength of 1 in 25.
Shot Hole of A pricot. — Spray with Bordeaux Mixture or Copper
Soda spray when the buds ai'e showing pink.
Armillaria. — This is a root-killing fungus, and is very destructive
to trees in certain soils, such as some of the red and sandy soils that
have a cement sub-surface, especially on land that has not been
thoroughly cleaned of roots of native trees previous to planting. Several
remedies are recommended for coping with this disease, among which
Sulphate of Iron, Bordeaux Mixture, and Bordeaux Paste are the prin-
cipal. One thing that should be borne in mind is that summer treat-
ment is likely to prove dangerous to the tree. Bordeaux Paste is
applied after baring the roots, which, if done in hot summer weather,
must be injurious to the tree. Again, if drenching with a fungicide to
the soil sufficient to reach the disease on the roots is given in hot weather,
when the roots are in a most active condition due to the rapid transpira-
tion of water by the leaves, trouble is likely to result, and probably the
tree will die. The best time to make root applications is during the
winter months, or after heavy rains in autumn.
Bordeaux Paste is made as follows: —
Sulphate of Copper (Bluestone), 1| lbs.
Quicklime, 1 lb.
Water, 2 gallons.
Remove soil and apply to roots with a brush.
Bordeaux Mixture, 6.4.50, sprayed on roots.
Sulphate of Iron, 1 lb. in 4 gallons of water, sprayed on roots.
In preparing Bordeaux Mixture three vessels are used, preferably
of wood (iron vessels must on no account be used in its preparation).
Formula, Bluestone, 6 lbs. ; Quicklime, 4 lbs. ; Water, 50 gallons. Dis-
solve the bluestone in a barrel with 25 gallons of water, and in another
barrel slake the lime and make 25 gallons of lime-water. These two lots
of 25 gallons should be poured evenly into a third vessel, keeping it
well stirred at the same time. A test can be made on this mixture by
inserting a clean knife-blade into it for a minute or two ; if the steel
bronzes it shows the presence of free copper in the solution', and a little
more lime should be added until the knife-blade shows clean. In bad
seasons, it may be of advantage to lessen the water to 40 gallons, both
in the Bordeaux Mixture as well as in the Copper Soda spray. In the
preparation of the latter spray, the same method is adopted as in the
Bordeaux, only tiie washing soda takes the place of lime. In the pre-
paration of any spray, good, soft water should be used. Bordeaux
106 Journal of Agriculture, Vicfoiia. [11 Feb., 1918.
requires stirring before using; this is usually done when running the
lime-water and blaestone into the spray pump or third vessel.
Bordeaux Mixture (French method) is made up as follows: —
Materials.
Copper Sulphate, 10 lbs.
Fresh Quicklime, 5 lbs.
Water, 50 gallons.
If the lime is of poor quality or air-slaked, more than 5 lbs. will be
required .
Utensils.
A 60-gallon hogshead with one head removed ; pegs should be
inserted inside to show the 10 and 50-gallon levela
Two or three kerosene tins for boiling water in.
A tub or tin to slake the lime — capacity about 10 gallons.
An earthenware jug or jar — capacity 1 gallon.
A dipper — enamelled or painted inside and out.
A fine sieve.
Some phenolphthalein testing paper.
A broom-handle to stir with
Operations.
Dissolve the copper sulphate in 5 gallons or so of hot water, make up
to 10 gallons with cold water.
Remove one gallon of this solution in the earthenware jug or jar
and place it to one side.
Add about 20 gallons of water to the copper sulphate solution in the
cask (this need not be measured).
Slake the quicklime by adding small quantities of water at a time.
When slaked, add water sufficient to make about 6 or 8 gallons of milk
of lime.
Pour this lime milk through the sieve into the bulk copper sulphate
solution, with brisk stirring until neutralized. Neutralization is shown
by the phenolphthalein paper turning pink. Stop adding lime milk as
soon as the test paper turns faintly pink. (The test paper can with
advantage be pinned to a small stick to avoid touching with fingers
wetted with lime water, which would result in misleading indications.)
Add 1 gallon of Copper Sulphate solution previously wthdrawn;
stir thoroughly.
Make up to 50 gallons with water, and stir again.
The mixture is now ready for use. It should be used fresh, only
sufficient for the day's requirements being made up at one time.
A stock solution of Copper Sulphate— 1 lb. to 1 gallon of water —
may be made up. This will keep indefinitely. Ten gallons of this
stock solution should be taken for each cask of mixture. Copper
Sulphate Solution must not be handled in iron or tin vessels unless
these have been very thoroughly painted or tarred both inside and out .
wood or enamel vessels are to be preferred. Copper Soda may be pre-
pared in similar manner to above, but about half as much again of soda
would be required, as in the case of lime. Phenolphthalein test paper
can be obtained from any chemist. It consists of strips of white filter
paper wetted with a 5 per cent, solution of phenolphthalein in methyl-
ated spirit and allowed to dry.
11 Feb., 1918.] Bee-Keejnng in Victoria. 107
Collar Rot in Citrus Trees. — Cut away diseased bark until healthy
tissues are met with, and swab parts with carbolic acid and water m
equal parts. Covering wounds; with grafting wax, &c., facilitates rapid
healing.
Chlorosis is recognised by the leaves showing pale yellow blotches
due to the lack of chlorophyll The best treatment for trees so affected
is an application of 1 lb. superphosphate with | lb. of sulphate of iron
per tree
BEE-KEEPING IN VICTORIA.
By F. R. Beuhne, Apicultvrist.
XXVI. THE HONEY FLORA OF VICTORIA.
(Continued fi-om page 307, Vol. XV.)
The Bottlebkushes (CalUstemon).
Ths Bottlebrushes are a genus confined to Australia. There are six-
teen species, eight of which are native to Victoria. They are closely allied
to the Honey Myrtles or Bottlebrush Tea-trees {Melaleuca), which they
i-esemble remarkably in their floral characters, differing from them,
however, in the length and breadth of their leaves and the length and
colour of the stamens of the flower. The features which distinguish the
Bottlebrushes from the Honey Myrtles or Bottlebrush Tea-trees are the
larger leaves as well as the longer stamens of the former, which are
always over half an inch in length while those of the Honey Myrtles do
not exceed half an inch.
All the Bottlebrushes yield nectar and pollen, and although the
honey obtained from them cannot be considered of the best quality, these
shrubs are nevertheless of great value to the bee-keeper in the localities
where they grow, as they provide nectar and pollen in October, Novem-
ber, and December, according to the :.pecies, a time when both these bee
foods are most needed for the full development of the colonies.
The Crimson Bottlebrush {CalUstemon lanceolattis) .
The Crimson Bottlebrush is usually a tall tree, sometimes "attaining
a height of 30 feet, but occasionally the shrubs are low and bushy.
The leaves are lance-shaped, variable in breadth, usually pointed, and
from H to 2 inches long, but varying from 1 to 3 inches. The crimson
flower spikes are from 2 to 4 inches long, and not very dense. The
petals are greenish or reddish, and the stamens crimton, in some
speciniens deeply coloured, in others much paler, more slender, and
scarcely above half an inch in length. The Crimson Bottlebrush is found
in East GippsJand. It yields both nectar and pollen, and flowers
generally in October.
The Scarlet Bottlebrush {CnlJistemon coccineus).
A shrub very closely allied to the Crimson Bottlebrush. The leaves
are lance-shaped, rigid, almost pungent, from 1 to H inches long, the
mid rib prominent The flowers are scarlet, not very dense, stamens ^
to 1 inch long, with yellow anthers.
108
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
The Scarlet Bottlebrush is found in the Grampians country and
flowers in November and December. Like most of the Bottlebrushes it
frequents:, the banks of rivers and creeks, and other moist situations.
Fig. 67.
The Scarlet Bottlebrush {Callistemon lanceolatus) .
The Willow Bottlebrush {Callistemon salignus.)
A tall shrub or small tree, attaining sometimes 30 to 40 feet in
height, and often indistinguishable in foliage and flowers from the
■^'^
11 Feb.. 1918.] .-1 Water Weed at Toorourrong. 109
CrimL.on Bottlebrusli {Callistevion Ia7tceolatvH) Tlwj leaves are, how-
ever, usually more pointed, and the flowers generally smaller, than in
the Crimson Bottlebrush.
It is found in all parts of Victoria, particularly along the Yarra,
Ovens, Goulburn, and other rivers. It is a nectar and pollen producer
like the other species.
The Swamp Bottlebrush {Gdllistemon paltidosus).
A species with narrow, almost linear, leaves, growing in swampy
localities. No data as to itft honey or pollen yielding qualities are so
far available.
The Mountain Bottlebrush (Callistemon Sieberi).
This is a mountain species with short, almost linear, leaver, from
^ to I of an inch in length, and red flowers, usually in short spikes..
The Pine Bottlebrush {Callistemon jyithyoides).
A tall shrub confined to the north-east of the State. The leaves are
linear, more or less:, distinctly channelled on the upper side, rigid, blunt,
or sharply pointed, from 2 to 4 inches long, resembling pine leaves,
hence the name. The flowers are rather large and of a dull yellowish
green, including the anthers.
The Narrow-leaved Bottlebrush (Callistemon linearis).
Ufrually a tall shrub with narrow linear leaves, from 2 to 5 inches
long, blunt or sharp-pointed. The flowers are large, with stamens about
1 inch long, dark or pale red, sometimes greenish
The Prickly Bottlebrush (Callistemon hrachyandrus).
The Prickly Bottlebrush it' a tall, stiff, bushy shrub or small tree, the
young shoots softly hairy. The leaves are linear, channelled above,
rigid, and sharply pointed, and from | to 1^ inches in length. The
flower spikes are loose and interrupted, or sometimes dense, and rarely
2 inches in length. This species is found in the Murray Desert.
A WATER WEED AT TOOROURRONG.
By Alfred J. Ewart, D.Sc, Ph.D.
(Government Botanist of Victoria, and Professor of Botany and Plant
Physiology in the University of Melbourne).
The Metropolitan Board of Works makes use of an artificially con-
structed lake at Toorourrong for settling the water derived from the
Plenty Ranges and "Wallaby Creek system. Such a lake is bound, in
course of time, if it fulfils its function, to silt up slowly, and thus become
liable to be choked by water weeds.
The weed Vallisneria spiralis was present at one point in the lake
for many years without spreading, but suddenly in one season extended
over a much larger area, so that the problem of either suppressing it or
keeping it within bounds became of importance. This weed has spread
over large areas of Europe, Asia, America, Africa, and Australia. It
grows in stagnant, or slowly-flowing water, chiefly where there is a
muddy bottom, and, if too abundant, might have a tendency to affect
the quality of the water in autumn owing to the presence of large
numbers of its decaying leaves.
110 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb.^ 1918.
It spreads iu two ways: —
(1) Yegetatively, by lateral stcloiis rooting at their ends. These
are formed from early spring to late autumn, hut the
plant rarely extends in this way more than 1 to 3 feet
per year.
(2) By saeds, M'hich float for a time and then sink. They ripen
in summer — -usually from January to February — and the
plants flower from about the end of IS^ovember to end of
December. The plants at Toorourrong were just com-
mencing to flower on 27th November last. Ripe seeds are
developed only when both male and female plants are
present; but, even then, it often happens that no fertile
seed are formed for one or two years in succession.
Specimens of both male and female plants were found
in flower on the lake.
The seeds germinate in late summer, when, under natural conditions,
the water-level is low, and the growth keeps pace with the rise of the
water-level later on. If the water level be high the seeds may remain
dormant until the following summer. At a depth of 6 feet, the seeds are
unable to form seedlings, but if started at a depth of 2 or 3 feet, they \vi"
grow with the rise of the water up to 6 feet. The sudden increase of tiie
weed in the lake at Toorourrong was due to the level being low at a time
when the plant had had a successful seeding season, and the seeds were
able to germinate.
Modes of TREAT:\rFNT.
1. The most effective method would be to drain the lake, and scoop or
cut away not less than 3 inches of the top layer of the silt wherever the
plant was growing. In some parts, this would be a difficult task, for
where there was any depth of silt, it would take months to become firm.
2. The mere exposure of the infected area during a hot, dry summer
until the plants and mud were dry would reduce the growth very greatly
in the following season, provided the area was allowed to dry for not
less than three months, and that draining took place before any seeds
had been foiTned.
3. Raking the plants off the bottom from a boat is comparatively
ineffective, as sufficient plants and rooted stolons are left behind to
re-establish the weed in the following year,
4. Cutting the weeds by dragging a knife behind a boat, or by using
a cutting machine — as is done on Lake Wendouree — will keep them down
for one season, but,, to exhaust the plants, needs repeating at least three
times a year.
5. The most practicable mode of treatment would be to deepen the
lake by raising the banks, and then to cut the weeds as closely as possible
before raising the water level to the new height, and before seeding takes
place — that is previous to the month of January. During the dangerous
seeding months — January to March, or, occasionally in late seasons,
April — the lake should, if practicable, be kept at its full depth. When
once Vallisneria spiralis has got a hold, it will abnost inevitably travel
up to newly-submerged shallower parts, and also to areas which are
silting up; but it spreads slowly upAvards as compared with its rate of
spread with the current, however slow the latter is. Hence, by the
last-mentioned method of treatment, it would be possible in the future
to keep the weed within bounds with a minimum of trouble.
11 Feb., 1918.] Nursery Stock. HI
NURSERY STOCK.
As citrus culture has during the past few years received attention
from growers in the irrigated areas of the northern part of the State
and is capable of considerable extension without the risk of over-pro-
duction it is necessary for growers to understand the nature and limita-
tions of the stocks used for the foundations of their trees. With but
few exceptions Australian nurserymen have exclusively Ubed the wild
lemon as a stock, while citrus growers in other countries, suc'n as Cali-
lornia, Florida, Algeria, as well as European gix)wers, give preference
generally to the sour orange as a stock. Seedlings from the sweet
orange, Otaheite, Tritoliata, and Pomelo have also been tried, but have
not come into favour, with the exception of the first mentioned, owing
to their limitations or unsuitability.
In the selection of citrus trees the adaptation of the stock to soils
and climatic changes, and the reciprocal influence between stock and
scion should not be overlooked. It cannot be denied that such an
influence is exerted m the direction of hardiness, rate of growth, shape
of the tree-head, as v/ell as the quality of the fruit produced.
Sour Orange Stock.
In poin!: of hardiness the sour orange (Citrus vulgaris) is considered
to be much superior to the wild lemon (Citrus livionuni). At the Wah-
gunyah nursery last winter, when the temperature fell below 22 deg.
Fall., no appreciable damage was done to the one-year-old bed of sour
change stock, while the lemon stocks were frosted back to the crown.
1 ne sour orange stock has an abundant root system, which penetrates
well into the soil. In this respect it has a considerable advantage
0V6 if many other stocks as the roots are not subjected to the same varia-
tions of temperature as those of a more shallow rooting habit, nor are
they so liable to suffer injury from the plough during cultivation. In
this deep rooting habit the trees have a larger area from which to
derive the plant food of the soil as well as their roots being in contact
with a more or less permanent water supply.
Collar-rot (mal-di-gomd) is one of the most serious troubles of the
orange grove, as, working insiduously on the trunk beneath the surface,
the disease involves the ruin of the tree before the grower is aware
of its presence, and too late for any remedial measures being taken,
iriy the death of numerous trees here and there throughout the grove,
the grower in a few years finds the orchard unprofitable, but by the
use of the sour orange stock this condition can be avoided as the sour
orange is not subject to this particular disease.
Trees worked on the sour orange require not only plenty of moisture
but also rich soils in humus. On the poorer and drier class of soils they
do not grow so large as those worked on the wild lemon. In general,
the sour orange stock is most suitable for our irrigation areas, where
plenty of moisture can be supplied, and the fertility of the soil main-
tained. From the first time of cropping the fruit borne by trees
worked on the sour orange is of good quality, being thin-skinned, juicy,
and showing little '"' rag." They are somewhat shy in bearing at first,
but with age they fruit well, and the trees under suitable conditions are
Icng lived.
112
Journal of Afiiiculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
Wild or Rough Lemon Stock.
The wild leinon is a rapid grower, but is more susceptible to injury
by cold than the sour orange. Trees worked on this stock outgrow
those of almost any other stock in use, and they fruit early and
abundantly, though the fruit at first borne is generally thick-skinned,
and lacking in juice. The root system varies widely from shallow to
a satisfactory depth, and owing to its wide range of foraging, trees
worked on this stock are suitable for the drier and less fertile areas.
It has been the experience of some growers in this State that the trees
on this stock are relatively short-lived when compared with those on the
sour orange. Owing to the rapid growth of the lemon seedlings, trees
can be raised on this much more readily than on other stocks. Lemon-
stock trees should not be planted out on heavy, wet soils, or where they
may be subject to hardships due to lack of drainage, even on the
lighter soils.
Rough Lemon Stock Budded; Seed Sown September, 1915. State iMursery,
Wahgunyah.
At the Wahgunyah citrus nursery the Depai'tment of Agriculture
has a limited number of Washington Navels, Valencia Late, Eureka
and Lisbon lemons worked on the sour orange stock for disposal during
the coming season at <£6 per 100 f.o.r. Wahgunyah. In addition,
there are something like 5,000 lemons (Eureka and Lisbon) worked on
the wild lemon stock, which are available at the same rate. Those
desirous of securing these trees must lose no time in making application,
as already orders are being received for trees of this character. A
charge of 10s. per 100 is made on application, and the balance of £5
10s. per 100 when directions are given to have the consignments for-
warded. Intending purchasers are requested to make application for
citrus trees on the official form, which will be forwarded immediately
on application for same.
It is expected that this year there will be a fairly large quantity
of citrus trees available at the nurseries, as 28,000 stocks have been
11 Feb., 1918.] Nursery Stock. 113
budded this season, and, in addition, 34,000 stocks have been planted
cut. The stock consist of the two varieties commonly used, viz., the
wild lemon and the sour orange, so that growers may have their choice
as regards the stocks on which their trees are worked.
Planting.
When the trees are received from the nursery they should im-
mediately be unpacked and "healed" in. This is done by digging a
shallow trench and placing the trees singly therein, covering the roots
well with soil and thoroughly wetting them.
When planting, which should be carried out as soon as possible,
just a sufficient number to handle expeditiously should be taken from
the trench and the tips of all the larger roots cut off by a clean under
Sour Orange Stock ready for Budding; Seed Sown October, 1914. State
Nursery, Wahgimyah.
cut, while most of the fibrous roots should be removed and if at all dry
they should be completely cut away.
The holes for the reception of trees require to be dug at the time of
planting in order that the soil moisture may be retained, or, if these
have been opened up previously, it will be necessary to cut away 3 or 4
inches of the edges that have set somewhat and would therefore resist
the extension of the roots later on.
The trees need to be planted at the same depth they occupied in
the nursery, the soil being carefully filled in while the roots are spread
out on the surface thereof as it reaches their level.
When the hole has been about three parts filled up water should
be. freely added so as to bring the soil particles in close contact with
the roots and to facilitate the capillarity of the permanent soil mois-
ture. The remaining soil should be then filled in and left in a loose
condition to act as a mulch. The trees require irrigating every ten
days during the first season. Immediately after planting it will be
114 . Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
necessary to cut the heads of the trees hard back to correspond to the
reduction of the root system due to the lifting. If this is not carried
out the transpiration that is going on through the leaves exhausts the
trees before root action can take place, and causes the death of the trees.
Tf after cutting back any signs of dryness appear further reduction
of the top will be necessary. The failure to reduce the top at planting
is one of the greatest contributing factors to the losses that growers
have recently sustained when handling their young trees. At Wah-
gunyah nursery some very large trees received from America were
planted out in accordance with the above directions without the loss of
a single one, though they had been many weeks in transit.
HOME-MADE SHEEP DIP.
By F . li. Teni'ple, Inspector of Stock. ■
Though numerous sheep-farmers prepare their own chemical
solutions for the destruction of animal parasites in their flocks, it is
questionable whether their doing so is really economical. Roughly
speaking, the cost of a standard dipping compound prepared with
chemical exactness and expert knowledge of what is most destructive to
parasites and their eggs, and least harmful to the animals treated, is less
than a halfpenny per head.
However, many will still prefer to make up their dip themselves,
and my present object is to draw attention to the danger of persons
carrying out this work without some knowledge of the chemicals they
are dealing with. The fact that arsenic — the basis of most poison sheep
dips — is on the market in three grades, viz., pure, commercial, and low
grade, should be emphasized.
Arsenic is produced in various places in Victoria, being a by-product
saved in the treatment of what is generally known as pyrites, and prior
to the war a great deal of our arsenic was ]:)urchased for Germany.
From my own personal knowledge of the business of manufacturing
arsenic I can say that some makers produce a compound containing 98
per cent, of arsenious acid, Avhile that prepared by others is of a much
lower grade. Herein lies the necessity for precaution. Makers of their
own dipping fluid using arsenic should ascertain its strength and prepare
a formula for their guidance. It might be that they w^ould form their
bases on, say, an assumed 80 per cent, arsenic content when in reality
the material used might, perhaps, contain 98 per cent, arsenious acid,
and consequently w^ould require a more alkaline matter to provide the
necessary solution, otherwise a quantity of free arsenic w^ould remain in
the mixture, which would be injurious to the sheep.
Though I have mentioned only two of the component parts of most
poison dip preparations, it is, of course, not suggested that these
are the only chemicals whose use requires technical knowledge in order
to secure their full benefit.
To state the case in a few words — It does not pay to be one's OAvn
" dip maker " without sufficient knowledge of chemistry for working
out quantities.
11 Feb., 1918.] Power-Alcohol. 115
POWER-ALCOHOL.
A Substitute for Petrol.
The dependence of Australia on other countries for her supply of
mineral oils suitable for internal combustion engines is a matter to
which attention has been directed for several years. The price of petrol
has increased from Is. jier gallon in 1908 to 3s. 2d. at the present time.
So far we have been able to secure a supply of mineral oils sufficient to
meet our needs, but in view of the increasing shortage of shipping and
the large demands for petrol in connexion with the war, we may at any
time be thro^\^l on our oa\ii resoui-ces for supplies of liquid fuel. In
1916-17 Australia imported nearly 20,250,000 gallons of petrol in addition
to 22,000,000 gallons of kerosene. The supplies of petrol are finite, and
in view of the gradual exhaustion of the old-fields the probability that
the price of mineral oils will fall substantially is stated to be remote.
In Australia conditions are eminently favorable for the growth of
crops containing sugar and starch, from which alcohol can be manu-
factured. Alcohol is in every way suitable for use as a liquid fuel.
Indeed, it possesses certain distinct advantages over petrol. The main
advantage is that, owing to the grea.ter degree of compression that can
be used with alcohol without danger of pre-iguition, a much higher
efficiency can be attained in a properly-designed alcohol engine than m a
petrol engine. The result is that the cost of fuel in an efficient alcohol
engine, with spirit at its present price of 2s. 6d. per gallon, is only 3d.
per horse-power hour, compared with 3^d. in a petrol engine, with petrol
at 3s. 2d. a gallon.
The whole question of the production and utilization of alcohol for
power purposes in Australia is ])oing investigated by a Special Committee
appointed by the Commonwealth Advisory Council of Science and
Industry, consisting of Professor Lyle (chairman), Messrs. W. R. Grim-
wade, W. N. Kernot. H. V. McKay, and G. Lightfoot (secretary), and a
comprehe." =ivo and valuable report, reviewing the whole situation and
giving the results of investigations so far made, has been issued. The
whole question divides itself into three main problems, viz. : (a) the pro-
duction, (5) the utilization, and (c) the denaturation of the alcohol.
The last-named refers, of course, to the mixing of the spirit with some
other msiterial so as to render it unfit for drinking.
As regards the production of power-alcohol, the most suitable raw
material is the sugar molasses now wasted in Queensland. But even if
the total annual quantity of molasses Avasted and used for purposes other
than distillation (47,500 tons) were used for the purpose in view, it
would only be sufficient to manufacture about 3,125,000 gallons of
alcohol, whereas the annual petrol requirements of Queensland alone
are nearly 3,500,000 gallons. Moreover, owing to freight charges and
labour costs, it does not seem feasible to regard molasses in some of the
outlying northern parts of Queensland as a profitable source of liquid
fuel for use in parts of Australia far distant from that State. For these
reasons, it is necessary to consider whether some other profitable source
of supply cannot be found.
The most important desiderata in connexion with raw material for
the manufacture of power-alcohol are — (a) Constancy and abundance of
supply; (h) accessibility of supply; (c) price; {d) percentage of sugars
or starches.
116 Journal of Agrictdture, Tictoria. [11 Feb., 1918
Por one or more of tliese reasons, certain materials, such as wheat,
waste fruit, barley, potatoes, and prickly pear, are at once ruled out of
court as suitable raw materials for the manufacture of alcohol in Aus-
tralia. On the other hand, certain materials, such as sorghum (sweet)
stalks, cassava, and sorghum grain, offer favorable opportunities as a
source of alcohol, and if some stimulus or inducement were offered for
the manufacture of power-alcohol it appears that there is a favorable
opponuuity for the establishment on a large scale of a new and'important
industry in the Commonwealth. A large amount of information regard-
ing various raw materials is given in the report. Of the native plants,
ihe only two worthy of serious consideration as a source for the manu-
facture of alcohol are the Zamia palm (Macrozamia) and the grass-tree
(Xanthorrhcea).
Government regulation of the process of manufacture of alcohol —
under the Commonwealth Distillation and Spirits Acts — is necessary to
protect the Excise revenue, but such regulation results in an increase in
the price of alcohol estimated at about 5d. per gallon. Of that sum,
about '3d. is due to the extra cost caused by fiscal restrictions on the manu-
facture of the spirit, the remaining 2d. being the cost of methylation or
denaturation now required for industrial spirits under the Spirits Act
1906.
As the margin of profit between the price of ])ower-alcohol and that
of petrol is at present small, having regard to the comparative costs of
the fuels per horse-power hour, a sum of 5d. per gallon may make all the
difference between profit and loss, and in attracting the necessary capital
for the establishment of an industry of national urgency and im])ortance.
The Corrimittee have considered the question of methylation, and, as
the result of their experiments, have concluded that the distillates
obtained from coal tar oil at a temperature of from 170° C. to 230° C.
fulfil the conditions necessary for an ideal denaturant better than the
denaturants at present in use. Moreover, the cost of such distillates is
less than the cost of alcohol, and if they were used as a denaturant they
would accordingly cheapen the cost per gallon of denatured power-
alcohol, whereas the materials now used for the methylation of " indus-
trial spirits " result in an increase in price.
The Committee accordingly recommends that, in order to develop the
use of alcohol for power purposes, and to encourage the production of
the raw material upon which the manufacture of power-alcohol
depends —
1. The manufacture and use in Australia should be pennitted of
" power-alcohol," denatured with 2 per cent, of these dis-
tillates.
2. That an allowance at the rate of 3d. per gallon be granted by
the Commonwealth Govennnent on " power-alcohol "
denatured in the above manner and manufactured in Aus-
tralia from raw materials produced in Australia, by way of
reimbursement of the extra cost caused by fiscal restrictions
on the manufacture of alcohol.
3. That a bonus, also at the rate of 3d. per gallon, be granted by
the Commonwealth Government on such " power-alcohol," in
order to encourage its manufacture and to develop the
primary industries on which the supply of the necessary raw
material depends.
11 Feb., 1918.] Wheat Storage Problems. 117
The question of the utilization of power-alcoliol as a fuel for internal
combustion engines will be dealt with in a later article. Copies of the
report may be had gratis on application to the Secretary, Advisory
Council of Science and Industry, 314 Albert-street, East Melbourne.
WHEAT STORAGE PROBLEMS.
Protection from Weevils.
The problems affecting wheat sitorage, or as it might be more accurately
described, wheat preservation, are of extreme urgency in view of the
prospect of- a serious shortage in the food supply of the world as one
of the results of the war, and it is obviously a matter of exceptional
importance to prevent, as far as possible, the destruction and loss of
grain in store through the ravages of pests.
Recognising this the British Government asked the Royal Society of
London to arrange an investigation into the damage done by insects
to grain in store throughout the Empire.
The Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Advisory Council
of Science and Industry received, through the Prime Minister's Depart-
ment, in October, 1916, a request from the Royal Society that a com-
mittee should be apj^ointed in Australia to co-operate with similar com-
mittees in England and Canada in this investigation. Reports were
obtained from the Government Entomologists of each State, and it was
shown that considerable losses were caused annually in Australia from
grain weevils and other pests. The Executive Committee thereupon
appointed a special committee to make further investigations.
This special committee included Mr. Leo Rossell, representing the
milling industry: Professor W. A. Haswell, F.R.S., Professor of Zoology
in the University of Sydney; and Mr. W. W. Froggatt, Government
Entomologist, New South Wales. Mr. F. B. Quthrie, chemist to the
Department of Agriculture of New South Wales, subsequently joined
the committee. The progress report prepared by this special committee
has now been published in Bulletin 5 of the Advisory Council, and can
be obtained post free from the Secretary, 314 Albert-street, East Mel-
bourne. The report indicates that only the two grain weevils {Calandra
<iran.aria and C . ort/zae) demand special measures on account of their
destructive effects on stored grain, that the development of weevils in
wheat and their increase in number may be checked by not using old
bags which may be weevil-infested or storing in buildings likewise
infested, and that bags of weevil-infested wheat should not be brought
into contact or near that which is sound, for before wheat can become
infested there must be a female to lay her aggs in the grains of wheat.
It is only when the perfect insect, after going through the various stages
of its larval existence, emerges through a tiny hole in the grain that the
damage is evident, and, except during the pupating state, destruction is
going on during the whole life of the insect. Under suitable conditions
it takes from nineteen to twenty-two days from the egg to the adult
beetle, and in three months in on© experiment forty weevils produced
3,056 descendants. Under the present system of handling wheat the
destruction of weevil, once it has gained access to the bagged grain,
seems hopeless; many methods of fumigating grain have been tried, and
so far the most effective is that of poisoning with the fumes of carbon
dioxide, but with bagged wheat this is not applicable save at a pro-
hibitive cost. Sun-dried wheat contains only 4.7 per cent, of moisture.
118 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
Neither in this, noi- in wheat as it emerges from the thresher with a
moisture content up to 6.7 per cent, will weevil breed. With 8 per cent.
of moisture they died in six weeks without breeding; at 9 per cent, they
remained dormant, but with anything above the latter, provided they
had free air, they became active and bred. It would thus appear that
dry wheat stored in air-tight bins is immune from the attack of weevils.
Wheat when first bagged does not, under ordinary circumstances, contain
sufficient moisture to enable weevils to breed, therefore, unless moisture
is added from without, the grain remains weevil proof. Thus if stored
in a fairly dry climate, completely protected from the weather, it is
certain that wheat may be stored for an indefinite period without any
damage from weevil.
Treatment of Damaged Grain.
The serious plague of mice which occurred last season in New South
Wales, Victoria, and South Australia resulted in considerable damage
to the wheat stored at inland centres. Whilst a certain proportion of the
wheat was devoured by the rodents a considerable quantity was damaged
or tainted. Some stored wheat was also damaged owing to rain and the
attacks of weevils-
The problem therefore arose as to the best method for treating such
damaged grain to prevent further deterioratiou, and, if possible, to
purify it so that it could be utilized for food purposes. In July, 1917,
the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth Advisory Council of
•Science and Industry had an interview with Mr. A. O. Barrett, who has
had considerable experience with grain in bag stacks, and he outlined a
scheme whereby wheat should be stored in special silos after mixing with
quicklime. He claimed that this lime-tteatment has the following
advantages: — (1) It dries ordinary f.a.q. wheat, thus rendering it less
liable to attacks of weevils and at the same time improving its milling
qualities; (2) it destroys the smell of mouse tainted or smutty wheat,
and sterilizes the outside of the grain ; (3) it removes the smell of damp,
musty wheat, and arrests further deterioration by fungus pests; (4) it
inhibits the growth of weevils in wheat already infested and prevents
them from developing. These statements were supported by the exhibi-
tion of samples of damaged wheat which had been purified in the manner
indicated, on a laboratory scale.
The Executive Committee thereupon appointed Professor D. Orme
Masson, F.R.S., Professor of Chemistry; Dr. W. Heber Green, Lecturer
in Agricultural Chemistry; and Dr. W. J. Bull, Lecturer in Bacteriology
in the University of Melbourne, together with Professor T. R. Lyle,
F.R.S., to carry out tests of the effects of quicklime on damaged grain on
a larger scale, and gratefully accepted Mr. Barrett's offer to allow ex-
periments to be undertaken at the firm's mailings at Richmond. The
reporti on these experiments forms the main part of Bulletin No. 5,
recently issued by the Advisory Council of Science and Industry.
Various samples of wheat, including (1) good, (2) weevily, (3)
tainted, (4) damp and damaged. (.5) mousey, were treated first by passing
each lot through a small sized Eureka wheat cleaning machine. The
cleaned wheati was then weighed and mixed with 1 per cent, of its weight
of quicklime, then stored for about fourteen days. The good wheat
f.a.q. (Federation type) )>arted with a considerable amount of moisture,
and the general effect was that the addition of quicklime to sound grain
is in no way harmful, and may be expected to produce some slight
improvement. A.11 weevils in the adult stage, and practically all grain
attacked, were removed upon screening the weevily wheat, but the
11 Feb., 1918.] Bacterial Toxins in Soils. 119
weevils were not killed. It is only by adding lime at a high tempera-
ture under the conditions of Mr. Barrett's scheme that this is effected.
The tainted wheat lost nearly 20 per cent, upon being screened, and the
pronounced mousey and musty odour was considerably reduced, but
before the work of the lime could be completed it would require to be
applied fresh and hot, and left in contact for some months. The damp
wheat, although not so bad as the previous wheat, was yet incapable of
being converted into a wholesome article, though the lime had materially
reduced the smell and bacteria present. The mousey wheat was treated
with freshly ignited lime, and the results proved very satisfactory, show-
ing conclusively that the lime, to be effective, must be applied hot. The
bacteriological and chemical examinations made of the lime treated
wheat clearly indicate that considerable improvement has been effected.
The bulletin which gives full details of these experiments may be
obtained post free from the secretary of the Advisory Council, 314
Albert-sitreet, East Melbourne.
BACTERIAL TOXINS IN SOILS.*
Bt/ R. Greif/Sniiih, D.Sc, Macleai/ Bacteriologist to the Linnean
Society of New South Wales.
If the soil-water is considered as a medium for the growth of
bacteria, it should contain not only the nutrients that favour bacterial
growth but also the waste products of their vital activity. And if we
reason from what we know about the growth of bacteria in other media,
we should expect that some of these waste products are injurious to
the bacteria producing them. Furthermore, in a mixed flora, certain
groups sliould produce injurious substances in greater amount, and
these should differ in degree in their action upon bacteria of their own
group or of other groups. For convenience, these injurioua substances
are called toxins. Certain investigators deny the presience of toxins
in soils, although they admit the presence of inhibiting substances. It
is difficult to account for the discrimination.
The multiplication of bacteria in the soil will, among other con-
ditions depend upon the relative preponderance of the nutrients over
the toxins ; and, with the other conditions remaining constant, an
ultimate equilibrium should be established between the nutritive and
the toxic effects. An alteration of the other conditions will disturb the
equilibrium, and the bacteria will increase or decrease until another
balance is established.
Russell and his colleagues believed that the bacterial imcrease in soils
was limited by phagocytic protozoa, and more recently they consider
that the limitation is occasioned by a something associated with the
presence of a mixed living fauna. Any treatment which destroys the
diversity of the fauna and at the same time kills off the nitrifying
organisms will insure an increased and sustained growth of bacteria.
* Excerpt from a paper read before the AsricTiIture section of the British Association for the
Advancement of Science at its Australian meeting 1914.
120 Journal of A f/riculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918
Such treatment is sufficiently drastic to completely alter the bacterial
flora and the relations between the groups of bacteria ; some will be
destroyed, while others will be unaffected. Those gfroups which
ammonify organic nitrogen are little affected, while the nitrifying bac-
teria, according to the recent work of Gainey, are only temporarily dis-
abled.
In demonsti'ating the presence of bacterial toxins in soils, I have
made use of aqueous extracts of soils which, after filtering through
porous porcelain have been seeded with known quantities of bacteria.
Generally, Bac. j^'f^dw^'^stts has been employed as a test organism. It
is more sensitive than mixtures of soil bacteria, and is easily grown,
detected and counted. Tests have shown that extracts which destroy
Bac. prudigiosus retard the growth of mixed soil-bacteria. We are
justified in considering that an extract which destroys Bac. ■prodigiosus
is also capable of destroying some of the soil-bacteria.
The bacterial toxins are not always easily demonstrated, as they are
frequently overshadowed by the sodl-nutrients, but investigation has
pointed out some of the conditions under which they may. not be expected
to show a direct action in aoil-extra<ct&. For example, they are destroyed
by exposing the soil to the sun, by heating the soil, by storing the soil
in the air-dry condition; they decay rapidly in aqueovis solution, and are
destroyed upon boiling. They are soluble in water and are washed out
of the soil by rain. Direct evidence of their presence should not, there-
fore, be expected in arid soils, in soils during a drought, or in soils
after rain. Much of the so-called fertilizing effect of the sun may be
due to the destruction of the soil-toxins. Indirect evidence of their
presence is easily obtained by boiling the soil-extract, seeding it with
bacteria, and comparing the growth with that obtained in the unboiled
extract. A greatly increased growth of bacteria is usuallv obtained in
the boiled extract. A direct diminution is only obtained under certain
conditions. These have not been fully investigated, but enough has
been done to show that one of these depends upon the ratio of the soil
to the water used for extraction. Equal parts of soil and water — that is,
100 grams of soil and 100 c.c. of water — generally give the maximum
toxic effect.
The toxic effect is not evident after rain, but becomes pronounced
after a few days of dry weather. Similarly, a soil which has been ex-
tracted with water, and found to be toxic, will, upon further extraction,
give a nutritive extract. If the same soil, after extraction, be incubated
at 22 degrees for some time, and then extracted with water, the extract
will be found to be toxic. Thus toxins are developed upon incubating a
nutritive soil.
While the extracts, of soils show an enhanced nutritive effect after
boiling, those of the subsoil become more toxic. It appears, therefore,
that tliere are at least two kinds of toxins in soils — one, predominating
in the soil, is thermolabile ; the other, predominating in the subsoil, is
thermostable.
The action of the volatile antiseptics upon soils is to so alter them
that, while before treatment they yielded extracts directly bacteriotoxic,
after Treatment the extracts became nutritive. Thus the partial steriliza-
tion of soils, whether by heat or by volatile antiseptics, causes them to
give extracts, in which there can develop a greater number of bacteria.
11 Feb., 1918.]
District Rainfall in Victoria.
121
DISTRICT
RAINFALL
IN VICTORS
, 1917.
District.
July.
Aug.
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Mallee North
District Mean . .
Average
Per cent, departure
179
93
+ 92
288
109
+ 164
259
135
+ 92
267
116
+ 130
276
78
+254
55
83
_ 34
Mallee South
District Mean . .
Average
Per cent, departure
181
121
+ 50
271
135
+ 101
282
154
+ 83
288
112
+ 157
208
94
+ 121
23
97
^ 76
North Wimraera
District Mean . .
Average
Per cent, departure
329
156
+ 111
266
175
+ 52
277
180
+ 54
276
149
+ 85
79
109
- 28
56
101
- 45
South Wimmera
District Mean . .
Average
Per cent, departure
373
209
+ 79
239
219
+ 9
314
221
+ 42
309
183
+ 69
108
131
- 18
73
118
- 38
Lower Northern Country
District Mean
Average
Per cent, departure
289
158
+ 83
353
1 66
+ 113
307
167
+ 84
347
137
+153
192
117
+ 64
36
108
- 67
Upper Northern Country
District Mean
Average
Per cent, departure
342
187
+ 83
372
198
+ 88
336
201
+ 67
435
179
+143
216
138
+ 157
70
133
- 47
Lower North-East
District Mean
Average
Per cent, departure
637
300
+ 112
430
269
+ 60
477
264
+ 81
745
250
+198
451
199
+ 127
187
194
- 4
Upper North-East
District Mean . .
Average
Per cent, departure
945
514
+ 84
766
474
+ 62
775
492
+ 58
1,153
392
+ 194
441
336
+ 31
232
311
- 25
East Gippsland
District Mean . .
Average
Per cent, departure
118
238
- 50
143
207
- 31
279
285
- 2
298
292
+ 2
313
228
+ 37
308
261
+ 18
West Gippsland
District Mean . .
Average
Per cent, departure
450
285
+ 58
248
307
- 19
345
369
- 7
504
328
+ 54
239
271
- 12
232
279
- 17
East Central
District Mean
Average
Per cent, departure
335
281
+ 19
382
285
+ 34
423
342
+ 24
511
319
+ 60
296
273
+ 8
233
281
- 17
West Central
District Mean
Average
Per cent, departure
191
198
— 4
284
204
+ 39
294
280
+ 5
349
215
+ 62
222
182
+ 22
146
173
- 16
Nortli Central
District Mean . .
Average
Pet cent, departure
402
256
+ 57
471
266
+ 77
460
280
+ 64
445
231
+ 93
243
199
+ 22
143
183
- 22
Volcanic Plains
District Mean
Average
Per cent, departure
321
219
+ 47
311
229
+ 36
304
284
+ 7
355
219
+ 62
214
180
+ 19
127
162
- 22
West Coast . .
District Mean
Average
Per cent, departure
534
325
+ 64
319
319
372
328
+ 13
474
■262
+81
255
205
+ 24
75
184
- 59
H. A, Hunt, Commonwealth Meteorologist.
122 Jitiirnal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
THE STABLED HORSE.
Some Vices and Whims.
Many horses liave the habit of rolling in the stable. This is some-
what dangerous for the horse, as he is likely to get fast, particularly if
his stall is rather narrow. When the horse attempts to roll and stays
over on his back the stall is too narrow for him to go on over, so he cannot
get up, and as it is often impossible for him to roll back, he gets fast.
The longer he struggles while lying on his back the worse his condition
becomes. This habit is due, perhaps, to lack of opportunity to roll.
The horse should be turned to a paddock for a few minutes each
evening, so that he may frolic. To overcome the habit, secure a small
ring and set it in the top of the halter. Suspend a small rope from a
beam or the ceiling so that it will hang directely over the horse's
shoulders when standing at the manger. Attach a snap to the lower
end of the rope and snap into the ring at the top of the halter. This
rope should be of sufficient length to allow the horse to get his nose to
the ground about where his front feet usually stand. This appliance will
permit the horse to lie down, get up, and do as much as he likes, but he
cannot place the top of his head to the ground. As he cannot roll with-
out first placing the top of his head on the ground, this is a very efficient
arrangement for overcoming the habit.
Pawix(t with the Foke-feet.
This is a disagreeable habit, usually due to insufficient exercise or to
restlessness when the animal is left alone in the stable. It causes useless
fatigue and a rapid Avearing out of the shoes. The noise that the horse
makes while pawing is almost unbearable, especially at night. To avoid
the habit exercise the horse regiilarly. To overcome it, buckle a leg strap
around the foreleg just above the knee, and from it suspend a block of
wood about two inches square and four inches long, so that it will hang
about the middle of the cannon.
When the horse attempts to paw, the block strikes him. In case the
horse is very sensitive, substitute a corncob for the block. Another good
plan is to use a heavy strap provided with a buckle at either end and
buckle the two forelegs together. This strap should be of the proper
length to permit the horse to stand normally. With this appliance he
can lie down, get up, move backward and forward, but is unable to paw.
Some horses that paw badly in a common stall will cease if placed in a
box stall, particularly if bedded with sawdust.
Rubbing the Tail.
Many horses acquire the habit of rubbing the tail against the sides
of the stall or other surrounding objects. This is very undesirable, a.s
the hairs soon become tangled, break off, and disfigure the tail While
there may be several causes for it, the principal ones are intestinal
troubles, mange or ^mclean skin, causing intense itching, and infirmities
11 Feb., 1918.] A New Maize Secret. 123
of temper. To overcome the habit the treatment will \a.vj according to
the cause. If due to intestinal worms they must be removed, when the
horse will cease to rub his tail ; if due to mange or dirty skin, the disease
must be cured and the skin kept clean ; whereas, if due to temper other
means must be employed.
Chewing Tie-Strap.
Occasionally the horse contracts the habit of chewing his tie-strap.
It is probably due to the salty taste of the leather, as he usually begins
by licking and finally takes to chewing the strap. To overcome the
habit some horsemen recommend to keep rock salt before the horse for
him to lick, although the best plan seems to be that of substituting a
chain for the leather strap.
Gorging Grain.
Many horses have the disagreeable habit of gorging their grain and
swalloAving it without mastication. This may result in fatal colic. To
overcotne the habit give the horse a drink and feed some hay before^
feeding the grain. Another very good plan is to feed the grain in a
rather large, flat-bottomed grain box provided with pockets, as this
arrangement prevents the horse from getting much grain at a mouthful.
Some horsemen recommend placing round stones in the grain box, but
the confirmed grain gorger is usually an adept at throwing stones out
before eating the grain.
— Town and Country Journal.
A NEW MAIZE SECRET.
Interesting Developments.
Reports to hand by the last American mail announce an interesting
development in maize-growing experiments. Certain tests have been
conducted by officers of the School of Agriculture of the University of
Minnesota. If future tests sustain the present indications, every
bushel of maize planted may be made to send up more sprouts, and
these sprouts may grow so fast that several weeks may be gained in the
maturing time of the corn. Scientists at the Minnesota University
Farm believe that they have discovered, quite by accident, a commerci-
ally practicable method of increasing the germination rate of seed
maize. It came about in experimenting with various insecticides to
be used in treating grains.
Professor Wm. Moore, of the Entomology Department, and Pro-
fessor H. K. Hayes, of the Agronomy Department, have been working
on fumigation processes for killing grain parasites. It is important
124 Journal of Ar/rioilture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
that germination qualities of grain treated should not be impaired in
fumigating, so they regularly cheeked plantings of the untreated. It
was in connexion with the use of nitro benzine that they bumped into
the unexpected. They found that not only was the grain not impaired
for seed purposes, but that it was actually bettered. Maize seemed to
thrive on the fumes of nitro benzine. Not only was the percentage
of germination increased by treatment, but the rate of germination also
speeded up. The experimenters checked and re-checked again and
again, with the same results. An experiment with 1911 maize, for
instance, brought out the fact that the fumigated seeds sprouted nearly
two days before the unfumigated, when planted at the same time, and
of the former about 18 per cent, more kernels germinated than of the
latter,
" We are not saying that the treatment will so result with all corn,"
Professor Moore said, " as our experiments have not gone far enough
to justify so sweeping a statement, but we expect to wind up the most
significant test of all on the subject shortly, after which we shall have
something to announce. Nitro benzine is an oil, a coal tar derivative.
Its price has been raised somewhat by war causes, but it is com-
mercially obtainable. We fumigate the corn by placing it in a closed
box in which is suspended a cloth saturated with the oil. The fumes
do the work. We think well enough of present indications to make
known our findings at this time, so that iVmerican farmers who are
facing a critical seed maize situation may try out the process if they
see fit. Why does the treatment so affect the corn? We haven't the
slightest idea. We oiily know that it has had that effect with corn we
have treated." — Farmers' Union Advocate, 17/3/17.
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E E. Fescott, F.L.S., Pomologist. .
The Orchard.
Young Teees.
Young trees of the Citrus family should now be making a good,
thrifty growth. The foliage should be glossy, and itsi general appearance
a bright green and healthy one. Occasional light waterings, as well as
mulching of grass, or of well-rotted manure, will be helpful to tbe trees.
Young deciduous fruit trees will also benefit by having a grass or
manure mulch; and, if it has not previously been attended to,_unneces-
sary growths in the centre of the tree and on the main leaders should be
removed.
Fumigation.
Evergreen trees, including those of the citrus family, that are infested
with scale, should now be sprayed or fumigated to rid the trees of this
11 Feb., 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 125
pest. For spraying, a weak read oil emulsion, lime and sulphur spray,
or resin wash will be found useful for the purpose. The most successful
method, however, of dealing with the scale pest is by fumigation. The
trees should be closely enveloped in an airtight sheet or tent, and hydro-
cyanic gas generated inside. The chemicals for generating the gas, as
well as the fumes of the gas itself, are excessively dangerous, and great
care is necessary in their manipulation. A wooden, enamel, or earthern-
ware vessel is placed inside the tent., the vessel containing a mixture of
4 fluid ounces of sulphuric acid, and 12 fluid ounces of water, the acid
being placed in the vessel first. Four ounces of cyanide of potassium is
then quickly dropped into the vessel, the tent, closed down at once, and
the bottom of the tent all round covered with soil to prevent any of the
gas escaping. The operator must take care that not the slightest portion
of the fumes is breathed. Fumigation should be carried out at night-
time or on a cloudy day, if the foliage of the trees be thoroughly dry.
POMOLOGICAL NoTES.
The Ettershuri/ Strawberry. — This is the so-called " tree " strawberry
that was freely advertised last season, and sold at Is. per plant. It is
certainly not a "tree'' strawberry — that name is quite a misnomer,
and the term " bush " strawberry would certainly have been a better one.
The foliage has grown very vigorously, the leaves are strong, and
altogether it may be described as an exceedingly robust and vigorous
grower. The " tree " habit, which has been ascribed to the plant, occurs
in the form of strong, rather long, and upright flowering stems, which
throw the flowers far above the foliage, and taller than any other straw-
berry so far grown here. Both the main stalk and the individual stems
are long, and the flowers are usually well developed.
The first crop of fruit was not generally good, the second being
heavier. The berries of the earlier crop were the larger. But neither
the early nor the late crop produced berries of large dessert size, although
the plants were grown under favorable conditions. The second crop
quantity was good ; the berries were well coloured, firm, and very well
flavoured. So that, judging from the first season's results, it would seem
that the Ettersburgh strawberry will fill the requirements as a jam fac-
tory berry, being sweet, solid, and prolific, but it has not yet. proved
itself woi'thy of being placed on the list of strawberries grown for dessert
or table.
It would be well if the term " tree " were abandoned in favour of a
more descriptive name.
American Apples. — American apples are now being sold in the shops.
Jonathans are rather under Australian export, size, but that is rather
an advantage to the buyer than otherwise. They are exceptionally well
coloured, and, while a certain amount of expected mealiness is nresent,
the flavour is very fair, considering the long journey from Canada, and
the extended cool storage conditions.
The Esopus Spitzenbergs are very highly coloured, and are perhaps
the best flavoured of all the varieties so far to hand.
The Winesaps are well coloured, and juicy, but the fine, sweet vinous
flavour of this variety has gone, possibly owing to the long keeping.
126 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
The apple American Beauty is not much known here. It is highly
coloured, having a large number of prominent russet and grey dots on
the skin. In that respect, it somewhat resembles a highly coloured Rome
Beauty, but it is more oval in shape. The flesh is white, firm, and
juicy, and the flavour somewhat sub-acid. Hedrick, in " The Apples
of New York," says that this apple has almosit gone out of cultivation
in that State. In view of this, and also its sub-acid flavour, it is not an
apple to be commended for Australian growers.
Vegetable Garden.
Celery crops will now be a prominent feature in the vegetable section.
The seed may be sown from January to March, and succession plantings
should be carried out occasionally during those months. The growth of
celery should be quick; a fair supply of water and a good rich, loose soil
are helpful to its growth.
Ample water will now be required in the vegetable garden. The sur-
face should be kept well hoed, and mulchings of manure given wherever
possible.
Cabbage, carrot, turnip, radish, lettuce, peas, cauliflower, &:c., seeds
may now all be sown, and young plants from any seed beds planted out.
Flower Garden.
Constant watering and hoeing will now be required for successful
gardening. Cannas will require manuring; the old flowering stem
should be removed to make way for the new growths. Dahlias and
chrysanthemums will need a great deal of attention, staking the growths
as they devlop, disbudding, thinning out weak shoots, and removing
unnecessary growths. The dahlias should receive a good soaking of
water during the hot weather, and liquid manure or quick acting ferti-
lizers given when the flower buds are developing. When clu-ysanthemum
buds are very small, liquid manure should be applied. Roses may now
be summer pruned ; all weak growths should be removed, and the strong
ones shorLened to a fairly good bud. The plants should then receive
occasional waterings with liquid manure, and be kept well supplied with
water.
All flowering trees and shrubs that have finished blooming should be
pruned, the flowering growths removed, and, unless the seed is required,
all seed heads cut off.
Cuttings of pelargoniums, zonale and regal, may now be planted,
delphinium spikes that have finished flowering cut down to make way for
new growth, the 2>lant being watered and manured. Seeds of perennial
and hardy annual plants, especially winter-flowering sweet peas, Iceland
poppies, stocks, and pansies, may now be sown, and a few bulbs for
early flowering planted. The beds should be well manured and deeply
worked in anticipation of planting the main crop of bulbs.
11 Feb., 1918.] Eeminders. 127
HEMINDERS FOR MARCH.
LIVE STOCK,
Horses. — Feed as advised last month. Those in poor condition should be
" fed up " in anticipation of winter.
Should horses not be feeding well and salivating, examine mouth for grass
seeds. Horses running at grass are frequently affected by them. The seeds
should be removed, and a mild mouth wash used. A very weak solution of
Condy's Fluid will answer the purpose.
Grass seeds also cause blindness if not removed from the eye, and the
inflammation reduced by bathing the eye with boracic solution. A teaspoonful
of boracic acid to a pint of boiling water is the correct strength for the pur-
pose. Should a scum remain over the eye inject into the eye every other day
a small quantity of the following solution: — Sulphate of zinc, 4 grains; water,
1 pint.
Cattle.- — Cows in milk should have plenty of succulent fodder and water
easy of access. Algerian oats should be sown on suitable land for grazing off
in the winter. Sow a mixture of oats, rye, and tares or peas for winter fodder
or to fill silos. Only exceptional cows and those required for town milk supply
should be served between now and July. Within the next two or three months
is the best time for cows to calve, as they will pay to feed through the winter
and give the best returns for the season, and be dried off when the grass is
dry and scarce. Calves should be given lucerne hay or crushed oats where
grass is not available.
Pigs. — Sows about to farrow should be provided with short bedding in well-
ventilated sties. See that the pigs have shade, and water to wallow in. There
should be plenty of cheap feed now, and pigs should be highly profitable.
Sheep. — All ewes should be kept strong for lambing. Crutch round tails
and lessen accumulation of discharge, and consequent attraction to the fly pest
at lambing time. Clear wool from round udders and teats and thereby save
many a lamb in bad weather ; especially is this necessary in the case of young
ewes of the Merino and Lincoln crosses. Clear wool from eyes also. In crutching
ewes when close to lambing lay them over carefully, grasp by the thigh low-
down, not by the flank as is generally done. Pure British breeds of ewes and
very coarse crbss-breds may still be only coming in season; rams should be left
mated to make sure. Clean excessive wool and stains from ewes, and burr and
stains from rams to ensure service. Reserve good paddocks, if autumn be
favorable, for ewes with early-born lambs. Castrate the ram lambs im-
mediately. Good prices will be available for this class again this winter.
Poultry. — Cull out the drones and get rid of surplus cockerels. Keep
forward pullets well fed — eggs are rising in value. Repairs to houses should
be done this month. Thoroujrhlv cleanse all houses and pens. Spray ground
and houses with a 5 jjer cent, solution of crude carbolic acid. This will act as
a safeguard against chicken pox; burn all refuse and old feathers. Provide a
liberal supply of green food. For each moulting hen, add a teapsoonful of
linseed to the morning mash. Use tonic in mash, which should be kept in cool
shady spot.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Work fallow where possible for autumn sowing of cereals. Sow
winter fodder crops, such as rye, barley, and vetches. Prepare land for lucerne
plots for autumn seeding. Make silage of maize and other crops for winter use.
128 Jovnidl of Agriculttire, Victoriti. [11 Feb., 1918.
Oechakd. — Prepare new land for planting; plough deeply and subsoil; leave
surface rough. Plant out strawberries after first rain. Plant crops for green
manure. Continue to fight the Codlin Moth.
Vegetable Garden. — Prepare ground for winter crops. Plant out seedlings
in moist soil. Sow cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, early peas, swede turnip, beet,
carrot, radish, and early onions.
Flower Garden.- — Cultivate and water. Feed dahlias, chrysanthemums, and
roses. Plant out shrubs, trees, and all kinds of bulbs. Sow hardy annuals.
Plant geranium and pelargonium cuttings. Spray for Aphis, Red Spider, and
Mildew.
Vineyard. — Select scions, if not done last month. Wliere ripening is difficult,
assist by removing basal leaves only, as soon as berries change colour. This
is the month for drying currants, sultanas, and gordos (Lexias and Clusters).
Do not pick before grapes are properly ripe. For instructions for packing grapes
for export, apply to Department. Shipments should be made in March and early
April.
Cellars. — Vintage month. For light dry wines, pick as soon as grapes are
ripe; do not wait for over-maturity, as is so often done. Pay attention to
acidity; correct same if necessary with tartaric acid or late grapes. Acidimeter
supplied by Department; price, 3s. 6d. Sulphiting and the use of pure yeasts
are strongly recommended, as they insure production of sound wine; further
information supplied on application.
LIMESTONE SAND.
The hummocks environing the coast-line of the Western District from
A Hansford to Port Fairy consist of from 80 to 85 per cent, calcium car-
bonate, i.e., mild lime. There are millions of tons available. Experi-
ments ati Warrnambool show remarkable results especially in the grazing
areas. The effect of the sand, or at least the mild lime contained in the
sand, is to increase the rate of nitrification and to intensify the growth of
legumes. ' The immediate advantages are (a) a more succulent and
richer pasture; (h) a marked increase in the carrying capacity; and
(c) a longer growing period owing to maturity being retarded.
There is no doubt the limestone sand produces a marked effect, but,
unfortuna'ely, the dressing required is very large — from 20 to 40 tons
were used in local experiments. This is the one disadvantage, for under
present economic conditions the cost of a suitable dressing would amount
to £5 per acre on land in the immediate vicinity of the hummocks, but
local authorities claim that the rises in the value of the land more than
meets this outlay.
11 Feb., 1918.]
Journal of Agricnlttire, Victoria.
svii
Two
ine
overs
To Plant
NOW!
SUBTERRANEAN CLOVER
SUBTERRANEAN CLOVER
UNDOUBTEDLi' the most nutritious herbage grown; splendid
for grazinj-. Grows in dry, sandy soil, and gravelly pastures,
and sows itself when once it gets a start. This can be
claimed for no other clover. Cattle may run or graze upon it all
the year round without harming it. Has no equal for the general
purposes of excellent feed, pertinacity of reproduction, supply of
humus, and charging the soil with nitrogen. Clean seed, 6/- per
lb.; 14-lb. lots, 4/C per lb.; 28-lb. Ists and upwards, 4/- per lb.
EGYPTIAN or BERSEEM CLOVER
A STRONG growing annual with succul nt fleshy stems and
J^ broad soft leaves. Tlie first cut is available from 45 to 60
days after sowing, followed by a second and third cut, and
sometimes a fourth, although the latter is never heavy and is
usually i^eserved for seed. All kinds of stock eat it readily, and
it may bfe given to them at any stage of growth. Sow 20 to 30
lbs. per acre. 1/6 per lb.; 1,50/- per cwt.
LAW, SOMNER & CO.
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston St., MELBOURNE
Established 1850 Tel. Central 729
Nurseries — Orrong Rd., Armadale, adjoining Toorak RIy. Station.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
ril Feb., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
Red PoU Dairy Herd
This Herd's Record under the Government Herd Test, including all dairy
breeds, is the third best in the State. It contains the first cow in order of
merit amongst all breeds for 1914-15, and the third for 1915-16; also the
Winner of the Weekly Times Butter Test at the Melbourne Royal Show, 1916
See Individual Records of Cows on opposite page.
Proof of DUAL PURPOSE CHARACTER is given by the Price, for Culled Cowi in
the Fat Stock Market reaching to £27 lOt. and £29 10s. ; by a cow yielding 1,000 gallons of
milk containing 448 lbs. butter in a year and selling at butcher's auction for £22 7s. 6d. s
and by cows in milk weighing upwards of 1,500 lbs. live weight.
The Bulls in Use includ<
LONGFORD MAJOR (Imported)
Dam's Record 14713 lbs. milk
G. Dam's „ 10548 „
6 years average 10548 lbs. milk
4 ., „ 9155 „
BELLIGERENT (Imported)
Dam's Record (1st milking) 7144 lbs. milk.
Dam's Dam's
Sire's Dam's
Sire's D. Dam's
G. Sire's D. Dam's
G.G. Sire's D. Dam's
G.G.G. Sire's D. Dam's
14533 lbs. milk
10370
9510
10215
12565
10088
4 years average 12871 lbs. milk
7 .. .. 9354
12
7
10
2
8033
9386
8853
9754
BULL CALVES are sold at prices based approximately on the actual milk and butter
fat record of the dam at the rate of Is. per lb. of butter fat yielded.
(NOTE. — All the bull calves of 1916 drop have been sold, and choices from cows to calve
this season have been booked ahead of calving. The demand for bull calves is so strong
that farmers contemplating purchase are advised to study the records of the herd published
in the February (1917) Journal of Agriculture and book their orders ahead, stipulating
choice of bull calves from, say, three of the recorded cows.)
Inspection of the Herd is invited.
Visitors will be met at the Station on notification to : —
Mr. R. R. KERR, Dairy Supervisor i
or State Research Farm, Werrlbee.
Mr. ED. STEER, Herdsman J
Application for purchase to DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE.
11 Feb.. 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
XIX
Goverr
iment Herd of R
edi
>oUs
MILK RECORDS
Th« ftgoret below refer to the cow'* best lactation period. Details of each cow's rearlr performanc*
since the establishment of the herd are given in the Journal for February, 1917.
Eack cow's tTcrsses for all lactation periods will be fnraished ea application to the Director of Airicaltnro.
cows
NAMES.
Davs
Weeks
Milk,
Average
Butter
Commercial
Prlca of
in Milk.
in Milk.
inlb8.
Test.
Fat (lbs.)
Butter (lbs.)
Bull Calf.
Maria . .
363
52
14,972
5 9
885
1,008
43 Guineas
Birdseye
365
52
9,146
6
5
597
683
29 „
Netherlana
365
52
11,506
4
3
490
560
24
Vuelta . .
289
41i
7,750
6
2
485
553
24
Persica . .
351
50
9,607
4
9
480
647
23
Cuba . .
337
48
10,464
4
5
478
545
23
Bullion . .
321
45i
10,928
4
3
469
635
23
Virginia . .
344
49
10,252
4
4
457
520
22
Pennsylvania
348
49i
10,607
4
1
437
499
21
Sumatra
290
4H
9,232
4
6
431
492
21
Violet III.
365
52
9,172
4
7
427
488
21
Egypta . .
327
46|
10,646
3
0
418
477
20
Phillipina
365
52
8,213
4
9
400
456
19
Mexicana
282
40i
8,641
4
6
400
456
19
LUy
365
52
8,525
4
6
392
448
19
India
365
52
8,556
4
6
391
445
19
Europa . ,
347
49J
8,765
4
4
387
441
19
Kentucky
338
48
9,893
3
9
382
435
19
Goldleaf
362
51i
8,415
4
4
- 378
431
18
Picotee . .
365
52
8,490
4
4
371
424
18 „
Primrose League
365
52
8,060
4
4
353
403
35
(imp.)
La Reina
329
47
6.712
6
13
344
394
17 „
Pipio
334
47i
6,802
4
8
326
372
16 „
Mongolia
283
40
7,483
4
33
323
369
16
Turka . .
279
39|
6,395
4
9
316
360
15
Britannia
329
47
7,637
3
9
301
343
15
Samoma
365
52
6,198
4
73
294
335
14
Asiana . .
279
39i
5,933
4
9
292
333
14
Tennessee
311
44i
6,706
4
2
283
322
14
Alpina . .
344
49
7,094
4
0
283
322
14 „
Sylvia . .
301
43
5,286
4
84
256
292
12
Hispana
365
52
6,574
3
6
242
276
12 „
Africana
303
43
5,082
4
72
240
274
12 „
Tasmania
325
46
5,112
4
52
231
264
11
Canada . .
*276
39
4,918
407
200
228
10
h
lEIFERS (1st Milking completed, 1915-16)
Carribea
365
52
7,142
4 35
310
354
15 Guineaa
Japana . .
357
51
7,788
3 63
283
322
14
Serbia . .
365
52
6,092
4-45
271
309
13
Itala . .
365
52
6,346
409
260
297
13
Oceana . .
365
52
6,247
411
256
292
12
Russia . .
365
52
6,413
3-96
254
290
12
Panama
288
41
5,997
4-23
254
290
12
Ontario
365
52
6,059
415
251
286
12
Soudana
346
49
5,486
4-54
249
284
12
Pacifica
365
52
4,979
4-88
243
278
12
Laurel . .
325
46
5,554
4-86
226
257
11
Barbery
359
51
5,387
3 72
200
228
10 „
Congo . .
296
42
4,449
4-21
187
213
10 „
Journal of Ayriculture, Victoria.
fll Feb., 1918.
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T. A.J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
}'. ./. Cai-tnnht.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knight.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
^1. S. Kenyan, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. O. 11. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR" INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. //. T. Eaxterbii.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
.S'. ,S'. Cameron, D.V.Sr., ^f.H.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C.S.Sawers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. Ba.rter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T.A.J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. It. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
]>r. S. S. Cameron and otiiers.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. M,-eki)uj.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. W. A. y. Robertson. B.V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. Bichardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. G. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1913-14. ir. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Se.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING. ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J.Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. B. Beiihm'.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
- 1914-15. W. A. N. Bobertson, B. V.Sr.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. ir. .4. y. Bobertson, B. V.Sc.
Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring-
Bees, Feeding Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
ing. Some Vintage Considerations, Spring Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato.
"MITCHELL" PLOWS
The Choice of Champions
1. It IS a fact that practica'Iy all Plowing
Matches are won by men with " Mitchell "
Plows. Champion Plowmen are the keenest
judges of what a Plow should be, and they
choose the "Mitchell" because they know
their chance of success is greatly reduced if
they use any other make.
2. Other Plow-m.?.kers (so-called) also
think the "Mitchell" is the best, because
they are imitating it — some of them even to
the colour of the paint. Don't forget that
while they can imitate the paint, HO one
can imitate "Mitchell" Plow
knovsfledge and experience.
For instance, you can't get the equal of our
Mouldboard in shape, set, hardness, and
scouring qualities on any other Plow in
Australia.
In the above two facts you have
positive proof that the makers of
"Mitchell" Plows know how to make better
plows than any other makers, and remember,
you don't pay a penny extra for the special
expert knowledge that you get in every
"Mitchell" Plow.
"MITCHELL PLOWS" not only wilh-
staod all ordinary strains, but have an abundance of
reserve strength for emergencies.
AND CO.
PTY. LTD.
MITCHELL
WEST FOOTSCRAY, MELBOURNE
SHOWROOM: 596 BOURKE STREET. MELBOURNE
And at Bay-street, Sydney.
Agencies in all Chief Towns.
Ask for Prices. Please say you saw this
11 Feb., 1918.1 J oar Hid of A(jriculture, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MELBOURNE. VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA
NOH^ AVAILABLE
= BULLETIN 31 =
Bee-Keeping in Victoria
By F. R. BEUHNE,
Government Apiculturist.=^:^=:
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated)
dealing with various phases of Bee-keeping, and specially
adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING
Postage: Commonwealth, Id.; New Zealand, 2Jd. ; British & Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
/ \
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Citrus Grow^ers
LIMITED NUMBERS OF
CITRUS TREES
ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
THE VARIETIES ARE WASHINGTON NAVELS, VALENCIA LATE, EUREKA, and LISBON
Price, £,G per Hundred
f.o.r. at WAHGUNYAH.
An amoont of 10s. for each hundred ordered is to accompany applications, and the' balance, £5 10s.
for each hundred, is to be paid when consignees give directions to have consignments forwarded.
A charge of 2/6 per hundred will be made for packing unless the casings be returned.
Applications must be made on the official order forms, which may be obtained from The Director,
Department of Agriculture. Melbourne, or from the Citrus Nursery, Wahgunyah.
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be complied with by applicants,
are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
Journid uf Ayncultare, Victoria.
[11 Feb., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
I
^ NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of
all kinds, Dairy Farmers and Others
The Department has compiled a ■
Stock Breeding
Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due
Dates, Females with Record of Progeny,
Sires with Record of Service, General
Service Record, Pedigree Charts, Milk
Fat and Butter Records for Dairy Stock
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is
strongly bound in half leather. A limited number available.
Price, 10/6
Postage — Victoria 1 /6, other States and N. Zealand 2/8 extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and
Postage, to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
11 Feb., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kingdom and foreign
countries. Single copy, 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7, 8, and ^ (July, August, and September) out of print; V. (1907), and VI.
(1908), 12 parts each; VII. (1909), 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print; and Vlll. (1910), 12 parts, are at present in stock, and
will be supplied at the foregoing rates. The parts forming the current volume may also
be obtained. A few bound copies of Volumes Vlll. (1910), IX. (1911), II parts,
exclusive of February, X. (1912), 6 parts, exclusive of January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), II parts, exclusive of June, are at
present available. Price, 5s. per volume. Postage: C, 3id. ; N.Z., I&. 2d. ;
B. &F.,2s. 4d.
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp., 200 illustrations. 2
coloured plates. Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2s. 6d. Postage: C, cloth 2id., paper
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d., paper 8d. ; B. & F.. cloth Is. 6d., paper Is. 4d.
AUSTRALIAN FUNGL By Dr. Cooke. £i Is. Postage: C, 5d.; N.Z. lOd.:
B. & F., Is. 8d.
OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2s. 6d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION
Postage, I d .
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet, 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly " or " Weekly,"
By Professor A. J. Ewart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS, AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C, l^d.; N.Z.,5d.; B. & F., lOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA.
N.Z..8d.; B. &F.. Is. 4d.
Vol. II., 10s. Postage: C. 2d.
By C. French, F.E.S., Government Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts I., II., III., IV.. V., 2s. 6d.
each. Postage : Parts I. and III., C, Id.; N.Z., 3d.; B. & F., 6d. each. Parts
II. andlV., C, 4d.: N.Z., 4d.; B. & F., 8d. each. Part V.. C, Id.; N.Z
4d.: B.&F.. 7d.
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Feb., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES.
FACILITIES
are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the various kinds of
produce, so that diredl shipments on their own account may be under-
taken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool Stores places
producers in an independent position, and, in addition, preserves an
open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in perishable
produds.
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
will receive, handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs,
Fruit, Meat, Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for
producers and exporters.
PRODUCE
to the value of over £27,000,000 has been treated at the-Govern-
merit Cool Stores.
Government Cool Stores. Telephones.
•) Office: 10383 Central
VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley Street) j En^ineer-in-Chars. : 10382
Doncaster - - 397 Canterbury
Diamond Creek - - 151 Heidelberg
Tyabb - -
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture.
Produce Offices. 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telephone 93 8 O Central.
By Authority: Albekt J. HrtiETT, GoTernment Printer, MelTDonrne.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
POULTRY FOR SEHLERS
Cockerels and Pullets
Bred from the following matlngs
WYUNA WHITE LEGHORNS-DISTINCT STRAINS
each
Wyuna Special Mating - - - - - £ 1 1 0
Cosh No. 1 Special - - - - - -110
Subiaco No. 1 Special - - - - -110
Cosh-Swift X Moritz 110
Cosh-Swift X Fulham Park - - - - - 1 1 0
A limited number of Cockerels from Trap-nested Hens
(250 upwards) x Moritz Cocks - - - 2 2 0
The Moritz Cocks are full brothers to the sire of pullet which laid 315 eggs at
Bendigo Single Pen Competition, 1916-17 — World's Record.
Orders may now be booked from the Poultry Pens
at the Wyuna Farm for delivery from March, 1918
RHODE ISLAND RED COCKERELS
£1 : 1 : O £2 : 2 : O
Note.-W. N. O'Mullane's Champion Burnley Pen (I9I4-19I5). which
established the still unbeaten world's record of 1,699 eggs, was the progeny of a
hen hatched from a Wyuna sitting. This pen recently realized £7S
VICTORIAN
W RAILWAYS
PICTURESQUE VICTORIA
0 ® -3
^=SUMMER=
EXCURSIONS
The Victorian Railways issue Summer Excursion Fares to the
Seaside, Mountains, Rivers, Lakes, and Caves,
from 15th November till 30th April.
MOUNT BUFFALO
Excursion Fares all the year
round.
First-Class Special Inclusive
Week Tickets
covering Transport and Accommoda-
tion, at "The Government Chalet,"
are issued/ on Mondays by the
6.15 a.m. train, and on Fridays by
the 4 p.m. Express train, at £6
Excursionists wishing lo travel by motor
from Bright may do so, weather permitting,
on payment at Bright o( 3 - extra.
Special Inclusive Week
Excursion Tickets
all including Accommodation, &c.
HEALESVILLE
Rail, Coach Drives. &c., 7 days, £3 31-
WARBURTON
Rail, Coach Drives, &c., 7 days, £3 S/-
MOUNT BUFFALO
See other side.
Write to the Government Tourist
Bureau for full particulars.
Victorian Government Tourist Bureau
Opposite Town Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne
Full Information supplied in regard to Excursions, Tourist
Resorts, Accommodation, &c. Tickets issued daily.
Handbooks, Maps, and Hotel Guides Free on application.
Telephone Nos. 2898
and 2899 Central.
GEO. H. SUTTON.
Secretary for Railwajr*.
Vol, XVI. RED POLL RECORDS. Part 3.
P [Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
'RICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscr.otion— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 5/-.)
BRUNNING'S SEEDS
ALWAYS SUCCEED!
The name BRUNNING not only signifies the
highest in quality and service, but also guarantees
the most liberal value. For over sixty-five years
Brunning's Incomparable Seeds have been proved
in actual test the best. It is our pleasure to give
you any information you require. Simply call
or write
FOR PERMANENT PASTURE SOW
Rib
Kentucky
CLOVERS:
Red Clover
Cow Grass Clover
Rye Grass
Cocksfoot
Paspalum Dilitatum
Timothy
Prairie
Samples and Prices of any of the above post free
Alsike Clover
Stravsrberry Clover
Birdsfoot Clover
Cluster Clover
Knob Clover. &c.. &c.
Victorian Seed Warehouse
64 Elizabeth St., Melbourne
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
'VriCTOR.I.A., .A.XJSTE,A.LIA..
^'/? .
CONTENTS.— MARCH, 1918.
A[H)le Culture in Victoria
Vine\arcl Sj)ra3'ii)g
The Government Red Poll Dairy Herd
Standard Test Cows
Teachers" Seliool at Burnlej-
Wheat Variety Trials ... ... .,. .. //. .1.
The Importance of Butter Fat in Human Diet
Subterranean Clover at Flinder.-: ...
Bracken a Sonrce of Potash
Meteorolofi^ical Observations, Research Farm. Werribec
A Form for Describing Maize Ears
Orchard and (rarden Notes
Reminders for April
P.\GK
J
Fanrl!
1-29
F. de
Ca.steUa
141
157
163
167
ill<ll
1
i.A
j.Sc.
168
176
179
180
182
183
187
190
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the Journal of the Department ot Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republisli any matter are at lil)erty to do so, prorided the Journal and author are
hotJi achiowledqf-d.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable ii advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per a-mum for the Commonwealth and Xew Zealand, and
5s. for the United Kingdom and Foreign Countries. Single copy, Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various iwblications issued l)y the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 March, 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Including Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID, G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Inspedion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES,
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ,
Springhurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended (or a lime to overlalce orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON,"Banyule; Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of all
kinds. Dairy Farmers, and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
:: :: Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock :: ::
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather.
Price, 10/6
A limited number available.
Postage — Victoria and other States I /6, New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
11 March, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
ui
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE. VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA.
NOW AVAILABLE .-. BULLETIN SI.
BEE-KEEPING in VICTORIA
By F. R. BEUHNE, Government Apiculturist.
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated) dealing with various phases of
BEE-KEEPING, and specially adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING. Postage: Commonwealth. Id. ; New Zealand, Zsd. ; British and Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postag-e, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 1905
448 Pages
200 Illustrations
2 Coloured Plates
rintK 1« RA • nanpr ?« RA Postage .- C, doth 2', d.. paper 2d.: N.Z., doth 9d.,
v.ioin, OS. DO. , paper, ^s. oa. pgp^, gd.. b. and f., doth is. 6d.. paper, u. 4d.
This Journal
offers exceptional
: : advantages : :
To Stock Owners,
Produce Agents
and Stock Sales-
men, Implement
Makers, Sellers
of Milking Ma-
chines and Dairy
Utensils, Orchard
Appliances and
Materials, and all
Farmers' Supplies
for Advertising
10,000 copies per month Guaranteed
Circulation throughout the Country
Districts of Victoria and amongst
Farmers of the Commonwealtti, reach-
ing also country professional men,
tradesmen, schoolmasters, teachers,
and the like. E.xceptionally .satisfac-
tory results have followed the adver-
tising of Stud Stock in this Journal.
Sfo^^r/'fi^^^^^^^^ Mr. J. J. WRIGHT and Mrs. HEMMING
c/o Editor, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne.
IV
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 March, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
BY D. McALPINE.
GOVERNMENT VEGETABLE PATHOLOGIST.
With Appendices by
W. Laidlaw, B.Sc. (Biologist),
on Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (Government
Entomologist), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
235 Page. (Cloth). 58 Full Plates.
176 Illustrations.
Pvi/<a C5 / Postage : Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealand, 8d.
rriCe, «J/- British and Foreign. 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director Ot
Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria. Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post OSice Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and W. Percy Wilkinson.)
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postage: C, Ud. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPEL.OGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, M. ; N.Z., -id. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id.; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., (Jd.
NEW METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION W^ITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, l.^d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON W^INE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE : RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foe.x. Paper, 9d. Postage:
('., Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
By D. Mc Alpine, Cover nmeni Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Postage: C, 2d.: N.Z., 8d. ; B. & F., Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C, 2id.; N.Z., 9d.; B. & F., Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. Postage: C, ]d.i N.Z..
3d.; B. & F,. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C, lid. :
N.Z., 5d.; B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage: C. 2d.: N.Z..
8d. ; B. & F., Is. 4d.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Chequ« covering price and postage to befonvarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
11 March, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
a
BILLABONG Centrifugal
PUMPS
SHAFT" 'G.— The shaft is of suitable
diameter, and supported in long journals
lined with " Velocite," an anti-friction
bearing metal of our own make, and of
which users speak very highly.
For raising large quantities of Water
for Irrigation and other purposes.
This Centrifugal Pump embodies
many notable features — a result of our
long experience in Pump manufacture.
It is made at our Melbourne Works of
good quality materials and by expert
Pump Engineers.
BEARINGS.— These are of the parted
type, rendering perfect accessibiHly, and
new liners may be cheaply fitted if
necessary.
WATERWAYS.— The water rays are STUFFING BOXES, GLAND. ETC.
spacious, and the divided suction prevents Stuffing Box and Gland are strong, well
undue thrust on the spindle. fnade, and accurately fitted.
LUBRICATION.— A most important item — especially in highspeed machines. This
pump is equipped with large oil wells and ring system. A brass ring hangs over the
shaft and dips into the oil well below ; as the shaft revolves the ring and oil are
carried with it. Therefore, so long as there is oil in the wells continuous and
thorough lubrication is maintained while pump is working. (All e.KOSSS oil finds its
way into the oil wells again, thus eliminating waste.)
BED PLATE.— The pump is well
made, carefully assembled, and is mounted
on a massive bed plate — the whole forming
a very high-class machine.
SWIVELLING DEVICE.— This is
readily adaptable to ground of varying
formation, but to meet special conditions we
can supply certain sizes with end suction,
and will forward particulars to enquirers.
The efficiency of our pum.ps taken under actual test is 75^ P^"* cent,
consider, for a stock line of pump, altogether above the average.
PRICE LIST ON APPLICATION
This, we
Near
G.P.O.
^^^T^A^...
'Phone
S38S
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Pluming, &c., &c.
391-403 BOURKE ST., MELBOURNE
And at 324-330 PITT STREET. SYDNEY
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 March, 1918.
Two Separators with One Message
Save! Save! Save!
The "Viking"
Costs half the price of other high grade separators, which it beats
hands down for durabihty and efficiency. It skims every particle
of cream. The bowl is self-balancing, plates are shaped. There
are no discs to bend or get lost. Cleaning is easy and thorough.
A Month's Free Trial
given with every separator. Return at our expense if you are not satisfied. Made in various sizes.
1 5 galls, per hour to I 1 5 galls, per hour. Two years' guarantee given with every machine.
Can be purchased for £1 Deposit, and £1 Monthly. Send for special catalog.
Last 400 "Favorite" Separators at present prices
These have just been landed. Future shipments will carry a big increase in price.
Buy one now and save pounds. The " Favorite" is the best household separator
for the man with one or two cows. A boy can turn it, and it works perfectly. Full
skimming capacity guaranteed. Only two parts in bowl. Easy to clean. Solid,
compact, strong, & efficient. This last 400 are sure to sell rapidly. Secure yours now.
No. 1 — 11 gal. per hour
No. 2— IS gal. per hour
Terms— £1 down
£ 1 monthly
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
no
114 Sturt Street, South Melbourne
Agent for Tangye Oil, Steam, and Gas Engines
[toxa
NO
Danger
of
FIRE!
THE WELL-KNOWN
RABBIT DESTROYER
In 2 lb. Tins, 28/- per doz.
FELTON, GRIMWADE, & CO., Melbourne
11 March, 1918.1
Journal of Affnculture, Victoria.
^|#'^^P^^t^|f^|P^^^W^^P^
Make Sure of Your
Summer Water Supply
Too many men are content, when tanks and dams
flow over in wet weather, to let the water stream
away anywliere and waste. Then a dry spell
brings the usual cry : " I wish I had an extra dam."
Get a Scoop working NOW!
Have your dam ready when the rain arrives
Dams are easilv made with Scoops, and they're
cheap here. AH steel bowls, no seams, extra
heavy bail, steel runners, and detachable handles.
Fillsand empties easily — won't drag horses out
of condition, because they're same width back
and front, and cutting edges are well ground.
No. 3
No. 2
No. 1
No. 0
y"''^ Proprie
erson's)
Proprietary Ltd
Tools for Farm and Workshop
554-88 Collins Street. MELBOURNE
CREDIT FONCIER
Loans on Farms
UP TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATION
In sums from £50 to £2,000
At 6 per cent. Interest
and from IJ percent, in reduction of principal, which pay« off the loan
in 27i years.
Loans granted on Freeholds, or Crown Leaseholds which could be
made freehold at any time on payment of the balance of Crown RenU.
No Charge for Mortgage Deed
Loans may be paid off on any half-yearly pay day, subject to a small
charge if paid off within the first five years, but no penalty after five years.
Forms may be obtained at any Branch of the State Savings Bank, or
by writing to —
The Inapector-General, The State Savings Bank,
EUZABETH STREET, MELBOURNE.
rui
Journal of A(/rirult are , Vicforio.
\1] March, 191
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education.
Notable AgricuIturitU say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world.
The Sessions commence MARCH and SEPTEMBER, and Students may be enrolled at any Hm«.
£25/-/- per annum.
Alternative Courses — Total Fees
(a) Diploma Course ^ Three Years,
(i) One Year's Course.
The CoUege contains roodero and well equipped laboratory and ledlure hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Dookie, 1,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS. — Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growins,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Fanners.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER.
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 yean of age.
AREA OF FARM, 2,336 ACRES.
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raisins, Dairyiac.
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit. &c.
Total Fees— £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS, Esq., Seci 'lary. Council of Agricultural Edaeatioa,
Department of Agriculture. Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
E The Australasian Mutual Insuranee
Society Ltd.
Central
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Gsaraatee, Plata
Glass, Personal Accident and Sickaest,
Employers' Liability. Worknen'i Coms"*-
•ation. Pabiic Risk Motsr Car. asJ Burflary.
INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY. ANO RECOr^f*:END IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
11 March, 1918.]
Jotirnal of Agriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
''THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Carron
Boxes Sl Oil Caps.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
Btood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wheels Guaranteed for 3 years against Breakage, «c.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. IJ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36' and 32' dia. 4' Tyres. Table, 9} x 5J feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 cwt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 cwt.
These Wheels are guaranteed and will last for all time.
Higher Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to iO ton*.
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP— Truck body, and all classes of little Waeons for Farm and Station work.
Wagons Shipped to all Ports in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAy!
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: :: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
LIVE STOCK OWNERS |
You know what a good thing whole Linseed is for Stock. I
MEGGITTSSLINSEED MEAL
is ALL Pure Linseed
Nothing whatever is added to it. It is ground up fine.
It is cooked and all ready for immediate use. No boihng is necessary.
IT IS NO TROUBLE TO FEED TO CALVES,
COWS, HORSES, PIGS, SHEEP & POULTRY
It is recognised throughout the world as the very best obtainable food for Stock.
AND the price is on Rails, Melbourne
lOO lbs. 11/6 50 lbs. 6/- 20 lbs. 2/6
Obtainable from all Stores and Butter Factories.
!n country districts sufficient only is charged by your Storekeeper to cover the cost of freight
to your district.
Dept. A, Full particulars for Feeding all Stock.
HARRISONS, RAMSAY, Ply. Lfd.,«1?.fBo5RN"^:
JouTnal of Agrictdture, Victoria.
[11 March, 1918.
^^^^ ■ ■-» W & W 581
CjJclOTie—
A ^^^■^— — ^w^ -^-"^ C3E7 OUR
^"^^ "■^^■■^^^^^^ CATALOGUE
c^o?Iy>^
'' 'ftM ^' ^' ^' ^ ' — ^ ••
Fig. 233. Ornamental
Haadgale. 4 ft high
'tl
■■/■
. ^
Fig. 211 Ornamental Fig. 188b Ornamental
Handgate 4 ft. high Handgate 4 ft high
CYCLONE PTY. LTD.
469 SWAN8TON STREET
MELBOURNE
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
-Propy. Ltd.-
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and'CORNINA' MANUFACTURERS
■ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR
GRAIN TO US.
«
BOX 53.
G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
♦
11 March, 1918.] Journal of Agiiculture, Victoria. xi
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If YOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
1
Journal of AgricuUure, Victoria.
11 March, 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Managing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD. Esq., LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE. Esq.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE, M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN, Esq. DAVID HUNTER. Ecq.
This Company Acts as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trustee •f
Settlements, and Agent for Absentees under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices— 113 Queen St. (Corner of Little Collins-st.), Melbourne
"1000 TREES & STUMPS
GRUBBED OUT"
Thus writes Mr. J. Sutherland, Parwan.
" I am very well pleased with the Grubbers, as they are doing very good w-ork. With mine I have
close on 1,000 trees and stumps grubbed out. I have done all this work myself without any assistance.
So I consider the Grubber has more than doubly paid for itself."
Pull The "MONKEY WINCH" will save time, labour and money on
particulars your land clearing, is always ready, and can be worked in
fr07n — the very roughest country and in any class of timber.
TREWHELLA BROS. pty. ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
from a Vidorian Deposit.
''ii
••it'^i^rj^ji i-i:tf jif ,r-
CROP GROWN AT BRIDGEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orders can now be supplied and full information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy. Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
11 March, 1918.] Journal of Agrricultvre, Victorio
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
BURNT LILYD ALE LIME
FOR THE LAND
Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should Iry it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Iminediate. The demand for Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Lilydale Lime.
ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide.
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, p,„S„„ OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works— Cave Hill, Lilydale, Tel. Lilydale 4. Tel. Central 5726.
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Office-
LONDON
Melbourne Office-
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Butter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Account
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S W^IRE CUTTER
Cbief Agents in Victoria for the PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
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Journal of Agticulture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
THE NEW STORES AT VICTORIA DOCK
have a capacity of 310,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 155,000 boxes of
butter, or 105,000 cases of fruit, or 140,000
carcasses of lamb and mutton. — — ^
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chambers
diredt into the ship's hold. Ele<5tric motor power totals 820 H.P.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and conneded with the Cool Stores by diredt lines ; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable produdls are provided.
EXPERT OFFICERS
are conneded with every Branch, so that any one requiring Information
regarding the produdlon, preparation, and shipment of produce can rely
upon being promptly supplied with up-to-date information upon all matters.
11 March, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
xV
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
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Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
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For full particulars apply —
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Journnl of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1^18.
DEPARTMENT of AGRICULTURE
Graded Seed Wheat
1918 DISTRIBUTION
Select Bred Graded Seed of the following varieties
of Wheat will be available for distribution early in
- iVldlCli,
Special Federation
1 y lU
Currawa
Yandilla King
Gluyas
Dart's Imperial
Warden
Major
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Also small quantities of the following :—
College Eclipse
Commonwealth
King's Early
Marshall's No. 3
Early application is necessary ; Orders will be booked
according to priority of application
Price, 6/- per bushel
For further particulars apply to the Director of Agriculture,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
TH6 JOURNAL
OF
T^fte department of Mgncufture
OF
VICTORIA.
Vol. XVI. Part 3. 11th March, 1918.
APPLE CULTURE IN VICTORIA.
By J. Fdrrell, Orchard Supervisor.
(Contiimed from page 8S. )
GrEEA' MANrRING.
Besides siipph'ing plant food, green manure improves tlie physical
condition of most soils, and particularly those deficient in liumus. It
has the effect of consolidating loose, sandy soil, and the soluble plant
food is thus retained in the humus provided by the green manure instead
of being washed out by heavy rains. The incorporation of vegetable
matter in stiff clay soil causes its particles to separate, and this alters its
physical condition to a more friable character.
Pertile soils teem with minute organisms or bacteria and these
produce continual changes which have a beneficial influence on the
growth of the trees. Bacterial activity is largely affected by the amount
of organic matter present, the quantity of soil moisture, and temperature.
The intense soil cultivation, so essential to the growth and produc-
tivity of apple trees in this country, has the effect of exhausting rather
({uickly the supply of humus. Where stable manure is not procurable,
crops for green manure should be grown between the trees and ploughed
in to replenish the supply of humus. Leguminous plants such as peas,
beans, vetches, &:c., are most suitable for green manuring on account of
their power of accumulating their own nitrogen. These plants are
faA'orable to the growth of organisms, colonies of which develop in the
nodules produced on their roots. These organisms collect nitrogen as
they multiply in the nodules. The plants should not be ploughed under
until they have arrived at the stage of having accumulated their maxi-
mum of cell sap. This condition usually occurs about the time the
plants are in full bloom.
The field pea (Pisum arvense) is much used by our orchardists for
green manure. The peas are usually sown broadcast, and lightly
1293.
130
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
11 March, 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria.
131
manured with bone dust and superphosphate, as soon as the late maturing
apples have been gathered. Heavier crops of peas are obtained, however,
when they are sown in drills, and cultivated occasionally during their
growth. When a fairly mild winter follows the sowing of the peas, they
generally arrive at the proper condition for ploughing under about the
time the early flowering apple trees are in full bloom, which varies,
according to weather conditions, from the 1st to the 14th of October.
Plate 153 illustrates a crop of field peas, sown broadcast, in full
bloom, and in the proper condition to be ploughed under. Plants, or
portions of plants, containing a maximum of cell sap when turned under
decompose more readily than those more matured. When the seeds are
allowed to partly develop in the pods, before being buried, the vascular
system and cutical portions of the plants begin to lignify. This con-
■i
Plate 154. — A Trifolium (Medicagoi Seedling, seventeen days
old, showing nodules on roots (natural size), (a)
and ( h ) illustrate nodules (natural size) taken from
a plant of the same variety, eight weeks old.
dition, with, perhaps, an insufficiency of soil moisture, retards decom-
position, and consequently bacterial activity.
Grreen manure should be buried to a depth of from 6 to 8 inches, and
the most suitable implement to employ for this work is a two-furrow
orchard plough with circular revolving coulters. When the crop is
heavy and difficult to plough under in the ordinary way, these ploughs
may be fitted with weed-burying attachments. When the green crop has
been buried, the rate of decomposition, its subsequent nitrification and
assimilation by the soil, largely depend on the quantity of moisture
present and the maintenance of the soil's aeration during the process.
Where the ground lacks sufficient moisture, this should be supplied by
irrigation, and the soil may be kept sufficiently aerated by using a light
drag-harrow or spring tooth cultivator, set for shallow working. Though
deep cultivation is practised at this time, it is not advised, as quantities
132 Journal of ArjrioiJhire, Victoria. [11 March, IDIS.
of the decaying vegetable matter would thus be brought to the surface,
and this is most undesirable.
The Trifolium (Medicago) seedling shown in Plate 154 has been
chosen to illustrate iho nodules on the roots of leguminous plants, and
shows that they commen'-e to delevop as soon as the roots have extended
a short distance from their base, and how they subsequently multiply.
This is a photograph (natural size) of the specimens it depicts. The
seedling was seventeen days old when removed, with its roots intact,
from the box of sandy soil in which it was grown. The nodules shown
in the illustration, and marked (a) and (h), were cut from a plant of
the same variety eight weeks old.
As the complete change from the growing plants into the decomposed,
and subsequently nitrified and soluble form, as food for the trees, occupies
a considerable period, no time should be lost in ploughing the peas
under as soon as they have collected their maximum of cell sap and
completed their nodule development. Especially on poor soil, the crop
should be enabled, by the assistance of artificial fertilizers — super-
phosphate, bone dust, or nitrate of soda — to commence growth in early
autumn, and be sufiiciently matured for turning under in early spring.
Provided this phase of green manuring be treated with the promptitude
which its importance demands, the orchardist may reasonably assume
that the chemical changes necessary to render the soluble nitrates avail-
able for his trees will have commenced by the time the trees have beguii
vigorous growth, and will contiiuie afterwards to supply the food for
fruit development.
A most interesting article on the " Mtrification of Organic Manures."
by Jno. W. Paterson, B.Sc, Ph.D., formerly experimentalist, and P. K.
Scott, Chemist for Agriculture, was published in the Journal of Agricul-
ture, June, 1914.
The article deals, under various headings, with the different forms of
nitrogen, production of nitrates, production of ammonia, action of soil
bacteria, conditions influencing ammonification, and rate of ammonifi-
cation, (fee. Tabulated results of tests made in the laboratory are also
given in detail.
Plate 155 was employed to illustrate the article, which, however, is
too long to permit of its being reprinted in full here, but the writer
regards as an interesting and instructive compendium the authors'
summary, which is as follows : —
1. ISTitrogen exists in soils and manures in three forms.
2. Nitrate nitrogen is required by plants.
3. Ammonia nitrogen is the raw material for producing nitrates.
4. Organic nitrogen is the raw material for producing ammonia.
5. Bacteria change ammonia into nitrates.
6. Another kind of bacteria change organic nitrogen into ammonia.
7. Animal and vegetable manures contain their nitrogen as organic
nitrogen.
8. Their rapidity of action depends, in the first place, upon the
rate at which their nitrogen is converted into ammonia.
9. In any case, the change is gradual, and requires time.
10. Lime hastens the change.
11. A sufficient soil moisture hastens the change.
11 March, 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria.
133
12. The rate of change depends also very largely on the class of
manure.
13. Bone and blood may have four-fifths of their nitrogen rendered
available in four months.
14. Quickly-acting manures are soonest exhausted.
15. Half the nitrogen in lucerne may be rendered available in four
months.
16. Very heavy dressings of fresh stable manure, as in the garden,
may be worse than useless by destroying any nitrates pre-
sent.
17. This danger will be most prominent on land Avhich is fairly wet,
and in wet seasons.
18. A moderate dressing of stable manure Avill yield nitrates
gradually, and with good result.
19. Leather, horn, hoofs, and wool waste in mixed manures will show
nitrogen on analysis, but they will be slow in action.
20. In purchasing manures of organic origin, it is particularly neces
sary to know the source from which their nitrogen is
dorivod.
*Plate 155. — Bacteria which Change the Nitrogen in Soils (highly magnified).
(a) Producing nitrites from ammonia ( Winogradsky ) .
( h ) producing nitrates from nitrites ( Winogradsky ) .
(c) Producing ammonia from organic nitrogen — A. Bac-mycoides; B. Bac-
stutzeri ( Conn ) .
The Influence of Lime.
Lime has an important influence on most orchard soils; it helps to
make heavy soil more friable, and, besides supplying practically essential
plant food, assists in freeing unavailable phosphates and potash. It
also enables the changes in manures containing the crude forms of plant
food to commence earlier and pass m^ore rapidly through the successive
variations by which its ingredients are converted into the soluble form,
and thus made available to the feeding roots. Generally speaking, sandy
soils do not need lime to the same extent as clayey or peaty kinds, for
the reason that the latter, when they become deficient in lime as a plant
food, also acquire an acidity, or sourness, that renders them
unfavorable to the growth of fruit trees. Virgin soils usually contain
lime in sufficient quantities to enable the trees to grow and fruit satis-
factorily for some years after being planted. But when the original
supplies of plant food have become depleted through continuous
These illustrations are taken from Hihjurd on Soils.
134 J ournal of Agriculture, Victorui. 1 11 March, 1918.
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11 March. 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria.
135
cropping, and the orchardist is obliged to use artificial fertilizers,
superphosphate especially, the lime gradually disapi^ears.
An occasional dressing of lime produces a mechanical or physical
change in the texture of heavy clay soils, by which they are rendered
more friable and less tenacious, while the cohesive properties of light
sandy soils are enhanced by similar treatment. Lime may be used in
any of four forms — quicklime, slaked lime, ground limestone, and
gypsum. Quicklime is the most alkaline, and, when incorporated in
sour soil, soon destroys its acidity by uniting with the acids, and
changing them into harmless substances, which are neither alkaline nor
acid.
The map on page 134 shows the localities in which limestone deposits
are situated in Victoria.
Most practical fruitgrowers are able to determine by the general
appearance of the soil when it has developed acidity. The less experi-
Plate 156. — Steer's Limestone Quarry, Warrnambool, showing accumulation of
limestone sand in the foreground.
enced orchardist, hoAvever, may ascertain the condition of his soil in this
regard by using blue litmus paper. To make the test cut a slit with a
knife in the moist earth, place a strip of the paper in the slit and close
the earth in against it. If, after a few minutes, when the paper becomes
moistened, it turns pink or red the soil is acid, and the redder tlie colour
of the paper the more acid the soil.
Sourness is often caused by stagnant water in orchards with retentive
clay subsoils, and in cases of this kind subdrainage should receive first
consideration, then an application of lime hastens the sweetening of such
soils.
186 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918,
Steer's limestone quarry, at "Warniambool, illustrated in Plate 156,
represents a good type of limestone deposit.
Great diversity of opinion, as to the quantity of lime per acre wliieh
would constitute a fair dressing, exists among orchardists, and the quan-
tities of fresh slaked lime, which is the form most commonly used, range
from 10 cwt. to 2 tons per acre. In determining the suitable amount of
lime for an application the orchardist should be influenced chiefly by the
state of the soil as regards its acidity, its general physical condition, and
manurial wants, as well as its condition regarding drainage. The soil
should not be allowed to become wholly depleted of lime before being
rej)lenished with this ingredient. It is generally recognised now that
better results attend frequent light dressings of lime than accrue from
heavy ones applied at long intervals.
Pkoducing Slaked Lime.
Slaked lime is the form most commonly used as a manure by the
orchardists. It is obtained when the limestone or calcium carbonate
taken from the quarry is submitted to a red heat by being burned in a
kiln until the Avhole of the carbonic acid content of the stone is driven
off in the form of gas. What remains of the limestone after the gas has
all burned out is known as quicklime or calcium oxide. On water being
poured on the quicklime a chemical combina-tion takes place, resulting
in the formation of slaked lime or calcium hydrate.
The following has been taken from an article on " The Chemistry
of Lime," by P. Rankin Scott, Chemist for Agriculture, published in
this Journal, October, 1912 : —
In actual practice there are three distinct forms of lime com-
pounds applied to the soil, namely : —
Calcium oxide (CaO) lime.
Calcium hydrate (CaHoOo) slaked lime.
Calcium carbonate (CaCOy) chalk, limestone, shell, kc.
What these forms are and the relation they bear one to the other
can be seen by means of the lime cycle : —
Calcium Carbonate
CaCO,
Limestone, <S:c.
Calcium Hydrate Calcium Oxide
CaH^Oo CaO
Slaked lime. Lime.
The above cycle illustrates the changes of one form into the other.
In connexion with the relative value of the different forms of lime
and desirable standards, Mr. Scott further writes: —
56 lbs. of fresh burnt lime contains the same amount of lime as —
56 lbs. of fresh ground lime.
74 lbs. of water-slaked lime.
100 lbs. of carbonate of lime (as a powder — ground lime-
stone, chalk, (Src).
100 lbs. of old air-slaked lime.
172 lbs. of sulphate of lime (as gypsum).
11 M.vKcii. 1!)18.J Apple Culture in Victoria.
137
Lime. — A good quality lime sliould contain at least 85 per cent,
combined oxide and carbonate, of which not more than 10 per cent,
shall be present as carbonate.
Slaked Lime. — A good quality slaked lime should contain at
least 85 per cent, of combined oxide, hydrate, and carbonate, of
Avhich not more than 10 per cent, shall be present as carbonate.
Carbonate of Lime. — A good quality carbonate of lime should
contain at least 85 per cent, of carbonate of lime, and pass through
a sieve of 50 meshes to the linear inch.
Gypsum. — A good quality gypsum should contain at least 30
per cent, of calcium oxide.
All other grades should be sold on a guarantee, stating their
calcium oxide content.
Plate 1.
-Liaio--preader Attached to
xii Dray.
Method of Application.
Usually the slaked lime is carted to the orchard area and spread from
an ordinary farm dray with a shovel. This mode of distribution may
be improved, however, by attaching to the back of the dray a lime-
spreading device like that shown in Plate 157. Any of the more highly
perfected and expensive lime spreaders may be employed, but as such
an even distribution of the lime is not so necessary in the orchard as is
essential in the case of farm crops the cruder implement will meet
requirements.
As the tendency of lime is to sink in the soil it should not be ploughed
under, but spread broadcast on the ploughed ground and lightly harroAved
in.
Lime should not be spread on the surface with manure, particularly
that of the farm-yard, because, Avheu it and maiiure are placed in
13S Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
contact Avith each other above the ground, the lime quickly drives off the
ammonia of the manure into the air and thus lessens its nitrogen content.
Probably the better arrangement in this respect would be, when the land
is treated regularly, to use manure and lime during alternate years, and
thus provide lime to assist in the decomi)osition and nitrification of the
manure apjilied subsequently. Or the lime might be harrowed in a short
time after the burial of the farm-yard, or green manure.
Mr. A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc, Agricultural Superintendent,
has summarized his comprehensive article on " The Practice of Liming,"*
thus : —
1. Lime may be applied in one of four forms: quicklime, slaked
lime, ground limestone, and gypsum.
2. One ton of quicklime is equivalent to 1.3 tons slaked lime, 1.8 tons
of carbonate of lime, and 3.1 tons gypsum.
3. Lime has an important chemical, mechanical, and biological effect
on the soil.
4. It liberates phosphates and ])otash, decomposes organic matter,
promotes nitrification, and corrects the soil acidity.
5. It makes clay soils more friable, and tends to bind sandy soils.
6. It stimulates bacterial activity, and promotes soil fertility.
7. It may be applied in dressings from 5 cwt. to 2 tons per acre,
according to the kind of soil, kind of crop, and according
to the frequency of application.
8. Small dressings frequently applied are more profitable than heavy
dressings applied at long intervals.
9. Lime is best applied by special limespreaders. A good, handy
man can make one to work from the back of a farm dray.
10. Quicklime and slaked lime are best applied in autumn, at least
some Aveeks before the seed is sown. Carbonate of lime may
be applied when convenient.
11. If quicklime can be purchased for 25s. per ton, then carbonate of
lime is worth about 14s. per ton.
12. Quicklime and slaked lime give quickest results. Carbonate of
lime is slower, but is ultimately the most profitable.
13. Lime destroys humus; therefore, keep up the supply of organic
matter to the soil by green manuring.
14. Lime must be supplemented with phosi:)hates to keep the soil pro-
ductive.
15. There is urgent need for systematic and permanent experimental
work in connexion with liming problems.
In connexion with their article on the '' Relation of Lime to Soil
Fertility,"* J. W. Paterson, B.Sc, Ph.D., and P. R. Scott, Chemist for
Agriculture, give an interesting summary and conclusions as folloAvs : —
1. Lime tends to leave the surface soil through various channels, and
fresh applications become necessary to maintain fertility.
2. Carbonate of lime is the best form of lime for the soil.
3. Burnt and slaked lime are rapidly changed to carbonate when they
are applied to land.
4. The rate at Avhich lime acts depends on its fineness of division.
Journal of Agriculture (VictOTia), October, 1912.
11 March, 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 139
5. Lime, but es]ieeially hot lime, has a good, effect upon the mechani-
cal condition of stiff" clays.
6. Gypsum also coagulates clay, but it has not the beneficial action
of lime in other directions.
7. Lime greatly hastens the production of nitrates.
8. It has a good effect in liberating potash and phosphoric acid,
especially when the latter is combined with iron or alumina.
9. Where required by soil, lime produces larger crops.
10. It produces root crops, which are of greater feeding value per ton.
11. It may often be a profitable application to grass land.
12. Lime kills sori'el, docks, and other acid-loving weeds.
13. It is specially stimulating to lucerne, clovers, and leguminous
plants.
14. Lime will not act if phosphates are deficient.
15. It increases the need, everywhere present, of ploughing in green
manures or stubbles.
16. It facilitates this operation.
17. The surest method of determining the need for lime is to dress
trial strips and await results.
In an article on " Lime for Orchards,"* Mr. P. J. Carmody, Chief
Orchard Supervisor, dealing in a practical manner with the effect of lime
on fruit and fruit trees, and advocating its use, writes : — •
" When it is considered that the average crop of fruit requires
more plant food for its development than an average crop of
wheat, and, moreover, that the fruit demands the same soil con-
stituents year after year, the necessity for a sweet and. favorable
medium for root pasturage is apparent; and as no other applica-
tion is at all comparable to the influence of lime for this purpose,
its frequent use is urgently required. It is a matter of common
observation that the fruit-buds of trees grown on sour soils are
of a weak or indefinite character, while the bark is harsh and dry
in appearance, and the growth more or less stunted. Under such
conditions it is practically impossible to develop trees on the most
profitable lines without first correcting soil acidity by the free use
of lime in the same manner as requires to be adopted for other
farm crops.
In many parts of the State insufiicient attention has been given
to this feature of soil management in the orchards. Particularly
is this the case where fruit is grown on heavy clay soils. In these
soils fruit trees grow through a lengthy period, so that a consider-
able quantity of immature wood is produced to the detriment of
subsequent crops of fruit. Measures have not hitherto been
adopted to definitely determine the actual effect of lime on the
different parts of the tree; but investigations in other countries
show that on soils rich in lime the wood is matured earlier and
the fruit-buds are more stocky and robust than is the case with
trees grown on soils deficient in lime. This is very appareiit to
any one acquainted with the fruit areas of many parts of Gipps-
land and other places in Southern Victoria, and one is struck
* Journal of Agriculture {yictOTia), October, 1912.
140 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
with the unusual prominence or length of the fruit-buds, the rela-
tive distance between the nodes, and the softness of the wood in
these districts when compared with the same varieties grown in
fruit centres known to possess lime in abundance.
It may not, however, be correct to assign these differences solely
to the effect of lime, as other soil constituents bear an important
part on the character of the tree and its fruit-buds, particularly
potash. It is generally recognised that the trees are not so man-
ageable nor so prolific in bearing in soils where lime is deficient,
and growers who have rectified this have had excellent results,
though as artificial fertilizers were subsequently applied the same
year, the relative value of the lime could not be ascertained.
Though lime plays an important part in the apple and pear tree,
it is in the stone fruits that its value is most apparent. It is a
familiar fact that in soils rich in lime the stone fruits set their
crops Avell, and are not so prone to cast off their fruit at the pei'iod
of ' stoning ' as is otherwise the case. Where trees are making
extensive wood growth with abundant foliage there is but little
doubt that the application of lime at the rate of 7 to 8 cwt. to the
acre would be of pronounced benefit.
No class of fruit is more eloquent in its request for specific soil
constituents than the citrus. A light yellowish appearance of the
leaves demands an application of nitrogenous manures, whilst the
want of phosphoric acid is evidenced by many of the light laterals
dying off. In a soil where lime is abundant the thinness of the rind,
the deep colour and delicate aroma of the fruit are special features
of the orange, so that beneficial effects are obtained by the use of
lim^e in almost all classes of fruit."
(To he continued.)
Fungous diseases are much more difficult to control in most cases than
insects. One must fight something that he cannot see but feels sure will
come later in the shape of diseases. There is little that can be done to
destroy or control diseases after they have become visible to the naked
eye. These diseases come from minute spores that float through the air
in very large numbers and come to rest on the plants. When the proper
time and conditions come, these spores grow and enter the tissue of the
plant on which they feed. xVfter the disease once enters the tissue of
the plant there is no remedy. Nothing can be applied that will kill the
disease and not harm the plant. It is the spores, then, that must be
killed. With this explanation it is easily seen that the so-called fungi-
cides are really " sporocides," and must be used before the spores grow.
— California Cultivator, 26/1/16.
11 March, 1918.] Vineyard Sprai/ing. 141
VINEYARD SPRAYING.
By F. de Castella, Government ViticuJturist.
Consternation has arisen in the minds of many of our vine-growers
as the result of the grave damage recently caused by Downy Mildew in
many of our vineyards — nor is this to be wondered at, seeing that this,
our first invasion, has been an exceedingly virulent one. To make matters
worse, it was not hindered to any extent by protective spraying. Owing
to long immunity from fungus diseases, our vine-growers were quite
inexperienced concerning spray mixtures and their mode of application,
hence the feelings, almost amounting to dismay, with which advice to
spray was very generally received. Xot so with our orchardists, for
whom spraying has long since been a necessary evil, or, more correctly,
a compulsory insurance. The experience of a good many years has
proved to them that, in the absence of protective sprays, a payable fruit
crop is not to be relied on.
Henceforth, however, vine-growers will have to fall into line wath
orchardists, and adopt the copper sprays which, in Europe, alone render
possible the vintaging of the grape crop. Concerning the efficacy of such
treatment, there is, fortunately, no longer any room for doubt. Copper
sprays afford complete protection provided they are opportune, properly
prepared, and thoroughly applied.
This much admitted, the question naturally arises — at what cost?
The oft-repeated spraying necessary in Central France would render
profitable vine-growing impossible under our conditions. The assurance
can safely be given, however, that such will never be required here. In
Algeria mildew yields readily to timely treatment, the expense of w^hich
does not impose a severe tax on growers, and so will it prove with us.
The 1917-18 disaster in the Eutherglen district is the direct outcome of
an unfortunate combination of circumstances, viz., a season abnormally
favorable to fungus development — one in which our usual climatic pro-
tection has absolutely failed us; added to this, w\as total absence of
protective spraying. That copper could have afforded safety is
strikingly demonstrated at one vineyard in the district, where early
spraying was carried out on a portion of the area under vines. Here
the bulk of the crop has been saved, whereas on the unsprayed portion
tlie loss is almost complete. And yet only one spraying was given.
Such a result, in a season so wet as this has been, augurs well for the
future.
The composition of spray mixtures and most suitable time for
their application, though questions of vital importance, may be held over
for the present, since no winter treatment is of any avail against Downy
Mildew (see Journal for Xovember, p. 697). The subject of the present
article is the method of application of the spray mixture ; in other words,
the spraying outfit. To insure protection, our vines must be sprayed.
How this object can be most efficiently and economically achieved — in
other words, with the least expenditure of labour and material — is the
problem awaiting solution.
Early consideration of this phase of the question is opportune, in
order that preparations may be made in due time for next spring's
campaign. Spraying must commence in October.
It is not only at Rutherglen, however, that our vine-growers are
interested in vineyard spraying. The extreme prevalence of "Black
142
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
Spot " at Mildura, resulting from the over-abundant moisture of the last
two seasons, necessitates prevention of summer infection by means of
copper mixtures applied in early spring, and supplementary to the winter
swab; spraying has thus acquired an importance at Mildura such as has
been quite unknown during the past 25 years. Mildura growers must
Fig. 1. — Cazenave's Brush Sprinkler (from P. Viala—
Maladies de la Vigne, 1st Edition, 1887.
Fig. 2. — Japy's Brush Sprinkler (after Viala).
also remember that it is extremely probable that they will ere long have
to reckon with the Downy Mildew fungus, which, during the currency of
the present summer, has found its way from Eutherglen to the Lilydale
district, Whittlesea, Sunbury, the Goulburn Valley, and, no doubt, a
good many other localities.
11 March, 1918.]
T"//( eyard ^p railing.
143
Evolution of the Modern Spray.
Tlie efficacy of copper was discovered as far back as 1885. At this
time modern spray pumps were unknown, and the first applications of
Bordeaux mixture were made by means of a brush or whisk of heather
twigs tied together. The sprinkling thus carried out was manifestly
inferior to the fine modern spray; nevertheless, a remarkable degree of
protection was obtained. Improvements were attempted, and numerous
mechanical devices were introduced, among the earliest of which were
rotary brushes, such as are shown in Figs. 1 and 2 ; these were so devised
that the bristles could be momentarily held back by a transverse bar. On
their sudden release, the liquid with which they are wetted is projected
on to the vine in small drops. Improvements were gradually introduced
until the spray pump, in something like its present form, was evolved,
one of the most noteworthy developments being the introduction of the
Fig.
-Riley's Cyclone
(after Viala).
Nozzle
Fig. 4. — ^Raveneau ' s . jet (after Viala) .
Riley or cyclone nozzle,* which really constituted a revolution in spray-
ing, and is at the present day, in one or other of its improved forms, the
one most generally used. Fig. 3 shows the earlier form of Riley nozzle.
* The earliest description of the fvclone Kozzle, and the principle on which it is based, seems to be that
which is contained in the fonrth or final report of tlie I'.S.A. Entomological Commission on the Cotton
Worm, by Chas. V. Rilev, P.H.I)., published in 1881. A chapter contributed by Professor W. S. Barnard
deals with the different" nozzles in use, and among these several tjT)es of centrifugal or eddy-chamber
nozzles are described. . . ^. . . , i.,. ^ ,
That we are indebted to Professor Eiley and his staff for this ingenious invention is shown by the fol-
lowing extract from this report :— " Eddy chamber jets are produced by new spray devices invented
and developed in the progress of the commission worlf." , , ^ , ...... x
The following particulars, extracted from the same report, will no doubt be read with interest : —
" Centrifugal sprinklers expand the jet by giving it a rapid rotary motion, which, by the centrifugal
force generated, throws the fluid into a shower of particles. .,.,..,... j. ,
The chamber is usually of disc-like or annular shape. There is preferably a single inlet which discharges
into the chamber in an eccentric direction parallel to a tangent to its circumference. Such a device gives
to the fluid forced into it a centripetal geometrically involute course, very completely converting the
in-current projectile or translatory velocity or motion into velocity of rotation, apparently increasing
towards the centre which generallv has an immediate discharge by an outlet through the face of the chamber,
and not bv a long pipe. The fluid within proceeds in an in-\vinding course approximating parallelism
to the thin lips of the outlet, so that the tendency to preserve this direction, by its momentum, after being
freed, disperses it in the form of a whorl of diverging tangents from the lip margins . . • . • • •
The principle of in-wrapping centripetal deflection with little or no axial movementuntil the outlet discharge
is reached is one of the special characteristics of the eddy jets. Thereby is gained an intense rotation
at the discharge, and a broad fine spray therefrom. The velocity of rotation produced in these nozzles
is remarkably rapid, as exhibited by experimenting with one having a glass-faced chamber to show action,
within."
144
Journal of AgricuUare, Victoria. [11 March, 191^
Numerous other types of nozzles exist; for example, the Eaveneau jet
shown in Fig. 4, which appears to have given a satisfactory spray.
Orx^hard and Potato Sprays.
Hitherto the use of copper sprays in Victoria has been limited to
orchardists and potato-growers. The problems which must be solved
Fig. 5. — Vermorel's Sprayer for potatoes or low-growing vines (from Bourcart
"Insecticides, Fungicides, and Weed Killers.")
Fig. 6. — Vigouroux Knapsack Sprayer, side and back view (after Viala).
in order to protect these crops are, however, somewhat different to those
which confront vine-growers. It is evident that the spraying of a large
apple tree, for example, is a very different operation to that of a small,
more or less, trailing shrub, such as a vine. In the former case the
pump remains stationary alongside the tree until this has been com-
pletely spi'ayed, an operation Avhich may require several minutes; the
jirogress of the ])niii]) i-<, in fnct, essontinlly interniitlent.
II March. 1918.
Vin eya rd Sp railing.
14o
Potato-growers, on tlie other hand, have to deal with a low-growing
crop, Avliich can he rapidly saturated with the spray. Several fixed
nozzles are so arranged that one or tAvo will treat a row of potatoes ;
several rows are thus simultaneously treated, thus enabling a large
area to be treated in a short time by a continuously advancing outfit.
The machine shown in Fig. 5 can be used for spraying potatoes or
low-growing vines.
The vine really occupies a position intermediate betAveen the fruit
tree and the potato, both as regards the size of the plant itself and the
time required to treat it. Even among vines requirements vary greatly,
according to the distance between the rows, the size of the vines, and
the arrangement of the vines in the row. In trellised vines, the growing
portions of which are in contact throughout the whole length of the
row, continuous spraying is possible. In staked vines, on the other
hand, the work is preferably intermittent ; a continuously acting spray
would, mean a loss of spraying material at the interval between the vines.
Fig. 7. — Vermorel's Modification of the Riley
Nozzle (after Viala).
Knapsack Sprays.
Since the introduction of spraying in French vineyards, knapsack
spray pumps have, until recently, been most generally used. (Fig. 6.)
Before passing on to the consideration of the larger machines which
are gradually displacing them, these may be briefly described; the
essential parts of both are similar, and can more conveniently be sum-
marily described in connexion with the smaller knapsack naachines.
All spray innnps consist of three essential parts — (1) a reservoir to
contain the spray mixture; (2) a nozzle l>y which the liquid is converted
into a fine spray or mist; (3) a punij) Iv nu ans of which the liquid is
conveyed under pressure to the nozzle. Fi i use with copper mixtvire, the
reservoir must be made of copper or soir.e metal on which these liquids
have no action. It is usually proviJ d with an agitator, which serves
to keep the sediment — really the active portion of the mixture — in
^us])ension.
Most of the nozzles now in use are modifications of Riley's original
cyclone nozzle (Fig. 3), which onsists of a small, hollow cylinder, into
which the liquid is brought under pressure by the oblique passage A.
The cylinder is closed by a metal cap, pierced in its centre by a small
aperture. It will be seen that the liquid is forced in tangentially, this
146
Journal of Agriculture , Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
causing it to gyrate rapidly in the cylinder before escaping through the
orifice, which it leaves with a rapid spinning motion. Under the action
of centrifugal force the jet immediately opens out into a cup or tulip-
shaped hollow cone, the edges of which soon become disintegrated into
No. 8. — Vermorel's Interrupter for Spray
Pumps. (From L. Fontaine in ' ' La Revue
de Viticulture." — 8th June, 1911).
Fig. 9. — Jet and Nozzle fitted with Vermorel's Interrupter (after Fontaine).
Fig. 10. — Jullian's Interrupter (section) (after Fontaine).
Fig. 11. — Spray Pump Tube fitted with Jullian's Interrupter. A strainer to
prevent clogging of the nozzle is seen to the right (after Fontaine) .
very minute drops, comparable to powder, whence the term pulveriza-
teur, by which spray pumps are known in France. The chief defect
of this ingenious nozzle was its liability to clog, owing to the smallness
of the aperture. This has been overcome in various ways; one of these
is shown in Fig. 7, which illustrates Vermorel's modification.
11 March, 1918.
Vinei/a rd Sp rai/ ing.
147
As will Ije seen, opposite to tlie spray aperture is a larger orifice
through which projects a metal plug. This plug constitutes a valve
completely closing this orifice when the nozzle is working. On the
inside the plug bears a peg arranged in such a way that it can be pushed
right through the spray aperture, in case this should clog, by pressing
on the exterior part of the plug with the thumb. This not only clears
the spray aperture, but allows the obstruction to escape through the
opened valve, which immediately closes again under the pressure of the
liquid. A spiral spring Avas added later, which causes the valve to close
more tightly. This is shown in Fig. 13. This device is very con-
venient on all hand-directed sprays. Strainers of various types are
also fitted to nozzles to prevent clogging. Several excellent nozzles
working on the cyclone or eddy principle are now manufactured in
Fig. 12. — Verraorel's Knapsack
Sprayer, ' ' Eclair. ' '
Fig. 13. — Venn Orel's Knapsack
Sprayer, ' ' Eclair ' ' — larger view
showing spring addition to non-
clogging nozzle.
this State, into the relative merits of which it is evidently impossible
to go here.
In a general way, it will be found that the higher the pressure the
finer and more efficient the spray; the difference between the fog-like
mist sent out by a nozzle working at high pressure and the few large
drops which it sprinkles rather than sprays if the pressure be allowed
to fall too low, is very striking.
The liquid is conveyed under pressure from the reservoir to the
nozzle through a pipe, portion of which is flexible rubber hose and the
other part a metal tube. Sometimes the metal portion is fitted with an
interrupter, of which there are several types. On knapsack sprayers
interrupters are very convenient, and in the ease of staked vines they
permit an appreciable saving of spray liquid, by enabling the operator
148 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
to shut off the spray when passing the interval between the vines in the
row. Interrupters are shown in Figs. 8, 9, 10, and 11.
Pumps are of two types, viz., direct acting and air compressors. In
the former case the spray liquid is forced directly into the tube commu-
nicating with the nozzle, pressure being equalized by means of an air
chamber. Vermorel's well-known knapsack sprayer (Figs. 12 and
13) is based on this principle. In this machine the pump is much
simplified, the piston being replaced by a rubber diaphragm situated
at the base of the air chamber, and which can be raised or lowered by
operating the handle. Several sprayers on very similar lines to
Yermorel's are manufactured by British and American firms.
In the second case, the reservoir of spraying liquid is so constructed
that it may be hermetically closed by means of a screw plug. The
pump, which consists of an air compressor, and not a pump for liquids,
compresses the air in the upper portion of the reservoir. An occa-
sional stroke of the pump maintains a sufficient pressure to insure a
satisfactory spray.
In the case of a popular American sprayer worked by compressed
air, each outfit has its own air pump, which provides the necessary
compression after the reservoir has been charged with spray mixture.
As spraying proceeds, pressure necessarily falls. A few strokes of
the air pump soon restore it. An efficient interruptor and a strainer
to prevent clogging are useful features.
By arranging the compressed air inlet at the bottom instead of the
top of the reservoir, the air bubbles rising through the liquid keep the
sediment in suspension and play the part of an agitator.
In some types of sprayers the pump is detachable, the part carried
by the operator merely consisting of a reservoir, tube (Avith interrupter),
and nozzle ; the air pump is of similar pattern to those used for inflating
motor car tyres. The reservoir is half filled with liquid, and charged
with a sufficiency of compressed air to maintain the pressure until the
whole of the liquid is discharged, something after the style of a seltzogene
or soda-water syphon. Spraying outfits of this type have been devised
in which one central air pump serves for the charging of several knap-
sack sprayers.
Limitations of the Knapsack Spray Pump.
The knapsack spray pump, like other machines, has its drawbacks
as well as its advantages. True, it permits, in the hands of a careful
and conscientious operator, very thorough and economical application of
the spray mixture, more especially if provided with an interrupter. The
saving of copper sulphate thus rendered possible is worthy of serious
consideration, in view of the abnormally high price of this indispensable
salt at the present time.
It also enables the spray to be ap])lied exactly Avhere it is roqnii'ed;
on the embryo bunches, for example, in the case of the first application,
in order to protect against the deadly bunch-mildew or grey-rot, Avhieh
was the main cause of loss of crop at Eutherglen this season.
Another point which has given rise to considerable controversy is as to
whether the spray should be applied to the upper or under side of the
leaf. Infection by the fungus can only take place through the stomata
or breathing pores, which are situated almost exclusively on the under
side; this being so, it was contended by several authorities, some seA-en
11 March. 1918.]
Vinei/a rd Sp raying.
u;
years back, tliat spraying as usually carried out, especially with the
larger power sprays, could not afford the maximum of protection ; they
recommended knapsack spraying with bent nozzles, so used as to apply
the bulk of the spray to the lower side. Obviously under-side spraying
can best be carried out Avith machines of knapsack type, or, at least, with
hand-directed nozzles. Fortunately for growers, the superiority of
under-side spraying has not been borne out by experience during the
last few years; practically equal protection was obtained by
spraying in the usual way.* This phase of the question will
be dealt with at greater length in a subsequent article. For
the present it will suffice to state that ordinary spraying, if
timely and thorough, can afford complete protection.
Xotwithstanding these advantages, the knapsack spray has several
serious drawbacks, the chief of which is its limited capacity. It is
Fig. Irl. — Rousset's Pack horse Spraying Outfit. The pump for charging and
air compressing is not shown in the illustration.
scarcely possible to treat more than an acre and a half per day with
one of these machines. As has been already pointed out (Journal,
Xovember, 1917, p. 694), the time within Avhich spraying should be
executed is largely governed by the incubation period of the Mildew
Fungus, w'hich usually occupies seven days. It is thus within this period
that the whole vineyard must generally be treated. The small grower,
with 20 acres or so of vines, can achieve this result with one, or at most
a couple, of knapsack sprays — not so the owner of larger areas, who will
find this means of application far less satisfactory.
With this machine, the cost of spraying per acre in labour alone is
very considerable, since each man only directs one nozzle. It is by
* Under-side sprayinfr may prove advantageous for the earliest application The first infect ion results
from the germination of the oospores, or winter spores, in the soil, and the zoospores, which they emit,
leing splashed by heavy raia on to the lower leaves. Subsequent infection is by air-borne spores.
150
Journal of Agrlculhtre. Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
multiplying the number of nozzles ojuTfitcd by one man that economy in
labour can best be effected.
Witb tbe knapsack machine, spraying is irksome and laborious;
heavy weights of liquid must be carried on the operator's back, and the
working of the pump entails a constant strain. In the hands of any but
very conscientious workmen, pressure is not adequately maintained, with
the result that the vines are sprinkled rather than sprayed, the protec-
tive value of the treatment being considerably reduced. The vigneron
who sprays his own vines has more incentive to put up with these draw-
backs of the knapsack machine than the day labourer.
Fig. 15. — Vermorel's older model Traction Spray Pump for low-growing vines.
Pack-hokse Sprays.
Tbese are largely used in Southern France, where the system of
training — or absence of training* — would hinder the passage of wheeled
implements. They are also very useful for vineyards on steep hill-
sides. This type of sprayer is illustrated in Fig. 14. , The two
reservoirs, one on either side of the horse or mule, are half filled with
liquid, and sufficiently charged with compressed air to insure a satis-
factory spray until emptied. The shape of the reservoirs and the move-
ment of the horse provides sufficient agitation to keep sediment in
suspension.
The chief defect of this system is one common to all machines
operated by compressed air; the pressure when first charged is much
higher, and the spray consequently more efficient than when they are
nearly empty. More detailed description of this type is needless ; these
machines are not obtainable in Victoria, nor are they necessary, since
* In the heavy-bearing vineyards of the Midi fnear Jfontpellier) the bulk of the vines are neither tied
up nor trained in any way; neither are they topped. Cultivation is carried out very thorousihly until
the lennth of the yonns canes prevents the passage of implements ; after tliis. with the exception of spraying
and sulphuring, the vines are left to themselves until vintage time.
11 March, 191S.]
Yin ei/ard Spnii/ing.
151
our -wider roAvs, and tlie methods of training usually followed permit the
passage of outfits on Avheels at any time. They might possibly prove
of service, however, in yineyards, the soil of which, in a very wet
season^ becomes too soft for wheeled vehicles.
HoRSE-DRAWiSr SpRAY PuMPS.
In large spray pumps dravni by horses we no doubt have the class
of machine which will prove most suitable under Australian conditions,
especially for the treatment of large areas.
The simplest form of traction spray outfit would consist of a cart, or
other suitable vehicle, bearing the reservoir of spray material and the
pump serving to raise the pressure to the required point ; long rubber
hoses convey this to the nozzles, each of which is directed by a "workman.
This is the type in general use in Victorian orchards. Some of our
vineyards have already been sprayed this season in such a manner.
Four rows were sprayed at a time, two on either side of the cart. The
Fig. 16. — Perras modern wheel-driven Traction Spray Pump, the nozzles being
arranged to treat two rows of vines (on both sides) simultaneously.
vines were treated in sets of twelve at a time — three in each row — after
which the cart moved on a few yards for the treatment of a fresh lot.
In this way, the spray can be thoroughly and efficiently applied, but
the work entails too much labour, since every nozzle requires a man to
direct it, in addition to the one who works the pump and drives the
horse. It is true that the work is much less laborious for the men
directing the nozzles than knapsack spraying ; it has thus a better chance
of being properly carried out. A better pressure can also be maintained,
thus insuring a more efficient spray, and one which will treat rather
more vines, nevertheless, the number of vines which can be treated with
each nozzle is not much greater than in the case of the knapsack
machine.
"What is really required for the economical spraying of our vineyards
is something more after the style of the continuous acting potato sprayer
(Fig. 5). In France, machines of this type have long been in general
use, especially in large vineyards. One very similar to Vermorel's
earlier traction sprayer (Fig. 15) Avas advertised as far back as 1894,
152
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 ^Iarch, 101.^.
Ill iiiacliines of this tyi:)e the pump is either chain-di'iveu or worked by
cranks on the axle. All the operator has to do is to drive the horse.
The nozzles are fixed in such a way as to direct the spray where it is
required; it Avill be seen that one man is able to operate a large number
of nozzles, thus permitting a considerable saving of labour. The
machine moves forward continuously at a Avalking pace, which enables
the properly-situated nozzles to distribute to each vine its quota of
spray mixture.
Improvements have been gradually introduced in general arrange-
ment of the machines, in pumps, and in many minor details, so that the
models now turned out by leading French firms have reached a high
standard of perfection. Among the best French makes may be men-
tioned the spray pumps manufactured by M. P. Perras, of Belleville-
sur-Saone (Rhone). A description of the machine made by this firm
Fig. 17. — Perras machine arranged for taller vines — two half rows are being
treated.
appeared in La Itevue cle Viticulture of loth March, IDlo. The general
arrangement of the sprays for the treatment of two rows at a time is
shown in Fig. 16. Fig. 17 illustrates another mode of adjusting the
nozzles suitable for the treatment of vines such a size that it is not
possible to treat more than two half rows at a time. Fig. 18 is a
side view of the same machine, showing Iioav the tubes which supply
the nozzles may be folded for transport.
This illustration gives a good idea of the lightness and elegance of
the Perras machine. The arrangement of reservoirs and ]uimps (there
are two of each), and the way in which they are operated from the axle,
will be readily understood. In these s]u-ay pumps both pressure and
output of liquid are adjustable.
In all modern French machines, the arrangement of the nozzles can
be altered in a great many different ways, and in a very short time.
11 March. 1918. |
inei/ard Spraying.
153
This facility of adjustment to suit varying requirements is very neces-
sary; it is evident tliat an arrangement of nozzles wliicli would be satis-
factory in October, when tlie vine slioots are about 12 to 18 inches long,
\vould be quite unsuitable after Christmas.
French machines are unobtainable in Australia at present, nor does
there appear to be any chance of importing them for the coming spray-
ing campaign, Avhicli will commence in October. Victorian machinery
firms, however, are coming to the rescue, and there is every reason to
believe that locally-made machines will be available in due time, so
devised as to present the advantages possessed by the Perras and other
up-to-date French makes. Local firms already turn oi;t excellent potato
sprayers ; Avith a few modifications in the directions suggested above,
these can, no doubt, be made suitable for vineyard work. Excellent
machines of all the types dealt with in this article — from knapsack to
motor-driven — are now largely manufactured in America. Several
American firms are interesting themselves in the question and arrang-
ing to supply outfits in good time for the coming October campaign.
Fig. 18. — Perras machine, showing nozzle supports folded for transit.
Power Speay Pumps.
These are coming more and more into general favour witli
orchardists, to whom, in view of the intermittent progress of the spray
outfit, wheel-driven pumps are useless. A small motor (oil or petrol)
advantageously replaces the man who operated the pump with the older
outfit. The high pressure which can be easily maintained in several
nozzles at a time insures a thoroughly efficient spray, and permits of
several trees being treated simultaneously.
A motor-driven outfit for the spraying of potatoes is shown in Fig.
20. Is the motor-driven pump likely to be also adopted by vine-
growers? In other words, is it destined to displace the wheel-driven
machine described above? Time alone will tell. In some directions the
motor pump a])pears to promise advantages. The draught of the spray-
ing machine, for example, will be lighter if the wheels no longer have
to operate the pump. Such lighter draught would prove a boon when the
154 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
vdneyard soil is saturated with moisture, as it was during tlie whole of
October last in most Rutherglen vineyards. In many of these, dray
traffic was impossible, let alone a spray outfit with wheel-driven pump.
Et must be remembered that it is precisely in a wet season that spray
protection is most vitally needed. In a dry spring, w^hen the ground is
usually fit for traffic, it is much less necessary. One vineyard owner,
realizing the unsuitability of his soil for the wheel-driven spray pump
in October, has already expressed his intention to adopt a motor-driven
pump placed on a sledge.
"What is Eeally Required.
Spraying is something quite new to most of our vine-growers. As
experience is gained in the work, modifications and improvements will
no doubt suggest themselves. In the meantime, much can be learnt
Fig. — 19. — Vermorels Traction Machine, " Le Priam" (after Bourcart.)
from our great Ally, France, to whom the world is already indebted
for the solution of the phylloxera problem. The foregoing is largely
based on information derived from French sources. It must be borne
in mind, however, that our vineyards differ a good deal from those of
Europe; local conditions, both climatic and cultural, must be taken
into consideration. It is hoped that the present article, which deals
with principles rather than matters of detail, may prove of service to
those now making provisions for spraying their vineyards next spring.
Even in France, modifications in certain directions seem to be
desirable, as will be seen from the following extract from an article
on MildcAv bv Professor Ravaz.*
* Proyres Ayricale. 12tli Aiigi st, 1917.
11 March. 1918.]
Vin ei/ard Sprat/ing.
155
Under the sub-heading '' We need different machines," he comments
on the scarcity of labour needed to treat with the desired rapidity.
" For the first two treatments there is no trouble,* but for the
third and subsequent ones, the leaf surface to be treated is con-
siderable. To thoroughly wet a vine our workmen easily take
twenty to thirty seconds. This is too much; and it is too much
because our machines have too small an output. We need spray
pumps which can empty themselves two or three times as fast —
in other words, nozzles with an output two or three times as great.
These do not seem to be difficult to realize. ISTeither have our
machines for work on a large scale a sufficient output. A dos de-
Tig. 20. — Langwill Brothers and Davies' motor-driven Potato Sprayer. The
boom supporting the nozzles, which is fixed behind the engine, is not
shown in the illustration.
mulet (pack-horse outfit) sprays about four hectolitres per hectare
(40 gallons per acre). If it sprays more it is because the horse
advances too slowly — similarly with wheeled machines. With
knapsack sprays, the third, fourth, and fifth applications use 8 to
12 hectolitres per hectare (80 to 120 gallons per acre). Our
larger machines should be able to distribute this same bulk at a
horse's ordinary pace. Our constructors, if they are in a position
to do so at present, should follow up this trail. It is a question
of nozzle and of pressure, which seems to me to be of easy solution."
From the above will also be gathered some information as to the
quantity of spray mixture required per acre under varying conditions.
Allowance must, however, be made for the closer planting of Southern
* Theso will bp found thi» mist vital ones in Victoria.
J 56 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
French vines — 5 feet x 5 feet, as a rule, tkougli occasionally Ih, feet x
4 feet — in other words, from two or three times as many vines per acre
as in our vineyards.
The following are some of the main requirements which must be
filled by an efHcient vineyard traction sprayer : —
Easij adjustahility of nozzles, and of the boom to which these are
affixed; this is amply provided for in the Perras machine. (See Figs.
16, 17 and 18). The arrangement must be such that the number and
position of the nozzles can be varied in numerous ways. The adjust-
ment will want to be quite different for the first spraying to what
would be required for subsequent ones. The arrangement shown in
Fig. 19 would be more suitable for early than late spraying; by fixing
the two nozzles fairly low down, and giving them an upward cant,
under-side spraying, as recommended by some, for the first treatment,
can be realized.
Sufficient imm'p power. — This must be such as to provide ample
pressure. It is the high pressure obtainable with motor-driven pumps
that makes them so popular with orchardists.
Pressure and output must he adjustable. — The second of these depends
largely on nozzle aperture, but not entirely so; it also depends on pres-
sure. The same output, for example, would be obtained with small aper-
ture and high pressure as with a larger a^ierture and lower pressure ; the
spray would be much finer in the former case. Though fineness of
spray is generally most desirable, there are cases in which it may be
excessive. In windy weather, for example, an exceedingly fine spray,
excellent on a calm day, would be too easily blown away and much of it
Avasted by wind. Under such circumstances, a rather coarser spray, ob-
tainable with larger aperture and lower pressure, Avould be more suitable.
In several nozzles, the aperture is contained in a small, removable metal
disc, which can be quickly changed. Instead of one large nozzle at any
given point, it may be preferable to use two or more small ones.
Agitation must be sufficient to keep sediment constantly in suspension.
Zyt^/i^?ie5S.— Unnecessary weight must be eliminated wherever possible.
It is in a wet season that spraying is most vitally necessary; in a season,
in short, when the soil of the vineyard is worst adapted for vehicular
traffic. The quantity of liquid carried must be considerable, so as to
reduce loss of time entailed by too frequent filling of the reservoir; this
should have a capacity of at least 50 gallons — say, enough to spray an
acre.* In this alone Ave have a load of 500 lbs., to Avhich must be added
the weight of pump, air chamber, &c.
Solidity. — A most necessary condition in all machines of the kind.
Though lightness is essential, solidity must not be sacrificed to it.
Adaptahility to the distance between the roivs.- — A machine suited for
rows 10 feet apart Avould be useless in the narroAver rows (5 to 6 feet in-
tervals) of cooler districts. It is, nevertheless, advantageous to have as
wide a wheel base as the interval between the roAvs Avill permit, so that
the sprays will be deflected from their proper position as little as possible
in the necessarily rough ground of a A'ineyard. In some American
machines the distance betAveen the Avheels is adjustable.
* Tliis is an averagi- : the first spraying will take less and the later ones more than this quantity.
11 March. 1918.] Government Red Poll Herd. 15'
THE GOVERNMENT RED POLL DAIRY HERD.
On account of pressure on space, the publication of tlie annual
report concerning the Government Herd of Red Poll Dairy Cattle for
the year ending 30th June, 1917, has been delayed.
The herd continues to maintain its excellent production, and both
individual performances and averages compare favorably with past
years, despite the difficulty of maintaining a high average with increasing
numbers; and despite, also, that a number of the old cows which have
helped to maintain high averages in previous years have been passed out
of the herd. Indeed, some of the younger cows liaA^e quickly forced
their way towards the top, and bid fair to eclipse the performances of
those older cows which first brought the herd into prominence.
The demand for bull calves has been beyond all possibility of being
met, and scores of intending purchasers have had to be refused. On the
30th June last, when no less than 37 bull calves had been booked ahead
of calving, it became necessary to stop booking, and it is regretted that
so many Avill have to be disappointed before the taking of orders can
be resumed.
Muria is again the leading cow, with 12,101 lbs. of milk, of 5.52 test,
yielding 669 lbs, of butter fat during twelve months. Although this
falls considerably short of the record of two years ago, when she beat
all records for Red Polls, and all records for any breed in Australia or
Xew Zealand, it is, nevertheless, a very creditable performance, since
it followed on a premature calving— two months ahead of normal time.
Xieotine has established himself as a reliable sire of producers; and
the four heifers by him which are included in this year's records, viz.,
Goldlace (ex Goldleaf), Avesia (ex Birdseye), Cutty (ex Connecticut),
and Mahratta (ex India), have the splendid average for a first lactation
period of 700 gallons of milk, 340 lbs. butter fat, and 388 lbs. commer-
cial butter. This sire will assuredly help to maintain the high testing
qualities of the herd, as these first four heifers of his gave an average
composite test of 4.89.
The merit of Nicotine's sire, Acton Dewstone, imported by Major
Philip Charley, is emphasized by the splendid performances of the
females sired by him that are in the "Werribee herd, notably, Panama,
Ontario, Soudana, Congo, Japaua, and Carribea, all of which have
exceeded 300 lbs. butter fat.
1^0 heifers by the imported bulls, Longford Major or Belligerent,
have yet been milked, but, considering the milking excellence of their
female ancestry, and the opportunity they have with the cows in the
Werribee herd, the greatest confidence is felt that their influence will
be in the direction of still further enhancing its dairying power. Long-
ford Major is likely to impart size, and beef quality as well. He has
grown into a massive bull, and, in September last, when not by any
means as prime as he could be made, scaled within 14 lbs. of a ton.
It is safe to say he could be easily brought to 2,500 lbs. if it was
required.
158
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
YIELDS AND RETURNS OF THE GOVERNMENT HERD
RED POLL DAIRY CATTLE.
OF
Season 1910-11.
Cows (2nd Calf).
Name.
Days in
Milk.
Weeks
in Milk.
40J
40^
40i
35
34
19i
30
Milk in
lbs.
Tests.
Butter
Fat (lbs.)
356-71
254-75
229-97
225-98
211-61
200-44
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
406i
290i
262i
257i
241i
228i
Values.
Bullion . .
Virginia
Havana
Kentucky
Cigarette
Beulah . .
283
283
283
245
238
135
7,730
6,362
5,750
5,310
5,040
3,970
5,693f
4-2-5-0
3-8-4-6
3-8-4-6
4-0-4-6
4-0-4-6
4-2-4-9
£ s. d.
17 16 8
12 14 9
11 10 0
11 6 0
10 11 7
10 0 5
Average for 6 . .
244J
4-3
246-59
281
12 4 11
Heifers.
Name.
Days in
Weeks
Milk in
Milk.
in Milk.
lbs.
Vuelta . .
270
38^
5,560
Connecticut
283
40 J
6,182
Carolina
283
40 i
5,700
Muria
283
40 i
5,480
Ciib.a
283
40 i
5.260
Pennsylvania
270
.38i
4,610
Average for 6 . .
2781
34
5,465
7-0-7 8
4-2-4-6
4-2-4-8
4-2-6-2
4-2-4-8
4-0-4-4
4-7
Butter
Fat (lbs.)
405-14
269-06
253-14
240-70
231-89
189-75
269-94
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
461J
306|
288.V
274i
264i
216i
300-12
Values.
£ s. d.
20 5 1
13 9 0
12 13 1
12 0 8
11 11 11
9 9 9
13 4 11
Season 1911-12.
C9WS.
Name.
Days in
Weeks
Milk in
Average
Butter
Commercial
Milk.
in Milk.
lbs.
Test.
Fat (lbs.)
485-1
Butter (lbs.)
553
Vuelta . .
289
41i
7,750
5-2-8-2
S. s. d
24 5 1
Connecticut
283
401
6 780
4-6-6-4
364-0
415
18 4 n
Bullion . .
305
43i
6,940
4-8-6-2
344-0
392i
17 4 0
Deulah . .
278
39|
6,460
4-9-6-4
342-0
3904
17 2 7
Cuba
304
43i
7,015
4-4-8-4
337-8
385
16 17 9
Cigarette
291
414
6,480
4-0-5-6
285-9
326
14 6 0
Sumatra
293
42
6,660
4-0-5-0
284-2
324
14 4 1
Kentucky
277
394
6,690
4-0-4-8
277-7
3164
13 17 8
Muria . .
286
41
5,800
4-5-7-0
275-7
314i
13 15 8
Pennsylvania
318
45i
6,340
4-0-5-2
271-9
310
13 12 0
Carolina
226
32i
5,800
4-0-5-0
254-3
280
12 14 4
Virginia..
277
394
5,510
3-9-4-6
221-7
2521
11 1 9
Havana
262
374
404
5,350
6,355
3-8-4-5
2:5-3
2454
10 15 4
Average for 13
283
4-7
304-6
346i
15 4 7
11 March, 1918.] Government Red Poll Herd.
159
Season 1912-13.
Cows.
• Suffered from eye aooideat for a considerable period
Heifers.
Season 1913-14.
Cows.
Name.
Days in
Milk.
Weeks
in Milk.
Milk in
lbs.
Tests.
Butter
Fat (lbs.)
314-96
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
359
Values.
Mm-ia . .
256
36J
5,780
4-5-7-3
£ «. d.
15 15 0
Bullion .
239
34
6,490
3-8-6-8
296-90
333J
14 16 10
Egypta . .
295
42
6,581
3-7-5-2
283-5
323
14 3 6
Virginia..
259
37
6,500
3-6-5-7
282-56
322
14 2 6
Cigarette
273
39
6,810
3-9-4-8
278-56
317i
13 18 6
Connecticut
320
45J
6,100
4-0-7-6
277-85
316i
13 17 10
•Vuelta
263
37J
6,650
3-5-5-3
273-81
312
13 13 9
Cuba . .
251
36
6,280
3-9-5-4
269-11
.306i
13 9 1
Kentucky
267
38
6,249
3.4-4.4
256-00
291}
12 16 0
Havana
258
37
6,060
3-5-5-5
252-95
288i
12 12 11
Sumatra
230
33
5,670
3-7-5-5
238-37
1711
11 18 4
Pennsylvania
230
34i
4,910
3-8 5-9
215-09
245i
10 15 0
Europa . .
324
46i
4,590
3-6-7-1
201-13
229i
10 1 1
Carolina
274
39
4.450
3-6-6-5
198 -.30
226
9 18 3
Average for 14
Cows
267
38
5,942
4-85
259-94
295
12 19 10
• RS *■'^
Xame.
Days in
Weeks
Milk in
Average
Butter
Commercial
Values.
Slilk.
in Milk.
lbs.
Test.
Fat (Iba )
316-50
Butter (lbs.)
Goldleaf
287
41
6,590
4-1-5-3
360
£ s. d.
15 16 6
Birdseyr
285
41
4,440
3-9-8-0
256-75
292 i
12 16 9
India . .
267
38
5,231
4-1-6-2
238-37
271i
11 18 1
Persica . .
252
36i
4,100
4-6-7-7
218-69
249 J
10 18 8
Turka . .
191
27J
3,590
4-6-5-9
178-27
203J
8 18 3
Mexicana
210
30
3,8.30
4-0-5-1
171-58
195i
8 11 6
Regalia
338
48i
3,380
4-4-6-0
161-58
184J
8 10
Cabana . .
273
39
3,370
4-0-5-4
153-23
174J
7 13 3
La Suelta
241
34^
2.660
4-3-8-2
134-23
153
6 14 3
Average for 9
Heifers
260
37
4,132
5-3
203-24
232
10 3 3
Name.
Days in
Weeks
Milk in
Average
Butter
Estimated
Values.
Milk.
in Milk.
46}
lbs.
9,414J
Test.
■■ Fat (lbs.)
388-25
Butter (lbs.)
Cigarette
328
4-12
442i
£ ». d.
19 8 3
Muria . .
296
42i
7,487i
5-08
380 -25
433i
19 0 3
Birdseye
297
42J
6,542}
5-48
358-75
409
17 18 9
Virginia
304
43J
8,229
4-33
356-75
396}
17 16 3
Bullion . .
297
m
8,177}
4-29
350-75
400
17 10 9
Sumatra
330
47J
7,605
4-26
323-75
368i
16 3 0
Vuelta ..
286
43}
7,723J
4-14
320
364}
16 0 0
Connecticut
278
39}
7,166
4-47
318-25
3*52}
15 18 3
Persica . .
298
42J
6,954J
4-57
318
362J
15 18 0
Kentucky
288
39}
7,904J
3-96
313-25
357
15 13 3
Goldleaf
277
41
6,908
4-49
310-25
353i
15 10 3
Mexicana
293
41
6,773}
4-56
309-25
352i
15 9 3
Cuba . .
287
41}
6,624J
4-47
296 -25
337}
14 16 3
Europa . .
302
43
6,273
4-60
289-25
329}
14 9 3
Egypta . .
288
41
6,724
4-13
277-75
316}
13 17 9
India
245
35
6,150
4-36
268-5
306
13 8 6
Havana
240
34i
6,364J
4-15
264-25
301J
13 4 3
Turka . .
289
41i
5,534J
4-69
259-75
296
12 19 9
Asiana . .
260
37
4,249}
5-30
225-5
257
11 5 6
Pennsylvania
249
35i
5,160
4-4
212-25
242
10 12 3
Regalia . .
297
42J
4,444
4-50
200 -25
228J
10 0 3
Carolina
231
33
4,322i
4-62
200-25
228i
10 0 3
Averages of herd
of 22 cows . .
284i
40}
6,669}
4-49
297-25
338J
14 17 3
160
Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. |11 March, 1918.
Season 1913-14 — continued.
Heifers.
Name.
Davs in
Milk.
Weeks
in INtilk.
Milk in
lbs.
Average
Test.
Butter
Fat (lbs.)
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
Values.
£ s. (I.
Atlanta
300
42|
5,505i
4-90
277
315i
13 17 0
Germania
359
51i
4,218J
4-74
199-75
227i
9 19 9
Arctica . .
294
42
3,768i
5-16
194-5
221J
9 14 6
Netherlana
293
411
4,551J
4-18
190-5
217i
9 10 6
Hispana
290
4U
3,944i
3-95
155-75
177J
7 15 9
Melanesia
276
39*
3,690J
3-97
146-5
167
7 6 6
Averages for 6
heifers
302
43i
4,279i
4-48
194
221
9 14 0
Season 1914-15.
Cows.
Davs in
Weeks
Milk in
Average
Butter
Commercial
Values.
Milk.
in Milk.
lbs.
Test.
5-9
Fat (lbs.)
884-6
Butter (lbs.)
1,007-94
Muria . .
365
52
14,972
44 4 7
Persica . .
351
50
9,607
4
9
479-94
547
13
23 19 11
Cuba
337
48
10,464
4
5
478-14
545
07
23 18 1
Birdseye
321
45i
8,522
5
5
473-79
540
12
23 13 9*
Bullion . .
321
451
10,928
4
3
468-99
534
64
23 8 11
Virginia
344
49
10,252
4
4
456-76
520
13
22 16 9t
Pennsylvania
348
49i
10,607
4
1
437-42
498
65
21 17 5
Sumatra
290
41*
9,232
4
6
431 - 49
491
89
21 11 6
Egypta . .
327
46i
10,646
3
9
418-55
477
14
20 18 6
Mexicana
282
40i
8,641
4
6
399-75
455
71
19 19 9
Europa . .
347
49i
8,765
4
4
387-11
441
30
19 7 1
Goldleaf
362
51 i
8,415
4
4
377-67
430
54
18 17 8
Phillipina
284
40*
6,829
5
0
343-33
391
39
17 3 4
Vuelta ..
239
34
7,560
4
4
338-28
385
64
16 18 3
Connecticut
259
36f
6,878
4
7
325-48
371
04
16 5 6
Turka . .
279
39i
6,395
4
9
316-07
360
31
15 16 0*
Ardath ..
332
47*
6,261
4
8
302-91
345
31
15 2 10
Asiana . .
279
39i
5,933
4
9
292-01
332
62
14 12 0
NetherlaHa
292
41 r
6,903
4
o
291 - 78
332
62
14 11 9
Havana
325
46.
7,001
4
0
285-86
325
88
14 5 101
Cameo . .
303
43;
5,536
0
1
285-60
325
58
14 5 7
Alpina . .
286
40;
6,995
3
9
276-86
315
62
13 16 10
Atlanta
252
36
5,635
4
7
266-90
304
26
13 6 10
Hispana
365
52
6,574
3
6
241-69
275
52
12 1 8
Kentucky
281
40
6,068
3
9
239-51
273
04
11 19 6t
India . .
244
34J
4,578
4-9
225-30
252-75
1] 5 3
Averages of herd
of 26 cows . .
308
43|
8,084i
4-6
374-03
426-39
18 14 0
Was sick a few days. t Suffered from lameness.
Heifers.
Name.
Days in
Milk.
Weeks
in Jlilk.
Milk in
lbs.
Tests.
Butter
Fat (lbs.)
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
Values.
£ s. (f.
Pipio
334
47J
6,802
4-8
326-37
372-06
16 6 4
Tennessee
311
44i
6,706
4-2
282-88
322-48
14 2 10
Samoma
365
52
5,490
4-9
271-76
309-80
13 11 9
La Reina
342
48J
5,070
5-1
261-96
298-63
13 1 11*
Mongolia
301
43
5,799
4-2
244-95
279-24
12 4 11
Sylvia . .
301
43
4,897
4-7
235-79
268-80
11 15 9
Tuckahoe
322
46
4,374
4-7
206-38
235-27
10 6 4
Averages of herd
of 7 heifers . .
325
46i
5,591
4-6
261-44
298-04
13 7 1
Calved two months prematurely.
11 March. 1918.] Government Red Poll Herd.
161
Season 191&-16.
Cows.
Name of Cow.
Days in
Weeks
Milk in
Average
Butter
Commercial
Values,
Milk.
in Milk.
lbs.
Test.
Fat (lbs.)
Butter (lbs.)
Is. lb. Fat
Birdseye
365
52
9,146
6-53
597
683
£ s. d.
29 17 0
Netherlana
365
52
11,506
4-26
490
560
24 10 0
Violet III.
365
52
9,172
4-66
427
488
21 7 0
PhiUipina
365
52
8,213
4-87
400
457
20 0 0
Connecticut
357
51
8,313
4-80
399
456
19 19 0
Persica . .
346
49
7,800
5 00
394
451
19 14 0
Lily
365
52
8,525
4-59
392
448
19 12 0
India . .
365
52
8,556
4-56
390
445
19 10 0
Cuba . .
324
46
8,400
4-55
382
437
19 2 0
Kentucky
338
48
9,893
3-86
382
437
19 2 0
Mexicana
310
44
8,421
4-44
374
427
18 14 0
Picotee . .
365
52
8,490
4-36
371
424
18 11 0
Vuelta ..
328
47
9,130
4-00
368
420
18 8 0
Sumatra
322
46
8,135
4-45
362
414
18 2 0
Ardath ..
365
52
7,339
4-84
355
406
17 15 0
Primrose League
(Imp.)
365
52
8,060
4-39
353
403
17 13 0
La Reina
329
47
6,712
5 13
344
394
17 4 0
Bullion . .
317
45
7,504
4-40
330
377
16 10 0
Pennsylvania
278
40
8,236
4-00
330
376
16 9 0
Mongolia
283
40
7,483
4-33
323
369
16 3 0
Pipio
317
45
6,274
5 09
319
365
15 19 0
Britannia
329
47
7,637
3-94
301
343
15 1 0
Goldleaf
248
35
6,665
4-43
295
337
14 15 0
Samorna
365
52
6,198
4-75
294
336
14 14 0
Asiana . .
279
40
5,933
4-90
292
332
14 12 0
Egypta . .
303
43
7,136
4 02
287
328
14 7 0
Cameo . .
285
41
6,036
4-72
285
325
14 5 0
Alpina . .
Sylvia . .
344
49
7,094
3-99
233
323
14 3 0
303
43
5,286
4-84
256
292
12 16 0
Tennessee
347
50
5,914
4-17
246
281
12 6 0
Africana
303
43
5,082
4-72
240
274
12 0 0
Tasmania
325
46
5,112
4-52
231
264
11 11 0
Canada . .
275
39
4,918
4-07
200
228
10 0 0
Average for 33
cows
330
47
7,525
4-54
342
391
17 2 0
Butter fat at Is. per lb., £17 2s. ; milk at 8d. per gallon, £25 14s. lOd.
Heifers.
Name of Heifer.
Days in
Milk.
Weeks
in Milk.
Milk in
lbs.
Average
Test.
Butter
Fat (lbs.)
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
Values,
Is. lb. Fat.
£ s. d.
Carribea
365
52
7,142
4-35
310
354
15 10 0
Japana . .
357
51
7,788
3-63
283
322
14 3 0
Serbia . .
365
52
6,092
4-45
271
309
13 11 0
Itala . .
365
52
6,346
4 09
260
297
13 0 0
Oceana . .
365
52
6,247
4-11
256
292
12 16 0
Russia . .
365
52
6,413
3 96
254
290
12 14 0
Panama
288
41
5,997
4-23
254
290
12 14 0
Ontario
365
52
6,059
4-15
251
286
12 11 0
Soudana
346
49
5,486
4-54
249
284
12 9 0
Paciflca
365
52
4,979
4-88
243
278
12 3 0
Laurel . .
325
46
5,554
4-86
226
257
11 6 0
Barbery
359
51
5,387
3-72
200
228
10 0 0
Congo . .
296
42
4,449
4-21
187
213
9 7 0
Average for 13
heifers
348
50
5,995
4-03
242
277
12 2 0
1293.— 2
Butter fat at Is. per lb., £12 2s. ; milk 8d. per gallon, £19 19s. 8d.
162
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
Season 1916 17.
Cows.
Name of Cow.
Muria . .
Sumatra
Panama
Tennessee
Ontario
Soudana
Primrose League
(Imp.)
Europa
Congo . .
Pipio . .
Asiana
Phillipina
India . .
Japana
Euroi)a
Mexicana
Velveteen (Jiup.)
Vuelta
Tasmania
Carribea
La Reina
Cuba ..
Goldleal
Britannia
Sylvia . .
Egypta
Arpina
Americana
Australiaiui
Canada
Egypta
Barbery
Laurel
Tabelta
Africana
Hispana
Zoalana
Averages, 37
cows
Days in
Milk.
365
365
365
310
365
365
365
353
357
287
357
298
365
365
295
273
365
273
358
304
299
259
351
308
261
303
286
319
338
286
282
280
323
330
243
270
201
Weelis
in Milk.
Milk in
lbs.
52
52
52
44
52
52
52
50
51
41
51
43
52
52
42
39
52
39
51
43
43
37
50
42
37
43
41
46
48
41
40
40
46
47
35
39
29
12,101
11,569
10,830
9,107
9,685
8,788
8,698
7,899
8,252
7,887
7,356
7,295
8,065
10,101
7,618
8,549
7,887
7,914
7,576
7,719
6,677
7,508
7,311
7,309
6,180
7,293
7,440
5,925
5,652
6,688
6,825
6,638
6,257
4,867
4,482
5,656
2,817
7,580
Average
Butter
Test.
Fat (lbs.)
5 '52
669
4-46
516
4-33
469
4-26
389
3-99
387
4-38
385
4-08
356
4-43
350
4-23
349
4-42
348
4-71
346
4-73
345
4-27
344
3-40
343
4-49
342
3-98
341
4-25
336
4-18
330
4-30
326
4-20
324
4-78
319
4-17
313
419
307
4-30
301
4-80
297
4 03
294
3-84
286
4-60
272
4-77
270
4 02
269
3-90
266
3 99
265
3-70
232
4-42
215
4-59
206
3-61
201
3-65
103
4-28
325
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
763
588
535
443
441
439
405
399
398
397
395
394
392
391
390
389
382
377
371
370
364
357
350
344
338
335
326
310
308
307
304
302
264
245
235
230
117
Values.
i. 8. (fi
33 9 0
25 16 0
23 9 0
19 9 0
19 7 0
19 5 0
17 16 0
17 10 0
17 9 0
17 8 0
17 6 0
16 16 0
16 10 0
16 6 0
16 4 0
15 19 0
15 13 0
15 7 0
15 1 0
14 17 0
14 14 0
14 6 0
13 12 0
13 10 0
13 9 0
13 6 0
18 5 0
11 12 0
1-0 15 0
10 6 0
10 1 0
5 3 0
Heifers.
Name of Heifer.
Davs in
Milk.
Weeks
in Milk.
Milk in
lbs.
Average
Test.
Butter
Fat (lbs.)
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
Values.
£ s. d.
GaUipoli
365
52
8,074
4
44
359
409
17 19 0
La Belle France . .
365
52
7,765
4
61
359
409
17 19 0
Goldlace
319
46
7,502
4
61
346
395
17 6 0
Tonga
338
48
7,397
4
61
341
389
17 1 0
Avesia
340
49
7,406
4
59
340
388
17 0 0
Cuttv ..
358
51
7,012
4
76
334
381
16 17 0
Mahratta
347
50
6,043
0
61
339
387
16 19 0
Aridia . .
275
39
4,217
4-89
206
235
10 6 0
Averages, 8 liei-
fers
3.38
48
6,927
4-73
328
374
16 8 0
Cows — Butter fat at Is. per lb., £16 5s. ; milk at 8d. per gallon, £25 5s. 4d.
Heifers— Butter fat at Is. per lb., £16 8s. ; milk at 8d. per gallon, £23 Is. 9d.
Cows— 325 lbs. fat.
Heifers— 328 lbs. fat.
11 March. 1918. |
Standard Ted Coirs.
163
STANDARD TEST COWS.
REPORT FOR QUARTER ENDED 31ST DECEMBER, 1917.
The cows completing the term number 37, of which only two failed
to secure certificates.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Werribee. (Red Poll.)
Completed since last report, II. Certificated, 10.
Kamc of Cow.
Sainotina
Empire
Aleutla
Briar
Opticia
Arridia
Sumonta
Cutty
Tropic
Congo
£lS5
° a
53 = o
Not vet
allotteci
10.1
18.1
31.12
30.1
5.2
j 16.2,
24.2.
5.3.
I 20.3
7.1.17
17.1.17
25.1.17
7.1.17
6.2.17
12.2.17
1.3.17'
2.3.17
12.3.17
27.3.17
^§5
f--r^ • ai
lbs.
lbs.
273
273
273
273
273
273
273
273
273
273
20
6,350
12^
5,180 i
19J-
7,033 1
13i
5,779 1
22
7,9U 1
9.V
6,345
22
6,725
214
8,351
10.V
5,717
174
6,103
4 82 306 -.30 175
4
77 i
4
35 '
4
40
4
32
4
32
4
22 i
4
64
4
35
4
19 !
247
306
254
341
274
284
388
248
255
200
I 250
I 175
i 175
i 200
' 175
' 200
i 175
I 250
O) o
§■5,^5
"la
349i
28i|
349
290
389J
312J
324
442A
283|
2914
* Kutry deferred 6 days owing to injured udder.
+ Suffered from li.id uldor for last five months.
E. HAYES, Archie's Creek. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 1. Certificated, 1.
>>
■^
o
c
c
3
c*^H
^
VIt--
S'
Name of Cow.
a 6
° c
'a s S
"op
Ml
f.M
4t
3^;
^.S
^«3
:=S
<!H
CO £
a?K
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Xanette . .
Not
allotted
4.2.17
11.2.17
273
11
4,658
4-95
230 40
200
2625
A. JACKSON, Glen Forbes. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 1. Certificated, 1.
^
>.
-•
•C)»_
o
"3 ^
o
O *a;^
o
a
■2-6
e5 P
^ r w
-Vame of Cow.
13
1 II
cj = £
op
-^
'^'9.
2 .
3^8
1 c =
is ==■
CO £
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lady'sllaitland
423
! C.S.J. H. P..
11.2.17
18.2.17
273
17
5.521
5-60
309 -27
175
352J
2z
164 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Makch, 1918.
C. D. LLOYD, Caulfield. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 2. Certificated, 2.
C. GORDON LYON, Heidelberg. (Jersey.
Completed since last report, 8. Certificated, 8.
O
O
o
3 .
o^l
o
V-A
1°
Name of Cow.
1^
c« a o
O o
Is-
%A
u
so
c =
2 - ►-■
Wiz;
Oo
flWH
«.=
l?SO
^S
<!H
ss
^Z
w^n
lbs.
Ib.s.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Ettie IV.
2889
28.12.16
4.1.17
273
28it
9,813
4-34
426 17
250
4851
Lassie II.
1136
31.12.16
7.1.17
273
19i
7,539
4-78
360 -92
250
411i
Statuette
4251
8.1.17
15.1.17
273
20i
6,816
5-76
392 -62
250
447*
Lassie
509
18.1.17
25.1.17
273
IH
5,356
517
276-85
250
315i
Silvennine XIV. . .
Not al-
lotted
5.2.17
12.2.17
273
21*
6,067
4-95
300-14
175
342i
Starfinch II.
2915
7.3.17
14.3.17
273
Hi
5,473
4-95
271-25
250
309i
Noble Jessie
2843
14.3.17
21.3.17
273
lU
5,575
5-67
316-59
250
361
Hawthorn IV.
Not
27.3.17
3.4.17
273
13i
4,998
6-10
304-90
175
347i
allotted
T. MESI
.EY, I
)aly
ston.
(Jersej
^)
Completed sin
ce last
repo
rt, I.
Certifica
ted, 1
Name of Cow.
Herd Book
No.
Date of
Calving.
Date of
Entry to
Test.
Weight of
Milk last
Day of Test.
o
n
a o-
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lb.s.
Lily Langtry
Notal- 7.1.17
lotted
14.1.17
273
15.V
5,391
5-91
318-69
250
3631
J. D. READ, Springhurst. (Jersey.;
Completed since last report, 1. Certificated, 1.
Name of Cow.
Nightshade
a
>.
^J
o
n
ogi
^^
P_^.j °-^H
o
"2?
•2 .
«>
oS-^-
o £
.H
.^^i
.SP.M
2«-
s .
13 .i
a D
o o
a a S
^.S
^Sq
II
«s
a a-
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
3707
22.3.17
29.3.17
273
25
8,477
4-93
418-51
250
lbs.
477
11 March, 1918.]
Standard Test Cows.
16.-.
MISS S. L. ROBINSON, Malvern. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 1. Certificated, 1.
>.
*i
Name of Cow.
Herd Boo
No.
o ^
Date of
Entry to
Test.
1 =
Weight of
Milk last
Day of Te
o
1.
> o
a>
ti
PQ&4
c s
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Ills.
Twinkle
538
C.S.J.H.B.
5.3.17
12.3.17
273
20
5,468
4-92
269-49
250
307J
G. ROWE, Kardella. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 1. Certificated, 0.
W. WOODMASON, Malvern. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 12. Certificated, 10.
o
o
o Sf
n^
>>
t of
ast
f Test.
"o
BO
t3 £
12.
Name of Cow.
-s .
^">
?^"^
o «
^^t
.S?.M
u
S .
C 3
.i.2=|
qSh
1.5
^sa
^S
3d
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Jenny Lind VI. of
3649
30.12.16
6.1.17
273
13J
6,112
4-73
289-16
250
3291
Melrose
Flower IX. of Mel-
Not al-
31.12.16
7.1.17
273
15J
3,668
5-48
201 -15
175
229i
rose
lotted
Pearl V. of Jlelrose
31:12.16
7.1.17
273
14
4,126
5-68
234 -41
175
267i
Rarity VI. of Melrose
3675
1.1.17
8.1.17
273
21*
8,839
5-10
450-57
250
513S
Pleasance V. of Mel-
4527 .
4.1.17
11.1.17
273
lOi
4,914
5-54
272 -51
250
310J
Mates V. of Melrose
4524
5.1.17
12.1.17
273
22
6,652
5-26
350 -25
250
399i
FufhsiaX. of Melrose
4516
12.1.17
19.1.17
273
16J^
7,473
4-66
348-31
250
397
*Edith V. of Melrose
4513
16.1.17
23.1.17
273
14i
5,466
5-15
281 -64
250
321
Jessie XVI. of Melrose
Not al-
lotted
19.1.17
26.1.17
273
13i
4,207
6-83
287-54
175
327j
Peerless of Melrose
2317
1.3.17
8.3.17
273
lU
5,566
5-20
289-59
250
330i
III.
For her two previous lactation periods, this cow's name appeared as Edith II.
166 .Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
TEACHERS' SCHOOL AT BURNLEY, 1918.
Though to-day the school teacher is not such an outstanding character
in our world that we wonder that one small head can carry all he knows,
still it is necessary for him who would be successful in his work to be,
as an English assayist has said, " superficially omniscient." In addition
to his equipment for instructing the youth in every-day educational
subjects, it is desirable that he should have a passing acquaintance with
the several sciences. A knowledge of botany or metallurgy may, perhaps,
afford a method of inculcating something useful, a talent for astronomy
will help him to transport his pupils from the sphere of grammar and
arithmetic to a wider world, and an acquaintance with agricultural
science will often enable the country teacher to give many a practical
lesson. Various avenues are open to the city teacher by which to obtain
this technical knowledge, but the country pedagogue must usually
acquire it in his leisure from text books without the aid of guide or
friend.
In September, 1915, the Department of Agriculture arranged a
course of lectures on agricultural subjects at the State Research Farm
at Werribee. These lectui'es extended over five days, and were attended
by seventy country teachers. In January, 1917, a somewhat similar
course was delivered at the same place.
This year, the Burnley School of Primary Agriculture was chosen,
in order that instruction in practical fruit-growing might be given. The
course, which was attended by twenty-three teachers from country
districts, lasted eight days, which means that those attending sacrificed
at least eight days of their vacation.
The classes were formally inaugurated on the 21st January. In
the absence of the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Cameron, Director of
Agriculture, presided, and, in welcoming both visitors and teachers,
remarked that agriculture in some form is now being taught in 700
schools in Victoria.
His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir K. M. Ferguson, in a
short speech, stressed the importance of securing, especially at this
juncture in the world's history, better methods of agricultural production
and marketing. In this respect Australia could learn much from the
more closely settled countries. His Excellency characterized the
Burnley gardens as one of the beauty spots of the metropolis, and
expressed the opinion that they should be linked up with the Botanical
Gardens and Richmond Park by inclusion in the Yarra improvement
scheme.
Short addresses were also delivered by the Minister of Education,
Major Baird, M.L.A. ; and the Director of Education, Mr. Frank Tate.
During the period of the school, in addition to practical demonstra-
tions in pruning in the orchard, lectures were delivered on the following
subjects : —
Climate and soil conditions required for different classes of fruit.
Choice of trees for production of fruit for the table, canning
and drying.
11 Makch, 191S.J Teachers' School at Burnley.
.167
168 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Makch. 1918.
Methods of propagation of fruit trees.
Preparation and planting of orchards.
Picking, packing, and marketing of fruit.
Principles of pruning.
Cost of production of fruit.
Drying and canning of fruit. *
Spraying of orchards.
Citrus fruits and their culture.
Propagation of the vine.
Diseases of the vine.
Soils and soil fertility.
Principles of manures and manuring.
Irrigation and irrigation methods.
Fungus diseases and insect pests.
Trees for shelter belts.
Unlike the " schools " held at the State Research Farm, that at
Burnley was one of instruction, and nothing more, the only social event
in the course beingg the occasion of the formal opening. It was intended
that a visit should have been made to one of the fruit-growing districts
near Melbourne ; but even this small recreation was abandoned, and
those attending the Burnley " session " will remember it as one that
was not diversified by anything outside the range of practical work.
WHEAT VARIETY TESTS.
Results, 1917-18.
Btj H. A. Mullett, B. Ag. Sc.
For Accurate Results, Careful Experimental Work Necessary.
Of the many field problems that beset the wheat farmer, those
connected with cultural and manurial practices, as well as those relating
to seed, are, perhaps, of most importance. Their solution is of perennial
concern to the practical man. Striking differences in yields _ are
frequently noted on the farm, but usually it is difficult to state definitely
the reason of these variations. To solve such problems effectively it is
necessary to groAV the wheat so that the disturbing factors Avhich com-
monly affect the yield under ordinary farming conditions may be ascer-
tained and eliminated. Thus, if it be desired to test the effect of a
certain dressing of manure on the yield of a particular variety of wheat,
the trial must be designed so as to insure that no disturbing elements,
such as soil variation, differences in the time, depth and rate of sowing,
&c., occur. Similar precautions must be taken when testing the com-
parative yields of different varieties.
The method generally adopted is to conduct the tests in small plots
side by side in an even field. To minimize the soil variations it is
usual to limit the size of each to half-an-acre or less, and in order that
accurate calculations may be made the several plots are measured, and
at harvest the actual weight of produce determined.
11 March, 1918.]
Wheat Variety Tests.
169
Object of Variety Trials at State Farms.
A portion of the permanent experiment fields at the "Werribee,
Wyuua, and Rntherglen Farms, and at Longerenong College is devoted
to annual variety trials conducted in this way, generally 20 plots, each
half-an-acre in area, being sown at each centre. The results provide a
basis for a comparison of the yields of standard varieties of wheat, as
well as those of any promising new varieties and crossbreds. The plots
also form part of a scheme designed to systematically improve the bulk
seed wheat sold to farmers. The steady improvement of the wheat so
produced is insured by the process of hand selection which takes place
prior to sowing in the variety plots, the produce of which, Avhen tested,
furnishes the seed for the bulk plots. All plots are sown on well-worked
fallow with 60 lbs. seed and 112 lbs. superphosphate per acre.
Results of Variety Trials, 1917-18.
Longerenong.
Plots soAvn second week in June — Rainfall (May-October),
inches : —
Bush, per acre.
11.84
New Crossbred, " Gallipoli "
.50.5
Selected Federation
44.3
New Crossbred, Bobs x Federation (brown'
42.9
College Eclipse . .
42.8
New Crossbred, No. 48 . .
42.7
New Crossbred, " Graham "
42.4
Major
42.2
Currawa
30.8
Bunyip . .
39.1
Yandilla King
38.1
Dart's Imperial . .
37.5
Wyuna.
Plots sown first week in June — Rainfall (M
ay-Octob
inches : —
B
ush. per acre.
Yandilla King . .
32.7
Federation, selected
.30.6
Currawa
29.1
Penny
28.1
Major
28.3
New Crossbred, Bobs x Federation (brown
27.7
New Crossbred, Redskin x Yandilla
24.7
New Crossbred, Indian II x Comeback
24.2
Warden . .
23.9
Dart's Imperial . .
23.7
New Crossbred "Gallipoli"
23.1
Marshall's No. 3
22.1
New Crossbred, Bobs x Federation (white
21.0
New Crossbred, Stanley x Yandilla King .
20.4
Gluyas . .
19.6
College Eclipse . .
17.1
King's Early
14.7
i
170
Journal of AgricitUure, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
Plots
inches : —
sown first week
Werribee.
in June — Rainfall
(May-October), 10.5
New Crossbred, Indian H x Tolfords
New Crossbred, " Graham "
Marshall's No. 3
Yandilla King . .
New Crossbred, Indian E x Telfords
New Crossbred, Stanlej' x Yandilla Kin
Ciirrawa
Major
New Crossbred " Gallipoli " . .
New Crossbred, Bol)s x Federation (lirown
Federation
Dart's Impe.'ial . .
New Crossbred, Redskin x Yandilla
Warden . .
Gluyas . .
New Crossbred,
College Eclipse
Penny
Comeback
Thew
Bunyip . .
Mac's White
Bobs X Federation ( white
I!u>h. per acre.
29.0
28.2
27.0
26.6
26.5
26.5
25.0
23.9
23.G
23.5
22.1
21.7
21.6
21.2
21.1
19.9
19.8
19.8
18.9
18.8
15.2
14.7
Plots
inches : —
RUTIIERGLEN.
sown first week in June — Rainfall (May-October), 24.11
Warden . .
Federation ( a special selection ) . .
Major
New Crossbred, " Gallipoli "
New Crossbred, " Graham "
New Crossbred, Gluyas x Federation
Ciirrawa
Yandilla King
Federation, selected
Marshall's No. 3 . .
Penny
Dart's Imperial . . . . . .
Gluyas . .
New Crossbred, Stanley x Yandilla Kinii
New Crossbred, Indian F x Federation
Federation ( not selected )
Comeback
New Crossbred, Indian F x Federation, No
College Eclipse . .
King's Earlv
Bush, per acre.
14.0
13.9
13.3
13.2
12.4
11.9
11.9
11.8
11.8
11.8
10.7
10.4
10.2
10.0
10.0
9.8
9.8
9.6
7.7
7.4
11 March. 1918.]
Wheat Variety Tests.
171
At two of the centres, viz.,
Ruthergleu and Wyuna, the
past season was remarkable for
the exceedingly heavy rainfall
experienced during the grow-
ing period of the wheat (May-
October), and at the first-
named place the yields suffered
severely from excessive water.
The protracted growing
period at Rutherglen, Werri-
bee, and Wyuna has appa-
rently suited the later, matur-
ing varieties, such as Yandilla
King, Major, and Currawa ;
but at Longerenong, where the
sowing was made a week later
and the season was somewhat
shorter, early varieties like
College Eclipse, and mid-sea-
son varieties like Federation,
have done better than at other
centres. Ordinary Federation
has not done so well this year,
b-it selected Federation at
was second on
a yield of 44.3
acre, while at
Rutherglen, where the yields
were on a much lower scale
all round, a special selection of
Federation beat ordinary
Federation by 4.1 bushels per
acre.
Summarizing Results for
Past Five Years.
No one can forecast a sea-
son with any certainty. There-
fore, in ordinary circum-
stances, the wheat farmer
should sow in anticipation of
a normal season. The results
of any one year, which, per-
haps, has diverged from the
normal, should not be ac-
cepted as an unquestionable
indication of the best varieties
for an average season. Rather
should the mean results over
a series of years b© looked for
as giving a more reliable
sruide.
Longerenong
the list with
bushels p(
172 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Makch. 1918,
Average Results, Quinquennial Period, 1913-17.
Table comparing the Yields of several well-known Varieties from
Varietv Plots, Werribee.
Yield in Bushels per Acre.
Averagi- Yield
1913.
1914.
1915.
1916.
1917.
for Five Y'oar^.
Major
Currawa
Penny
Marshall's No. 3
Yandilla King . .
Dart's Imperial . .
King's Early
Federation
Gluyas
13
11
13
16
12
15
3
2
2
9
8
9
20-2
18-2
22-3
18-7
18-1
16-5
18-6
16-3
14-8
25-6
23-2
25-1
25-1
22-9
22-8
22-8
24-6
23-9
15-9
12-2
9-6
10-1
9-5
9-8
8-4
7-4
4-5
23-9
25-6
19-6
27-0
26-6
21-7
22 -l
21-1
21-4
19-6
19-1
18-8
17-7
16-8
16-7
16-6
16-0
Selection Plots — Longerenong.
Y'ield in Bushels per Acre.
Variety.
Average Yield
for Five Y'ears.
1913.
36-2
1914.
1915.
1916.
1917.
Federation (Selected) . .
17-2
54-5
42-9
29-8
36-1
Federation (Ordinary)
24-6
5-0
49-5
42-0
30-4
30-3
Yandilla King
24-9
7-0
54-4
16-9
27-6
26-1
Dart's Imperial
.30-0
11-9
45-5
10-7
21-3
23-9
Currawa
11-5
42-5
9-9
29-6
21-6
College Eclipse
12-2
42-9
26-6
28-6
22-1
Gluyas
24-7
9-5
45-1
Lodged
Not
o;rown
King's Early , .
31-3
7-9
34-5
Lodged
Not
grown
Major
.54-4
36-7
28-6
Not grown
sufficiently
long
Penny
Not
grown
Variety Plots-
— RUTHERGLEN.
Yield in Bushels per Acre.
Variety.
Averaae Y'ield
for Five Years.
1913.
1914.
1915.
15-6
1916.
1917.
Yandilla King . .
28-8
3-5
12-2
11-8
16-4
Federation
27-9
4-0
20-5
14-4
10-8
15-.>
Marshall's No. 3
26-7
1-8
18-6
16-8
11-8
1,1-1
Dart's Imperial
25-2
3-6
15-3
17-5
10-4
14-4
College Eclipse . .
27 -0 .
4-0
18-6
11-3
7-7
13-7
Currawa
3-5
21-3
14-3
11-9
12-7
King's Early
22-1
6-0
20-0
7-5
7-4
12-6
Penny
22-3
16-7
10-7
Not grown
sufficiently
lonsr
Major
18-7
13-3
11 Makch, 1918.]
Wheat Variety Tests.
173
A glance at these results
shows that at Werrib^e^
Major, Currawa, Marshall's
No. 3, Penny, and Yandilla
King have each given bet-
ter average results than
Federation, which is gene-
rally looked upon as the
standard variety. It should,
however, be remembered
that Major, Currawa, and
Penny were not grown in
1913, when the general ave-
rage of the yields was some-
what lower.
At Longerenong, selected
Federation holds first place
with the high average yield
of 36.1 bushels per acre,
which is 5.7 bushels better
than Federation (riot se-
lected). It must not be
overlooked, however, that
Major, Currawa, and
Penny, which have done bo
well at Werribee, have not
been tried sufficiently long
at Longerenong to test
them fully.
At Rutherglen, Yandilla
King has done best, beating
Federation, the next best,
but only by an average' of
.9 bushels per acre. As at
Longerenong neither Penny
nor Major was grown before
1915.
It will be noted that all
the plots are sown neces-
sarily at the same time,
without taking into account
whether the time selected
is more favorable to some
varieties than others. This
aspect is discussed below.
174
Jotinuil of Agriculture, Victorln. 1 11 Makch. 1918.
Results, Early and Late Sown Trials, 1917 18.
LONGERENONG.
Variety.
Typ-
Early Sowing — -
25tli June.
Lat(^ Sovviiig-
28tli Julv]
Difference in
favour of
Early Sowing.
Difference in
favour of
Late Sowing.
Kiiifi's Early
Bunyip
Federation . .
Dart's Imperial
Marshall's No. 3
N'anrliUa King
Early
Early
Mid. season
Mid. season
Late
Late
Busli. per acre.
37-8
39-3
43-9
37-0
38-4
41 Mi
Bush, per acre.
41 -fi
38-4
48-2
39-7
38-4
36-.-.
Busli. per acre.
•9
5-1
Bush, per acre.
3-8
4-3
•1-1
Bulk Plots, from which the seed sold to farmers is obtained.
Wyuxa.
Variety.
King's Early
Federation . .
Yandilla King
T}T)e.
Early
Mid. season
Late
Early Sowing-
Last Week
in May.
Bush, per acre.
10-9
23-8
34 '9
Late Sowing —
First Week
in July.
Bush, per acre.
20-8
19-9
21-7
Difference in
favour of
Early Sowing.
Bush, per acre.
3-9
13-2
DifTerence In
favour of
Late Sowing.
Bu<h. iier acre.
9-9
11 March, 1918.]
Wheat Variety Tests.
175
Early and Late Sown
Trials — Object of the Test.
Under practical farming
conditions, tne time to be-
gin sowing cannot always
be determined beforehand,
as can be done in the case
of the variety plots. There
is generally too big an area
to sow, consequently if the
rains be delayed, or owing
to other causes, the seeding
season mav be unduly pro-
tracted. When varieties-
which have an extended
]>oriod of growth, and,
therefore, possess greater
foraging power and poten-
tial yielding capacity, are
sown late, they are often
liable to be prematurely
ripened by hot winds or the
early approach of summer;
yields consequently suffer.
In these circumstances, it is
generally found that the
quicker-maturing varieties
give better results, as they
are likely to be relatively
more advanced than the
late varieties. The object
of these tests is, therefore,
to determine the differen-
tial effect of various times
of sowing on early, mid-
season, and late varieties.
At Longerenong the early
sown plots were drilled in
on 25th June, and the late
sowing was made on 28th
July — about a month later.
At'Wyuna the early sown
plots were drilled in the last
week in May, and the late
ones during the first week
in July.
Results show that at both
centres any marked differ-
ences are in favour of a
late sowing of early varie-
ties like King's Early,
while in the case of late
varieties, such as Yandilla
176 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 191S.
King, the position is reversed. At Wyuna the results were very notice-
able; here the late sown King's Early yielded 9.9 bushels to the acre
better than the same variety sown early, and with Yandilla King the
difference due to early sowing was 13.2 bushels per acre.
It is evident, therefore, from these and similar results obtained in
other years, that a judicious selection of early, mid-season, and late
varieties is necessary to get the most profitable results on the average
wheat farm.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BUTTER FAT IN HUMAN DIET.
{Reprinted from " The Dairi/.'^)
Prof. E. V. McCollum, a well-known investigator in food values,
has completed a course of experiments extending o^•er ten years into the
values of dairy products, and he has arrived at the conclusion that they
should be used freelj^, regardless of cost. He declares that in human
dietaries the safe plan is : Protect the dairy industry, no matter what
effects may come to us, and how expensive it may become to produce
dairy products. The dairy industry is the greatest safeguard to nutritive
food. If we did away with the dairy industry we would soon become
an inefficient people compared with what we are.
Recently, Prof. E. V. McCollum gave an address on the subject of
his ten years' experiments at the University of Wisconsin, the title of
the lecture being " What we should Eat during the War," and the follow-
ing is a report of a portion of his remarks : —
" Ten years ago, when I took up the study of nutrition, the text-books,
both on human nutrition and dietetics of the animal production,
enumerated as the constituents of food : proteins, carbohydrates and fats,
and inorganic salts. Now, it so happens that several people in Scan-
dinavia, England, and some other European countries, who are physiolo-
gists, had already taken purified proteids and purified nitrates and
combined these with purified fats. When analyzed, such a mixture
of food shows it has proper protein contents, proper amounts of digestive
nutrients, and yet, if an animal is fed on such stuff, all the time from
birth until old age, the nutrition is a complete failure.
The first effort ever made in the investigation of nutrition problems
was to find out why an animal does not thrive on these mixed or purified
foodstuffs. To make a long story short, there are, in addition to
proteins, carbohydrates and fats, and inorganic salts, two still unidenti-
fied substances that one must have in the diet. One of these — which I
will call a water soluble unknown— is everywhere except in the purified
foods which I have just mentioned. They are relatively poor in this
substance — so are commercial starch and fats. Not a great deal is
known about it, except that it is soluble. Therefore, I will refer to it
as water soluble unknown. It can be taken from corn or any other seeds,
from plants, also from milk. It seems to be everywhere except in this
little list of foodstuffs. If the diet of an animal does not contain this
water soluble unknown, provided the diet is made up of sugars, starch,
11 March. 1918.] Importance of Butter Fat in Hu7nan Diet. 177
aud fats, and nothing else is given to the animal, the animal will waste
away and die in a couple of months.
Occurrence of Unknown.
There is, however, another substance which was not appreciated until
1913, and that substance is always present in certain animal fats. I first
found it in butter-fat, but it is also present in the fat of eggs. It is
also present in the kidneys and liver, but it is not present in vegetables.
I want you to keep this second unknown substance in mind. The
dietarian who lives on vegetables alone does not get it in his food.
There is no shortage of it in nature, however, because while it is not
in vegetables, it would be obtained in the fats of milk and certain fats
of animal origin. There is an abundance of it in the leaves of plants.
Now, with two exceptions, the seeds of plants, so far as I know anything-
about them, are short of this one thing.
Let me illustrate again the principle which I want you to keep in
mind. We will make 15 lbs. of a carefully purified mixture of protein.
We will take casein from milk, because it is easy to get and is an
excellent example; the grain starch, the sugars (of whatever origin you
want to get them) ; such fats as olive oil, lard, or whatever oil is readily
available; and any mixture of inorganic salts that is suitable — we will
put those together and feed the mixture to a young animal, and he will
waste away and die in a comparatively short time. It contains carbo-
hydrates and fats, and inorganic salts, but it is a total failure.
]^ow, let us put in as part of the vegetable fat, say, 5 per cent, of
butter-fat, and feed it to an animal, and again he will die just as quickly
as if you didn't give him any food. Take this mixture of purified
foodstuffs, which contains a certain amount of butter-fats, and put it
with seeds and plants (except rice, and starch, and crystalline sugars),
and then add the leaf of corn or alfalfa ; it is a complete ration, and the
animal will thrive from infancy to old age. If you take 5 lbs. of purified
foodstuffs and apply to it this water soluble unknown, and leave out
the butter-fat, and leave in some vegetable fat, the animal is no better
off than if you had not left it in; but put in both these, and then your
feed becomes adequate, from infancy to old age.
Butter-Fat Needed.
We try another experiment with a pure protein, and we add a little
butter-fat to supply this unknown content, with a suitable salt addition,
and the animal will thrive from infancy to old age. It will have the
normal number of young, and they will rear their young. Now, if
you use neither of these and feed only oats and corn, he will die. If you
feed him on corn, he will die after a little while. And what is true of
one seed is, generally speaking, true of other seeds. Then if you mix
the two grains together, you will, in a certain measure improve the
mixture later. In other words, you have better protein if you mix two
seeds, and still better, probably, when you mix three. Now, when you
feed a mixture of oats, millet, and flaxseed, he will never grow one gram,
I do not care what species he is. To make this a good feed, you only
have to add two things. One of these is this water soluble, and the
other is common table salt. Such a mixture of seeds never contained
enough of that salt. You must put in u certain amount of lime content
178 Journal of AgricuUvre, Victoria. |11 March, 1918.
of lime calcium, and you must add chlorine calcium and protein.
Animals fed on foods that do not contain these ingredients never pro-
duce and rear young. They may in a few cases have a few young, but
they will never rear any. There are just such situations arising in
practically every community.
False Economy.
The price of foodstuffs has continually been rising during the last
few years, and the point has already been reached when the housewife,
who is dependent for the upkeep of the family expense account on the
wages of even a skilled artisan, has difficulty to make the proper
purchases of food. JSTow, under these circumstances, the natural
tendency is for women to begin to restrict the number of purchases for
the table to those articles which appear to be cheap. The text-books
on dietetics even to-day are beginning to tell the story that I have just
told you in the last few minutes. The main points that are emphasized
in the discussion of human dietaries are the protein contents. The
point I want to emphasize is this : the most expensive foods, and there-
fore the articles on which the first cut is liable to be made, are eggs
and dairy products. These are the most expensive articles; they appeal
to the housewife as being the most expensive foods.
Protect Dairying.
In human dietaries, the safe plan is this : protect the dairy industry,
no matter what effects may come to us, and Iioav expensive it may
become to produce dairy products. The dairy industry is the greatest
safeguard to nutritive food. If we do away with the dairy industry,
we do away with the use of cream in our coffee and our desserts, and
we would soon become an inefficient people compared with what we are.
Just consider this world in a general proposition, and consider what
jicople are thrifty, and consider the character of their diet. Which
people are progressive? The greatest single event in the history of
the progress of humanity is that time and event which led to the
discovery of milk-producing animals. Unless a supply of milk was
regularly available to a primitive people, some time in this history of
this world, that people began forthwith to be outstripped by their
neighbours in every undertaking which they might have attempted.
Under no circumstances should the use of milk, and all the constituents
of milk, be diminished.
The first place and the safest place to economize is in the consump-
tion of meat. We can do without meat without any detriment if we
care to give up our pleasure in eating meat. ISTow, meats are good.
We all like them, and to some extent we are going to continue to eat
meat. I would not advise doing aAvay with the beef-producing industry,
because a number of other industries are dependent upon the beef
industry. The leather industry is one which we must protect. If we
are to maintain an efficient dairy industry, Ave must produce a certain
number of excess males among cattle. The beef animal largely takes
care of itself. There is but a small labour item in the production of
meat as compared with the production of milk. A number of reasons
might be cited, but these are enough; but wherever it is necessary to
economize, the Avise thing to do is to shear the famih^ budget in those
11 March, 1918.]
Subterranean Clover,
179
expenditures of meat, and use meat largely for conferring palatability
on vegetables, and iu the form of soups and gravies, and such things to
which meat will add palatability which are not. very acceptable as a
human diet."
A Good Specimen of Subterranean Clover.
The above picture illustrates a specimen of subterranean clover
(trifoUum subterraneum) grown on the farm of Mr. Stirling Jones at
Flinders.
J 80 ■Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
In forwarding the specimen, Mr. Jones remarked, " Subterranean
clovers grow in abundance in tbe volcanic soil near Flinders. I have
never known a paddock to be sown down solely with this clover, yet
there are hundreds of acres of it in the district — in fact, it is popularly
believed to be a native plant. It usually grows in a great mat, and
dies down about Christmas, but springs up quickly after the first autumn
rains. Stock are very fond of this clover and keep it closely cropped,
even though grasses in the same paddock may be a foot high."
The following extract from a report on Trials of Grasses and Clovers
under Irrigation at the Yanco Experimental Farm is reprinted from
the New South Wales Journal of Agriculture for February, 1917.
" Trifolium suhterraneum. — This is one of our most promising
clovers. It probably gets its name from the habit of growth, the lower-
most shoots forcing their seed-pods into the soil in readiness for future
propagation. It has made exceptionally good growth this winter, which
is its second season. The stems, all of which are green and succulent
and carry a fair amount of leaf, have grown over each other to a depth
of five or six inches, completely filling the spaces in between the rows
(2 ft. Gin. apart), and now forming a dense mat. The leaves are
inclined to be a little hairy. Growth commences about March, and
continues well into the spring; in fact, the bed is still, at date of
writing (23rd ^November, 1916), quite green. Although not grazed
here, in other parts it has been fed off continually, and found to be
very useful. Its lower stems cling to the ground; it is thus protected
from being killed out by stock. Owing to its seeding capabilities,
which are important, and its being a succulent nitrogenous fodder, it is
worthy of a place in any pasture, especially for winter and spring
BRACKEN A SOURCE OF POTASH.
There is no scarcity of bracken in Australia, and it is interesting to
learn that this ubiquitous weed may be used as a source of a commodity
that is as scarce as it is valuable. In a leaflet recently issued by thy
Board of Agriculture of Scotland, it is stated that the ash of bracke
is exceptionally rich in potash salts. The utilization of the ash woul<v
serve two purposes: (a) as an additional source of potash, and (b) as a
means towards the eradication of bracken. In the preparation of the ash
certain points require to be borne in mind, and are dealt with under the
following headings : —
Time of Cutting.
The best time to cut is when the largest yield of potash can be secured.
This stage is reached when the plant is fully grown. Although the ash
of the young plants is richer in potash the yield per acre is greater from
the mature plants. When fully grown the fronds become tough and
fibrous, and some of the pinnae or small leaves begin to change colour
and wither. Repeated yearly cuttings for three years in succession will
exhaust the roots and practically destroy the bracken. A hook or sickle
is the most suitable weapon in the hands of boys for cutting, especially
when the bracken is growing on the side of a hill. On more level ground
a scythe can be used with advantage.
n March, 1918.] Bracken a Source of Potash. 1!^1
Drying and Harvesting.
Dry sunny weather is very necessary at the time of cutting, since over
90 per cent, of the total potash is soluble in water. "While the bracken is
still alive rain Avill not dissolve out the potash from the fronds, but if
it is withered and dead, rain soaks into the tissues, and in course of time
will dissolve out practically all the soluble salts. Turning the fronds
hastens the drying. As soon as dry the fronds should be raked and col-
lected into small heaps either for stacking or burning. In any case, the
dry bracken must not be left exposed in rainy weather. Kough handling
of the fronds will break off much of the small leaf, as when dry they
become brittle, and will thus reduce the yield.
Stacking and Burning.
The dry bracken may be stacked and either used as litter, &c., or
burnt for the ash. For carting and stacking fairly level ground is desir-
able. If the situation is a very inaccessible one, and in bad country,
the dry bracken is best collected and burnt in a suitable place on the
spot. The dry bracken burns easily. The burning should be conducted
in as sheltered a place as possible to prevent the ashes from being blown
away. The base of the fire should first be hollowed out. The fire should
be stirred occasionally with a pole to assist the burning of the charred
material, and as it burns down to an ash the fire should be replenished
with more dry bracken until a good heap of greyish ash is eventually
obtained. If the temperature gets too high the ash is liable to melt into
solid lumps, a condition to be avoided.
Bagging of the Ash.
On no account must the ashes be left exposed to rain, which would
dissolve out the soluble salts. "When cold the ashes should be bagged and
the bags covered with a tarpaulin. If this is not practicable, the ashes
must be covered with corrugated sheet iron or a tarpaulin to protect
them from the rain until they can be bagged. The bags must be stored
in a dry place until the ashes are required.
Properties of the Ash.
"When properly burnt the ash is bulky and generally greyish in colour,
of a light friable and powdery nature, distinctly alkaline and a little
caustic. The alkalinity is due mainly to alkaline carbonates and to a
small extent to some free lime and magnesia. The potash is in com-
bination mostly as the sulphate and the chlorides, and to a less extent
as the carbonate.
Yield and Utilization as Manure.
The ashes should contain between thirty and forty per cent, of potash
soluble in water. "With the market value of potash at 12s. 6d. per unit,
the price of the ash would be between £18 and £25 per ton. The yield of
ash per acre will depend upon the density of growth and height of the
fronds and upon the care bestowed on the harvesting and burning of
the bracken and on the collection of the ash. "When the growth is thick
and vigorous it requires from 4 to 5 acres of fully-stocked bracken land
to yield 1 ton of ash, compared with from 7 to 10 acres when the growth
is sparse. The ash, because of its light dry character, is most suitable
for mixing and applying along with other manures, except those contain-
ing ammonium salts, which would be decomposed, liberating free
ammonia. — The Queenslancler, 15th December, 1917.
182 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. |11 Makcii. 1',»1S.
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Research Farm, Werribee.
Summary of observations made during 1;)17, and c.ompari.sou with
previous years : —
Rainfall.
Average tainfall for forty-two years prior to 1913 . . . . = 20*19 inches
Rainfall during 1913 (505 points in March) . . . . . . = 16'43 „
Rainfall during 1914 (304 points in December) . . . . = 13*24 „
Rainfall during 1915 .. .. .. .. .. = 15*55 ..
Rainfall during 1916 {4"46 inches in January and February, and = 28-79 ,,
17 • 71 inches in September, October, November, and December)
Rainfall during 19l7 (9-:.'9 inches in September, October. : 20- 10 ,,
November, and December)
Evaporation.
Evaporation from free water surface, 1913 . .
=
46 -438 inches
1914 ..
=
50*548 ..
1915 ..
=
51 *754 ,.
1916 ..
=
43-160 „
19i7 ..
=
46-873 ,.
Bright Sunlight.
Total bright sunlight during 1914 == 1,906*5 hours = Daily Mean, 5*2 hours.
1915 = 1,865*9 „ = „ 5*1
1916 = 1,841-8 „ = „ 5-0 „
1917 = 1,729-9 „ = .. 4-7 ..
Mean
Air Temperatures.
Year.
Dry Hulb.
Wet Bulb.
Maximum.
Minimum.
48-6° F.
47-8° F.
47-7° F.
48-2° F.
Moan of Max.
and Min.
1914
1915
1916
1917
59-4° F.
57-9" F.
57-2° F.
57.. 5° F.
55-8° F.
53-8° F.
53-4° F.
53-7° F.
69-6° F.
67-4° F.
66-1° F.
66-2° F.
59 -TF.
57-6° F.
56-9° F.
57-2° F.
Mean Soil Temperatures.
At 1 Inch.
At 6 Inches.
At 12 Inches.
At 24 Inches.
Year.
Maximum.
Minimum.
Maximum.
Minimum. Maximum. [Minimum. Maximum.
Minimum.
1914
1915
1916
1917
70-9° F.
72-l°F.
70-2° F.
6-!-3°F.
50-6°F.
50-8° F.
50-9° F.
52-4° F.
63 -6° F.
63-2=F.
61-4°F.
61-6° F.
52-6°F. 61-6°F. 1 56-8° F. ,60-2° F.
51-5°F. 60 8° F. 155-5° F. 59-9°F.
54-l°F. 59-2°F. ;54-2°F. 58-5°F.
.55-4° F. ;o9-5°F. i54-6°F. 158 6°F
58-6°F.
57-2°F.
56-2°F.
56-9°F.
Mean of Maximum and Minimum Soil Temperatures.
1914
1915
1916
1917
At 1 Inch.
60-7° F.
61-4° F.
60-5° F.
60-4° F.
At 6 Inches, i At 12 Inches.
58-1° F.
57 -3° F.
57-7° F.
58-5° F.
59-2° F.
58 -l" F.
56-7° F.
.57 ■ 1 ° F.
At 24 Inches.
59-4° F.
58-5° F.
57-3° F.
57 J-° F.
11 March, 1918.] A Form for Describing Maize Ears. 183
A FORM FOR DESCRIBING MAIZE EARS.
For the purpose of keeping a record of the types of maize ears which
are used in the ear-row system of maize improvement, and also for a
detailed description of ears of different varieties as a record of the
standard type, the following form has been found, after trial over a
number of years, to answer the purpose best : — -
Variety
Registered numljer
Pedigree number
Obtained from
Weight of ear (to | oz. )
Shape — Cylindrical, slightly tapering, or tapering
Length (to ^ in.) ; circumference (to i in.)
Indentation — Smooth, crinkled, creased, or pinched
Shallow, medium, or deep
Beaked or unbeaked
Rows — Number ; paired or unpaired
Straight, curved ( to right or left )
Tip — Well filled, medium, or poorly filled
Regular or irregular
Husk protection — Good, medium, or poor
Butt — Well-rounded, medium, or flattened
Regular or irregular
Shank — Large, medium, or small; diameter (to I in.)
Round or oval-shaped
Space between rows — Wide, medium, or narrow
Deep, medium, or shallow
Grains — Firm, medium, or loose on cob
Grain — Thick, medium, or thin
Average breadth of grain (to l-16th in.)
Weight of core ( to ^ oz. )
Colour of core — ^Dark red, red, light red, white
Size of core — Large, medium, or small
Circumference (to 5 in. )
Weight of shelled grain (to | oz. )
Percentage of shelled grain
Average length of grain (to 1-1 Gth in. )
Colour of grain — Dark red, medium red, light red, amber, yellow,
white
Brightness of grain — Bright, medium, or dull
Grain — Horny, medium, or starchy
Size of germ — Large, medium, or small
Shape of grain — Rounded, S(juare, oblong, wedge-shaped, shoe-peg,
or pointed
Numljer of grains per oz
Other remarks .
This form is used in describing all the ears selected for the ear-row
tests at the various Experiment Farms of the State where maize improve-
ment is being carried out by this system, and it is expected that there will
184 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Makch, 1918.
be found certain ear cliaracters which are in some way related to yield
for a definite variety when grown in a particular climate on a certain
class of soil. It is well known that a variety of maize in acclimatizing
itself to a given district, or adapting itself to a certain soil, tends to
change to a definite type of improved yielding capacity ; and it is hoped
that the records of a few years, obtained from the descriptions of the ears
used in these tests, will be useful in establishing some correlations
between these ear characters and yield. Already some of these
characters give promise of being associated with yield, while others have
apparently no relation to it ; but it will be necessary to have the results
of several years before any definite conclusions can be drawn.
A few explanatory notes may be found useful to those who wish to
use this form, and it is recommended for the use of teachers of agricul-
ture in country schools who are desirous of instructing the boys in natiire
study with maize.
The registered nmnher is useful for the purpose of keeping the ears
catalogued for comparison; and the pedigree number is the registered
number of the mother ear of the preceding year, which it is possible to
obtain if the ear-row system of planting is adopted.
The weight of the ear before shelling may be obtained to the nearest
i oz. on an ordinary spring letter-balance. The circumference of the ear
is to be measured at one-third of the distance from the butt of the ear.
Smooth indentation means complete absence of crinkling or creasing
of the dent. A crinkled dent is one which has slightly raised folds of
hull or skin running across the indentation. A creased dent has the
edges of the indentation somewhat rough and inclined to be drawn
together, giving the crown of the grain a rough feeling.
A pinched dent has the opposite edges of the dent drawn together, and
is very rough to the feel. The dent is beaked when the upper edge is
drawn out longer than the other.
The rows are paired when a larger furrow occurs between the double
rows of grain on the ear.
A regular tip has the grain running in straight rows right up to the
tip.
The hiisJc protection is good or poor according to the absence of pre-
sence of weather discoloration or insect injury.
The roiLnding of the hutt is indicated by the depth of the depression
in the butt of the ear, and the filling of grain around this depression
where the shank has been attached.
The shanJc is said to be large when the diameter of its " scar " of
attachment to the cob is s inch, or over; medium, when about ^ inch; and
small, when t inch, or less.
The grain is thick when ten grains on the ear measure Ij inches, or
more ; medium, from 1^ to If inches ; and thiii, less than 1^ inches.
The breadth of the grain is best taken on the cob before shelling. It
is the greatest breadth of the grain about one-third of the distance
from the butt of the ear. It should be taken to the nearest l-16th inch.
11 March, 1918.] A Form for Describing Maize Ears. 185
The xueight of the core is taken to the nearest i oz. by the letter-
balance. The weight of shelled grain is determined by the difference
between the weight of the core and the initial weight of the ear.
In measuring the average length of grain, neither the tip, cap, nor
rough-beaked projections on the crown of the grain are included.
The terms used in describing shape of grain are self-explanatory,
except, perhaps, that of shoe-peg, by which is meant long, very narrow
grain.
The number of grains per ounce is determined by weighing out this
quantity of the grain on a spring letter-balance. — Reprinted from Agri-
culhircil Gazette of New South "Wales.
THE ROMAT^CE OF THE PLOUGH.
" Tlie Romance of the Plough " may seem far-fetched in the present
circumstances, perhaps, and yet the story of the gradual development
of this most useful implement from times of long ago is full of interest.
The process by which it has gradually been evolved from a rude
beginning to the present stage is an interesting story, given in a bulletin
issued by the Department of Agriculture, Canada. The first plough
was a pig's nose, the job being done by pigs, as they rooted over the soft
earth in search of juicy plant roots or fat grubs. The farmer of long
ago noticed the efficient manner in which the pigs turned over the soil,
and tried to imitate them. He cut down a small tree and trimmed off
all but one branch, leaving this one about 2 feet long and sharpened on
tLt end. A long stick was fastened to the trunk of the tree with which
to steady it, and the plough was ready to use. This was dragged up
and down over the area to be planted, and the earth torn up until it
v/as sufficiently loosened to give a covering of soil for the seed to be
sown. The only reason given for ploughing the soil in those days was
to get a covering of earth for the seeds. It was soon found, however,
that the weeds got thicker and thicker after each crop, and as years
went by and the field was ploughed up again and again, the soil became
harder to work. It Avould be very sticky when wet, and bake into a hard
mass when dry, and the plants were greatly injured by the dry weather.
Now the reason of this was that the stick plough did not turn the weeds
and weed seeds under the soil to smother and die, neither did it turn
up their roots to be killed by the frosts. Neither did the plough crumble
ihe soil as do the ploughs we noAV use; nor did this stick-plough loosen
the soil to any great depth, for, had the soil been worked deeper, it would
have held more of the rains, and the plants would not have died of thirst
in the hot season. But even if these farmers of long ago had a poor
plough, they at least had grasped the idea suggested by the pig's nose,
and many improvements were soon made in the shape of the plough
186 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
which increased its usefulness. But for many years the plough remained
at best a clumsy implement, which served to stir the soil to only a very
slight depth, and did not cover the weeds and grass as a good plough
should do. A ])eculiar custom in some countries was to draw ploughs
by tying them to the tails of horses or oxen. They had no harness-
makers such as we have, and leather harness was unknown. So tying
a plough to the horse's tail was about as handy and cheap a way of
'■ hitching up " the horse or ox as could be thought of. After a while
])eople began to see that this was a cruel practice, and laws were passed
making it a crime to plough in this manner. The plough of those days
left the soil lumpy, and the farmer or his sons broke up the clods with
a club, one of the reasons for ploughing being to make the soil fine
and granular. A lumpy soil will not germinate seeds well, for, to make
seeds come up quickly, the soil should be fine enough to touch the seed
on all sides. A lumpy soil will not grow large and healthy plants, for
the roots find it difficult to obtain food and water. All the ploughs
mentioned above were made of wood ; but they used to break easily, and
would wear out quickly, so some one made one partly of iron, placing
the iron on the parts of the plough that used to wear out first ; the other
parts were still made of wood. Later the ploughs were made of iron,
except the handles. Strange to say, as a new and useful idea is often-
times ridiculed, so it was with the iron plough. Some farmers said
it made the weeds grow, others that it poisoned the soil, and many
refused to use it. However, this strange opinion soon died out, and the
wooden ploughs can now be found only in the museums. — The Octago
Witness.
GUNFIRE AND RAINFALL.
There used to exist, and it exists even to the present day, a popular
belief that the explosion of guns induces rainfall, and special guns
were constructed with the object of bringing down falls of rain during
dry seasons. Several experiments to test this theory were made some
years ago in Queensland by means of kites and guns, but all resulted in
failure.
In an article in the London Times of 21st December, 1914, we find
the following notes on the subject : —
'' An impression has arisen in some quarters that the heavy and per-
sistent rains recently experienced in this country (Great Britain) are
attributable to abnormal atmospheric disturbances produced by heavy
gun-firing at the seat of war. The idea is by no means novel, and,
like other meteorological myths (such, for instance, as the belief in
thunderbolts and the supposed influence of the moon upon our weather),
it seems to possess a bvillet-proof hide and takes any amount of killing.
11 March, 1918.] Crun-fire and Rainfall. 187
About four years ago the First Lord of the Admiralty was asked in
the House of Commons whether he would instruct the Fleet to carry
out their heavy gun practice at some period of the year other than in
the middle of harvest time, ' when the resultant heavy rain may cause
serious loss to the farming community.' A similar suggestion was
made at the instance of a member of the Highland and Agricultural
Society of Scotland who, at a meeting of that body, moved that ' the
Admiralty be petitioned to discontinue heavy gun-fire round the coasts
in August and September, when clouds were about' (sic), the speaker
adding that ' firing was apt to bring down rain, and at that time of the
year fine weather was desirable.' It may be said at once that the idea
is absolutely without foundation. Experiments made some years ago
in America and on the Continent showed that in droughty weather no
amount of concussion in the air artificially produced had the slightest
effect in the production of rain,
" At the present time there is one fact which should (one scarcely
likes to believe that it will) at once dispose of the cherished theory.
In spite of occasional displays of unwonted activity, there are no reasons
for thinking that gim-firing at the front is more violent than it was in
the earlier stages of the war. The spell of unsettled weather should
therefore, have commenced shortly after the outbreak of hostilities. As
a matter of fact, nothing of the kind took place. In August and Sep-
tember the rainfall in the south-east of England was, on the contrary,
much below the average, and in October there was again a considerable
though less marked deficiency.
" As an instance of the unreliability of the notion respecting the
efl^ect of detonation upon rainfall, a correspondent of Si/mons Meteor-
ological Magazine drew attention some little time ago to the fact that
at Shoeburyness, where at certain seasons of the year big guns are being
fired almost daily, the average annual rainfall is smaller than in any
other part of the IJnited Kingdom."
— Queensland Agricultural Journal, February, 1918.
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E. E. Pescott, E.L.S., Pomologist.
The Orchard.
Green Manures.
If a cover crop of leguminous plants is required for green manuring
a start at planting may now be made. This can be done only when all
the fruit has been gathered from the trees. An early crop is a distinct
advantage. The cover crop should make a good growth before the winter
sets in, as the plants make very little headway in the cold weather,
188 Journal of Agriculture, Victorin. \ 11 March. 1918.
and they require to be ploughed in as soon as the ground is dry enough
in early spring. It will thus be seen that it is necessary to get a good
autumn growth, as dense as possible, and one Avhich will adequately
cover the surface before winter.
Cultivation.
Should the weather become hot and dry it will be very necessary to
give the land surface a good stirring, so as to conserve water supplies.
Where fruit crops have been gathered a start may be made late in
the month with the autumn ploughing ; whatever ploughing is done
should be left as rough as possible.
Pests.
No codlin moth-affected or diseas^ed fruit of any kind should be left
on the ground after the crop has been gathered. These should all be
destroyed by boiling.
All rust-affected foliage and fruit of plum and peach trees, as well
as all other stone fruits that have been attacked by this and other
fungus diseases, such as shot-hole, &c., should be burned if possible.
This will minimize the possibility of future attacks.
Vegetable Garden.
Autumn weeds must be kept out of the kitchen garden. These
rapidly grow, and remain as robbers right tlirough until the spring
time.
The section should be well dug over for planting winter crops.
Before digging a light sprinkling of bonedust and a good top dressing of
stable manure should be spread on the surface. These may then be
dug in, as they provide humus for the soil. Large plots should be
avoided in winter; where such occur a path should be run down the
centre. This will provide more efficient drainage. The beds, too, may
be more raised than in the summer time.
Early onions may be planted out in the beds, and, if not already
done, onion seed should be planted at once.
All classes of seedlings may be planted out, and seeds of lettuce,
early peas, beet, carrots, radish, cabbage, cauliflower, and swede turnip
may be sown.
Asparagus beds should be cleaned up and cut down as soon as the
berries begin to colour. Celery rows should be kept earthed up ;
rhubarb beds should be given a dressing of manure to encourage the
coming winter crop, and new rhubarb plantations may now be
established.
Flower Garden.
All classes of spring-flowering bulbs may now be planted. In bulb
planting the bulbs should not come in contact with any manure. The
11 March, 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 189
manure should, some time previously, have been dug well in, and mixed
with the soil, and all heat should have disappeared. If manure is
required it should be placed below the bulb, so that the roots may
ultimately penetrate to it. Bulbs thrive in sandy soils, and where the
soil is heavy a little sand may be added to advantage. Bulbs should
not be planted too deeply ; the depth to plant is generally regulated by
the size of the bulb. Such bulbs as freesias may be covered with only
an inch of soil, while larger bulbs may be somewhat deeper.
Dahlias and chrysanthemums may be fed with liquid manure, or
mulched with stable or poultry manure. In any case the feeding should
not be too strong nor too frequent, and it should always be withheld
before the flowers come.
All hardy annual, biennial, and perennial seeds may now be
planted. Among these are dianthus, candytuft, sweet peas, Iceland
poppies, anemone, ranunculus, stock, wallflower, columbine, foxglove,
phlox, penstemon, pansy, gaillardia, &c.
Wherever aphis and red spider occur the plants should be sprayed
with benzole emulsion, nicotine, pestend, or soaperine, or some other
preventive in order to protect the coming flowers. Mildew attacks on
the rose should be warded off by the use of sulphur. The sulphur may
be either dusted on the plant or it may be scattered on the ground
around and under the plant.
March is one of the best months for transplanting evergreen plants
of all classes, trees, shrubs, and palms. The roots of the transplanted
plants should be disturbed as little as possible, while the roots of those
transplanted from pots should be well uncoiled and set out before
planting.
The soil is now warm, and the roots will quickly take hold and grow.
They are thus established for the winter, and will give little or no
trouble in the subsequent summer heat and dryness.
In preparing the soil for planting the trees care should be taken not
to dig small holes. A small hole is simplv a " pot hole," in whicli the
winter water accumulates, and as a result the voung tree roots are rotted.
A large hole should be dug; or better still, the whole planting area
should be well cultivated all over, and the plants or trees then set out
in this cultivated area.
^^^S^^^'^N^^S/^^WS^A^i^^^^^^^
The Eradieation of Weeds.
With many, weeds are the chief factor in constant surface cultivation,
and — much as the gardener otherwise regards them — they therefore have
some utility in imposing an operation that in other respects has so much
value as we have indicated above. The seeds of weeds are constantly
being carted on to the garden with manure, and there are also seeds that
are being deposited by wind, birds, &c., so that their destruction must
ever be before the grower. The old saying that " one year's seeding
makes seven years' weeding " is particularly true in a vegetable garden.
190 ■loarnal of Agriculture. Victoria. \ 11 Makch. 1918.
Seeds which are shed in one year, do not always germinate the following
season — some may be buried too deep, or where the conditions are other-
wise unfavorable, but they retain their vitality for a long while, and
will germinate so soon as they are brought near the surface again, or
when the conditions become favorable. For this reason it is always well
to prepare land for a crop early enough to allow a short fallow before
the seed is sown or the seedlings planted out; the weed seeds brought into
favorable surroundings then have time to germinate, and can be killed
off by shallow, surface cultivation before the growth of the vegetables
makes the destruction of the weeds more difficult. The practice will be
found to materially reduce labour during the early growth of the crop.
Some crops, such as cari'ots, parsnips, &c., require a good deal of
hand-weeding, but in most cases the cultivation between the rows can be
done with a hand cultivator, which is much quicker than hand-hoeing.
For other crops, which have more space between the plants in the rows,
the weeding can be done by using small-pointed hoes. Weeding between
plants should be done before the cultivation between the rows, so that
the latter operation may loosen the soil that has been compacted by the
tramping to and fro, though where weeds have become numerous the
amount of hand-work can be considerably reduced by running the culti-
vator-or hoe along between the rows before hand-weeding between the
plants themselves is attempted ; in the last case it will often be advisable
to disturb the surface between the rows a second time after the hand-
weeding is done. The best results from weeding are obtained by doing
the work on hot sunny days. Most weeds are killed by cutting them off
just under the surface of the soil, but to thoroughly eradicate some —
couch grass and sorrel^ for instance — it is necessary to remove every
underground particle, or to cultivate persistently and repeatedly until
the roots die of exhaustion. iSTut-grass can only be controlled by frequent
cultivation.
Where irrigation is practised the drains and channels should be kept
free from weeds, otherwise the seeds will fall into the water and be dis-
tributed over the whole area irrigated.
The greatest trouble from weed-growth is experienced on the coastal
areas of the State, where the conditions are conducive to rapid growth —
conditions, by the way, that are also most favorable for early crops and
for the service of the metropolitan market.
11 Makch, 1918.] Reminders for Aj)ril. 191
REIVUNDERS fOR flPRIU.
LIVE STOCK,
Horses. — Those stabled should be fed liberally. Food of a more stimulating
nature can now be given to get them well over the " changing coat " season.
Those doing fast or heavy work should be clipped; if not wholly, then trace
high. The legs should not be clipped. Those not rugged on coming into the
stable at night sweating freely should be wiped down and in half-an-hour 's
time rugged or covered with bags until the coat is dry. Yearling colts if
vigorous and well grown may be castrated. Weaned foals should have a
little crushed oats daily, if available. Horses to be turned out during winter
should not be clipped. Their mouths and feet should be examined and attended
to where necessary.
Sheep. — Merino and fine cross ewes, if they have been mated early, will
lamb from now on. Those in lamb to the larger British breeds of rams will
give a certain amount of trouble in lambing.
Close attention should be given morning and evening to save every
lamb possible, and any ewes that may lie cast. If the ewes are well-
woolled sorts, they will need erutching for fly, at the same time clear
wool from around teats, and away from the eyes also. If the ewes are
attentive mothers any lambs that are found dead after these precautions, apart
from weather conditions, foxes, &c., are just as well gone. Give purgative
drenches at first sight of ewes appearing ill in any way. Give warm salad
oil to any lambs that are dull in appearance. Ewes after difficult parturition
or retention of after-birth can often be saved by flushing out with i oz. Lysol to
3 pints warm water. Reserve fresh pasture, or better still, sow a mixed green
crop to turn ewes into later on, but not while carrying the lambs, this is too often
injurious. On fine mornings when attending ewes, if feed is plentiful and ewes
strong castrate as many ram lambs as possible, they are easily caught when two
or three days old. Place them between the feet on the ground, no holder is
necessary. In districts where conditions make second dipping a necessity, see
that it is done before the weather becomes too unsettled.
Cattle. — As the nights become colder the dairy cows should be rugged. The
rugs should be removed in day-time when the shade temperature reaches 60
decrees. If new grass is plentiful, aive a ration of hay. or straw, whole or
chaffed, to counteract the purging effects of young grass. It will be found
profitable to give a few pounds of bran, crushed oats or pollymeal in addition to
other feed, to all cows giving a fair quantity of milk. Read article by Mr. B. A.
Barr, " Food Values and Rations," in Journal for September, 1916. Algerian
oats should be sown on suitable land for grazing oflF in the winter. Sow a
mixture of oats, rye, and tares or peas for winter fodder or to fill silos. Only
exceptional cows or those required for city milk supply should be served between
now and July. Within the next two or three months is the best time for cows
to calve, as they will pay to feed through the winter, give the best returns for
the season, and be dry when the feed is dry and at its worst. Calves should
have lucerne hay or crushed oats when crass is not plentifful.
Pigs. — Sows not already served should be put to the boar. Supply all pigs
with plenty of bedding, and see that sties are warm and well ventilated. Supply
sows liberally with grain. Castrate young boars as early as possible. Pigs
should be highly profitable now, as feed is cheap, and pork very dear. Rape,
barley (especially skinless), oats, &c., may be sown for grazing during winter.
Poultry. — Uo not feed maize this month — soft food aids moult ; add a
teaspoonful of linseed to each bird's ration once daily. The more exercise the
hens get the better they moult. Remove all male birds from pens. Add to
drinking water one packet Epsom salts to twenty birds. Keep a sharp look out
for chicken pox. Forward pullets should now be in their winter quarters, with
plenty of scratching litter, and fed liberally — including ration of animal food.
Grit shell and charcoal should always be available.
192 Journal of Ayricvltiiri', Victoria. (11 Makch, 1918.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Dig potatoes as they mature. Cart out and spread stable manure.
Finish preparation of land for main cereal crops. Sow Chou Moellier seed in
beds for transplanting. Sow the following mixture per acre for green feed
during the winter months for the dairy herd: — 1^ bushels, Oats; ^ bushel.
Cape Barley; i bushel, Tick Beans; i bushel, Pease. Sow Giant Drum-
head Cabbage for transplanting (1 lb. sufficient for 1 acre, in rows 3 feet
apart) ; provided the soil is in good friable condition, plants from seed sown
last month should be planted out. Sow wheat and oats according to locality;
also rape for winter feed or green manuring. Prepare clean seed-bed for
lucerne; and sow Hunter River, Arabian, or Peruvian seed, free from dodder,
in drills 7 inches apart and at the rate of 12-16 lbs. of seed per acre. Sow
permanent pastures with grasses and clovers.
Orchard.— Prepare land for planting; plough deeply and sub-soil. Plant
legumes for green manure. Plant out strawberries. Clean up Codlin Moth
from trees as soon as all fruit is gathered.
Flower Garden. — Plant out evergreen shrubs, trees, and Australian plants,
divisions of herbaceous plants, seedlings, layers, and rooted cuttings. Feed
chrj^santhemums with liquid manure weekly until flowers begin to open. Pre-
pare land for future planting's of roses and shrubs.
Vegetable Garden.^ — Plant out seedlings from the seed beds. Dig all vacant
spaces roughly. Sow onions for early crop; also peas and broad beans. Clean
out asparagus beds wherever the seeds are ripening.
ViNEYABD. — Examine " Yema " grafts to see if strings require cutting. Con-
sideration must be given to manuring; early application is strongly urged. Peas,
&c., for green manuring should be sown as soon as possible.
Cellars. — Cleanliness is emphatically urged. Carefully remove all fer-
mentable refuse — skins, lees, skimmings, &c. Such odds and ends favour
multiplication of Vinegar Flies (Drosophila funebris). If present destroy
these with formalin or insecticide powders. A little bisulphite or sul-
phurous acid in washing water is recommended; also free use of lime on
floors, &c.
<^y(K3^
11 March, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Q^
ETTERSBURGH"
I
NEW AMERICAN
TREE STRAWBERRY
THIS new Strawberry, introduced from America some years ago, has proved
itself to be the premier cropper and money producer on the market to-day.
It grows to a height of 2 ft., producing an abundance of firm berries of
delicious flavour and fine dessert quality. The fruit hangs in bunches on strong stems
well clear of the ground, obviating the necessity, in most cases, of strawing. For
jam making and canning purposes, this Strawberry is far ahead of anything previously
known, as the berries remain whole after boiling. The plant is very deep rooting,
and is more able to withstand drought than any other variety. It is also frost resisting.
Brings 50 per cent, more on the market than any other Strawberry. The demand
is tremendous! Secure yours NOW! Price, 12/6 per dozen; 45,- for 50;
80/- per 100. Packing and carriage extra.
We are Sole Agents for Victoria and Tasmania.
LAW, SOMNER & CO.
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston Street, Melbourne
Established 1850
Telephone Central 729
Nurseries — Orrong Road, Armadale, Adjoining Toorak Railway Station
Joiirrtdl of A f// Icidture, Victoria.
[11 March, 191 8.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
Red Poll Dairy Herd
This Herd's Record under the Government Herd Test, including all dairy
breeds, is the third best in the State. It contains the first cow in order of
merit amongst all breeds for 1914-15, and the third for 1915-16; also the
Winner of the Weekly Times Butter Test at the Melbourne Royal Show, 1916
See Individual Records of Cows on opposite page.
Proof of DUAL PURPOSE CHARACTER is given by the Price* for Culled Cowi in
the Fat Stock Market reaching to £27 lOt. and £29 lOs.; by a cow yielding 1,000 gallons of
milk containing 448 lbs. butter in a year and selling at butcher's auction for £22 7s. 6d.;
and by cows in milk weighing upwards of 1,500 lbs. live weight.
The Bulls in Use include
LONGFORD MAJOR (Imported)
Dam's Record 14713 lbs. milk
G. Dam's „ 10548 „
6 years average 10548 lbs. milk
4 „ .. 9155 ..
BELLIGERENT (Imported)
Dam's Record (1st milking) 7144 lbs. milk.
4 years average 12871 lbs. milk
9354
8033
9386
8853
9754
Dam's Dam's ,
14533 lbs. milk .
4 yea
Sire's Dam's
. 10370 ,.
• 7 „
Sire's D. Dam's
9510 „ .
. 12 „
G. Sire's D. Dam's
. 10215 „ .
. 7 „
G.G. Sire's D. Dam's
12565 „ ..
. 10 .,
G.G.G. Sire's D. Dam's
10088 „
. 2 „
BULL, CALVES are sold at prices based approximately on the actual milk and butter
fat record of the dam at the rate of Is. per lb. of butter fat yielded.
(NOTE. — All the bull calves of 1916 drop have been sold, and choices from cows to calve
this season have" been booked ahead of calving. The demand for bull calves is so strong
that farmers contemplating purchase are advised to study the records of the herd published
in the February (1917) Journal of Agriculture and book their orders ahead, stipulating
choice of bull calves from, say, three of the recorded cows.)
Inspection of the Herd is invited.
Visitors will be met at the Station on notification to : —
Mr. R. R. KERR, Dairy Supervisor i
or , State Research Farm, Werribee.
Mr. ED. STEER, Herdsman j
Application for purchase to DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE.
11 March, 1918.]
Journal of Affiicultu/e, Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls
MILK RECORDS
Th« Hsaret below refer to the cow's best lactatioQ period. Details of each cow'i yearly performanc*
■ince the ehta'iUNhment of the herd are given in the Journal for February. 1917.
Each cetr'i averatei for all lactatioo periodt will be forBiibed oa appilcalion to the Director o( Agricultiir*.
COWS
NAMES.
Days
Weeks
Milk,
Average
Butter
in Milk.
in Milk.
in lbs.
Test.
Fat (lb8.)
365
52
14,972
5 9
885
365
52
9,146
6-5
597
365
52
11,506
4-3
490
289
4U
7,750
6-2
485
351
50
9,607
4-9
480
337
48
10,464
4-5
478
321
45i
10,928
4 3
469
344
49
10,252
4-4
457
348
49^
10,607
41
437
290
41i
9,232
4 6
431
365
52
9,172
4-7
427
327
46J
10,646
3 9
418
365
52
8,213
4 9
400
282
40i
8,641
4-6
400
365
52
8,525
4-6
392
365
52
8,556
4-6
391
347
49i
8,765
4-4
387
338
48
9,893
3 9
382
362
51i
8,415
4-4
378
365
52
8,490
4-4
371
365
52
8,060
4 4
353
329
47
6,712
6 13
344
334
m
6,802
4-8
326
283
40
7,483
4 33
323
279
39|
6,395
4 9
316
329
47
7,637
3 9
301
365
52
6,198
4 73
294
279
39i
5,033
4-9
292
311
44i
6,706
4-2
283
344
49
7,094
4 0
283
301
43
5,286
4-84
256
365
52
6,574
3 6
242
303
43
5,082
4-72
240
325
46
5,112
4 52
231
276
39
4,918
407
200
Commercial
Butter (lbs.)
Price of
Bull Calf.
Muria
Birdscye
Netherlana
Vuelta . .
Persica . .
Cuba
Bullion . .
Virginia. .
Pennsylvania
Sumatra
Violet III.
Egypta . .
Pliillipina
Mexicana
Lily . .
India
Europa . .
Kentucky
Goldleaf
Picotee . .
Primrose League
(imp.)
La Reina
Pipio
Mongolia
Turka . .
Britannia
Samorna
Asiana . .
Tennessee
Alpina . .
Sylvia . .
Hispana
Africana
Tasmania
Canada . .
1,008
683
560
553
547
545
535
520
499
492
488
477
466
456
448
445
441
435
431
424
403
394
372
369
360
343
335
333
322
322
292
276
274
264
228
HEIFERS (Ist Milking completed, 1915-16)
Carribea
Japana . .
Serbia . .
Itala
Oceana . .
Russia . .
Panama
Ontario
Soudana
Pacifica
Laurel ..,
Barbery
Congo . ,
365
52
7,142
4 35
310
354
357
51
7,788
3 63
283
322
365
52
6,092
4-45
271
309
365
52
6,346
409
260
297
365
52
6,247
4 11
256
292
365
52
6,413
3 96
254
290
288
41
5,997
4 23
254
290
365
52
6,059
4 15
251
286
346
49
5,486
4-54
249
284
365
62
4,979
4-88
243
278
325
46
5,554
4-86
226
257
359
51
5,387
3-72
200
228
. 296
42
4.449
4-21
187
213
43 Guineas
29
24
24 „
23
23
23
22
21
21
21
20
19
19
19
19
19
19
18
18
36
17
16
16
15
16
14 „
14
14
14
12
12
12
11
10
16 Quineaa
14
13
13
12
12
12
12
12 ..
12
11
10
10 ..
Journul of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 March, 1918.
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T.A.J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Caniiodii.
5. CIDER MAKING. '. Knight.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pexcott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Ki'.i.yuii, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smill,.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. 0. II. F. Uiker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. //. '/'. E,uterb>i.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cniiiefoii, D.V.Sc, M.K.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawem.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. Baxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T.A.J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
J>r. S. S. Cameron and others.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Mi'cklmj.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. ir. .1. .V. Eotn'rtxon. D. V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
.■1. E. V. liirhardsnn. M.A., D.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. /. G. Tun,er.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1913-14. W. A. y. rinl,ert>.o!t, E. I"..SV.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING. ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. li. Beahm^
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
-1914-15. ir. .4. N. Hobert.wn, B.V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. 1^'. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transfeniiiy
Bees, Feeding Cows for Milk Production, Sulphic-
inR, Some Vinta<fe Considerations, Sjiriii^ Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato.
A PROMINENT FARMER'S
OPINION OF
"Mitchell"
Harvesters
" From the time the three "Mitchell" 6 ft.
Harvesters were started till they finished
950 acres, we never had a single hitch or
stop with any one of them. The crop
went up to 12 bags to the acre, and they
made a remarkably good sample, and pull
easy. Four horses would pull them but
with five horses a good pace can be kept
up all day. I have worked and owned
various other popular makes of Harvesters,
but I can honestly and consc'entiously say
the "Mitchell" is absolutely the best, and
1 must compliment your firm on turning
out such a good and reliable machine. I
can honestly recommend the "Mitchell"
Harvester to any farmer wanting a machine
as an excellent one."
H. A. PAECH. Walla Walla. N.S.W.
As these 3 "Mitchell's" handled
this 950-acre 1 S-bag crop with-
out a single hitch, don't you
think it's safe to handle yours?
Ask for Catalogues of our Farm and Dairy
Machines, and please say you saw this Ad.
ITCHELL
& Co. Pty. Ltd.
WEST FOOTSCRAY, MELBOURNE
SHOWROOM: 596 BOURKE STREET. MELBOURNE
And at Bay-street, Sydney.
Agencies in all Chief Towns.
]1 March, 1918.]
Journal of Af/ricullurc, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MELBOURNE. VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA
NOW AVAILABLE
BULLETIN 31
ee-E.eeping m
Victor!
By F. R. BEUHNE,
: Government ApicuUurist.
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated)
dealing with various phases of Bee-keeping, and specially
adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING
Postage: Commonwealth, Id.; New Zealand, 2^d. ; British & Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
"\
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Citrus Growers
LIMITED NUiVlBERS OF
CITRUS TREES
ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
THE VARIETIES ARE WASHINGTON NAVELS, VALENCIA LATE, EUREKA, and LISBON
Price, £6 per Hundred
f.o.r. at WAHGUNYAH.
An amount of 10s. for each hundred ordered is to accompany applications, and the balance, £5 10s.
for each hundred, is to be paid when consignees give directions to have consignments forwarded.
A charge of 2/3 per hundred will be made for packing unless the casings be returned.
Applications musl be made on the official order forms, which may be obtained from The Director,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or from the Citrus Nursery, Wahgunyah.
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be complied with by applicants,
are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
Joiirvnl of Afjriculliirc, Vicloria. [11 March, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of
all kinds, Dairy Farmers and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breedin
Record Bo
Comprising Table of Service and Due
Dates, Females with Record of Progeny,
Sires with Record of Service, General
Service Record, Pedigree Charts, Milk
Fat and Butter Records for Dairy Stock
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is
strongly bound in half leather. A limited number available.
Price, 10/6
Postage — Victoria 1/6, other States and N. Zealand 2/8 extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and
Postage, to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made By Post Office Order.
1 M
ARCH, 1018.]
.Journal nf A fjricnlture, Victorin.
xxni
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kmgdom and foreign
countries. Single copy, 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7, 8, and 9 (July, August, and September) out of print; V. (1907), and VI.
(1908), 12 parts each; VII. (1909), 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print ; and VIll. (1910), 12 pans, are at present in stock, and
wH! be supplied at the foregoing rates. The parts forming the current volume may also
be obtained. A few bound copies of Volumes VIII .( 19 10), IX. (1911), 11 parts,
exclusive of February, X. (1912), 6 parts, exclusive of January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), II paits, exclusive of June, are at
present available. Price, 5s. per volume. Postage: C, 3.id.; N.Z., lb. 2d.;
B. & F.. 2s. 4d.
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp., 200 illustrations. 2
6d. Postage: C, cloth 2]d. , paper
. , cloth Is. 6d. , paper Is. 4d.
£1 Is. Postage: C..5d.; N.Z. lOd.;
OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2s. 6d.
coloured plates. Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d. , paper 8d. ; B. & F
AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. By Dr. Cooke.
B. & F., Is. 8d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION
Postage, I d .
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), 1/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet. 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly " or " Weekly."
By Professor A. ]. Eioart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS, AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C, IJd-; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F.. lOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II.. lOs. Postage : C, 2d.:
N.Z.,8d.; B. & F.. Is. 4d.
By C. French, F. E. S. , Government Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Pa
each. Postage : Parts I. and III., C. Id.; N.Z,
II. and IV.. C. lid.; N.Z.. 4d. ; B. & F.. 8d
4d.; B. & F.. 7d.
ts I.,
11., III., IV.
. v..
2s. 6d.
3d.;
B. & F., 6d.
each.
Parts
each.
Part v.. C.
Id.;
N.Z..
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
V
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 March, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
V.V _ . J
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES.
FACILITIES
are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the various kinds of
produce, so that dired shipments on their own account may be under-
taken. The Government ownership and condud of Cool Stores places
producers in an independent position, and, m addition, preserves an
open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in perishable
produdts.
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
will receive, handle, freeze, sLore, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs,
Fruit, Meat, Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for
producers and exporters.
PRODUCE
to the value of over £27,000,000 has been treated at the Govern-
ment Cool Stores,
Government Cool Stores. Telephones.
■) Office: 10383 Central
VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley Street) j £„,,_.,,.cw,e . 10382
Doncaster - - 397 Canterbury
Diamond Creek - - 151 Heidelberg
Tyabb - -
SCALE OF CHARCiES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telepiione 93 80 CentraL
By Authority: Albeht J. Hullett, (ioveriuneiit I'liDtii, MlUji.uiih
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
POULTRY FOR SETTLERS
Cockerels and Pullets
Bred from the following matlngs
WYUNA WHITE LEGHORNS-DISTINCT STRAINS
each
Wyuna Special Mating - - - - - £l 1 0
Cosh No. 1 Special - - - - - -110
Subiaco No. 1 Special - - - - -110
Cosh-Swift X Moritz 110
Cosh-Swift X Fulham Park - - - - - 1 1 0
A limited number of Cockerels from Trap-nested Hens
(250 upwards) x Moritz Cocks - - - 2 2 0
The Moritz Cocks are full brothers to the sire of pullet which laid 315 eggs at
Bendigo Single Pen Competition, 1916-17 — World's Record.
Orders may now be booked from the Poultry Pens
at the Wyuna Farm for delivery from March, 1918
RHODE ISLAND RED COCKERELS
£1 : 1 : O £2 : 2 : O
Note.-W. N. O'Mullane's Champion Burnley Pen (19I4-19I5), which
established the still unbeaten world's record of 1,699 eggs, was the progeny of a
hen hatched from a Wyuna sitting. This pen recently realized £75
VICTORIAN ^^^3W RAILWAYS
SUMMER
EXCURSIONS
The Victorian Railways issue Summer Excursion Fares to the
Seaside, Mountains, Rivers, Lakes, and Caves,
from 15th November till 30th April.
MOUNT BUFFALO
Excursion Fares all the year
round.
First-CIass Special Inclusive
Week Tickets
covering Transport and Accommoda-
tion, at " The Government Chalet,"
are issued on Mondays by the
6.15 a.m. train, and on Fridays by
the 4 p.m. Express train, at £6
Excursionists wishing to travel by motor
from Bright may do so, weather permitting,
on payment at Bright of 5/- extra.
Special Inclusive Week
Excursion Tickets
all including Accommodation, &c.
HEALESVILLE
Rail, Coach Drives, &c., 7 days, £3 31-
WARBURTON
Rail, Coach Drives, &c., 7 days, £3 SI-
MOUNT BUFFALO
See other side.
Write to the Government Tourist
Bureau for full particulars.
Victorian Government Tourist Bureau
Opposite Town Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne
FuU Information supplied in regard to Excursions, Tourist
Resorts, Accommodation, &c. Tickets issued daily.
Handbook,s, Maps, and Hotel Guides Free on application.
Telephone Nos. 2S98
and 2899 Central.
GEO. H. SUTTON.
Secretary for Railways.
Vol. XVI.
THE ADVANTAGES OF
HERD TESTING.
Part 4.
[Registered at the General Post Ottice, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 6/-.)
Quality
that
Make
Certain
For over sixty-five years BRUNNING'S Incomparable
Seeds have consistently maintained an unexcelled
standard of quality. Added to this unique benefit is
unusually liberal prices. You will find us ever
ready to answer your enquiries, and, where possible,
forward you samples— gratis. Command us —
personally, or by post.
Berseem Clover!
As lucerne grows during summer so does
Brunning's Berseem Clover grow dur-
ing winter- In all respects Berseem Clover
is one of the most profitable crops known 1
Makes excellent pasture ! Splendid green
feed ! Unequalled as a predecessor to
Lucerne ! Can be plowed in as green
manure ! Gives six cuttings a season !
Write to-day for samples and full particulars-
Trifolium
Subterraneum !
Why let your land go to waste just because
it IS hard, dry, or gravelly? By sowmg
Brunning's Trifolium Subterraneum
you will soon have an abundance of excel-
lent pasture. Highly nutritious 1 Thrives
magnificently on practically all soils ! Par-
ticularly appreciated by all stock- Samples
and quotations — gratis. Write to-day-
Victoria Seed Warehouse. 64 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne.
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPAP.TMENT OF AGRICULTURR,
VICTOI^I^A-, -A."0"STI?,A.LI A..
CONTENTS.— APRIL, 1918.
Tlie Advantages of Herd Testin ;■
Apple Culture in Victoria
Furniture and Timber Boring Insects
Wheat Manurial Trials ...
Silo for Ensilage or Grain
Standardized Packing and Grading ot Frait
Lectures, Farmers' Classes, &c. ...
Stallion Parades -Time-Table' for 1918 ...
Planting and Rec.institution of Vineyard--
Orchard and Garden Notes
Reminders
H.A.
J. S. McFadzean
J. Farrell
C. French, Jan.
Mullelt, B.Afj.Sc.
J. Wilson
Ernest Meeking
l'.\UK.
193
204
214
222
228
236
240
244
247
249
255
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
Tlie Articles in the Journal of the Department of Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by tlie provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wisliing
to republisii un\' matter are at liberty to tlo so, provided the Journal and author are
both acknowledged.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per annum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
5s. for the United Kingdom and Foreign Countries. Single copy, Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
Journal of A(/ricii?ti(re, Victor/a.
[10 April, 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Including Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID, G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES,
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
Inspe<5lion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
"BUNDOORA.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springhurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply—
C GORDON LYON,"Banyule; Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To O'wners of Pedigreed Stock of all
kinds. Dairy Farmers, and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
:: :: Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock :: ::
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather.
DwJ— _ 1 f\ //? A limited number available.
IT rice, lU/O Postage— Victoria and other States 1/6, New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 April, 1918.]
Journal of Agricultvre, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. MELBOURNE. VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA,
NOW AVAILABLE .-. BULLETIN SI.
BEE-KEEPING in VICTORIA
By F. R. BEUHNE, Government Apiculturist.
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated) dealing with various phases of
BEE-KEEPING, and specially adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING. Postage: Commonwealth, Id. ; New Zealand. 2|d. ; British and Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 190S
448 Pages
200 Illustrations
2 Coloured Plates
rintK ?« firl • nan^r 7« RA Postage .• C. doth Z'.d.. paper 2d.: N.Z.. doth 9d..
\„ioin, OS. DO. , paper, ^s. oa. ^^p^, sj . b. and f., doth is. 6d„ paper, u. 4d.
This Journal
offers exceptional
: : advantages : :
To Stock Owners,
Produce Agents
and Stock Sales-
men, Implement
Makers, Sellers
of Milking Ma-
chines and Dairy
Utensils, Orchard
Appliances and
Materials, and all
Farmers' Supplies
for Advertising
10,000 copies per month Guaranteed
Circulation throughout the Country
Districts of Victoria and amongst
Farmers of the Commonwealtli, leach-
ing al.so country i)rofessional men,
tradesmen, schoolmasters, teachers,
and the like. Exceptionally satisfac-
tory results have followed the adver-
tising of Stud Stock in this Journal.
SfSir^S'^^^^^^ Mr. J. J. WRIGHT and Mrs. HEMMING
c/o Editor, Department of Agriculture. Melbourne.
Jomiial of AyriciiltKre, Victoria.
[10 April, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. McALPINE.
government vegetable pathologist.
With Appendices by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologist),
CD Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTernment
Entomologist), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
235 Paget (Cloth). 58 Full Plates.
176 Illustrations.
Pfi<»a ^ /- Postage: Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealand, 8d.
rriLC, *-»/- British and Foreign, 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director Ot
Agriculture, Melbourtie, Victoria. Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and W. Percy Wilkinson.)
IVINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postage: C, l^d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, la.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOIIiING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEW METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION TVITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, lid. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON 'WINE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, jd. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage:
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
Bu D. Mc Alpine. GovernmenI Vegetable Pathologist. —
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Postage: C, 26.-, N.Z., 8d. ; B. & F., Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C. lid.; N.Z., 9d.; B. & F., Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. Postage: C. Id.; N.Z..
3d.; B. & F.. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C, lid. :
N.Z.. 5d. : B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage: C. 2d.; N.Z..
8d. : B. & F., Is. 4d.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Chequt eovering price and postage to bt forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Pott Office Order.
10 April, 1918.]
Journal of Aijricii/tiire, Victoria.
Look to Your Farm Buildings
Before the Wet Weather sets in
SPECIAL NEW HORSE AND COW RUG CATALOGUE. We have just issued a
priced catalogue of cattle rugs and sundry goods of a similar nature. We shall be
pleased to post you a copy on receipt of your name and address. : : : : ;
The Really Efficient Type of Roof
for Farm Buildings is
Certain -teed
Certain-teed stands out conspicuously
for Quality, Satisfaction & Economy.
Costs less to buy and less to lay than most
other types of roofing. It does not rust,
is proof against gases, coal smoke, acid
fumes, &c. It is a non-conductor of heat
and cold, a fire retardant, and is completely
weather proof. Compare the quality of
Certain-teed with other roofings, then look
at the price. Certain-teed is a First
Quality Roofing at a second-grade price.
PRICE
1 Ply.
2 Ply.
3 Ply
37 6
47/6
Per Roll.
55/-
Sufficient Nails and Cement, and Direc-
tions for Laying, Free with each Roll.
If you are building, or need a new roof, it
will pay you to investigate CERTAIN-
TEED before finally deciding.
A coat of Paint will give a new
lease of life to your Buildings.
The Paint to Please is
BERGERS
PREPARED
Made in Australia and equal to the best
imported. B.P. Berger's Paint (prepared)
is a carefully manufactured, ready-to-use
paint, designed for inside and outside paint-
ing of all kinds of buildings. It is more
efficient than any paint made from lead and
oil bought separately and mixed by hand,
because not only do the great Berger Mills
mix and grind much finer than is possible by
hand, but every ingredient is carefully tested
for purity. The lead, zinc, linseed oil, and
colours are all closely examined so that each
ingredient is absolutely right before mixing.
Fmally, B.P. is carefully tested under
actual painting conditions by practical
painters to insure its colour, consistency, and
covering capacity being up to the standard.
Special Paints for Baths, Roofs,
Implements, &c.
Write for further particulars and colour card
PRICES ON APPLICATION
Catalogues and Price Lists Post Free
324-330 Pitt Street
Sydney
391-403 Bourke Street
Melbourne
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Pluming, &c., &c.
Vi
Jour7ud of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 April, 1918.
Two Separators with One Message
Save ! Save ! Save !
The "Viking"
Costs half the price of other high grade separators, which it beats
hands down for durability and efficiency. It skims every particle
of cream. The bowl is self-balancing, plates are shaped. There
are no discs to bend or get lost. Cleaning is easy and thorough.
A Month's Free Trial
given with every separator. Return at our expense if you are not satisfied. Made in various sizes.
I 5 galls, per hour to 115 galls, per hour. Two years' guarantee given with every machine.
Can be purchased for £1 Deposit, and £1 Monthly. Send for special catalog.
Last 400 "Favorite" Separators at present prices
These have just been landed. Future shipments will carry a big increase in price.
Buy one now and save pounds. The " Favorite" is the best household separator
for the man with one or two cows. A boy can turn it, and it works perfectly. Full
skimming capacity guaranteed. Only two parts in bowl. Easy to clean. Solid,
compact, strong, & efficient. This last 400 are sure to sell rapidly. Secure yours now.
No. 1 — 11 gal. per hour
No. 2—15 gal. per hour
Terms —£ 1 down
£ 1 monthly
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
no -114 Sturt Street, South Melbourne
Agent for Tangye Oil, Steam, and Gas Engines
TOXA
NO
Danger
of
FIRE!
THE WELL-KNOWN
RABBIT DESTROYER
In 2 lb. Tins, 30/- per doz.
FELTON, GRIMWADE, & CO., Melbourne
10 April. 1918.]
Jouriml of Agriculttire, Victoria.
What
Can
You
Do
with this Six-In-One
Tool?
With the
STEWART HANDY WORKER
YOU CAN sharpen knives, meat choppers and
other kitchen cutting tools. YOU CAN sharpen
axe. chisel, and other wood or metaJ cutting tools.
YOU CAN bend or cut iron or lead pipe, and
do an emergency job of plumbing. YOU CAN
file down a piece of metal, trim or cut down a piece
of wood, can bore a hole in wood, leather or metal,
can clip a piece of wire or metal. YOU CAN
be your own smithy, doing your own ironwork ; can
mend waggons and other vehicles, and do a lot of
repair work on your own place, that you must now
send to the blacksmiths shop. There are many
other useful things that you can do with this wonder.
fully convenient household necessity. Price, £4 5/-
Illustrated Handy Worker Book Free
MS^PRersoiV^
•"^^ Proprietary Ltd.
Collins St., Melbourne
Established 58 Years
CREDIT FONCIER
Loans on Farms
UP TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATION
In sums from £50 to £2,000
At 6 per cent. Interest
and from \\ percent, in reduction of principal, which payi off the loan
in n\ years.
Loans granted on Freeholds, or Crown Leaseholds which could be
made hreehold at any time on payment of the balance of Crown Rents.
No Charge for Mortgage Deed
Loans may be paid off on any half-yearly pay day, subject to a small
charge if paid off within the first five years, but no penalty after five years.
Forms may be obtained at any Branch of the State Savings Bank, or
by writing to —
The Inapector-General, The State Savings Bank,
ELJZABETH STREET, MELBOURNE.
Jnuriuil of Af/ricultnre, ]' irforift.
[10 April, 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Proyides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Edacation.
Notable AKriculturUt* say that thii College offer* the beet
agricultural education and practical training in the world.
The Seiiion* commence MARCH and SEPTEMBER, and Student* wamj be enrolled at anT time.
£25/-/- per annum.
Alternative Coareet — Total Feea
(a) Diploma Course — Three Years,
(i) One Year's Course.
The CoHege coDtains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hail, single bedrooms, recreatioa and
sports grounds.
Of the 5.9)3 acres o( farm land at Doolue, 1,000 acres were put under crop by students Ust season; and chuapion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS.— Agriculture, Animal Huabandry. Poultry, Fruit Growing.
Butter and Chee*e Factory Management, Building Conitruction for Farmer*.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER.
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 ye«n of age.
AREA OF FARM. 2.336 ACRES.
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing. Fat Lamb Raiaiac. Dairyiu.
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit, &c.
Total Fees— i52S per annum.
FM parttcnlars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS. Esq.. Sect <>tary. Council of Agricultural EdaMtioB.
Department of Agriculture. Melbourne, or the Principal* of the Colleges.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Auslpalasian Mutual Insurauee
Society ltd.
400-2 Collins St,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire. MariDC, Fidelity Gaaraatee. Plata
Clara. Penenal Accident aid Sickaen,
Emplereri' Liability, Workaen'* CaarcB-
•atiaa. Pablic Risk, Matar Car. aid Barclary.
1
vr- INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIOHROURS
10 April, 1918.]
JoKiiud of Agriciiliuie, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Carron
Boxes &. Oil Caps.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
etood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wheels Guaraoteed for 3 years against Breakage, &c.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. 1^ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36' and 32' dia. 4' Tyres. Table, 9} x '4 feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 cwt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 cwt.
These Wheel* are guaranteed and will last for all time.
Hightr Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to tO torn.
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP — Truck body, and all classes of little Wagons for Farm and Station work.
Wasons Shipped to all Ports in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: :: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
LIVE STOCK OWNERS
You know what a good thing whole Linseed is for Stock.
MEGGITTS a UNSEED MEAL
is ALL Pure Linseed
Nothing whatever is added to it. It is ground up fine.
It is cooked and all ready for immediate use. No boihng is necessary.
IT IS NO TROUBLE TO FEED TO CALVES,
COWS, HORSES, PIGS, SHEEP & POULTRY
It is recognised throughout the world as the very best obtainable food for Stock.
AND the price is on Rails, Melbourne
lOO lbs. 11/6 SO ibs. 6/- 20 lbs. 2/6
Obtainable from all Stores and Butter Factories.
In country districts sufficient only is charged by your Storekeeper to cover the cost of freight
to your district.
Dept. A, Full particulars for Feeding all Stock.
HARRISONS, RAMSAY, Ply. Ltd.,^^„fBfBouRNE:
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 April, 1918.
W » W 581
Fig. 233. Ornamental
Handgate. 4 ft high
Fig- 211 Ornamental Fig. 188b. OrnamenUI
Handgate 4 ft. high Handgate. 4 ft. high
CYCLONE PTY. LTD. '-^^ZVtlVtTn^r^
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
-Propy. Ltd.-
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and tORNINA MANUFACTURERS
■ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR
GRAIN TO US.
t
BOX 53.
G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
4
10 April, 1918.] JournuJ of Agriculture, Victoria.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
me^i^mmta
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If YOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
Jour mil of A (/ririi/f i/rr, Virtoria.
[10 April, 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Elxecutors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and ManaKing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD, E»q.. LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE. E«q.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE, M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN. E«q. DAVID HUNTER. E»q.
This Company Acts as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trustee sf
Settlements, and Agent for Absentees under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices— 113 Queen St. (Corner of Little Collins-st.), Melbourne
MONKEY " =^T= " WALLABY " JACKS
For
GRUBBING
TREES
and
STUMPS
and
_ GENERAL
HEAVY
LIFTING
Oar complete illattrated catalog is free, if you have one uie it, if yon baven't WRITE US TO-DAT!
TREWHELLA BROS. Pty. Ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
from a Vi(5torian Deposit.
%
..j,js,«jivi >' . >'-'*.iV,ii':Kti3f)?iai'^
CROP CTROWN AT BRIDGEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orders can now be supplied and full information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy. Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
10 April, 1918.]
Joiiriml of Ar/riculftire, Victoria.
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
BURNT LILYDALE LIME
FOR THE LAND
Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should try it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Innmediate. The demand for Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Lilydale Lime.
ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide.
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, ,,Jt>r.. OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works— Cave Hill, Lilydale, Tel. Lilydale 4. Tel. Central 5726.
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Off ic<
LONDON
Melbourne Office
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Batter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Accoant
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Cbiei AcemU in Victoria f«r tke PAUTINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
Journal of Af/rini/ture, Victoria. [10 April. 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
The New Stores at Victoria Dock
have a capacity of 600,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 300,000 boxes
of butter, or 200,000 cases of fruit, or
270,000 carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the buildmg, or conveyed from the chambers
direct into the ship's hold. Electric motor power totals 880 H.P.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected with the Cool Stores by direct lines ; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated m close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable products are provided.
Expert Officers are connected with every Branch, so that
any one requiring information regarding the production, preparation, and
shipment of produce can rely upon being promptly supplied with up-to-
date information upon all matters.
10 April, 1918.]
Journal of A(/ricultnre, Victoria.
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
Aad Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
*!• \-^V-I^IVOlLiLij Manufacturer
OFFICE: 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. TeUphoae 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
"
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES. SHEDS, Ac
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL OUTSIDE PAINTING
Wholesale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS
OblainabU
from all
Storekeeper!
_
BROO
KS, ROBINSON & C<
D. Ltd.
^ YES, I AM SURE
Your eyes are under a constant strain all day ; they are
your most valuable possession, and neglect in
the early stages may lead to eye strain.
DAIRY AND INCUBATOR THERMOMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.D.
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
•PHONE 6778
for an appointment.
Estab.
32 Years
E.WOOD,
EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
95 Elizabeth St., Meib.
LIVERPOOL.
I
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted in all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are eligible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointments in the
Commonwealth and State Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full particulars apply —
The DIRECTOR, Veterinary School, PARKVILLE, VICTORIA
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
SEED POTATOES
FOR SALE
Selected, Immature Seed Potatoes
of the following varieties, ex Depart-
mental Plots at Leongatha: —
Scottish Triumph - \
Up-to-Date - - / Sh-
earman No, 1 - per cwt.
Coronation - - \ , ^•°'^'
I Leongatha
Clark^s Main Crop
Arran Chief - -\ per cwt.
f.o.r., Leongatha
Application to be made to the
Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
TH6 JOURNAL
OF
^fie department of Mgricufture
07
VICTORIA. ftoTAHiCAU
Vol. XVI. Part 4. 10th April, 1918.
THE ADVANTAGES OF HERD-TESTINGl.
By J. S. McFadzean, Senior Dairy Supervisor.
It would be rash for any one to prophesy the length of time required
to bring about definite changes in agricultural method, even where the
alterations must assuredly result in a profitable monetary return. The
conservativeness of our farmers has frequently been illustrated in
different branches of farm practice, wherein the Department of Agri-
culture has advocated alteration or improvement of method in order to
bring about increased production. Too frequently the result has been
that, although even a small trial of an innovation demonstrated the
wisdom of the Departmental recommendation, the farming community
generally has proved very slow to listen to the advice offered.
The testing and certification of pure-bred dairy cows is one of these
Government departures which at first made little headway, but which is
being more widely recognised every year as highly profitable work to all
dairy-farmers having the foresight to take advantage of it.
It was in November, 1910, that an article was published in this
Journal pointing out that by failing to keep records of the milk and
butter-fat yields of their cows, breeders of high-class dairy stock were
neglectful of a profitable part in their business. The point overlooked
was the fact that buyers of young bulls for the improvement of ordinary
dairy herds were calling for such dairy records as a guide in making
their purchases. "Within six months of the publication of the article,
the matter had been given thorough consideration by several members of
the Royal Agricultural Society, with the result that the Department of
Agriculture was asked to arrange and carry out a scheme whereby
authenticated milking records of pure-bred cows could be obtained. Such
a scheme was drawn up, approved by the Minister of Agriculture, and
published for the information of pure stock-breeders. The first test was
3975.
194 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
conducted during 1912-13, and the fifth annual report on Pedigree Herd-
testing Avas placed on record by the Chief Veterinary Officer in thitJ
Journal in September last.
During the past year twenty-four breeders of pure dairy stock
submitted their herds to this Government testing, and there is every
indication that this number will rapidly be added to. Buyers looking
for complete milking records in the pedigrees of pure-bred dairy stock
can now be supplied, and consequently Government-tested cattle have a
much enhanced value as breeding stock. Young bulls bred from cattle
hall-marked by having Government herd-testing records in their pedi-
grees are in high demand, and there is no doubt that the work done by
the Chief Veterinary Officer and his staff in carrying out this scheme
must be a strong factor towards increasing the future production of dairy
produce in this State, both in total bulk and individual cow returns.
Even those breeders who so far have not brought their herds under this
Government test are very much alive to what is being done, and the test-
ing of pure-bred stud dairy cows by their owners may be said to be now
almost universally practised in this State, and with at least some desire
for thoroughness.
Even under the Departmental system the owner of each herd is
actually responsible for the regular daily weighing of the milk yield of
each of the cows tested. This, however, is checked by officers of the
J)epartment also taking the weights at irregular intervals, and when
taking samples of each cow's milk for the monthly butter-fat test. Thus
the Department is able to vouch for the accuracy of the work done by the
owniers, and the annual publication in this Jouriial of the names and per-
formances of all certificated cows and heifers places the detailed infor-
mation of the tests at the service of all who are interested in it.
These records are of special value in making dairy-farmers ac-
quainted with the milking capabilities of the several breeds of pure
stock. In the Government test no cow over four years old is granted a
certificate unless she has produced 250 lbs. of butter fat in the nine
months' milking term. On a 4 per cent, butter-fat basis this is equal
to 62.5 gallons of milk, or a daily average of 2\ gallons for the whole
nine months. This 9 quarts a day average for nine consecutive months
is not an extraordinarily high standard, yet how many herds other than
those owned by breeders of pure stock have cows giving this quantity 1
Last year's records show that 146 stud cows over four years old,
25 cows on their second calf, and 42 heifers on their first calf all exceeded
this 250 lbs. butter-fat standard. The whole of the 55 certificated
heifers gave an average of 272 lbs. of butter fat per head, the 33 second-
calf cows averaged 303 lbs. per head, and the 146 cows over four years
old averaged 336 lbs. per head for the nine months' terra. The whole
of the 234 cows and heifers gaining the certificate during last year gave
an average of 317 lbs. of butter fat in their nine months' term, and for
cows getting nothing more in the way of feeding than they should get
in ordinary dairy-farm treatment, this is a very satisfactory perform-
ance, and one that should prove very interesting to all dairy-farmers.
When it is remembered that the estimated average yield from the
whole of the milking cows in the State is under 150 lbs. of butter fat
per year, it is very plain that there must be thousands of very poor-
quality cattle in milk to drag the average down as low as this, and the
10 April, 1918.] The Advantages of Herd Testing. 195
owners of these unprofitable stock must every year be losing much
money and time by retaining them in their herds.
To consider the situation properly, let us recognise that the grazing
of each cow will cost not less than 9d. per week. A man who Avill milk
25 cows is worth fully 22s. 6d. a week and his keep — say not less than
35s. per week altogether, which is equal to about Is. 5d. per cow. Graz-
ing and milking thus costs, at the very lowest estimate, not less than
2s. 2d. per cow per week, and assuming the commercial value of butter
fat to be Is. per lb., it will be seen that the owner of a cow yielding
150 lbs. will have as profit something less than 9d. per cow per week, or
38s. per year, without making any allowance for upkeep of plant or culti-
vation of feed. Yet there are many cows, more or less hand-fed, which
do not give 150 lbs. of butter fat per year in return. It is very evident
that no one can hire labour and make dairying profitable with cows of
this class ; and the question every dairy-farmer should settle is, " How
many of these inferior dairy stock is he keeping ? "
It is by no means unusual to read accounts in newspapers of the
hardships of poor Gippsland dairy-farmers, who are said to be struggling
against starvation in their endeavour to make a living from dairying.
But what is not told is the fact that the " strugglers " amongst dairy-
farmers are invariably people who expect to make a success of dairying
without any system of working. Hundreds of people keep cows for
dairy work and never grow an acre of green fodder for them. How
many are there who never weigh or test the milk from any of their
cows? How few are improving their annual returns by systematically
breeding from their best cows with bulls from tested dairy stock? The
actual fact is that the sole claim that the average ''strugglers" have to
the name of dairy-farmer rests on their dragging a few quarts of milk
from underfed and poor-quality cows. They will not try to learn the
business properly, and they continue to be '' strugglers." Yet, while
there are always some people ready to hold up this class of cow-
keeper as typical 6f Gippsland dairymen, there is usually to be found in
their immediate neighbourhood, sometimes on adjoining blocks, others
who are making good progress on exactly similar land. All through
Gippsland, as well as the rest of the State, farmers who carry on dairy-
ing on proper systematic lines are doing well. Each year marks some
progress in their work, and some monetary advancement. Those Avho
fail to make headway in dairying have usually only themselves to blame,
and there is no need to travel far to find evidence of it.
When at Moe recently the writer visited the farms of two dairy-
farmers who are typic.il of the progressive class. One of these is working
on country which is still largely in its rough state ; while the other, longer
established, has his property in full working order. Both grow fodder
for their stock; both test their cows and cull out those which are un-
profitable; both are breeding on lines that will raise the producing
standard of their cows still higher, and both are making arrangements
to bring their stud cows under the Government test. These dairymen
have no fault to find with their business. They are getting satisfactory
results, and can see their way to still better returns. A short account
of their farms will not be out of place.
The first property is owned by Mrs. Sefton, and the dairy-farm
work is managed by her son, Mr. S. E. Sefton. The farm is
V.)('} Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. ( 10 Afkix,, 191S.
about ]| mik% our. of Mofr, and has an area of HiO acres, some 40 of
which consist of fiats tx>rdering on the Narracan Creek, a tributary of the
Latrobe, the balance U;ing hill country of a light-grey and rather poor
Sefton'--; M;ikini' H<;rd
3 Farm.
soil. Only about 50 acres of this hill land have so far Ix^en made use of.
Ten acres have been cleared and twice crof»f>ed for hay, and thf
renunning 40 acres haw- bf-f-n cleared of the heaviest of the timber, and
JO AiMcii,, I!)|S.| 7V/r Ai/rdiihu/i-s uf llrrd 'I'csliin/.
197
S
198
JoKnutl of Agriculture, Victoria. \ 10 April, 1918.
this section gives a little grazing. The balance of the farm, 80 acres,
is still in the rough bush state.
Mrs. Sefton's pedigree Jersey Stud.
Hill Country on Mrs. Sefton's Farm, Moe.
Four acres of peas were harvested from the creek "fiat this season for
pig-feeding, and at the time of inspection 2 acres of maize and 2 of
millet were coming on for autumn feeding. Though the grazing on the
30 April. JOIS.] The Advantages of Herd Tcsf'mg.
199
hill land is still comparativ
sole of clover, and it is this
present providing the bnlk
heifers, bull, 6 poddies, and
uncleared hill land on page
is of no use for dairying
reasonable rates to clear it
be possible to increase the
beyond what it now is.
ely light, the creek flats are carrying a good
flat land (less than 40 acres in all) that is at
of the grazing for the 15 cows, 11 yearling
3 farm horses. From the photograph of the
198, it will be seen that this part of the farm
at present, but if labour were available at
and to extend the cultivated areas, it would
carrying capacity of the farm several times
During the year 1917 the total dairy herd of fifteen cows and heifers
averaged 199 lbs. of butter fat per head, bringing in an average returr.
of £13 16s. 3d. for cream supplied to the local factory. From photo-
graphs taken by the Government photographer at date of inspection,
which are reproduced, it will be seen that both cows and yearlings show
their Jersey breeding strongly. There are several well-bred cattle
Paspalum on Myrtlevale.
amongst them, and Mr. Sefton has recently added to these by the purchase
of some tested stock from a well known Jersey breeder. The several
photographs illustrate that even now this farm in its comparatively
rough state carries a herd of good dairy quaUty, and the owner is
planning carefully to improve it.
The' other farm referred to is Myrtlevale, consisting of 174 acres
of flat country about 41 miles from Moe, and close to the Walhalla rail-
Avay. This place is owned by Mr. W. C. Gooding, who for seventeen years
past has been steadily improving it. The property is subdivided into ten
paddocks, and fully four-fifths of it is rich alluvial land. Some 30 acres
were under cultivation this season, viz., 20 acres of hay, 6 acres of maize,
2 acres of sunflowers for poultry feed; and smaller areas of mangels,
potatoes, and vegetables. The vegetable garden, too often neglected by
farmers, and to their loss, is given its full share of attention by Mr.
Gooding. With large acreage, and abundance of manure to hand, it is
200
JotiDial of Afjiicitlture, Victoria. \ 10 Apiui,. 1918.
10 Ai'KiL, 1918. 1 Till' Adrantages of Herd Testing.
201
quite common to see farmers every week taking home purchased vege-
tables, when a quarter of an acre properly cared for would grow more
than sufficient for all requirements. Home-grown vegetables are always
cheap ; they are on hand when wanted ; they are there to be used when
fresh and ready, and therefore are much superior in quality to those bought,
which are probably gathered some time before being sold, and consequently
are withered and dry when prepared for cooking. Most vegetable seeds
are easily grown, and the odd time taken up in looking after the home
supply of farm vegetables is very well paid for.
Mr. Gooding has also an old-established orchard, which is still highly
productive. A small breeding stud of Yorkshire pigs enclosed there
turn all windfall fruit to good account. There are at present 40 York-
shire pigs of various ages on the farm. One of the breeding sows has
Mr. Gooding's Ayrshire Sire.
the record of having given birth to nineteen pigs at one litter, fourteen of
which were reared. Mr. Gooding has been very successful in fattening
his stock, and on six days this season his pen brought the top price, at the
Melbourne market, one lot of twelve averaging £8 14s. per pig.
When this property was first bought by the present owner it was in
its rough state, and, owing to the heavy scrub which covered it, twenty
head of cattle per year would have been its full fattening capacity. It
is now carrying a milking herd of 70 cows and heifers, 11 forward heifers,
7 yearlings, 2 bulls, and 63 calves, as well as the farm horses and pigs.
The fine crop of maize illustrated on the next page is of the Sibley
variety, and when seen in February was cobbing out well.
Mr. Gooding and his sons have been breeding Ayrshire cattle of a
good class for eleven years past, and any one conversant with the breed
202
Journal of Af/riciilture. Victoria. \ 10 April, 1918.
will recognise from the photograph of the milkers that they show the
even breed characteristics distinctive of an established strain, and that
their owner has an eye for good dairy type. This herd has been built
up mainly from a combination of the Seafleld, Oakbank, and Gleneira
Ayrshires, while Willowvale blood has also been introduced. The result
is a fine robust class of cows, with shapely udders, good teats, and alto-
Maize at Mr. Gooding's Farm.
gether a type of first quality Ayrshires. The herd of pure cows and
heifers shown on page 200 had an average flush yield of 5^ gallons per
cow per day, with an average test of 4.2, and six months later still aver-
aged 2| gallons per day, and were milking evenly.
In the foreground of the view of Myrtlevale farm steading, and on
the higher ground of the farm, is a fine growth of paspalum (dilatatum).
10 April. 191S. | TIw Advantages of Herd Testing. 203
This is one of the best grasses for rough country, and though at its best
ill a warm climate with a good rainfall, yet even in the coldest situations
in the Gippsland hills it forms a good sole of pasture, and the close graz-
ing that stock subject it to shows how they like it. As it makes but little
growth during its first season, it appears somewhat slow to establish
itself, but every plant that takes hold is there to stop. It has a long-
seeding season, the heads not all ripening at once, and hanging from long
stems they swing round Avitli the Avind scattering the seed well over the
surrounding ground, and thus the number of plants quickly increases
unless grazed very closely. It should be noted, however, that it is not
advisable to sow paspalum in paddocks which later may be required
for cultivation, as it requires heavy discing to get it out of land where
it has become established.
In several of the paddocks on the flats near the river there is a
splendid sole of strawberry clover, one paddock of 18 acres being parti-
cularly good. On river-flat land there is probably no fodder plant
superior to the strawberry clover. In some places it has been found
to completely overrun established lucerne crops, so that the lucerne disap-
peared, and it is doubtful whether the milk-producing capacity of such
land was at all reduced in consequence.
The farm steading on Myrtlevale is particularly well constructed
and cleanly kept — poultry yards, piggery, bull paddocks, and dairy build-
ings all have their respective positions, and there is none of the " On Our
Selection " jumble of stock that is all too frequently in evidence on many
dairy farms. From the hang of the road gate to the neat flower garden
round the dwelling everything points to system and order, and appearance
alone give* the place the stamp of a profitable dairy farm.
Referring again to the subject of this article, only those engaged
in the work understand how difficult it is to get some farmers to change
from their haphazard unsystematic methods of dairying. Although the
use of the scales and the Babcock tester is a far simpler process than
sharpening an axe on a grindstone, still it is almost impossible to per-
suade some cow-keepers to take up this, the only sure method of selecting
dairy stock. Some years ago the writer saw a cow being milked that
was giving a fair flow of almost colourless milk. A sample taken showed
a butter-fat test of .o per cent., which means that it would take twenty
gallons of such milk to produce one pound of butter fat. In this instance
the owner's curiosity was roused to the point of testing that cow's milk
by setting it in a dish, and failing to get any cream from it he promptly
slaughtered the animal. As the cow was old, and had been on the farm
all her life, the owner must have lost the price of several good cows
through having grazed and milked this animal so many years, while she
was yielding milk only fit for pig feeding. Possibly, also, she left some
progeny which may now be in some non-testing dairyman's herd.
It is an indisputable fact that all over the State there are people
working Avith low-yielding and low-testing cows year after year, when by
testing, culling, and breeding on right lines, every cow they own might as
easily be profitable producers. Dairying, when properly conducted, is
one of the best paying branches of farming, and those who do not find
it so are certainly not working on right lines. The use of the scales
and tester is the secret of profitalili' dairying-.
204- Joiirnul of Af/ricu/t inr. Virtoria. \ 10 April, IIM.^.
APPLE CULTURE IN VICTORIA.
. P>]i J. Fdfrcll, Ofclnu'd S iijicrrisoi-.
(C'oiitiiuu'd from jiage 140.)
Drainage.
Althougli the apple is capable of accoininodaTiug itself to a Avide range
of soil and climatic conditions, also geographically both in respect to
latitude and altitude, its powers of making a congenial home under the
varying circumstances have never overcome its antipathy to wet, sour
soils, in which it is obliged to endure the condition commonly known as
suffering from " wet feet." Consequently there is no phase of orchard
management, that requires more careful and prompt attention than drain-
age. To maintain a healthy and vigorous growth of the trees it is obvious
that, during the vegetative periods particularly, the soil should be kept
sufficiently moist to enable the feeding roots to absorb, in solution, the
different elements of soil assimilated plant food. The condition of sour-
ness created by stagnant water, especially in heavy clays with retentive
subsoils in which there is a predisposition to acidity, may be regarded as
the antithesis of an essentially favorable environment.
Through want of drainage the soil becomes saturated, its interspaces
being thus filled with water which prevents aeration. While the soil
is in this temper, beneficial bacterial activity is suspended and sourness
or acidity develops. Such a state is also unfavorable to the raising of
cover crops for green manure, and when organic manures are incor-
porated in soil under these conditions, the rate, at which the chemical
changes necessary to produce soluble plant food proceeds, is so slow that
its accomplishment is often too late to be of much service to the trees
during their period of growth. It is often impossible to plough the land
in early spring, and when dry enough to be cultivated later, the soil, if
tenacious, usually turns over in hard sods. These obstacles and dis-
advantages involve extra expense by operating against the bringing
of the soil into an early and fine state of tilth. When the surface soil
is shallow, and often even when cultivated, tenacious subsoils crack
during hot weather. These fissures facilitate excessive capillary action,
by which the ground to a considerable de})th quickly loses its moisture,
upon which the sustenance of the trees depends.
Wow it is obvious that drained land, on account of the friable
character of its physical condition, retains its moisture during the periods
of growth better than that suffering from the evil effects of water lodg-
ment during winter.
Trees growing on land requiring to be drained usually thrive fairly
satisfactorily for a time, but when an exceptionally wet winter occurs
many of them become water-logged, and in many instances die.
The gaseous food breathed in by the tree from the air is elaborated
only in proportion to the amount of liquid food used, and the latter not
being present in the proper form for absorption, the tree must of neces-
sity starve.
The orchard in which the water-logged tree illustrated in Plate 158
is growing was drained at the time of planting. Wood drains were placed
between every two rows of trees, and while these worked well the trees
10 April, 1918.]
A [jplc CuHi
Victoria.
205
made good growth and fruited satisfactorily. But when the drain to
the right of the tree became blocked up, water lodgment resulted in that
direction. Now it is plain that the section of the root system affected
by the water was unable to supply the corresponding section of the
branch system with food, and the latter consequently died. The soil
conditions on the left of the tree are somewhat better — the result of the
proper working of the drain on that side, although it Avill be observed
Plate 158. — A Water-logged Tree.
that even here the branches, being sparsely foliaged and lacking vigour,
must soon decay unless the water be drawn off and the soil sweetened.
When trees are planted in low positions or on undrained land with
retentive clay subsoil, usually in the ordinary course they make good
growth for six or seven years. By this time the roots have become
firmly established in the subsoil, but as winters of heavy rainfall are
206 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Apkil, 1918.
frequent, it is essential that water lodgment at the roots should be pre-
vented by a thorough system of drainage.
Young water-logged trees, before they die, utilize the invigorating
materials stored up from the previous year in producing a small quan-
tity of foliage, which, on commencing to wither, gives off an offensive
smell, while the bark becomes hard, coriaceous, and assumes a broAvnish-
black colour. If the trees be grubbed at this stage, the main roots will
usually be found to be apparently healthy, while the smaller roots and
feeding points will be decayed.
Some growers hold that sub-drainage may be obviated by ridging U])
the land somewhat and planting the trees on the ridges. They claim
that the trees, owing to their raised positions when so planted, are pro-
tected during winter from the water. This method of planting may
result in the trees being protected for a time, but when their roots extend
into the depressions, no amount of security obtainable under such con-
ditions can possibly save these roots from water in, or passing continu-
ously over, the lower areas. Then there are others who contend that
while excessive water is kept in a state of continual movement no evil
effects result from its presence in the soil.
For the purposes of cultural operations and the conservation of soil
moisture during warm weather, it is eminently desirable that the surface
equality of the orchard soil should be maintained. A mulch of surface
soil conserves moisture better than one of subsoil, which has to be em-
ployed in the depressions when the ridging-up principle is adopted.
The present writer is convinced that excessive water, whether moving
or stagnant, injures the tree, and that the latter is the more damaging,
particularly in mid-spring, when it assumes the condition of a sour,
residual solution. When drainage is assisted by subsoiling, more moisture
is conserved during summer; friable, aerated and sweet soil conditions
are more easily maintained, and earlier root-penetration of the lower
strata is facilitated.
Statements are occasionally made that, as gums and other native
trees make luxuriant growth on land which is neither subsoiled nor
cultivated, apple trees should perform likewise. A moment's reflection,
however, will convince any person holding such an erroneous idea that
the introduced deciduous fruit tree requires more favorable soil condi-
tions, and careful cultural treatment, than does the indigenous forest
evergreen, and this, experience has amply verified.
Surface Dkainage.
On the approach of winter, provision, through the medium of a
:system of surface drains, should be made for carrying off the surface
water from the orchard during the rainy season. More especially
ahould this mode of drainage be practised in orchards where systems
■of underground drains have not been established. The desirability of
coping with surface water has become very apparent in recent times
as a consequence of the almost regular recurrence of wet winters.
An orchard consisting of flat land is usually surface drained by a
aeries of small drains or plough furrows connected at right angles with
a head ditch or drain leading to a lower level, whereas the contours
occurring in an orchard composed of undulations are made the basis
of surface drainage operations.
10 April, 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 207
In both these circumstances, when autumn ploughing, the soil should
be drawn towards the trees on both sides, and the furrows created in the
centres of the lands serve as the surface drains. When ploughing
undulations, the furroAvs should be at right angles to the ridges, except
where the slopes are abrupt and the soil likely to wash away; then the
ploughing should be at such an angle to the ridge as would prevent this
undesirable happening.
Sub-drainage.
Orchard land may become saturated and the trees water-logged
through springs or " spewy " subsoil, by water accumulated from seep-
age, or by the settling of rain residual water on the orchard area. The
last-mentioned condition is of the commonest ocCuri'ence, and to prevent
or remedy this sub-drainage is mostly resorted to.
The officers of the Orchard Supervision Branch of the Department
of Agriculture have for a long series of years persistently advocated sub-
draining, and their efforts have been so successful that, at the present
time, almost all the orchardists of the State realize that its practice is
essential in those orchards whose subsoils do not offer free natural
drainage.
The favorable soil conditions accruing from sub-drainage, by offer-
ing better facilities for winter spraying, pruning, and early spring culti-
vation, &c., as Avell as the splendid results in fruit, which are being
obtained from the extensive areas now sub-drained, most convincingly
demonstrate the desirability of this practice.
The matter of draining orchard areas when brought under irrigation,
whether channel or dam system, should receive careful and prompt
attention. Surplus irrigation water lodging on impervious clay subsoils
creates unpleasant conditions for the trees, although the results are
generally much less injurious than those produced by winter and early
spring lodgment.
The subsoils of the pine ridge portions, especially, of the northern
irrigation areas mostly offer free drainage, but the conditions for ti-ees
growing on those parts with retentive clay subsoils are considerably
improved by sub-drainage.
The best and most convenient time to drain an orchard is during
winter, when the subsoil has become sufficiently moist to make it amen-
able to ditch excaA^ation, and labour is at that time more easily obtained.
Tile drains, as a result of experience gained during recent years, are now
almost exclusively employed. To thoroughly drain an orchard it is
generally conceded that a drain should be placed between every two
rows of trees. Pipes 2 or 3 inches in diameter, according to the length of
the drains, and the extent and nature of the area to be treated, are used
for the lateral drains, which a^e constructed so as to discharge into an
open ditch or joined into a main drain constructed of 4-inch pipes.
The best results ai*e obtained when the drains are placed from 2i to
3 feet deep in the ground, according to the depth of surface soil ; if made
shallower the water table, practically created in the soil by the working
of the drains during the early spring, is usually at too high a level to
afford maximum feeding facilities for large trees when their roots have
penetrated well into the subsoil. If the drains are dug too deep, the
208 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
greater body of excavated subsoil, on being returned to its original
position, often becomes puddled, and forms a catcbment for surface
water.
In planning the sub-drainage system of an orchard composed of level
land, it is often preferable to provide an open head ditch, into which the
lateral parallel pipe drains are made to deliver the water, rather than
connect them with a 4-inch main pipe drain. The bottom of the ditch
should be from 4 to 6 inches below the point of water delivery from the
pipes so that the latter may not become blocked up with silt, &c. The
ends of the pipes entering the open drain should be covered with gal-
vanized Avire netting, -^-inch mesh, to exclude rats and other vermin.
When minor surface inequalities occur in the plane of a slope to be
drained, these may be OA'.ercome by altering the depth of the lateral drains
at the various points where required to insure gravitation to the maiii
drain. Where several planes, with possibly various degrees of decline,
are involved in the drainage system, however, main drains, whether open
Surface' J/evel'
Plate 159. — Cross Section of a Tile Drain.
or piped, must be carried systematically along the lowest parts. The
small parallel drains of each plane should, Avlien practicable, run directly
down the greatest fall, and junction at the necessary angles with the
larger drain.
Steep inclines, owing to cross impervious under-strata or spewy sub-
soil, need under-draining more than much less abrupt slopes which offer
better natural drainage.
Plate 159 depicts in cross sections a tile drain in course of construc-
tion. When the soil lends itself to free Avorking, the drain excavation
is usually commenced by opening up as deep a furroAv as possible with
the plough. This is made deeper still by the use of an ordinary spade, a
special draining spade completes the work, as shown at (a). A draining
scoop cuts out the portion of clay marked (h), thus rectifying inequali-
ties in the grade of the bottom decline, and offering a solid and suitable
bed for the tiles. The drain pipe (c) is shoAvn in position on the tile
10 April, 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
209
bed and before the ditch is filled in. Where hard and tenacious subsoils
exist, however, excavation is more difficult, and a considerable amount
of pick and shovel work is often involved. Ordinary unglazed, porous.
12-inch kiln-burnt tiles are mostly used, and when placed in position they
should fit closely together. When filling the drains the subsoil should be
returned first, and as far as possible the soil should be restored to its
former position.
D-HANDLE DRAINING SPADE.
DRAINING SCOOPS.
Plate 160.
The D-handle draining spade and draining scoops figured in Plate 160
are of the pattern commonly employed for drainage work. The blade
of the spade is 16 inches long, 6 inches wide at the foot-i"est, and 4 inches
at the edge. The scoops, whether made on the pull or push principle,
are of a width suitable for hollowing out a bed to suit the size of the tile.
210 Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. \ 10 Apkil, 1918.
Plate 161 illustrates a longitudinal section of tiles in position under-
ground.
A study of the different systems of drains figured in Plate 162 will
enable the reader to draw fairly accurate conclusions of the way the soil
water gravitates to the drains and is carried away in each instance.
Assume that, in the case of Fig. 1, the land is flat, and that the black
dots denote the positions of the trees. The land being level, the soil
water finds its way, as the six small arrows radiating from each tree
indicate, to the six lateral drains, the positions of which are marked by
the long arrows. These drains deliver the water into the larger head
drain or ditch, whose position and decline are indicated by the long-
arrow at the base.
SuiTacey Level/
LONGITUDINAL SECTION
Plate 161.
It will be observed that the drains in the area shown in Fig. 2 are
similarly placed to those in Fig. 1, but as there is a decline in the direc-
tion of arrow (A), the water will be more inclined to find the lateral
drains, as depicted by the small arrows in this figure.
The drained area appearing in Fig. 3 is in the sarpe plane as that
shown in Fig. 2, but in this instance a system of diagonal drains is
illustrated. The small arrows, under these conditions, also show the fall
of the water to the drains. Practically the same length of drains is
involved in the diagonal system as that shown in the square method,
which represents an area of similar extent, but as the tendency of the
soil water is to move from tree to tree before finding its way to the
10 April, 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
211
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Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
10 Ai'KiL, 191S.] Apple Culture 111 Victoria. 213
diagonal drains this method is not advocated for general adoption.
Further, the movement of water in drains placed diagonally across the
])lane of a slope is not as rapid as that flowing with the fall. Where
depressions running longitudinally occur in the plane of the area to be
drained, however, drains may be placed in these with advantage, and con-
nected Avith head drains as shown in the illustration.
Plate 163 gives cross-section of tAvo drains, and shows the lowering
of the water in the soil due to the working of the drains, and soil aeration.
The arrows from (A), (B), and (C) represent, for the purpose of illus-
tration, Avhat may be termed sub-surface watersheds, or the points to
which the surplus water has receded from the surface until the water-
table (D) is formed on a level with the bottom of the drains. The air
enters at the surface, as shown by the arroAvs (d) and (e), and fills up
the soil inter-spaces as the water recedes. The soil around the drains is
also aerated by air drawn up the pipes.
(To be Continued.)
In a recent article in Country Life it is maintained that the inter-
mittent bearing of fruit trees can be avoided by a proper system of
manuring. The Avriter, H. Vendelmans, says : — " In spite of a A^ery
common belief, it is' certain that the bearing capacity of fruit trees is
not limited to every other year. Ninety-nine orchardists out of eAJ'ery
hundred in England assert that a good crop is folloAved by a thin crop,
and rice versa, but the regularity with which excellent returns are
obtained annually from espalier trees and trees under glass, which receiA'e
different treatment from that meted out to orchard trees, ought to suggest
some scepticism about the old tradition. In the case mentioned, it is
possible to rely on good crops every year. Among the reasons which
explain this more regular bearing, manure takes a first place. Without
it, the abundant crop of one year makes so great a demand upon food that
the reserves of the trees are exhausted, and are not strong enough to
feed a new crop for the next year. Hence a poor return follows a good
return. In the year following the bumper crop the trees often carry
no fruit at all, but they accumulate new reserves, and are then ready
to feed a large crop the next year. When the exhaustion of the trees
is pre\'ented by appropriate manuring, bearing takes place much more
regularly.
In manuring fruit trees, it is necessary to bear in mind that the
blossom buds are formed the year before they come out — that is to say,
during the period of bearing, or shortly afterwards. Consequently,
they are forming at a time when the trees are being exhausted, or have
been exhausted. Therefore, a liberal sujjph^ of easily assimilable manure,
must be placed at their disposal during this period. Liquid manure,
Avood ashes, basic slag, and lime should be used, taking into account that
a superabundant supply of nitrogen might lead to a production of wood
instead of flower buds, and that phosphates assist largely in developing
the flavour of the fruit.
21-1: Journal of AgriciiUtire. Victoria. [10 Apkil, 1918.
FURNITURE AND TIMBER BORING INSECTS.
C. French, Jiinr., Governnient Entomologisi.
From the many reports and inquiries that have been made during
the last few years, it is evident that householders throughout Victoria
are suffering very considerably from the depredations made upon their
valuable and useful furniture and objects of domestic use by the insects
well known as " wood-borers.". These ipests often commit great destruc-
tion in the beams and other wood-work used in the frame-work of houses,
as well as in floorings and articles of furniture, producing the result
known as " worm-eaten." The external indications of the presence of
these destructive insects are usually twofold — small circular perforations
in the surface of the wood, and little heaps of yellow dust on the ground
beneath. The perforations are the entrances to, or rather exits from,
long cylindrical tunnels traversing the timber in various directions,
generally in that of its length, and they are often so numerous as to
leave only the narrowest of [partitions between the tunnels, and thus
reduce the whole interior to a mere net-work, so fragile that it will-
crumble away on the slightest touch, though to outward appearances
the wood seems perfectly sound, except for the few perforations. The
beetles are not very often seen, as they spend a large proportion of their
lives in their burrows, and, like white ants, prefer to work in the dark.
During the course of their lives they undergo metamorphosis, i.e.,
change of form. First of all is the egg, secondly the larva, grub, or
caterpillar, thirdly the chrysalis or pupa, and fourthly the perfect insect
or imago.
The chief timber-boring insect of the whole variety is the Furniture
or Powder-post Beetle {Lyctus hrunneus, Stephens). This small beetle,
which is dark-brown and sometimes almost black in colour, measures
2 lines in length, and, unfortunately, is too well known to timber mer-
chants, architects, builders, householders, and furniture manufacturers
to need much description.
The female deposits her eggs on the outside, underside, and ends of
the timber. They hatch very quickly, and the larvae at once commence
to work into the wood. The beetles are easily detected, for they and
their larvae feed on the timber, and some of the sawdust, which is passed
through them, can usually be seen collected in small heaps. It is not
always possible to detect them before the damage is done, as sometimes
they commence boring underneath the boards, joists, and other timbers
of buildings, and thus their presence is not suspected until the timlber
begins to fall to pieces. It is difficult to say with accuracy how many
broods of these " wood-borers " are hatched in a year, but from my
experience I should say that there are four. However, careful con-
sideration will have to be given to this matter, before it can be definitely
settled. The perfect insects are found in the timber all the year round.
Occasionally in hot weather they may be seen emerging in large numbers
from wickerwork and rattan furniture, and thence transferring their
attention to any kind of timber that is handy. The backs of book-cases,
cupboards, and the inside woodwork of pianos are particularly liable
to attack, and ordinary table legs and wickerwork furniture seem to be
among their favourite breeding places. Should they be noticed in num-
bers on the curtains and blinds of houses, it would be advisable, before
10 Apkil, 1918. 1 Furniture uud Tim})er Horincj Insects.
■2\:>
they conuncuce their boring operations, to have the whole phice fumi-
gated with hydrocyanic acid gas or bisulphide of carbon. Several houses
have recently been treated with this process, and the results have been
most satisfactory. It would be advisable, when using these chemicals,
to obtain the services of an expert, as great care is required in using
them.
During the last few years, the " wood-borer " has undoubtedly made
much headway in many parts of Australia, and in this State we have
had our share of its depredations, principally owing to the fact that
Furniture Beetle (Li/ctiis bniiniciis).
(Enlarged seventeen times.)
badly-infested timber, tool handles, bamboo furniture, &c., have been
allowed to be imported into Australia. It has been stated in the press
and elsewhere that imi^orted timber on arrival here is infected on the
wharfs; but such is not the case, as I have examined large shipments
of timber on arrival here, and found them to be already badly infested
with these insects.
The furniture beetle is found in most parts of the world, and has
been known to science since 1862. It was probalbly first introduced into
Australia in wickerwork, rattan, or bamboo furniture, tool handles, or
216
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April. 191S.
timber from abroad. 1 have seen wickerwork baskets absolutely crumb-
ling away througli the work of this borer, and it is from such articles
that houses are often infested, and no end of trouihle caused. J^ot long
ago I was shown a clothes-basket, which I was told was full of grubs.
On visiting the store-room, I noticed a sawdust-like material falling from
the basket, and on pressing the sides it completely collapsed. The insects
Legs of a Table destroyed by Borers.
had eaten out the centre of the wickerwork, leaving only the shell, and
had then commenced their attacks elsetwhere. As there was cocoanut
matting on the floor, it was removed and an investigation made of the
jflooring boards. No trace of borers could be seen on the top of the
boards, but on opening the cellar and examining the underneath portion
of the floor, it was found that it had been completely riddled, and in a
10 .Vi'KiL, 1918. 1 Furniture and Timber Boring Insects.
217
short time would have collapsed. Once, close to Melbourne, I visited a
fine house, where nearly every joist in the roof had been riddled by
borers, and they had then commenced their attacks on the furniture
in the dining and other rooms. This shows the advisability of having
man-holes in the roofs of buildings, so that an examination of the roof
Spade Handles destroyed by Furniture Beetles.
Axe Handles destroyed by Borers.
supports may be made from time to time. In the case of the house
Teferred to the wood had been affected before it was placed in the build-
ing, as the place had been erected for only a short time, and all the
infested timber had to be taken out and replaced by the builder at his
218 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. f 10 April, 1918.
own expense. Builders and architects will thus see the wisdom of care-
fully examining timber before it is used in the construction of buildings.
It would be well if all timber, tool handles, bamboo blinds, wicker-
work, and other furniture arriving here from albroad were examined
on arrival and, if found to be badly infested with borers, condemned
and destroyed; but if only slightly affected, they might be treated with
some of the remedies enumerated at the end of these notes.
Many assertions have been made that furniture beetles attack hard-
woods only, but, such is not the case. In fact, in the hardwood timbers
affected by them which I have seen, the ravages have not gone beyond
the sapwood; and if timber merchants see that this section be removed,
builders and others need have no fear in using these fine woods. In
the case of hickory, cedar, New Zealand kauri, blackwood, ash, deal,
:oak, and numerous other woods, the borers certainly do not confine
themselves to the sapwood only, but will riddle them through and
through. Often when they attack old timber in houses, they reduce
them to sawdust in a very short space of time. Examples of infested
timber taken from dwellings are illustrated, and these and other samples
may be seen at the Entomological Museum attaclied to the Department
of Agriculture.
The efforts of the Powellised wood process against white ants have
been very successful, and there is no doubt that the same process would
be successful against timber borers. The difficulty experienced in
destroying the different kinds of wood-boring beetles in the various
stages of their existence is very great, because, as already stated, in some
cases the damage is done before the insects are noticed, and in others the
wood is infected with the larvas O'f the beetles prior to its being cut up
and used for building purposes, or made into furniture.
All timber should be dried as soon as possible, and not allowed to
remain closely packed in timber yards for any length of time. Unfor-
tunately some timber merchants allow the timber fresh from the forest
to be packed with timber which has lain in the yard for a considerable
length of time. This is a bad practice, and sometimes it is from such
l^laces that infestation comes. A good system, which is adopted in Tas-
mania, is to allow the timber to remain in the open air for a period
of about eighteen months. This allows the hardwood to become
thoroughly dried.
In Victoria there is a process of artificially seasoning timber, which
is called the House process. The inventor, Mr. House, of the Forest
Department, Melbourne, states that the process comprises an insulated
chamber, into which the stacked timber is run on trucks, and subjected
to moist and dry heat from a system of steam pipes and cells, the tem-
perature and humidity being regulated by drop doors and ventilators.
The chamber and its accessories form practically an easily adjustable
machine, saturating the timber, washing out the free water in the cells
and the chemicals in the sap of green timber, and so doing nature's
work of five years in about a fortnight. ISTaturally the time required
for drying varies with the thickness of the timber— twelve days sufficing
for 1-in. planks and up to sixteen days being required for planks of a
thickness up to 1] inches. Personally I know little of this process, but
Mr. J. Mann, of the University Engineering School (an expert regarding
timber matters), says, " The timber dried in this manner does not appear
to be damaged in any way, the colour being good and the fibres normal.
10 April, 1918.] Furniture and Timber Boring Insects.
210
I consider the results equal to anything yet put on the market in the
way of artificially seasoned timber for flooring boards."
Another source from which clean timiber im^ported from the other
States and abroad is liable to infestation, is some of our own timber
yards, for I have seen several where the timber was badly infested with
furniture beetles. As the timber merchants in the other States, espe-
Portion of a Window Sill destroyed by Furnitaire Beetles.
eially Tasmania, are taking every precaution to remove all sapwood and
send us absolutely clean timber, it behoves the timiber merchants in
Victoria to do their utmost to keep their yards free from the borer
trouble, otherwise the fine impoi'ted timber which we now receive will
become infested. This would create another scare, and do a great injus-
tice to our Inter-State neighbours.
220 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. \ 10 April, litis.
As tlie bark on the trees is a favorite breeding place for most wood-
boring insects, it should be removed as soon as tiie tree is felled. Fire-
wood cut in the forest and left on the ground is often attacked by borers,
and so becomes a medium by which the pests are brought wuthiu reach
of houses and furniture. Telegraph poles, flooring boards, mine props,
&c., if attacked, or even if not attacked, since prevention is better than
cure, should be treated with one of the following : — 'Corrosive sublimate,
linseed or other preservative oils, kerosene, benzine, creosote, white ant
preservative, carbolic acid, white ant exterminator, benzine mixed with
carbolic acid,- or carbolinium. Axe, spade, and other tool handles,
spokes, naves, &c., infested by borers should be treated by being soaked
in preservative oil for 24 hours. Preservative oil is highly recommended
by Mr. W. ,W. F.roggatt, F.L.S., Government Entomologist of i^ew South
Wales, who states that floor joists, after they are laid, should be
thoroughly dressed with the oil, to which has been added one pO'Und of
arsenic to one 'gallon of oil. Personally, I am diffident about recom-
mending arsenic for treatment of timber against borers (especially in
buildings), but as Mr. Froggatt, Avho has had a long experience with
timber borers, has recommended this method for j^ears, and no harm has
come to those following it, I am quoting him. I have used preservative
oil Avithout the arsenic, and the results have been very satisfactory.
The oil penetrates into the timber, and destroys any insect in the
tunnels. Floor joists that have been dressed with creosote are immtino
from the attacks of borers.
Dr. A. D. Hopkins, in charge of forest insect investigations, Depart-
ment of Agriculture, United States of America, who has devoted much
time to the study of forest insects, writes as follows : —
Timbers and Woodwork in Structures.
(1) Use nothing but heartwood for the concealed parts most likely
to damage.
(2) If it is necessary to use all part sapwood material, attack can
be prevented by treating the sap portions with kerosene, coal tar, creo-
sote, or linseed oil. Facilities for future treatment can be provided
wherever the rough or finished woodwork is exposed, as in outbuildings,
bridges, &c., if care is taken to expose the sapwood.
(3) If the untreated timbers and woodwork in old buildings show
evidence of attack, the affected portions should be given a liberal appli-
cation of kerosene.
THE PIN-HOLE BOEER (Anobium sp.).
Another insect which causes considerable damage to timbers, &c.,
is the " Pin-hole Borer." It is scarcely one-sixth of an inch long, of
a dark-brown colour, and, as in the case of most of its allies, its head,
being well sunk in the thorax, has the appearance of a hood or cowl,
or if seen sideways reminds one of a bonnet which almost envelops the
head.
The adults of this class of wood-boring insects place their eggs on
the wood. The minute worms hatching from the eggs bore directly into
the wood, forming at first holes so small that they are scarcely visible
to the naked eye. They do not stop in the sapwood as do some kinds,
but extend their burrows to the verv heart of the tree, each worm
]() Ai'Ku.. mis. I Furniture and Timber Boring Insects. 221
making for itself a separate burrow, in wliieh it remains until matured.
The borings and excrements from the wood are pushed out from the
original entrance by the borers, as they move backwards and forwards,
Avhich they must frequently do, both to clear the burrows and to enlarge
them to accommodate the increasing size of their bodies. Thus the
holes made by these insects are found to vary in size, and to extend
several feet through the wood.
In its larval condition this insect is a thick ileshy grub, somewhat
curved and swollen at each end. It is of a whitish colour, as might
be expected in a creature which spends its time in the darkness of a
tunnel. The lar\^{e are very seldom seen, as in order to reach them, the
wood in w^hich they are domiciled must be pulled to pieces ; but various
chemicals may be used to penetrate through the wood in order to destroy
them. Their food consists of the wood itself, which by their pow^erful
though tiny jaws is bitten oil in minute particles, and many of these
are left uneaten, and either clog up the burrows or are ejected at their
openings, where they form the tiny heaps of yellow dust previously
mentioned. Xo wood is so old and dry that they cannot extract
Pin-hole Borer (Anoldum domcsticum) .
(Enlarged fourtei'u times.)
nourishment from it — in fact, the older and drier it is, the better they
like it. The pin-hole borer changes into a chrysalis in its burrow, and
envelops itself in a silken cocoon, in which are interwoven particles of
the dust made by the insect. The tunnels made by the pin-hole borer
are about twice the size of those made by the furniture borer, and look
as if they had been burnt out. At times the pin-hole borer .bores right
through the timber, the holes often being so straight that a sti-ing could
easily be passed through the openings for several inches. When found
in woodw^ork out of doors, the direct damage caused by actual excava-
tion and devouring of the wood by insects of this kind is not the only
injury for which they are responsible, for damp air enters the substance
of the wood through the burrows, and meeting there the excrement,
stored in great quantities, the tunnels become good bases for the growth
of fungi, whereby the decay is rapidly accelerated. Pin-hole borers
have been known to attack redgum, mahogany, beech, oak, deal, and red
pine. I fully agree with Mr. J. Mann, of the University, who has
carefully studied the borer question, that very few timbers are totally
immune from the attacks of these insects. The prevention and remedies
recommended for the furniture borer will suffice for this species also.
222
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. \ 10 Apkil, 1918.
WHEAT MANURIAL TRIALS.
Five Years' Results.
By H. A. Mullett. B. Ag. Sc.
When superphosphate was first introduced as a manure for wheat and
dressings of 56 lbs. and even lower than that were advocated, to many it
seemed beyond the bounds of common sense that so small a dose could
appreciably affect yields. The grounds for this early scepticism are not
hard to understand when it is remembered that the top three inches
of soil weigh between 300 and 400 tons, and that actually only a fraction
(about one-fifth) of the small dressing is of direct benefit to the ulant.
To-day so widespread is the use of " super " on our Australian wheat
soils and so consistent are the results, that the phenomenal response of
the average soil to the manure has become commonplace, and it is only
Avhen the seed drill happens to miss sowing the regular quantity of
Ploughing Manurial Plots at Werribee.
manure that the farmer is reminded of the vital part which this light
dusting plays in producing profitable yields.
The Importance of DETEitMiisriNG the Most Profitable Dressing.
The problem of to-day is not, however, one in which the advisability
of the use of superphosphate is questioned, but rather to ascertain how
much to use. It can be shown that this quantity varies with a
number of factors, and that its determination with some degree of pre-
cision is a matter of considerable importance. Experiments show that on
most soils there is a steady and proportionate increase in the yield as the
amount of manure applied is increased until a point is reached after
which the same ratio is not maintained, until eventually there is no
response to further dressings. Obviously, then, in practice it is necessary
to determine the manurial application which gives the greatest net profit,
and this is not necessarily that which gives the highest yield. It will
follow, also, that the higher the price of wheat the greater will be the
10 April, 1918.1
Wheat Man II rial Trials.
223
value of the increase produced b}^ the manure, and consequently it will pay
when the price of wheat is high to give a somewhat heavier dressing
than when the price is low. Reference to any of the attached tables, on
which the net profit is calculated on the basis of wheat at 4s. a bushel,
will demonstrate that if wheat had been calculated as worth 4s. 9d. a
bushel still heavier dressings than those indicated would have been pro-
fitable. Conversely, if wheat fell to 3s. ,2d., somewhat lighter dressings
would have been the most profitable. A perusal of the tables for the yields
will show that it is well within the capacity of moderate dressings of
superphosphates on many wheat soils to double the yields^ or at any
i-ate to produce net profits in the vicinity of £1 per acre over and above
the cost of the manure. Hence the importance of accurate manurial de-
terminations is strikingly demonstrated.
Owing to the seasonal fluctuations, fairly wide differences in the
results are obtained, but when the results of a number of years are con-
Half -acre Manurial Plots at the Research Farm, Werribee.
sidered such differences tend to be eliminated, and the figures so obtained
furnish a more reliable basis for use in practice. Such determinations
Avould jirobably be made on many farms if there were ready facilities
for insuring accuracy of results ; further, the expense of conducting the
trials has to be considered. At each of the State farms, however, por-
tion of the area is devoted to annual manurial trials of a permanent
character. The crop is sown on fallow ground and is located on the iden-
tical spot each year, so that the cumulative effect of the manures applied
is determined in each case. Full precautions are taken to insure accuracy
of the results, and the produce is weighed. Besides superphosphate, a
number of other manures and combinations of manures are tested side
by side in plots. Each plot is half an acre in area, and the whole field
is treated as far as possible just as it would be on a farm. Federation
wheat is the variety sown.
224
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
RESULTS, QUINQUENNIAL PERIOD, 1913-17.
Longerenong.
Treatment.
Yield.
1913.
1914.
1915.
1916.
191-/.
Average for
5 Years.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
Xo Manure
17-4
3-0
37-5
35-8
27-8
24-3
Superphosphate i cwt. per acre
25 -6
5-1
49-4
35-7
36-2
30-4
Super. 1 cwt. •
29-1
5-8
51-3
36-0
35-0
31-4
Super. 2 cwi;.
29-6
6-1
54 "7
39-2
35-8
33-1
Super. 1 cwt. + Lime 5 cwt.
29-0
6-7
52-2
36-8
23-7
29-7
Super. 1 cwt. + Lime IC cwc.
29-8
7-1
49-8
37-4
24-8
29-8
Super. 1 cwt. + Nitrate Soda
■40 lbs.,
30-6
6-4
46-9
38-8
23-3
29-1
with seed
Thotaas' Phosphate 1 cwt. . .
18-8
4-5
40-9
38-5
29-3
26-4
Super. 1 cwt.
30-0
6-6
49-9
36-4
26-8
29-9
Super. 1 c\Yi. + Nitrate Soda
40 lbs..
30-0
6-1
49-2
38-6
30-1
30-8
Sulp. Potash 40 lbs.
Super. ^ cwt. + Thomas' Phosp. I cwt.
27-6
6-4
46-1
37-6
29-7
29-5
Super. 1 cw+. + Nitrate Soda
40 lbs.
34-3
7-1
48-8
36-4
28-6
31-0
(Spring)
Farmyard Manure 10 tons . .
24-8
4-4
45-7
45 '7
31-5
30-4
Rutherglen.
Yield.
Treatment.
1912.
1913.
1914.
1915.
1916.
Average for
5 Years.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush. .
Farmyard Manure 10 tons per acre
13-3
27-9
2-1
8-4
26-5
15-6
Farmyard Manure 10 tons per acre -f
17-8
28-3
5"5
14-4
30-3
19-3
Lime 10 cwt.
Xo Manure
9-4
18-5
•6
6-0
8-7
8-6
Superphosphate \ cwt.
14-4
28-5
1-8
10-8
15-8
14-3
Superphosphate 2 cwt.
18-7
31-8
2-4
12-0
14-5
15-9
Superphosphate 1 cwt.
16-2
31-0
3-5
15-6
12-7
15-8
Super. 1 cwt. + Sod. Nit. \ cwi:.. with
19-0
28-2
3-4
14-5
15-9
16-2
seed
Super. 1 cwi:. + Sod. Nit. h cwt.. in
17-3
31-8
3-4
11-7
11-6
15-2
Spring
Super. 1 cwt. + Sulph. Ammonia h cwt.
14-9
29-8
3-4
13-0
10-2
14-3
Super. 1 cwt. — Sulph. Ammonia i cwt.
12-8
29-3
2-6
13-6
9-7
13-6
X Potash \ cwt.
Xo Manure
12-1
20-1
•6
6-0
3-8
8-5
Bonedust (PoOj = 1 cwt. Super.) 1 cwt.
13-8
28-1
1-0
11-7
8-8
12-7
Basic Slag (Thomas' Phosphate) 1 cwt.
13-9
28-2
1-2
16-0
8-3
13-5
Basic Slag (Thomas' Phosphate) \ cwt.,
13-4
28-6
1-4
17-5
9-2
14-0
Superphosphate }, cwt.
Super. 1 cwt. -f Lime 5 cwt.
17-4
28-7
2-1
22-0
15-9
17-2
Super. 1 cwt. + Lime 10 cwt.
18-3
30-9
1-4
20-0
16-2
17-4
Super. 1 cwt. + Lime 20 cwt.
20-2
30-2
1-7
23-0
17-8
18-6
Xo Manure
12-8
19-1
•3
8-0
4-1
8-9
Super. 1 cwt. + Potash \ cwt.
17-6
31-3
1-1
18-7
8-9
15-5
XoTE. — Owing to floods the plots wiTe not sown in 1917.
10 April, 1918.]
Wheat Manuiial Trials
225
Werribee,
iield.
Tri'itliipnf
X i^tlllllCUt/.
1913.
1914.
1915.
191b.
1917.
Average for
5 Yeais.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
bush.
Superphosphate 1 cwt. per acre
9-2
14-3
25-6
3-1
7-2
11-9 •
Farmyard Manure 10 tons . .
11-8
10-9
24-5
3-9
14-0
13-0
Farmyard Manure 10 tonn + Linic 10
12-7
8-7
26-5
2-6
14-0
12-9
cwt.
No Manure
7 '5
5"7
20-0
2-1
3-9
7-8
Super. 1 cwt. per acre
11-1
9-3
27-5
2-6
11-1
12-3
Supei. Ig cwt. per acre
14-0
11-6
28-9
2-9
15-4
14-6
Super. 2 cwt.
13-9
11-7
28-2
3-7
14 -.5
14-4
Super. 1 cwt. + Nitrate Soda 49 lbs.
13-6
8-1
30-0
3-3
16-3
14-3
(with seed)
Super. 1 cwt. + Nitrate Soda 49 lbs.
12-6
9-5
30-1
3-5
14-7
14-1
(in Spring)
Super. 1 cwt.
13-1
10-8
28-8
3-3
11-7
13-5
Super. 1 cwt. + Sulph. Potash h cwt.
12-0
9-1
28-5
3-5
14-1
13-4
Super. 1 cwt., Sulph. Potash -1- cwt. +
12-2
6-4
28-0
3-1
15-7
13-1
Nitrate Soda \ cwt.
Bone Fertilizer f cwt.
8-4
3-3
25-3
3-5
8-1
9-7
Thomas' Phosphate 1 cwt. . .
8-9
4-1
25-5
3-2
7-6
9-9
Super. J cwt. + Thomas' Phosp. \ cwt.
12-1
5-6
26-8
3-5
13-3
12-3
Super. 1 cwt. + Lime 5 cwt.
11-8
7-1
28-4
3-0
14-9
13-0
Super. 1 cwt. + Lime 10 cwt.
12-3
6-0
27-7
3-2
14-9
12-8
Super. 1 cwt. + Lime 20 cwt.
11-5
5-3
27-0
3-4
15-7
'12-6
Super. 1 cwt.
10-9
3-8
26-1
2-9
13-6
11-5
No Manure
6-4
5-3
19-9
2-7
5-7
8-0
Super. 1 cwt. (cropped continuously) . .
9-9
10-4
22-7
3-7
8-3
11-0
These tables bring out the striking efficacy of superphosphate as a
manure on our Australian wheat lands. At Rutherglen, as compared
with the no manure plot, 1 cwt. superphosphate per acre produced an
additional yield of wheat worth 28s. 9^d. per acre (wheat at 4s. a
bushel) and returned a net profit (after deducting the cost of the manure)
of 23s. 9id. per acre as a direct result of using the manure. Calculating
on a similar basis, ^ cwt. superphosphate jDroduced a net profit of 20s.
3^d. per acre. From this it will be seen that by using the heavier
dressing the grower was able to obtain 3s. 6d. per acre, or practically
an extra bushel of wheat per acre, for nothing except perhaps the trouble
of setting the drill to sow at the heavier rate.
Heavy a^^d Ligjit Dressings of Superphosphate at Rutherglen
— Five Years^ Results.
Treatment.
No Manure
Bonedust
Basic Slag
Super. \ cwt.
Super. 1 cwt.
Super. 2 cwt.
Yield
per acre.
bushels.
8-6
12-7
13-5
14-3
15-8
15 -9
Increase
per acre
over
no manure.
bushels
per acre.
4-1
4-9
7-3
Value of
increase
at 4s.
bushel.
16
19
28
29
5
7
9Jr
Cost of
manure,
per acre.
S. d.
2 6
5 0
10 0
Net profit
per acre
after deducting
cost of
manure.
s. d.
20 3.V
23 9|
19 2
Note. — The e.vpense of putting in each plot is the same except so far as the manures are concerned.
3975.-2
226
JotinidJ of Arjricidtiiic, Victoriit. [10 April, 1918.
At Longerenoug there has been a steady increase, both in yields and
in the net profit per acre, as the dressings increase; 2 cwt. being the
maximum amount applied.
As compared with the no manure plot, ^ cwt. superphosphate gave
an extra return of 21s. lOM. after the cost of the manure had been de-
ducted. Calculating on the same basis, 1 cwt. yielded a net profit of
23s. 4^d., the maximum being 25s. 2d. per acre with 2 cwt. super.
Heavy and Light Dressings of Superphosphate at Longerenong
— Five Years' Kesults.
Treatment.
Yield
per acre.
Increase
over
no manure
plot.
Value of
Increase
at 4s.
bushel.
Cost of
manure,
per acre.
Net profit
per acre
after deducting
cost of
manure.
bushels.
bushels
s. d.
5. d.
s. d.
No Manure
24-3
Thomas' Phosp.
26-4
2-1
—
—
—
Super. 1 cwt. . .
30-4
6-1
24 4^
2 6
21 10^
Super. 1 cwt. . .
31-4
7-1
28 4^
5 0
23 ^
Super. 2 cwt. . .
33-1
8-8
35 2
10 0
25 2
At Werribee the net profit per acre obtained by the use of 4 cwt.
superphosphate was 15s. jSTo increase in the wheat yield was obtained
by increasing the di'essings to 1 cwt., but the response to still heavier
dressings, namely, 1^ cwt., and 2 cwt. respectively, showed that the soil
would behave in a similar manner to that of the other centres. The
greatest net profit per acre (19s. 8d.) was obtained by using 1\ cwt,
super.
Heavy and Lkjht Dressings of Superphosphate at Werribee
- — Five Years^ Results.
Net profit
Treatment.
Wheat
after
Yield
per acre
Increase
over no
manure
Value of
Increase
at 4s.
Cost of
manure
per acre
after
deducting
plot.
bushel.
cost of
bushels.
manure.
bushels
s. d.
S. d.
.«. d.
No Manure
Fallow
7-8
Bone Fertilizer
9-7
1-9
7 7
_
. —
Thomas' Phosphate
9-9
2-1
8 5
—
—
Super. \ cwt.
12-3
4-5
18 0
2 6
15 6
Super. 1 cwt.
,j
12-3
4-5
18 0
5 0
13 0
Super. 1^ cwt.
J,
14-6
6-8
27 2
7 G
19 3
Super. 2 cwt.
14-4
6-6
26 0
10 0
16 0
No Manure
Wheat
8-0
•2
Super. 1 cwt.
"
11-0
3-2
12 9
5 0
7 9^
Note. — At this centre on two of the plots wheat was grown con-
tinuously, one receiving no manure and the other 1 cwt. per acre. It
10 April, 1918.]
Whtdt Mcuuiiial l^rials.
227
will be noted that although the annual yield has been practically doubled
by fallowing, the total yields of the fallowed and non-fallowed plots
were apparently the same. There was, however, great difHculty in keep-
ing the " wheat continuously " plots free from weeds.
Siunmary. — The results form a striking testimony of the efficacy of
superphosphate as a manure, and they further indicate to those farmers
in districts similar to tlie centres under discussion, that is to say, to the
bulk of our wheat-growers, that heavier dressings than h cwt. per acre
are likely to prove profitable. On the black soils of the Wimmera, at
Harvesting the Plots at Rutherglen.
any rate, of which Longerenong is thoroughly representative, so definite
is tlie response to heavier dressings that there can be little doubt that
the use of at least 1 cwt. of superphosphate should prove highly profit-
able. The beneficial effect of the heavier dressings on the pastures
succeeding the wheat should not be lost sight of by farmers seeking to
improve the stock-carrying capacity of their holdings.
The above figures do not hold for the Mallee, where the conditions
are very different. Tests during the past four years at representative-
centres have shown 60 lbs. superphosphate, which is double the present
average for this district, to be the most profitable dressing for wheat.
-^^^/^^%^
2^
228 Jonrval of Agriculture, Virtoria. \\Q April, 1918.
SILO FOR ENSILAGE OR GRAIN.
Plans and Specifications for an 100=ton — All Wood — Building.
By J. ^¥ilson, Silo Builder.
Foundation.
Level off site for a diameter of 18 feet. Drive a peg in the centre of
site, and with a trammel 7 ft. 2 in. long describe a circle. Then lengthen
trammel to 8 ft. 2 in. by nailing a piece of wood to it, and describe
another circle. Excavate to a depth of 6 in. between the two circles,
u^ing the loose earth taken from the trench to fonn a mould for the con-
crete foundation. The proportions of the various constituents of the
concrete depend upon the air voids or spaces in the metal or gravel, and
upon the strength of concrete required. The mortar or compo of sand
and cement should be sufficient in bulk to fill all the voids m the metal,
preferably somewhat in excess, say, about 10 per cent. The voids can
be found by filling a kerosene tin with the metal or gravel, making a
b^ilk of 4 gallons; the whole is then weighed, allowance being made for
Weight of tin. Water is poured in until flush with the surface, and the
tin with its contents is again weighed. Thus, as water weighs 10 lbs.
to the gallon, the percentage is arrived at. For instance, a kerosene
tin of metal weighed 60 lbs. deducting the weight of the tin. Wh-en
filled with water, it weighed 78 lbs. Consequently, the void space
was represented by 18 lbs. of water, while the whole volume, 4 gallons,
Weighed 40 lbs. Thus, the percentage of void was found to be 45. A
good mixture in this instance would be 6 parts of metal, 2 parts of sand,
and 1 part of cement. In the example given, the metal was fairly
large — about 2J in. The percentage of void space increases as the size
of metal or gravel diminishes, running from 35 to 45 in ordinary
cases. For mixing concrete a smooth ])lace or board is required.
Al. mixing board may be made from the 6x1 hardwood provided
fbr lining the roof. The sand, which must be dry, should be first
put on the hoard, and then the cement added. The tAvo should be
thoroughly mixed and rolled out over the hoard in a thin layer, and the
gravel or metal then spread on the top of the cement and sand. The
whole may now be mixed dry, after which water should be added and
shovelling continued until the whole mass is thoroughly moist, but not
sufficiently so to make it run or become sloppy. The concrete should be
used at once, and not allowed to stand-^ven for half-an-hour. Any old
concrete, as well as any finished off the previous day, should be well
M^etted and picked over to form a bond. In laying a foundation it is
advisable to olace a few rows of wire, barbed or plain, through concrete
to reinforce it. Place four anchor bolts in trench as shown m Fig. 1 and
fill in mould, and ram lightly. Excavations for anchor posts (three)
should be 2 ft. X 2 ft. X 2 ft., and spaced 12 feet from foundation at
equal distances. Three anclior bolts are also required. Fix anchor
posts, fill in with concrete, and ram.
Scaffold.
Erect scaffold, keeping back 15 inches from the nearest point of
foundation. Bolts and nuts are required for scaffolding. Thoroughly
stay scaffold with 3x1 braces.
10 April, 1918. J
Si/o ior Eiisilaf/e or Grain.
229
Walls.
Proceed to make doorways, as shown (Fig. 1), out of 4 x H hard-
wood. "When the frame has heen made and squared, the first two staves
should he holted at the hack of frame, the edge of staves heing kept back
1^ inch from inside edge of door frame to form a rebate for doors to fit.
Place the door frame in position on foundation. Plumb up and fasten
to scaffold. Now proceed to place staves in position — first a 20-ft., then
a 10-ft., and so on, and in this way break the joints. Where the staves
butt together the ends should be scarfed for a depth of 2 inches. Use
Oregon lathes to hold staves temporarily until a section is erected, when
the angle iron may be used to keep the silo in shape until the whole of
the staves are erected on first section. Put on a couple of 5-8 bands, but
A
S'Vs'Bolhs^
fv
'A'tH'SHfTemng Piece
Jr/'-^! ^ggyg-
Ji./^i' L'edc/e
1 SH trying P(ec^
vn-j\}ii^frit'^,MV^-f^\^.>-A'y<-\!!'«xy^^j^-^^
^
StilYeninq Piece y
Fig. 1.
do not screw up too tightly until the top section of staves is in place.
The joint of the band should be distributed over the silo, for if they be
put in a direct line the strain will all come on one place, and soon pull
the silo out of shape. Do not tighten all at one joint, but screw up a
little at each until the whole silo is tight. Fix one set of angle iron with
screws on outside of silo and midway between top and bottom, and the
other on top inside edge of silo. Attach three guy wires to top hoop and
to anchor posts previously set in concrete, and strain tight with
couplings.
Roof.
An octagon roof is now made with a gable to allow of admittance of
the elevator. The rafters are of 4 x H hardwood, fastened on top end to
230
Journal of Agriculture, Victorui. [10 April, 1918.
t .o z
"■
W^r'. ^
.
.fc
^^^^„=»:'^ • : ■
*
^
o<s^^s^%w?5^i;. '
■ o
<
;?^.c:fc-^^° ^^S^>?S4i^-
.
10 April, 1918.]
Silo for Ensilage or Grain.
231
a 6 X 6 hexagon finial, and well spiked to the silo at the bottom end,
cover the Avhole of the roof with 6x1 hardwood, and on this cover with
certainteed roofing fasten the roofing thoroughly.
Elevator.
The length of the elevator will vary with the local conditions, whether
the ground is sloping, whether the cutter is mounted on a stage, and so
Detail of El£\^tok ^
Cover 6 'i'
d f/oor 6\l-
Carrier
Cross Section
Co/far S Sr^ Screnf
Co I lot i set jcren'
«-- foj--^
Ground end
/- 6 "jf i fining
'■>>^^^ f^J^^^^-
.mmm
-I'M K IS" — .
'J-
^^^^^^
L onqitudinal Jecfion
Fig. 3.
(^
'Bottom cut
back 16'
•Silo end
on. In general, the length necessary is about 30 feet. A box having
sides made of three 6-in. x 1-in. tongued and grooved flooring boards
with top and bottom floors of two similar boards, with a cover of 6-in.
X |-in. lining boards, is all that is required. This cover should be fixed
in 6-ft. sections to allow of easy removal should it be necessary to get at
the chain. The sides and bottom floor are secured by ledges of 6-in.
232
Ji)iini<il of A i/riciili iirt ., \'/cf(i/i!. [LO ApRiL, 1918.
X 1-in. flooring about 4 ft. 6 in. apart. The upper floor is supported
on 6-in. x 1^-in. oregon bearers spaced about 4 ft. 6 in. apart. Tlie
ground must be excavated to a suflicient deptli under tlie chaff-cutter to
allow the end of the elevator to come directly beneath the chaff-cutter, or
the latter may be raised on a platform for this purpose, or both may be
done as' shown in drawing. The end of elevator being put in as far as
possible beloAv the chaff-cutter, a chute is made with pieces of sheet iron
or of wood to connect the cutter, the whole being boxed in as far as prac-
ticable. It is essential that this chute should be as steep as }>ossible to
Fig. 4. — First Section of Silo. (Note each alternate joint is broken.)
prevent the silage from packing up. It is found better in practice to
have the slats running up the top floor of elevator, and as the right-hand
feed is desirable, which throws the cut stuff directly on to the elevator, a
crossed belt (3 in. Balata) and pulley wheels 9-in. x 3-in. for the chaff-
cutter spindle and 15-in. x 3-in. for the elevator spindle are used instead
of the chain and sprocket wheels to drive the elevator. With the left-
hand feed the stuff is thrown back against the chute, and very often
causes trouble. If a chute is made by cutting the bottoms out of half-a-
10 April, 1918.] Silo for EusUaf/e or Grain.
233
dozen cluift' bags, and then sewing tliem together, it can be tacked to the
top end of elevator, and an even distribution of chaff ^\\\ be obtained.
One man holding the bottom of chute can walk round inside the silo
and tramp the silage and distribute with the one operation. Without
the chute all the heavy stuff will fall in one heap, and the flag will blow
to the edges, which has been the main cause of waste on the outer edge
Fig. 5. — Erecting top section of Silo. (See laths for holding uprights till
bands are placed in position.)
of silos. The ground end of elevator is rounded off with galvanized
sheet-iron, allowing ^-in. room for the slats to move round the sprocket
wheel when the dead-eye bearings are fixed. The line of this iron will
be described with a radius of 7f in. from the centre of the sprocket
wheel. The cover of the elevator is left off about 5 feet from the
234
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
ground end of tlie elevator, to allow elevator to go under the chaff-
cutter and tin chute to be fixed to same. Floors, sides, and ledges of
elevator are made of 6-in. x ^-in. T. and G. flooring. The lid is made
of 6-in. X ^-in. T. and Gr. lining. The bottom floor of elevator at the
silo end is cut back IS inches, and provided with a galvanized iron lip.
This is to prevent the slats striking against the end of the bottom floor
as they return to the bottom. The end of elevator is to project into the
top of silo 21 inches. The top floor of elevator at the chaff-cutter end is
cut back 11^ inches from the end, and a slot 1^ inches wide by 6 inches
Fig. 6. — Completed Silo, showing method of Scaffolding.
long is cut in the centre of the floor, to allow the sprocket wheel and
chain to work through. The adjustable bearings are attached to the
outside of elevator at silo end with two 2|-in. x |-in. bolts to each bear-
ing, and a f-in. washer placed under the head of each bolt. The bear-
ings are fixed so that. the centre of spindle at the chaff-cutter end is
8| inches from the top edge of the elevator and at the silo end 8^ inches
from the top edge. A piece of galvanized iron 12 inches Avide by
6 inches long is tacked to the top floor of elevator at the silo end. The
10 April, 1918. J Silo jar Ensilage or Grain.
235
top edge of iron should just reach the pulley when the bearings are fully
extended. Slot the iron out at the centre 1^ inches wide and 2 inches
back at the end near pulley to enable chain to run through freely. A
groove about \ inch deep should be cut in floor at the other end of the
tin, to keep the end below the floor level and prevent the slats from
catching the same. Four collars and set screws are provided for both
spindles of elevator, to be fixed on spindles, on the outside of bearings,
allowing i-in. play between collars and bearings. The slats or buckets
for carrying silage are 3-in. x 1-in. Oregon, chamfered on one side,
checked f inch deep by 3^ inch wide, for the attachments, which are
fastened to the slats with two 2-in. No. 14 screws to each, with a
V-shaped cut beneath the attachment, to allow for insertion of sprockets.
The elevator is nailed together with 2-in. wire nails from inside; the
nails well punched, clinched, and then punched again. Great care must
be taken that nothing will project inside the elevator which may catch
the slats. When running, do not let the chain of elevator get too slack,
as veiy often' this will cause a breakage. The elevator of a 100-ton silo
is supported, as shown in drawing, with a T-piece (made of a length of
the timber used as a scaffold), checked in half-an-inch at top end, and
well spiked and fastened to the silo, as shown. Iron buckets are sup-
plied instead of wooden slats, for elevating the grain.
Material 100-^on All-tvood Silo.
Hardwood, 4-in. x l*-in., T. & G.; 142 20-ft.
Hardwood, 4-in. x li-in., T. & G.; 142 10-ft.
Iron, round, |-in. ; 48 12-ft.
Silo buckles, 42.
Anchor posts, 3 3-ft. x |-in.
Anchor posts, 4 12-in. x 1^-in., with eye and tightening bolts.
Bolts and nuts, 30 5-in. x §-in.
Nuts, f-in., 90.
Angle iron, 8 12-ft., bent to circle.
Hardwood, 4-in. x 1^-in.; 12 10-ft., 3 12-ft.
Hardwood, 3-in. x l^-in.; 5 12-ft., 4 16-ft., 6 10-ft.
Hardwood, 6-in. x 1-in.; 400 run.
Certainteed, 1 roll.
Cement, 4 casks.
1 bundle laths.
3 yards screenings, brolcen metal, or clean gravel.
2 yards sand.
Nails, 10 lbs. 3-in.; 2 lbs. l^-in.
f-in. staples, 3 lbs.
In constructing the all-wood stave silo only the best of timber, free
from knots, shakes, and gum veins, and guaranteed to be thoroughly
seasoned by the kiln process, should be used.
If desired, the Department of Agriculture will arrange for the build-
ing of silos in any part of the State. Full particulars of charges will
be furnished on application to the Director of Agriculture.
236 ' Joiirvnl of Ar/ririilfi/re, Virfnrid. [10 April. 1918.
STANDARDIZED PACKING AND GRADING OF FRUIT.
By Ernest MeeJcing, Senior Fruit Inspector.
Part T.
Jjitroductor}/.
The ever increasing demands of niodeni civilization for improved
food, clotliing, housing, lighting, transportation, sanitation, and other
mate'rial henefits have brought the adoption of standardized methods of
production and manufacture to the fore. Even in such matters as public
education and hygiene, the ever-widening application of these has com-
pelled for their governance the adoption of certain fixed standards qr
laws. As a result, such phrases as "standard of living," "standard of
education," &c., as applied to communities or nations, and " standards of
purity," " standard of quality," &c., as applied to goods which communi-
ties or nations manufacture or produce, have now become commonplace
expressions of the public press and platform.
Two considerations or motives lie at the back of this movement
towards standardization, the first based on utilitarian, and the second on
what may be termed ethical lines. Experience has shown that the surest
way to build up a permanent trade in any given article is to turn out
that article as nearly as possible in conformity with a standard grade.
This results in establishing a basis of value for the guidance of both the
seller and purchaser. For instance, to quote a few well-knowm examples,
all our most widely used brands of soaps, i:)etroleum oils, cornflours, bis-
cuits, motor cars, sporting guns, rifles, agricultural implements, tools,
optical and scientific instruments, spraying materials, drugs, and many
other articles too numerous to mention, have, by reason of their uniform
standard of quality, established a world-wide reputation, and a conse-
quent leading position in all markets. This exemplifies the truth of the
old adage that honesty is the best policy.
But the practice of standardization has even a more deep-seated and,
perhaps, more important effect than merely enhancing or facilitating
the sale of goods to Avhich it is applied. It has a character-building
effect, inasmuch as it engenders a feeling of respect and trust on the part
of the consumer towards the producer or manufacturer of the goods, and
a feeling of pride or self-respect on the part of the producer or manufac-
turer, who realizes that the standard of his goods is accepted as a reflex
of the standard of his character — a reputation he is naturally determined
to maintain by keeping the goods at high-water mark.
In addition to the foregoing, standardization also makes for efficiency
and economy in production, and gives the best results with a minimum
of waste in time, effort, and material. This is more clearly exemplified
in connexion with war activities than in the competition of modern trade
under peaceful conditions, no matter how strenuous that competition
may be. In time of war, this competition is intensified a thousandfold,
as it is not a question of the survival of an individual business, but one
on whose issue the fate of nations hangs. Any weakness in organization
or effieiency may prove fatal. This gives added significance to the fact
that the principle of standardization is far more widely and rigidly
applied in war than in any other human activity. Guns, munitions,
equipment, &c., are all made to standard patterns, and even methods of
10 April, 1918. J Htandardizcd Packing and Grading of Fruit. ^37
attuek iind defence are subject to certain fixed or standard rnles ■which
experience has proved to be the most efficient.
It does not require a stretch of imagination to realize the chaos which
would exist, and the loss of time, material, and energy which would
result if the guns, ammunition, and other equipment of a modern army
were not turned out to standard patterns. The value of standardization
in the direction of producing a maximum of result in a given period has
been fully emphasized by the present needs of the Allies for maintaining
tbe wastage in shipping toimage caused by the submarine campaign of
our enemies. This has resulted in the building of ships to standard pat-
terns, as it has been found that therein lies the only hoipe by which the
menace may be effectively met.
At first sight the pertinence of the foregoing remarks to the subject-
matter of this article may not seem apparent, but the comparisons have
been drawn to emphasize the utility of the principle of standardization
as applied to a wide range of industry. It has been found that wherever
it has been adopted it begets (a) efficiency; (&) economy in effort, tinil,
and material; and (c) confidence between the manufacturer or producer
and the seller and purchaser of goods. ;
The experience gained since the adoption of standardized method^ of
grading and packing fruit in the United States and Canada, the Itwjo
largest fruit-growing countries in the world, has shown that these
methods are a sine qua non for building up a large fruit industry on suc-
cessful lines. A perusal of the Proceedings of the 50th Californian anci
State Fruit Growers Convention, held at Sacramento, 21st to 23r«l
November, 1917, shows that all the delegates who delivered addresses oh
this subject pyid high tributes to the beneficial results which had accrued
to the fruit industry in California and other parts of America by the
adoption of standardized packing and grading. N'ot a single dissentienit
voice was raised against the principle generally, nor against the oper^d-
tion of the Fresh Fruit Standardization Law, which was passed in 191S
to give legal effect to the standard packs which had already been volunf
tarily adopted for many years by most of the co-operative and other
fruit-growing and fruit-distributing concerns of California.
Space will not permit a reprint of all the statements in full which
were made by the various speakers at the Convention, but a few extracts
will suffice to show how standardized packing is viewed in California.
Mr. F. B. McKevitt, President, California Fruit Distributors : —
" iStandardizafion, while it is new in a legal sense, is not a new thing
by any means. Standardization has been practised by the Californian
growers since they began to send their fruit to the East — not all, but all
those who have made the greatest success. In order to make a demand for
fruit it is necessary to have good fruit, and standardization means nothing
more or less than the packing of good fruit. It seems to me that
standardization is simply a' synonym for common honesty. . . .
Standardization is nothing more or less than the selfish proposition
of giving the grower more money for his fruit, as well as giving to the
consumer more fruit for his money. Therefore it is a splendid thing all
along the line."
Mr. E. O. McCormick, vice-president. Southern Pacific Railway
Company : —
" It is the pack that sells, whether it is the inner seal, the habisco wafer,
or the American cracker, or the tobacco pouch, or the orange or lemon with
the brand which we have made known, or your wonderful grapes, or the way
j'ou pack your cherries. It is the honest pack to-day that sells."
238
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
, Aldei' Anders, in Sacramento : —
" I have lieard the addresses, and so far I have not heard a false note.
Everybody is for standardization, and it is as weW as a progressive business
people that the fruit-growers should be so, for standardization is nothing
but a matter of evolution in the matter of handling Californian fruits."
A. P. Anewalt, general freight agent, Sante Fe railway, Los
Angeles : —
" This is an age of efficiency, which is another word for standardization,
and uniformity in complying with it; without uniformity of performance,
standardization, whatever may be its merit, -will accomjilish little good."
Many other members of the Convention spoke in a similar strain,
some especially instancing the way in which the fruit industry in Cali-
fornia had benefited by standardized packing. The benefits which have
accrued to the fruit industry in America by standardization have been
alluded to in past numbers of this Journal, more particularly in con-
nexion with the establishment and development of the Californian Citrus
Fruit-growers Exchange, and the ISTorth-western Fruit Exchange. These
Orange Packing House, Pasadena, California. (Reprinted from
in Agriculture.")
Co-operation
two co-operative exchanges, which are now the largest handlers and dis-
tributors in the world of citrus and deciduous fruits respectively, rose
from small beginnings, and under the most adverse circumstances. Their
success has been almost solely due to the standardization of their packs,
and the reputation for honest grading and packing which they have
thereby established in every market where their fruits have been placed.
The frequent allusions in this Journal to the success which has been
achieved in the United States and Canada by the adoption of standardiza-
tion packing has been met by certain sections of our fruit-growers by the
statement that the conditions in existence on the North American Conti-
nent were so different from those which obtained in Australia as to raise
grave doubts as to their applicability here. An endeavour will be made
later to show that not only is it possible to apply the same methods
in Victoria, but that the application of these methods would probably
result in benefit to the producer, seller, and consumer of our fruits.
10 April, 1918. J Standardized Paclcing and Gradiny of Fruit. ^^39
Before giving reasons for this belief, it may be as well to point
out some of the changes in the present methods of marketing and distri-
buting our fruits which will be necessary to establish standardized pack-
ing and grading on proper lines, and to give the fullest effect to the
system. This will lead to a consideration of the defects which exist
under our present methods, and tlie reasons for the introduction of the
legislation which has been enacted for the purpose of remedying or at
least mitigating these defects.
The system at present in vogue in Victoria under which our fruits
are prej^ared for market, and whereby they are distributed to the con-
suming public, is practically the same as that which existed thirty years
or more ago, when the average acreage did not amount to more than
25 per cent, of the production of to-day. At the beginning of that
period, none of the large fruit-producing centres in the irrigation areas
north of the Dividing Range had been established. The large fruit-
growing centres since opened up in the Diamond Creek, Bendigo, Bacchus
Oranges exposed for sale at auction, New York. (Reprinted from
"Co-operation in Agriculture.")
Marsh, Ovens Valley, Portland, Pakenham, Stawell, Somerville, and
Timboon districts did not exist. In addition, many large individual
orchards all over the State had not come into being. Even in the older
fruit-growing districts, the area which has been planted during the period
under notice has more than doubled. The growth of the local consuming
public in the same period has not increased in proportion to the rate
of production, as the population of the State from 1887 until 1917 has
increased only 55 per cent. In spite of this huge increase in production,
the facilities for distribution of fruit have not been increased; in fact,
it is most probable that they have relatively decreased. The disappear-
ance of the fruit-hawker from the streets of Melbourne and suburbs
will be noticed by those of us. old enough to carry our memories back
some two or three decades.
It is thought by many that the passing of the fruit hawker is mainly
due to the harshness of our municipal laws in the metropolitan area
240 Jouriutl of Aijriciiltiire, Victori(t. [10 April, 1918.
against tliis class of trader, and the difficvilty which exists under those
laws to obtain the necessary licence. This, however, is not the chief
reason. The hawker has disappeared mainly because he has become
taboo to the consumer. This taboo has arisen through the inability of
the consumer to obtain an honest deal. Too often the housewife has
found, after examining a half-case or case of fruit purchased from the
hawker at the door, that the purchase consisted of a mixture of specimens
diflfering in variety, size, and degree of maturity, and often, in addition,
contains a proportion of unsound fruits. The confidence of the consumer
has thus become forfeited, the business of the hawker has automatically
ceased, and closed the largest and most direct channel Avhereby the
consumer may be reached.
The place of the hawker in the metropolitan area has, to some extent,
been taken by the retail fruiterer, and by the increased number of stall-
holders in the Queen Victoria and other retail markets. It is obvious
that neither of these provide an efficient method for reaching a large pro-
portion of the public, which has not yet learned the food value of fruit,
and the necessity for its inclusion in the daily dietary. They are fond
of fruit, however, and have some realization of its hygienic value, but
not to such an extent as would induce them to go to the trouble of attend-
ing the market or paying a visit to the retail fruit shop in their locality.
Such visits, too, cannot in many instances be made with any degree
of frequency without a fair amount of personal inconvenience. More-
over, the dishonest practices which have caused the consumer to taboo the
hawker are largely in operation in the markets and retail shops. The
disgust of the purchaser is intensified by carrying home a parcel of fruit
to find that j^erhaps half his purchase consists of unusable specimens.
(To be continued.)
LECTURES, FARMERS' CLASSES, ETC.
The following letter has been addressed to the secretaries of agricul-
tural societies tliroughout the State by the Director of Agriculture : —
I have the honour, by direction, to inform you that the Department's arranoe-
ments for the liolding of stallion parades, lectures, and farmers' classes durinw
1918 are as under: —
Stallion Parades.
A somewhat curtailed time-table for stallion parades is being arranged, and
will be forwarded to yovi shortly, so that the necess.ary local arrangements may
be made as usual. It is desired that the system confining the award of prizes to
certified stallions only shall be continued, i'n order that societies may obtain the
benefit of the subsidy when Government grants to agricultural societies are
resumed.
Lectures.
Enclosed is a list of lectures and demonstrations wliicb will be oivcn on
request from agricultural societies and kindred bodies during 1918.
On account of the shortage in the staflf, through enlistment, no lectures on
veterinary subjects can be given, but the whole programme on other subjects can
be arranged, and the Department will be glad to complv Avith the requests of
societies as far as possible.
It is suggested, in order to save the time of officers and travelling expenses,
that societies requiring the usual four lectures sliould arrange that, at least, two
should be held at centres in the same district on two following dates, or as near
one another as practicable.
10 April, 1918. J Lectures, Farmers' Classes, Etc. 241
Farmers' Classes.
The periotl for fainiers' classes will be the same as for last year, namely, a
week.
Applications sliouhl reach me as early as possible.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. VICTORIA.
Lectukes and Classes for 1918.
The object of tlie Agricultural Department in offering lectures or
classes, free of charge, to farmers and land-owners is to enable them to
obtain information on up-to-date farming methods, and the results of
the research and experimental work on the research farms in Yietoria.
The Agricultural Department recognises the fact that agricultural
societies and progi'ess associations can assist largely in organizing meet-
ings for these purposes, and for the benefit of the agricultural community
generally.
A competent staff of lecturers is available from both the practical
'and scientific aspects of the subjects to be dealt with. A list of subjects
and the staff employed for lecturing is submitted herewith.
Tlie benefits to be derived are : —
Agriculture.
A knowledge O'f our different crop requirements, and how to supply
them for the greatest profit.
The best systems of cultivation.
The right kinds of manures and quantities to use for various crops
and soils.
The saving of money in the purchase of manures.
Systems of farm management.
Main points in successful wheat culture.
Dairying.
How to breed and manage dairy cows.
The building of sheds, silos, &c.
Methods of testing cream and milk.
Foods to feed for maximum results.
The management of pigs, breeding and feeding.
Cheese-making.
Apiculture.
How to handle and manage bees.
Treatment of their diseases and methods of control.
Poulti'y.
The best methods of breeding, selecting, rearing, and managing fowls
for table use or egg production.
How to feed for highest profit.
The treatment of common ailments.
Orchard and Viticulture.
The main points in making these industries successful.
242 Jmirtial of Af/ricultvre, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
Stallion Parades.
The awards of prizes in all classes for stallions three years old and
over at the society's shoiw to be subject to the possession by the exhibit
of a Government certificate of soundness.
Stallion inspection parades will be held at different centres throughout
the State prior to the commencement of the show season. (Time-table
for stallion parades for 1918 will be available shortly after 1st May,
1918.) The parade centres are so arranged that all owners of show
stallions have the opportunity of submitting them for examination
for the Government certificate of soundness before the closing of entries
for the show. Show secretaries will require to obtain evidence of the
possession of the Government certificate in respect of exhibits at the
time of entry, and should not accept entires of other than certificated
horses.
Immediately after the show, secretaries of societies are required to
forward the names of all the horses that have won the prizes in stallion
classes, together with the names of the owners, to the Director of Agri-
culture.
Farmers' Classes. •
Applications should be submitted as early as possible.
Twenty students at least must be enrolled before a class can be held.
The rent of hall and all local charges are to be paid by the society;
all other expenses by the Department. Arrangements must be made
to insure the uninterrupted use of the hall during the time the lectures
are going on.
A roll of attendances at lectures and demonstrations shall be kept.
The agricultural classes will extend over one week, consisting of not
more than five evening lectures. Field demonstrations will be arranged
for day-time instruction on days as required. The majority of the
lectures will be illustrated by limelight views.
Examinations will be held at the conclusion of each class, provided
not less than five students compete. The successful competitor at
each class will be eligible to take part in a final examination for the
A.N.A. gold medal in Melbourne.
Free rail tickets will be issued to students to attend this final
examination. Five competitors or more must attend, or no medal will
be awai'ded.
Professional men, students in attendance at Agricultural High
Schools and Colleges, or at the Continuation Schools, and teachers from
Buch institutions or State-schools, are not allowed to sit for the examina-
tion.
Lectures.
Applications should be submitted as early as possible, and accom-
panying the application must be a list of the subjects (see page 3) which
the society chooses. The dates of lectures or classes will then be fixed
by the Department, and if societies will state the most suitable seasons
for their districts, the classes or lectures will, as far as possible, be
arranged accordingly.
10 April, 1918. J Lectures, Farmers' Classes, Etc. 243
The president or secretary, or a member of the council or committee
of the society must take the chair at each lecture or class, and must
certify as to the number and ho/id fides of the attendance.
The rent of the hall, advertising, and all other local charges are to
bft paid by the society — all other expenses by the Department.
SYNOPSIS OF LECTURES AND DEMONSTRATIONS.
Principles of Agriculture.
1. The plant food of the soil.
2. Cultivation methods and management.
3. Principles of manuring.
4. Valuation of artificial manures.
5. The management of the farm.
6. Special cfops and catch crops.
7. Irrigation principles and methods.
8. Factors in successful wheat cultivation.
9. Result of experimental work.
Dairy Farming.
1. Breeding and management.
2. Dairy buildings — silos and silage.
3. Dairy management.
4. Milk and cream testing.
5. Foods and feeding.
6. Pig breeding, feeding, and management.
7. Cheese-making.
Apiculture.
1. The honey industry — handling bees.
2. Breeding and management.
3. Diseases of bees — methods of control.
Poultry Breeding and Management.
1. Incubation — natural and artificial — the rearing of chickens.
2. Breeds — payable or otherwise, table and export; eggs, how to select stock.
3. Turkeys — their care and management. Duck raising and care.
4. Foods and feeding, with practical demonstration — mixing the mash.
5. Common ailments of poultry.
Orchard and Garden V/ork.
1. Fruit-growing — varieties suitable to the different localities, soils, and sites.
2. Preparation of land — planting and pruning.
3. Cultivation — manuring and management.
4. Insect pests and fungus diseases and their treatment.
The Fruit Industry.
1. Handling, packing, grading, and marketing of fruit for export and local
trade.
Viticulture.
1. Establishment of vineyard.
2. Phylloxera and resistant stocks — preparation of land.
3. Propagation and grafting — ^best varieties to grow.
4. Pruning and seasonable operations.
5. Wine making and cellar management.
6. Drying raisins, sultanas, and currants — fresh grapes for export.
7. Vine diseases and treatment.
244
Joiinial of Agnculture, Victorid. [10 April, 1918.
SUBJECTS AXD STAFF.
Principles of Agriculture— Mr. A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc,
and Mr. H. A. Mullett, B.Ag.Sc.
Dairy Farming — Mr. R. T. Archer and staff of dairy supervisors.
The Dairying Industry and Export Trade — Mr. R. Crowe.
Orchard and Garden Work— Messrs. V. J. Carniody, H. W. Davey,
and E. E. Pescott.
Viticulture — Mr. F. de Castella.
Flax Culture and Demonstrations at Shows — Mr. J. E. Robilliard.
Poultry Breeding and Management — Mr. A. V. D. Rintoul.
Poultry Dressing Demonstrations — Mr. A. PTart.
Potato Culture — Mr. J. T. Ramsay.
Pig Breeding and Management — Mr. R. T. Archer.
Fruit Industries — Mr. E. Meeking.
Insect Pests — Mr. C. French.
Plant Diseases — Mr. W. Laidlaw, B.Sc, and Mr. C. C. Brittlehank.
Apiculture — Mr. F. R. Beuhne.
Cheese Industry — Mr. G. C. Sawers.
STALLION PARADES.
TIME TABLE, 1918.
(Subject to alteration at short notice.)
Date.
Place.
Time.
GflBcer Arrives.
Officer Departs.
SPECIAL.
Every Saturday : —
June 22 to Dec. 21 . .
Agricultural
Offices
10 a.m. to
12 noon
July 22 to July 24 . .
Royal Show
Grounds
10 a.m.
WIMMERA No. 1.
Monday, July 8
Tuesday, July 9
Wednesday, July 10. .
Thursday, July 11 . .
Ararat
Goroke
Horsham . .
Stawell
3 p.m. . .
3 p.m.
9 a.m.
3 p.m. . .
1.27 p.m.
2 p.m.
9.25 p.m. (9th) ..
2.41 p.m.
9.25 p.m.
6 p.m.
12.10 p.m. (11th)
7.46 p.m.
WESTERN No. 1.
Tuesday, July 16 ..
Tuesday, July 16
Wednesday, July 17. .
Thursday, July 18 . .
Thursday, July 18 ..
Coleraine . .
Casterton . .
Portland
Hamilton . .
Balmoral . .
10 a.m. . .
3 p.m.
1.5 p.m. . .
11 a.m. . .
3 p.m.
7.35 p.m. (l.Jth)
Driving
1.5 p.m.
6.8 p.m. (17th). .
Driving
Driving
8.30 a.m. (17th)
2.55 p.m.
Driving
Driving
10 April, 1918. J
Stallion Parades.
245
Stallion Parades, Time Table — continued.
CENTRAL No. 1.
Wednesday, July 21
Thursday,'july 25 . .
MALLEE No. 1.
Monday, July 29
Tuesday, July 30
Tuesday, July 30
Tuesday, July 30
Wednesday, July 3 1
Thursday, August I
NORTH-EASTERN
No. I.
Monday, July 29
Tuesday, July 30
Tuesday, July 30
Wednesday, July 31
Thursday, August 1
Friday, August 2
WIMMERA No. 2.
Tuesday, August 6 . .
Wednesday, August 7
Thursday, August 8 . .
Thursday, August 8 . .
Friday, August 9
MALLEE No. 2.
Tuesday, August 26 . .
Wednesday, August 27
Thursday, August 28
Thursday, August 28
Friday, August 29 . .
Saturday, August 30
WIMMERA No. 3.
Monday, August 12 . .
Tuesday, August 13 . .
Wednesday, August 14
Thursday, August 15
Thursday, August 15
Friday, August 16 . .
Place.
Inglewood
Bendigo
St. Arnaud
Donald
Watchera
Birchip
Mildura
Ouyen
Rutherglen
Yarrawonga
Tungamah
Myrtleford .
Benalla
Euroa
Hopetoun
Warrackiia-
beal
Bculah
Min5np
Murtoa
Swan Hill
Kerang
Pyramid
Cohuna
Elmore
Franks ton
Beaufort
Kaniva
NhiU
Rainbow
Jeparit
Dimboola
Time. OflBcer Arrives. OflBcer Departs
2 p.m.
11 a.m.
3.30 p.m.
10 a.m.
1.30 p.m
3 p.m.
3 p.m.
3 p.m.
2 p.m.
1 1 a.m.
3.30 p.m.
3 p.m.
2 p.m.
10 a.m.
3 p.m.
3 p.m.
10 a.m.
3.30 p.m.
2 p.m.
3 p.m.
3 p.m.
11 a.m.
3 i).m.
4.15 p.m.
3 p.m.
2 p.m.
2 p.m.
3 p.m.
12 noon
4 p.m.
11 a.m.
1.30 p.m.
6 p.m. (24th)
3.22
p.m.
1.22 a.m
Driving
Driving
7.10 a.m.
9.45 p.m. (31st)
1.53 p.m.
10.5 p.m. (29th)
3.26 p.m.
2.59 p.m.
10.17 a.m.
6.33 p.m. (1st)
9.35 p.m. (L:th)
9.50 a.m. (6th)
9.15 p.m. (7th)
3.18 p.m.
12.30 p.m.
6.25 p.m.
1.9 p.m.
7.10 a.m.
Driving
4.15 p.m.
2.31 p.m.
12 27 p.m.
2.28 a.m.
1.22 a.m.
1 1 .55 a.m.
4 p.m.
10 a.m.
(5th)
4.25 p.m.
3.15 p.m.
12.12 a.m. (.30th)
Driving
Dri
ving
.40 p.m.
p.m.
45 p.m.
3.22 p.m.
2.45 p.m.
8.6 a.m. (3Ist)
7 22 a.m. (l.st)
5.40 p.m.
11.12a.m.
7 a m. (7th)
7.50 p.m.
11.55 a.m.
11.43 a.m. (9th)
3.32 p.m.
10.50 a.m. (7th)
6 a.m. (8th)
Driving
12.30 p.m. (9th)
4.55 p.m.
5.6 p.m
8.20 p.m.
12.42 a.m. (14th)
1.32 a.m. (15th)
2.50 p.m.
8.25 a.m. (16th)
2.18 p.m. (16th)
246
Jonrnal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
Stallion Parades, Time Table — continued.
Date.
Place.
Time.
OfBcer Arrives.
Officer Departs.
GOULBURN
VALLEY No. 1.
Monday, August 12 . .
Rochester . ,
2 p.m.
1.36 p.m.
10.14 p.m.
Tuesday, August 13 . .
Echuca
11 a.m. . .
10.55 p.m. {12th)
3 p.m.
Wednesday, August 14
Tatura
10 a.m. . .
5.41 p.m. (13th)
11.44 a.m.
Wednesday, August 14
Kyabram . .
2 p.m.
12.52 p.m.
4.25 p.m.
Thursday, August 15
Seymour
2 p.m. . .
8.16 p.m. (14th)
8 33 p.m.
Thursday, August 15
Geelong
3 p.m.
12.50 p.m.
5.55 p.m.
Friday, August 16 . .
Heathcote . .
2 p.m. . .
11.41a.m.
6.59 p.m.
MALLEE No. 3.
Tuesday, August 20 . .
Quambatook
10 a.m. . ,
6.33 p.m. (19th)
11.31 a.m.
Tuesday, August 20 . .
Boort
12 55 p.m.
12.55 p.m.
1.35 p.m.
Wednesday, August 21
Charlton
2 p.m. . .
4.7 p.m. (20th)..
4.27 p.m.
Thursday, August 22
Sea Lake . .
3 p.m.
9.25 p.m. (21st)
8 30 a.m. (23rd)
Friday, August 23 . .
Wycheproof
11.50 a.m.
11.50 a.m.
12.40 p.m.
NORTH-EASTERN
No. 2.
Monday, August 19 . .
Tallangatta
4.40 p.m.
4.38 p.m.
5 a.m. (20th)
Tuesday, August 20 . .
Corryong
3.30 p.m.
3.30 p.m.
7 a.m. (21 St)
Thursday, August 22
Wangaratta
2 p.m.
9.34 a.m.
4.30 p.m.
NORTH-EASTERN
No. 3.
Monday, August 12 . .
Dookie
2 p.m.
12.45 p.m.
4.10 p.m.
Tuesday, August 13..
Cobram
2 p.m.
1.57 p.m.
3.10 p.m.
Wednesday, August 14
Numurkah . .
11 a.m. . .
4.38 p.m. (27th)
12.55 p.m.
Wednesday, August 14
Nathalia
2 p.m.
1.47 p.m.
3 31 p.m.
Thursday, August 15
Shepparton . .
2 p.m.
5.40 p.m. (28th)
6 p.m.
Friday, August 16 . .
Murcliison . .
9.30 a.m.
7.15 p.m. (29th)
10 58 a.m.
Friday, August 16 . .
Rushworth
2 p.m.
11.48 p.m.
5.20 p.m.
CENTRAL No. 2.
Monday, August 26 . .
Mansfield . .
2 p.m.
2 p.m.
3.30 p.m.
Tuesday, August 27 . .
Yea
9.30 a.m . .
6.33 p.m. (20th)
10 33 a.m.
Tuesday, August 27 . .
Alexandra . .
2 p.m.
12.25 p.m.
4.40 p.m.
Wednesday, August 28
Kilmore
10 a.m. . .
10 p.m. (27th) ..
9 45 p.m.
Thursday, August 29
Ballan
10 a.m. . .
10 a.m.
12.2 p.m.
Thursday, August 29
Melton
2 p.m.
1.31p.m.
5.13 p.m.
Friday, August 30 . .
Bacchus
Marsh
11 a.m. . .
5.31 p.m. (29th)
12 59 p.m.
Saturday, August 31 . .
Werribee . .
12 noon . .
11.47 a.m.
1.16 p.m.
WESTERN No. 2.
Monday, Sept. 2
Colac
3 p.m.
10.41 a.m.
8.20 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 3
Camperdown
11 a.m. . .
9.36 p.m. (2nd)..
12.14 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 3
Terang
3 p.m.
12.44 p.m.
10 27 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 4 . .
Warmambool
1 1 a.m. . .
11.32 p.m. (3rd)
2.17 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 4 . .
Koroit
3 p.m.
2.45 p.m.
12.22 am. (5th)
Thursday, Sept. 5 . ,
Port Fairy . .
11 a.m. . .
12.52 a.m.
1.27 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 5 . .
Penshurst . .
4 p.m.
Driving
7.47 a.m. (6th)
10 April, 1918. J
Stallion Parades.
247
Stallion Parades, Time Table — continued.
Date.
Place.
Time.
Officer Arrives.
Officer Departs.
CENTRAL No. 3.
Monday, Sept. 2
Monday, Sept. 2
Tuesday, Sept. 3
Tuesday, Sept. 3
Wednesday, Sept. 4 . .
Thursday, Sept. 5 . .
Friday, Sept. 6
Castlemaine
Kyneton
Maryborough
Chines
Smeaton
Daylesford . .
Ballarat
10 a.m. . .
1.30 p.m...
11 a.m. . .
2 p.m.
2 p.m. . .
2 p m.
2 p.m.
9.30 a.m.
1.11p.m.
5 58 p.m. (2nd)
1.43 p.m.
Driving
7.17 p.m. (4th)
6 36 p.m. (5th). .
12.25 p.m.
3.12 p.m.
12 55 p m.
7.36 p.m.
Driving
3.25 p.m.
7.10 p.m.
GIPPSLAND No. 1.
Monday, Sept. 9
Tuesday, Sept. 10 . .
Tuesday, Sept. 10 ..
Wednesday, Sept. 1 1
Wednesday, Sept. 11
Thursday, Sept. 12 . .
Thursday, Sept. 12 . .
Friday, Sept. 13
Bunyip
Morwell
Mirboo
Traralgon . .
Sale
Trafalgar . .
Warragul . .
Daudenong
10 a.m. . .
10 a.m. . .
2 p.m. . .
1 1 a.m. . .
2 p.m.
11 a.m. . .
3 p.m.
11 a.m. . .
9 56 a.m.
8.49 p.m. (9th) .
1.50 p.m.
9.15 p.m. (10th)
1.26 p.m.
6 51p.m. (11th)
2 50 p.m.
9.32 p.m. (12th)
6 31 p.m.
12.15 pm.
4.15 p.m.
12 20 p m.
4.11 p.m.
2.8 pm.
7 50 p m.
1.38 p.m. .
GIPPSLAND No. 2.
Monday, Sept. 9
Tuesday, Sept. 10 . .
Wednesday, Sept. 1 1
Wednesday, Sept. 11
Thursday, Sept. 12 . .
Friday, Sept. 13
Lang Lang . .
Dalyston
Leongatha . .
Foster
Yarram
Korumburra
2 p.m. . .
2 p.m. ..
9.30 a.m.
2 p.m.
9.30 a.m . .
3 p.m.
8.55 a.m.
9.4 p.m. (9th) . ,
9.7p.m. (10th)..
12.30 p.m.
11 p.m. (Uth) ..
4.45 p.m. (12th)
7.17 p.m.
3.57 p.m.
10 59 a.m.
8.55 p.m.
10.30 a.m.
5.5 p.m.
GIPPSLAND No. 3.
Monday, Sept. 16
Wednesday, Sept. 18
Thursday, Sept. 19 . .
Friday, Sept. 20
Romsey
Orbost
Baimsdale . .
Lilydale
11 a.m. . .
2 p.m.
12 noon . .
3 p.m.
10.41 a.m.
8.50 p.m. (17th)
11.30 a.m.
1.45 p.m.
5.25 p.m.
6.40 a.m. (19th)
2.25 p.m.
5.35 p.m.
GIPPSLAND No. 4.
Tuesday, Sept. 17 . .
Friday, Sept. 20
Omeo
Memda
3.30 p.m.
12.30 p.m.
2. .30 p.m.
12.24 a.m.
6.30 a.m. (18th)
1.15 p.m.
Monday, Sept 23
Royal Show
9 a.m.
PLANTING AND llECONSTITUTION OF VINEYARDS.
Conditions Governing- the Distribution of Phylloxera-Resistant Vine
Rootling-s and Cuttings.
The conditions subject to which Victorian vine-growers may purchase
phylloxera-resistant vine cuttings and rootlings (grafted or ungrafted)
248 Journal of A (jricnltii re , Victoria. [10 April, lyitt.
have been drawn up for the current year, and copies of same will shortly
be available on application.
Beyond the necessary alterations of dates (substitution of 1918 for
1917, &c.), the conditions are much the same as for last season. There
is no alteration in price.
The time within which applications will be received remains as it was
last year, as will be seen below. Applicants are required to finally
decide, when filling in their application forms, as to their stock and scion
requirements; no' amendment can be permitted later.
It will suffice here to explain that resistant vines are supplied to in-
tending planters in any of the following forms, and at the prices stated;
packing extra in the case of consignments f orwarde"cl by rail : — •
Resistant rootlings, grafted with scions previously supplied by
applicants, at per 1,000, £6.
Resistant rootlings, ungrafted, at per 1,000, £1 10s.
Resistant cuttings, at per 1,000, 15s.
Application Forms.
No application will be entertained unless made on the forms supplied
for the purpose, which are obtainable from the Director, Department
of Agriculture, Melbourne, or from the Principal, Viticultural College,
Rutherglen.
Separate forms are j^rovided for (a) Grafted Rootlings (ft) Ungrafted
Rootlings and Cuttings. Applications must be filled in on the proper
forms.
Each applicant for forms will be supplied with a copy of the de-
tailed conditions governing the distribution of phylloxera-resistant vine
rootlings and cuttings.
Applicants are earnestly requested to thoroughly familiarize them-
selves with these. They are warned that under no circumstances can
any departure he 'permitted from the regulations governing the dis-
tribution as detailed therein, nor^ can any request for special considera-
tion he entertained.
Dates before which Applications must be made.
For Grafted Rootlings (1919 distribution, June to August inclu-
sive), applications will be received until 30tli June next. (For the
1918 distribution the time for receiving applications closed on 30th June,
1917, and present applicants cannot be supplied until 1919.)
For Ungrafted Rootlings, to be distributed from July to August
inclusive, 1918, apjjlications will be received until 31st July, 1918.
For Cuttings (see conditions), applications will be received until 30th
June, 1918.
Supplying Clean Districts;
Rootlings and cuttings cannot be sent from nurseries in phylloxer-
ated districts to clean districts. A limited number of clean ungrafted
rootlings are, however, available for distribution to clean districts.
The price charged is £2 per 1,000, packing extra. Applications for these
will be received by the Principal, School of Horticulture, Burnley, until
1st June, 1918.
10 April, 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 249
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Principal, School of Horticulture, Burnley.
The Orchard.
As soon as the fruit is off the trees, the land should be well ploughed
and left in a rough condition until the spring ploughing. Tf not
already done, and the orchard conditions demand it, there is still time
to put in a leguminous crop for green manuring purposes. But this
should be done as early as possible, so as to give the crop a chance to
make some good early growth. Soils deficient in lime or in organic
matter are always benefited by a crop of green manures. Where stable
manure is unprocurable, the green manure crop is the only means of
adding organic matter to the soil.
Pests and Diseases.
All second-hand and old cases should be thoroughly overhauled.
It is preferable to do this work now, instead of leaving it till spring,
when the rush of other duties will certainly prevent it being carried
out. The cases, if not bad enough to be destroyed by fire, should be
dipped for some time in boiling water. And this is not only for the
killing of the codlin larvae, but also to destroy larvae or eggs of any
scale or aphis, and also any spores of fungus diseases that may have
found lodgment therein.
As soon as the trees have shed their foliage they may be sprayed with
red oil emulsion for woolly aphis, peach aphis, and the bryobia mite.
And this should be done before pruning, so that in handling and carry-
ing the prunings the pests will not be spread about the orchard to infect
the clean portions.
Flower Garden.
The removal of permanent shrubs and palms, and the planting out
of evergreen trees, shrubs, and herbaceous divisions should not be
delayed any longer. The nursery section of this class should be cleared
out into the garden at once. It is a mistake to wait, as many growers
do, for the removal of such plants until the winter season. If planted
out now while the ground is warm, the roots of the plants have a fair
chance to grow, to take a considerable hold of the soil, and to establish
themselves in their new location before the growth period ceases. Then,
after the winter's rest, they are ready to break away into new growth,
both in the roots and crown, with the advent of the first spring weather.
When planted in winter they have no chance to grow ; the roots remain
as when planted, and with every chance to rot in the cold, wet soil,
the foliage becomes yellow and debilitated, and the plant, if it dees
not succumb, often takes the whole ensuing season to recover its general
health. And then, of course, the season that has been lost can never
be regained.
Bulbs, tubers, and corms of spring-flowering plants should now all
be planted. As they appear above ground, they should be protected
250 .Journal of Af/ricultiire, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
from the ravages of snails and slugs, as these pests have a very great
liking for these succulent growths. A good surface dressing of broken
leaf or dust tobacco will effectually deal with these pests. In fact,
the gardener who constantly uses tobacco, either in the leaf, stem, or
dust forms, will very soon be in the happy position that slugs and snails
will cause him no anxiety whatever. Besides, the tobacco has manurial
properties which are also valuable.
Pansy and any other seedlings, also rooted layers and cuttings, may
now be planted out into their permanent positions.
Sowings may also be made of any hardy annuals, such as antirrhinum,
aquilegia, correopsis, Canterbury bell, dianthus, everlastings, foxglove,
gaillardia, hollyhock, larkspur, leptosyne, lobelia, marigold, pansy,
petunia, stock, sweet peas, verbena, wallflower, &c.
Vegetable Garden.
There should now be no untidy or undug beds in the kitchen garden.
The vacant beds should all be well dug over and prepared for the
planting of vegetables for use in spring. In digging, a top dressing
of manure should be given ; this may be dug in. All weeds, too, may
be forked into the trenches, and covered well with soil as each spit or
length is dug. A dressing of lime is very beneficial at this time of the
year three or four weeks after the manure or weed dressing.
A start should now be made at cleaning out the asparagus beds.
This vegetable is most popular, and yet one rarely met with in ordinary
household gardens. It is supposed to be difficult to grow, but this
supposition is not borne out, as, once established, a bed of asparagus is
one of the most easily managed plots in the whole garden. Depth of
good soil and plenty of manure are all that this plant requires.
In establishing a new bed, it is advisable to see that there is a good
depth of 2 or 3 feet of rich, well-manured soil. If this is not present,
the soil should be dug out to that depth, and thoroughly mixed and
enriched with well-rotted manure before being replaced. A bed deeply
prepared, and supplied with ample quantities of manure, should last
without replanting for very many years. The young plants or crowns
should then be planted in trenches, keeping the rows 2 or 3 feet apart.
An asparagus bed requires ample and direct exposure to the full rays
of the sun. The asparagus should not be cut during the first season
after planting; in fact, it is better to allow it to go uncut for two
seasons. As little foreign weed growth as possible should be allowed
in the beds, but, when they are not producing culinary asparagus, rows
of lettuce, beans, radish, &c., may be grown between the crowns.
Towards the end of April the tops may be cut down, the beds cleaned,
and a good top dressing of stable manure given. Chemical fertilizers,
such as bonedust, sulphate of ammonia, and sulphate of potash, may be
given as a substitute to organic manure. In the past it has been the
custom to annually top-dress the beds with salt. it was supposed that,
as asparagus in its native habitat was usually found in sandy soils near
the sea coast, the plant required salt or a saline soil to produce successful
results. It has latterly been found that salt is not at all essential to
good growth, and that the plant will readily adapt itself and grow well
in soils of not at all a saline character. Where potash has taken t4ie
place of salt, quite improved results followed.
10 April, 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 251
Tt is a good rule to observe that no ripe seeds should be allowed to
fall on the beds; they should be stripped off the plants before they have
a chance to drop. Seedlings will iDecome a nuisance in the beds, and
they interfere with the regularity of the rows.
A few early peas, also some broad beans, may now be sown; cabbage,
cauliflower, and other seedlings should be planted out from the seed
beds. AH garden herbs, such as thyme, mint, horse-radish, sage, &c.,
as well as rhubarb, should be divided and planted out where necessary.
Onion seeds for an early crop may be planted out towards the end
of the month. Brown Spanish is very hard to beat as an all-round
onion, while the variety of Early Brown Spanish may be relied upon
to produce an early crop.
SAVIXG VEGETABLE SEED.
A shortage of many kinds of vegetable seeds has developed during
the past two years. Many of these are of our ordinary garden vegetables
that produce seed the first year. They include radish, lettuce, tomato,
cucumber, melon, and squash, which can be easily harvested for seed
purposes.
There are a few important points to be observed by the farmer when
saving any vegetable crop for seed. The field, before harvest, should
be carefully gone over, and all plants not true to name or type should
ba pulled up and removed.
Each field of any variety should be harvested separately, and in sub-
sequent operations care should be exercised that the seeds do not become
mixed with other varieties. The name of each variety should also be
positively known, especially if it is intended to market the seed. Buyers
have no use for seed identified merely as " early " or " late."
The annual varieties of vegetables most easily harvested for seed are
given below, together with brief directions as to the methods.
Eadishes. — "When the stalks begin to show many brown pods the heads
should be gathered and placed thinly on canvas in a sheltered, well-
ventilated place. In a few days the pods will be dry enough to thresh.
This can be done by using a round wooden stick like the old-fashioned
flail. A piece of canvas should be spread on the threshing floor to catch
the seeds. After threshing the seeds may be separated from the chaff
by the use of an ordinary fanning mill. If the seeds are not thoroughly
dry they should be spread thinly on canvas or on trays and exposed to the
sun during the day and carried inside at night.
Lettuce. — The lettuce plants, when the seeds are ripe, are cut with a
sickle. The seeds are flailed out on canvas in the same way as radish.
As lettuce seed is very light, care must be used to prevent loss.
Vine Crops. — Under this heading are included cucumber, watermelon,
cantaloupe, squash, and pumpkin. The methods of harvesting are similar
for all these crops. When the crop is ripe the fruit is removed from the
vines and crushed or cut in half, and the seed, pulp, and juice separated
from the rind, except that in the case of cucumbers all the fruit is
252 Journnl of Ar/riculfurt^, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
crushed. The seed, pulp, and juice is then placed in a tank or barrel
and allowed to ferment for from four to six days, stirring every day to
prevent crushing on top. The seeds are then washed in a trough, having
a screen bottom, with running water. The good seeds sink to the bottom,
while the light seeds and pulp float off. After washing, the seeds are
placed thinly on trays having wood, wire screen, or canvas bottoms, and
exposed to the sun and wind during the day and carried into sheds at
night. In a few days the seeds will be dry, when they can be cleaned in
a fanning mill if desired.
Tomatoes. — When ripe the tomatoes are ground or crushed, and after
standing a few days are washed in running water. Long troughs having
riffles in the bottom are used to catch the good seeds as they settle, while
the pulp floats off with the water. The seeds are then rinsed by hand
and spread thinly on racks or trays to dry.
In saving seed the principal point to remember is that the seed should
be thoroughly dried before storing and slionlrl then be kept dry. The
greatest enemy of stored seed is moisture.
When the seed is ready to market the farmer should get in touch with
any of the larger seedsmen. When writing to these firms a sample of a
few ounces of the seed should be sent, and a statement made as to the
amount offered for sale, the name of the variety, and, if possible, the
source of the original seed.
Following are brief instructions for saving some of our principal
biennial root crops for seed : —
Onions. — The onion bulbs should be pulled a little earlier tlian wlien
used for food, and should be cured, with the tops leit on, whera there is
a free -ciroulaticn of air, but })rotected from direct sunshine and rain.
The seeds form in heads at the top of the main stalk. The seeds
turn black before they are ripe. The heads should not be gathered until
there is danger of loss of seed from shattering. The heads are then cut
from the stalk and spread upon canvas to dry.
Beets, Turnips, and .Carrots. — The culture for these root crops is
as follows : — When the roots mature they should be pulled and the tops
removed. The crowns should not be injured, as the growth the follow-
ing spring starts from them.
The best roots only should be selected. Those of medium size,
smooth, and symmetrical, are best. A small root, if well proportioned,
will usually produce as much seed as a larger, ill-shapen one. The
roots should be stored for the winter in a moist cellar or in shallow
trenches covered with straw and dirt to prevent freezing. If the latter
method is used, ventilation should be provided to allow for the escape of
gases and the entrance of fresh air.
Set the roots as early in the spring as possible after danger of frost
is past, with the crowns two or three inches below the surface of the soil.
Sometimes, when an extra large groAvth is made, it is necessary to
f.upport the seed stalks When the seed is matured and begins to shatter,
the plants should be cut and put in a well-ventilated place to cure.
—The Queenslander, 16th March, 1918.
10 xipRiL. 1918.] Mill- Fever. 253
MILK FEVER.
Writing to the young dairy farmers in the State of Wisconsin,
.Vnierica, the editor of Hoard's Dairyman asks : — " How many of you
juniors know what milk fever is, and can tell when a cow has it ? It is
the one disease which is liable to attack high-producing cows right after
calving, and unless the cow attacked is promptly treated, it is very apt
to prove fatal. Therefore, every junior dairyman should know some-
thing about this disease. In the first place, it attacks only high-pro-
ducing cows, and for that reason is especially liable to cause great loss.
The heifer with her first calf is very seldom attacked, and only once in
a while is one with the second. jSTeither are very old cows in much
danger. The well-fed cow that is in good flesh when she calves is more
liable to have the disease than a thin, underfed one, and for this reason
dairymen used to almost starve their cows as calving time approached, so
as to have them thin when they freshened. However, this is no longer
necessary. We can say then that milk fever is most liable to attack
well-fed cows four to ten years old that are heavy producers. jSTow, how
can you tell when a cow has the disease? In the first place, it usually
attacks the cow mthin a day or two after calving. The animal appears
to be nervous or excited, and may stamp with her hind feet or step as
if they were sore. If she walks around, you at once notice that her
gait is not natural, her hindquarters sway from side to side, she soon
staggers, and finally falls down. Sometimes she is able to get up again,
but even so, soon falls a second time. This is because the hindquarters,
and later the whole body, gradually become paralyzed. At this time
the cow usually lies in the position shown in the picture, on her right
side with her head around towards the left flank. Cows with milk fever
are almost always constipated, and this often is the cause of serious
trouble. The dairyman tries to give her a dose of Epsom salts to relieve
the constipation ; and if paralysis has already started, the animal cannot
swallow, because it has already affected the throat. The medicine then
passes down the windpipe to the lungs and causes mechanical pneumonia,
which may prove fatal even if the cow gets over the milk fever. There-
fore, never drench a cow showing sym]:)toms of milk fever. Notice that
this disease is called milk fever. From the name, we would expect the
affected cow to have a high temperature^ but this is not the case. The
normal tem]:)erature of a cow is usually about 102 deg. F. At the
beginning of the disease this may run up to 103 deg., but it soon drops
down to about 96 deg. or 97 deg. ; so that milk fever is really not a fever
at all, but quite the opposite.
Treatment. — In spite of the fact that this disease is so serious, the
treatment for it is very simple. After you once understood it, any of
you juniors could use it if necessary. Practically all that it consists of
is pumping the cow's udder full of air with an instrument which works
like a bicycle pump. First, have the cow in a good, clean place on plenty
of clean straw. Wash her udder, teats, and especially the ends of the
teats, well with soap and water. Then wash the teats again with an
antiseptic solution like 5 per cent, carbolic acid or 3 per cent, creolin.
The milk fever outfit must also be cleaned. Boil the milking tube for
15 minutes in water, and clean the rest of the apparatus thoroughly.
Finally, put clean, absorbent cotton in the metal container, and have
254 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 April, iyi8.
four wide pieces of tape or cloth handy. The cotton is used to filter
the air or remove the dust from it. Insert the milking tube in one of
the teats, and pump that quarter of the iidder full of air. Then with-
draw the milk tube, pinch the teat to stop the air from leaking out, and
tie one of those pieces of tape around it tight enough so the air cannot
escape. Disinfect the tube, and do the same thing with each of the
other three-quarters of the udder. Unless care is exercised to thoroughly
disinfect all instruments, teats, and hands, mammitis is almost sure to
follow, with the subsequent loss of one or more quarters of the udder.
This is all there is in the treatment, and as a rule it cures in a few hours
at most. If the cow does not begin to get better in four or five hours,
repeat the treatment. jSTow, if one did not happen to have a milk-fever
outfit, and could not get one at once, it would be possible to make a
temporary one, using a bicycle pump, a piece of rubber tubing, and a
milking tube. With this the cotton could, of course, not be used."
NEW ZEALAND DAIRY COWS.
It is satisfactory to know, on good authority, that our New Zealand
dairy cows are improving in their average production. Mr. W. M.
Singleton, Assistant Director of the Dairy Division, in an illuminating
article in the Journal of Agriculture, makes some good points in general
advocacy of the worth of herd-testing, kc. Accoi-ding to the 1916-17
enumeration per the Government Statistician, our dairy herds totalled
777,439 dairy cows, an increase of 143,706 in six years. On a conserva-
tive basis, it was estimated that, during the 1916-17 season, over
125,800,000 lbs. of butter-fat was produced, as against 90,000,000 lbs.
of butter-fat in 1910-11 — the increase of cows during the two periods
being 22^ per cent., and the butter-fat increase over 39 per cent. Or, in
other terms, the average cow accounted for a production of 142.1 lbs.
butter-fat in the 1910-11 season, as against 161.8 lbs. of butter-fat for
the average cow in the 1916-17 season. As Mr. Singleton says, inter
alia, an increase in the Dominion's exports of food products, due to the
keeping of an increased number of cows, is commendable enough; but
even more praiseworthy is the increase of production due to the improve-
ment of the average dairy cow. A further increase of production may
naturally be expected as time goes on. The Dairy Division may rightly
claim, as it does in the article before us, that the period during which
this improvement in the production of the average ISTew Zealand cows
has been brought about synchronizes Avith that during which the cow-
testing movement has been developed. We can but regret that the move-
ment has not grown in the South as in the North Island, and Avould
Avek'ome active propaganda and practical work in our midst. We are
told that the dairy farmers are more circumspect in the purchase of their
bulls than formerly. The use of pure-bred bulls of dairy breeds has
had a marked influence on the production of our dairy herds. The
certificate of record-testing system, C.O.E., carried out by the breeders
and the Dairy Division, has been a most potent influence at work in
increasing the demand for bulls which will assist in building up the
quality of our dairy herds. It is an interesting movement, and soon,
19 April, 191S.] ^^ew Zealand Dairy Cows. 255
no doubt, it will be quite a common tiling to demand the milk and butter-
fat ancestry of dairy cattle offered for sale. We are glad to meet such
an unequivocal statement as the following : — '^ In equal environment, an
increase in the productive capacities of daughters over their dams can
only be attained through having them sired by a bull who carries trans-
missible hereditary factors which represent a dairy strain that is superior
to that of the cows with which he is mated. Breeders have evidence of
the keenness of dairymen to purchase bulls from C.O.R. cows. Some
breeders who have extensively patronized the C.O.R. testing have
disposed of all their bull calves before the summer was over. This is
quite a contrast to earlier conditions, when sales were frequently difficult
to make. Such a healthy state of affairs is tangible proof that more
dairymen are appreciating the importance of a good bull, and are recog-
nising that his dam's record, and the records of his sisters or daughters,
are the best indices to his ability to transmit the necessary factors of im-
proved butter-fat production. Many herds in our dairying districts average
more than 200 lbs. of butter-fat per cow, a lesser number average over
300 lbs., and in a fcAV cases the average cow of the herd produces 400 lbs.
butter-fat or more. Those herds averaging 300 lbs. fat and more, cannot
be maintained on a constructive basis unless by wise selection of sires.
If sires of exceptional merit are necessary in these good herds, the owner
of a herd of average cows producing 160 lbs, butter-fat may expect to
see a greater percentage of improvement by the use of such a sire, pro-
vided the daughters have conditions which will permit of their doing
themselves justice as producers. The work which the Dairy Division
has been doing along the line of assisting the owners of dairy herds,
through C.O.R. testing and cow-testing association effort, is surely more
than justified by the betterment which is evidenced. The margin
between the production of our average cow and that of the better herds
is evidence of the great work yet to be accomplished. Economy in food-
stuffs is general and necessary. Since the beginning of the war the
world's live-stock statistics show a decrease of over 33,000,000 head in
cattle, sheep, and pigs. This decrease has doubtless become greater,
and indicates an increasing shortness of all food materials supplied by
live-stock. It would, therefore, be a patriotic as well as a profitable
effort for our dair^anen to do all that is possible in assisting to make
good the deficit." And we would add, there are no better means than
on the lines suggested.
—Otago ^Yitness, 3rd April, 1918.
RE|VII[JDERS FOR MAY.
LIVE STOCK*
Horses. — Those stabled can be fed liberally. Those doing fast or heavy work
should be clipped; if not wholly, then trace high. Those not rugged on coming
into the stable at night should be wiped down and in half-an-hour's time rugged
or covered with bags until the coat is dry. Old horses and weaned foals should
be given crushed oats. Grass-fed working horses should be given hay or straw,
if there is no old grass, to counteract the purging effects of the j-oung growth.
Attend to teeth and feet of horses to he turned out for the winter.
256 Jotinidl of Agriculf}ire, Virforia. [10 April, 1918.
Cattle. — Cows, if not housed, should be rugged. Rugs should be removed in
the da3-time when the shade temperature reaches 60 degrees. Give a ration of
hay or straw, whole or chaffed, to counteract the purging effects of young grass.
Cows about to calve, if over fat, should be put into a paddock in which the feed
is not too abundant. Calves should be kept in warm dry shed. Observe strict
cleanliness in feeding to avoid losses and sickness incidental to calf-rearing.
Pigs. — As recommended in Reminders for April.
Sheep. — Keep ewes with lamb in medium condition. Best lambing results are
obtained when ewes are neither poor, nor excessively fat. Once the lamlis arrive
then the most liberal treatment possible is in the main the most profitable. Ill-
fed ewes are bad mothers, indifl'erent to the new-born lamb, and rearing them
badly afterwards, particularly very young or very old ewes. Select line w^cather
for lamb-marking. Yard lambs over night. Never castrate or tail high-condi-
tioned lambs immediately on being run in and overheated. The risk with large
lambs will be lessened if they are allowed to stay in the yards an hour or two
after castration and the coagulated blood drawn. Avhich in many cases will be
found retained in the groin and purse, no matter what method of opening
the purse is used. In tailing never draw tails tight. Projecting bone delays
healing, especially when cutting off with hot blades. Even with the knife leave
enough loose skin to come over and cover the vein and check the usual strong
rush of blood from lambs on well-fed mothers.
Poultry. — Feed animal food to forward pullets, about ^ oz. daily, and equal
parts heavy oats and broken maize at night. Add lucerne chaff to mash daily.
See that fowl houses are free from draughts to avoid colds, also that they are
free from red mites. Use Epsom salts freely to avoid Roup and Chicken
Pox.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Dig main crop potatoes. Push on with ploughing and sowing of
cereal crops, including peas and beans. Green fodder (as for April) may still be
sown. Land for maize, potatoes, and other root crops should be prepared and
manured. Flax may be sown. Transplant Chou Moellier and Giant Drumhead
cabbage plants in rows 3 feet apart. Complete sowing permanent pastures with
grasses and clovers.
Orchard. — Plough, manure; apply lima to orchard lands at rate or 5 or 10
cwt. per acre where soil is sour. Spray trees infested with scale insects. Woolly
Aphis, and Bryobia Mite with red oil or crude petroleum. Clean all rough bark
from trees. Commence pruning early varieties at end of month.
Flower Garden. — Digging, manuring, and pruning; trench and drain where
necessary. Dress the surface with lime. Continue to sow hardy annuals. Bury
all leaves, soft-wood cuttings, and weeds. Continue to plant spring blooming
perennials and other plants. Plant cuttings of carnations and roses.
Vegetable Garden. — Cut down and clean out asparagus beds. Apply manure
and lime dressings. Cultivate deeply. Plant out seedlings and early potatoes ;
sow peas, broad beans, carrots, and parsnips.
Vineyard. — Subsoil land for new plantations if not already done. This work
should be carried out as long before planting as is practicable. Vine-growers
are warned against the too common practice of feeding off foliage after vintage.
Any small advantage in the form of stock feed is only gained at the cost of a
reduction in the following season's crop, owing to interference with accumulation
of reserves, which continues so long as the leaves remain green. Sheep should
not be allowed into the vineyard until all leaves have changed colour. Early and
deep ploughing is strongly recommended. Manures should be applied as early as
possible. Peas, &c., for green manuring, should be sown without delay, in order
to take advantage of early rains.
Cellars. — Rack or fill up (preferably the former) dry wines as soon as a lighted
match, introduced at bung hole, is no longer extinguished. Sweet wines should
also be racked and fortified to full strength.
10 April, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculiure, Victoria.
xvii
TWO NEW
OATS
Ruakura
Rust-Resisting Oat
' I 'HAT the Ruakura Oat is rust-resistant is
•'• undoubted. More than this, during the
four years of its existence no sign of smut or
root fungus has made its appearance on it — ■
though two other varieties growmg in the same
field and alongside it were affected with rust,
smut, and root fungus, the last-named disease
being parliculariy bad. It stood the test of
six days of exceptional wet, muggy weather
without any perceptible change in the bright
color of the straw and seed head, while the
other varieties in the paddock were turned
almost black. The test was an undoubtedly
severe one, and speaks volumes for the con-
stitutional power of the new Oat.
Slightly grey in color, the Oat is thin-
skinned and of fine quality, the bushel weight
— the true test of value — being 46 lbs. 8/-
bushel ; 7/6 sack lots. Stock limited-
Mortgage Lifter
THIS variety was originally imported from America and grown in South Australia,
where results proved so satisfactory that the original grower preserved the seed
from his first crop and has grown it with every success during the past few seasons.
This new Oat grows to a height of 6 feet, and has yielded from 90 to 100 bushels
to the acre. It is also considered a good hay Oat.
A client of ours stated that he grew "Mortgage Lifter" Oats last year and averaged
over 50 bushels to the acre, whereas with ether varieties he only averaged 30 bushels
to the acre. 8/- bushel ; 7/6 bushel in sack lots.
LAW, SOMNER & CO.
British and Colonial Seed Merchants, 139-141 Swanston St., Melbourne
Est. 1850. Tel., Cent. 729. Nurseries— Orrong Rd., Armadale, adjoining Toorak Rly. Stn.
Ruakura Oat.
Journal of AgriciiUiti e, Victoria.
[10 April, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
Red Poll Dairy Herd
This Herd contains the first cow in order of merit amongst all breeds under
the Government Herd Test for 1914-15, and the third for 1915-16; also the
Winner of the Weekly Times Butter Test at the Melbourne Royal Show, 1916
Proof of DUAL PURPOSE CHARACTER is given by the Prices for Culled Cows in
the Fat Stock Market reaching to £27 10s. and £29 10s.; by a cow yielding 1,000 gallons of
milk containing 448 lbs. butter in a year and selling at butcher's auction for £22 7s. 6d.;
and by cows in milk weighing upwards of 1,500 lbs. live weight.
The Bulls in Use include
LONGFORD MAJOR (Imported)
Dam's Record 14713 lbs- milk
G. Dam's ,, 10543 ,,
6 years average 10548 lbs- milk
4 ,, ,, 9155 ,,
BELLIGERENT (Imported)
Dam
Dam's Dam
Sire's Dam
Sire's D. Dam
G- Sire's D- Dam
G-G- Sire's D- Dam
G-G-G. Sire's D- Dam
s Record (1st milking) 7144 lbs. milk-
14533 lbs- milk ... 4 years average 1 287 1 lbs. milk
10370 ,, ... 7 ,, ,, 9354
9510 ,, ... 12 ,, ,. 8033
10215 ,. 7 „ ,, 9386
12565 ,, . 10 ,. ,, 8853
IC088 2 .. „ 9754
BULL CALVES are sold at prices based approximately on the actual milk and butter
fat record of the dam at the rate of Is. per lb. of butter fat yielded.
(NOTE. — All the bull calves of 1917 drop have been sold, and choices from cows to calve
this season have been booked ahead of calving. The demand for bull calves is so strong
that farmers contemplating purchase are advised to study the records of the herd published
in the March (1918) Journal of Agriculture and book their orders ahead, indicating a choice
by mentioning approximate value.)
inspection of the Herd is invited.
Visitors will be met at the Station on notification to: —
Mr. R. R. KERR, Dairy Supervisor ^
or "-
Mr. ED. STEER, Herdsman
State Research Farm, Werribee
Application for purchase to DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE.
10 April, 1918.]
Journal of A(/riri/fti//r, Victoria.
ifl
SR 1
' The Orchardist ^
who seeks perfect fruit and a maxi-
mum yield, wisely sprays with
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying
Oil - and sprays REGULARLY.
Such sprayirg is invigorating to the
trees, besides being certain death to
Aphides, Scale, Thrips, Weevil, Lice,
Red Spider and other insect pests.
Be sure and ask your storekeeper for
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying Oil
— a product with a reputation for
quality all over the country.
PREPARED RED
SPRAYING OIL
Journal of AgrirriJiure, Victoria.
[10 April, 191J
The II
The LIGHTEST DRAFT HARVESTER
MITCHELL
The "MITCHELL," Harvester has proved
itself to be lighter in draft than any
competing machine, as the following test shows.
This test was arranged by farmers, so that each
could judge of the merits of the various machines.
FARMER'S DRAFT TEST AT COROMBY, VICTORIA
1. "Mitchell" Harvester
2. Competitor's Harvester
3. Competitor's Harvester
4. Competitor's Harvester
Units
275
298
305
312
H.P.
3^
4 bare
4 bare
4 full
Units
H.P.
5. Competitor's Harvester 312 4 full
6. Competitor's Harvester 320 4 I -6th
7. Competitor's Harvester 325 4 I -5th
8. Competitor's Harvester 330 4i full
HORSE POWER. — The average number of units will be found to be 309 per
machine, and as four horses were used in the majority of cases, a horse-power is equal to
one-fourth of 309 — that is, 77 units. The machines were tested in the crop.
The "MITCHELL" Harvester, therefore, works out at 3i horse-power, and
is from \ to | horse-power lighter than any other machine.
Eight different makers competed at this trial. Some had two or three machines, bul
only one of each make was tested for draft, and naturally each maker picked out his best.
Only one "MITCHELL" Machine was used.
Ask for Catalogues of our Farm and Dairy Machines, and please say you saw this Advertisement
MITCHELL & CO.
PTY. West Footscray, Melb.
LTD. Showroom: 596 BOURKE ST., MELB.
And at Bay St., Sydney.
Agencies in all Chief Towns.
PAMPHLETS
Obtainable from the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1.
2.
3.
5.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
30.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
39.
NEW SERIES
SILO CONSTRUCTION.
HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T. A.. J. SmUh.
APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT. P.J.Carmody.
CIDER MAKING. J.Eniqht.
CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E.E.Pescott.
BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS. A. S. Kenyan, C.E., and others .
TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A.J. SmUh.
SILOS AND SILAGE. G. //. 7'. Baker.
THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER SETTLEMENT. U. T. Ensterby.
WORMS IN SHEEP. S. S. Cameron, 7).F.,Sc., M.U.C.V.S.
CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C.S.Sawers.
FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. Baxter.
BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T. A. .] . Smith.
THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T.Archer.
LIME IN AGRICULTURE. Dr. S. S. Cameron and others.
NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES. E. Meekimj.
GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS, 1912-13. W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION. A. E. V. Rich^irdson. M.A.. B.Sc.
HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J.G. Turner.
GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS, 1913-14.
SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, &c. A. Hart.
TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
SUMMER FODDER CROPS. Temple A. J. Smith.
GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS, 1914-15.
CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. .9. A. Cock.
GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS, 1915-16.
GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS, 1916-17.
SUMMER BUD OR YEMA GRAFT OF THE VINE.
EVAPORATION OF APPLES.
POTATO CULTURE. J. T. Ramsay.
F. de Castella.
))'. A. A^ Robertson, B.W.Sc.
W. A. iV. Robertson. B.V.Sc
W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
W. A. X. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
10 April, 1918.]
Jotiriuil of A (/ririilfi/re, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MELBOURNE. VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA
NOW AVAILABLE
BULLETIN 31
Bee-Keeping in Victoria
By F. R. BEUHNE,
: Government Apiculturist.
Comprising 1 26 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated)
dealing with various phases of Bee-keeping, and specially
adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING
Postage: Commonwealth, Id.; New Zealand, 2^d.; British & Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne. Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Citrus Growers
LIMITED NUMBERS OF
CITRUS TREES
ARE OBTAINABLE FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
THE VARIETIES ARE WASHINGTON NAVELS, VALENCIA LATE, EUREKA, and LISBON
Price, &G per Hundred
f.o.r. at WAHGUNYAH,
An amoont of 10s. for each hundred ordered is to accompany applications, and the balance, £5 lOs.
for each hundred, is to be paid when consignees give directions to have consignments forwarded.
A charge of 2/6 per hundred will be made for packing u:iless the casings be returned.
Applications must be made on the official order forms, which may he obtained from The Director,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or from the Citrus Nursery, Wahgunyah.
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be complied with by applicants,
are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE. MELBOURNE
.Ion null (if A ffVicultiirr, VirlDrid.
[10 April, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
I
^ NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of
all kinds, Dairy Farmers and Others
The Department has compiled ■
Stock Breeding
Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due
Dates, Females with Record of Progeny,
Sires with Record of Service, General
Service Record, Pedigree Charts, Milk
Fat and Butter Records for Dairy Stock
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and Is
strongly bound in half leather. A limited number available.
Price, 10/6
Postage — Victoria 1/6, other States and N. Zealand 2/8 extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and
Postage, to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 April, 1918.
Journal of A (iiicnlture, Vicfriria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kingdom and foreign
countries. Single copy, 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7, 8, and 9 (July, August, and September) out of print; V. (1907), and VI.
(1908). 12 parts each; VII. (1909), 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print ; and VIlI. (1910), 12 parts, are at present in stock, and
will be supplied at the foregoing rates. The parts forming the current volume may also
be obtained. A few bound copies of Volumes Vlll. (1910), IX. (1911), II parts,
exclusive of February, X. (1912), 6 parts, exclusive of January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), 11 parts, exclusive of June, are at
present available. Price, 5s. per volume. Poitage: C, 3id. ; N.Z., U. 2d. ;
B. &F.,2s. 4d.
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp.. 200 illustrations. 2
coloured plates. Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2$. 6d. Postage: C, cloth 2|d., paper
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d., paper 8d. ; B. & F., cloth is. 6d., paper Is. 4d.
AUSTRALIAN FUNGL By Dr. Cooke. £1 Is. Postage: C. 5d.: N.Z. lOd.;
B. & F., Is. 8d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2$. 6d.
Postage, Id.
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly). I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet. 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy fanners should mention *' Monthly " or " Weekly."
By Professor A. J. Ewart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS, AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C, Ud.; N.Z.,5d.; B. &F.,10d.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II., 10s. Postage : C. 2d.:
N.Z.,8d.; B. &F., Is. 4d.
By C. French, F.E.S., Government Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts I., II.. III.. IV.. V.. 2s. 6d.
each. Pos/age: Parts I. and III., C, Id.; N.Z. . 3d.; B. & F.. 6d. each. Parts
II. andlV.. C. lid.; N.Z., 4d.; B. & F., 8d. each. Part V.. C, Id. ; N.Z.,
4d.; B.&F.. 7d.
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
Joiirudl of Jf/riritltiire, Victoria. [10 April, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
r acilitiCS are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers m an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Telephones :
Office: 10383 Central. Superintendent and Engineer-in-Charge : 10382 Centra].
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
anJ further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street, Melbourne.
Telephone 9380 Central.
By Authority: Albeet J. Hullett, GoTernment Printer, Melbourne.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
POULTRY FOR SEHLERS
Cockerels and Pullets
Bred from the following matings
WYUNA WHITE LEGHORNS-DISTINCT STRAINS
each
Wyuna Special Mating - - - - - £ 1 1 0
Cosh No. 1 Special - - " - - - - 1 1 0
Subiaco No. 1 Special - - - - - 1 1 0
Cosh-Swift X Moritz 110
Cosh-Swift X Fulham Park - - - - - I 1 0
A limited number of Cockerels from Trap-nested Hens
(250 upwards) x Moritz Cocks - - - 2 2 0
The Moritz Cocks are full brothers to the sire of pullet which laid 315 eggs at
Bendigo Single Pen Competition, 1916-17— World's Record.
Orders may now be booked from the Poultry Pens
at the Wyuna Farm for delivery from March, 1918
RHODE ISLAND RED COCKERELS
£1 : 1 : O £2 : 2 : O
Note.-W. N. O'Mullane's Ch«mpion Burnley Pen (I914-19I5). which
established the still unbeaten world's record of 1,699 eggs, was the progeny of a
hen hatched from a Wyuna sitting. This pen recently realized £75
DEPARTMENT of AGRICULTURE
Graded Seed Wheat
1918 DISTRIBUTION
Select Bred Graded Seed of the following varieties
of Wheat is now available for distribution
Yandilla King
Currawa
Dart's Imperial
Gluyas
Major Warden Penny
Also small quantities of the following : —
College Eclipse
Commonwealth
King's Early
Marshall's No. 3
Early application is necessary ; Orders will be booked
according to priority of application
Price, 6/- per bushel
No further orders for Special Federation Seed can be
met, as the supply has now been allotted.
For further particulars apply to the Director of Agriculture,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
HEREDITARY UNSOUNDNESS
Vol. XVI. IN HORSES. Part 5.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission bj- Post as a Newspaper. ]
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-Statc, and N.L, 3/-; British and Foreij^n, S/-.)
Lucerne
— The Wealth Bringer!
THE general advantages of Lucerne are now
thoroughly well known right throughout
Australia. Lucerne excels all other crops in
yield per acre, nutrition value, soil enriching,
and provides ample fattening feed for all stock.
But if you would obtain the best results it is
essential to
SOW ONLY THE
BEST SEED
Brunning's Standard Quality Lucerne
seed not only effects a saving in the amount used but is
also absolutely free from dodder and other obnoxious
weeds. Firstly selected with special care, it is then
triple-machine dressed, thus assuring growth of at least
98 per cent. Broad-leaved - in every way— the highest
quality seed obtainable ! Let us know your address and we
will immediately forward you samples and full particulars.
Write us to-day !
1918-19 SEED MANUAL
Now ready.
Post Free on application
"VICTORIA SEED HOUSE," 64 ELIZABETH STREET, MELBOURNE
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
V^ICTOI^I--^, .A.XJSTR..A.IL.T A..
CONTENTS.— MAY, 1918.
Report on Agricultural Education Methods, &c., in the State
of California ... .. ... A. E. V. Hichardson, M.A., B.Sc.
Covernment Certification of Stallions— Report Season 1917-18
If. A. N. Rjberlson, B.V.Sc.
A Ci-ntribution to the Study of Hereditary Uusoundne.^s in
Hor.ses ... ... ... ... W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
Standardized Packing and Grading of Fruit ... ... Ernest Meeking
Accidental Abortion in Dairy Cattle ... ... ... W. F. Beacotn
Ho\T to Make Home-lNIade Cheese ...
Victorian Rainfall
A Few Hints on the Feeding of Horses
Orchard and Garden Notes
Reminders for June
G. C. Sawers
PASK
257
276
289
304
308
310
313
315
317
319
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the Journal of the Department ot Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspa[iers wishing
to republisli any matter are at liberty to do so, provided the Journal and author are.
loth arJcHoirl edged.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per annum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
5s. for the United Kingdom and Foreitrn Countries. Single copy. Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director oi: Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
Journal of A<ivirnlture, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
IncludiDK Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Inspedion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES.
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springhurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended (or a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON,"Banyule," Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of all
kinds. Dairy Farmers, and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
:: :: Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock :: ::
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather.
Prir*** 1 ft /fi ^ limited number available.
* riCC, lU/O Postage— Victoria and other States 1/6, New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to b«
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 May, 1918.]
Journal of .1 ;// •rulfiire, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE. VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA.
NOW AVAILABLE : . BULLETIN SI.
BEE-KEEPING in VICTORIA
By F. R. BEUHNE, Government Apiculturist.
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated) dealing with various phases o(
BEE-KEEPING, and specially adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING. Postage: Commonwealth, Id. ; New Zealand, 22d. ; British and Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postag-e, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 190S
*48 Pages
200 Illustrations
2 Coloured Plates
Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2s. 6d.
Postage: C. cloth 2Wd., paper 2d.: N.Z., cloth 9d.,
paper 8d. ; B. and F., cloth Is. 6d., paper. Is. 4d.
A Hint To Stallion Owners
If you want your Stallions to sire extra strong, vigorous colts, you cannot afford to neglect
the use of Leslie Salt Licks. They cure and prevent disease, purify the blood,
aid digestion, and
invigorate & tone
up the system.
Fed on
they will not only be surer foal getters, but will sire a much better
cla»s of colt. Order from your Saddler, Produce Merchant, Black-
smith, Butter Factory, or General Store.
Sole
Agents-
Holland Pty. Ltd. '!."tte
The Electrolytic Refining and Smelting Company of Australia Limited
COPPER
OUR product is equal to the best
imported brands on the market and
we GUARANTEE THE PURITY
ORDERS are being booked for the
(Bluestone)
We are Manafactnrers of E.S.A. HIGH
GRADE COPPER SULPHATE (Bluestone)
for SPRAYING and PICKLING PURPOSES
and also for ELECTRICAL PURPOSES
coming season.
SULPHATE
FULL INFORMATION as to PRICE and DELIVERIES will be supplied ON APPLICATION to^
Manajer Thc Electrolytic Refining & Smelting Company of Australia Ltd.
PORT KEMBLA, "^ '^ *"
Jotirrwl of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
BY D. McALPINE.
GOVERNMENT VEGETABLE PATHOLOGIST.
With Appendice* by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologul),
on Eel Worms;
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTemmeal
Entomologist), on
Insect Peats of the
Potato.
235 Pagei (Cloth). 58 Full Platet. Pfirp '^ /■ Postage : Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealaod, 8d.;
176 Illustrations. I I ICC, XJ / British and Foreign, 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director •!
Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria. Remittancet from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and IV. Percy Wilkinson.)
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postage : C, l^d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id. ; X.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEIV METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION WITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, l^d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON W^INE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d.; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE : RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage:
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
Bu D. McAlpine, Gocernment Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5.. Postage: C. 2d.: N.Z., 8d.: B. & F., Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C, 2id.; N.Z., 9d.; B. & F., li. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2». Postage: C, Id.: N.Z..
3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C, Ud.:
N.Z., 5d. : B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage: C, 2A.: N.Z..
8d. : B. & F., Is. 4d.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque covering price and postage to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 May, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Look to Your Farm Buildings
Before the Wet Weather sets in
SPECIAL NEW HORSE AND COW RUG CATALOGUE. We have just issued a
priced catalogue of cattle rugs and sundry goods of a similar nature. We shall be
pleased to post you a copy on receipt of your name and address. : : : : :
The Really Efficient Type of Roof
for Farm Buildings is
Certain -teed
Certain-teed stands out conspicuously
for Quality, Satisfaction & Economy.
Costs less to buy and less to lay than most
other types of roofing. It does not rust,
is proof against gases, coal smoke, acid
fumes, &c. It IS a non-conductor of heat
and cold, a fire retardant, and is completely
weather proof. Compare the quality of
Certain-teed with other roofings, then look
at the price. Certain-teed is a First
Quality Roofing at a second-grade price.
I Ply.
37/6
PRICE
2 Ply.
47/6
Per Roll.
3 Ply.
55/.
Sufficient Nails and Cement, and Direc-
tions for Laying, Free with each Roll.
If you are building, or need a new roof, it
will pay you to investigate CERTAIN-
TEED before finally deciding.
A coat of Paint will give a new
lease of life to your Buildings.
The Paint to Please is
BERGERS
PREPARED
Made in Australia and equal to the best
imported. B.P. Berger's Paint (prepared)
is a carefully manufactured, ready-to-use
paint, designed for inside and outside paint-
ing of all kinds of buildings. It is more
efficient than any paint made from lead and
oil bought separately and mixed by hand,
because not only do the great Berger Mills
mix and grind much finer than is possible by
hand, but every ingredient is carefully tested
for purity. The lead, zinc, linseed oil, and
colours are all closely examined so that each
ingredient is absolutely right before mixing.
Finally, B.P. is carefully tested under
actual painting conditions by practical
painters to insure its colour, consistency, and
covering capacity bemg up to the standard.
Special Paints for Baths, Roofs.
Implements, &c.
Write for further particulars and colour card
PRICES ON APPLICATION
Catalogues ar\d Price Lists Post Free
_,,<p/yC '^^^jL^.^ 391-403 Bourke Street
oydney «J^^^^L?S^^^ Melboarne
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Fiuming, &c., &c.
324-330 Pitt Street
VI
Jovrnal of A(/ri.mlture, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
Two Separators with One Message
Save ! Save ! Save !
The "Viking"
Costs half the price of other high grade separators, which it beats
hands down for durability and efficiency. It skims every particle
of cream. The bowl is self-balancing, plates are shaped. There
are no discs to bend or get lost. Cleaning is easy and thorough.
A Month's Free Trial
given with every separator. Return at our expense i( you are not satisfied. Made in various sizes.
15 galls, per hour to 1 1 5 galls, per hour. Two years' guarantee given with every machine.
Can be purchased for £1 Deposit, and £1 Monthly. Send for special catalog.
Last 400 "Favorite" Separators at present prices
These have just been landed. Future shipments will carry a big increase in price.
Buy one now and save pounds. The "Favorite" is the best household separator
for the man with one or two cows. A boy can turn it, and it works perfectly. Full
skimming capacity guaranteed. Only two parts in bowl. Easy to clean. Solid,
compact, strong, & efEcient. This last 400 are sure to sell rapidly. Secure yours now.
No. 1 — 11 gal. per hour
No. 2— IS gal. per hour
Terms — £ 1 down
£1 monthly
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
1 1 0 - 1 1 4 Sturt Street, South Melbourne
Agent for Tangye Oil, Steam, and Gas Engines
TOXA
NO
Danger
of
FIRE!
THE WELL-KNOWN
RABBIT DESTROYER
In 2 !b. Tins, 30/- per doz.
FELTON, GRIMWADE, & CO., Melbourne
1(3 May, 1918.] Journal of A (//ixi/ltirn', Victoria.
Get your Pruning Tools at
Wiss's Solid Steel Pruning Shears
These shears will snip a broom handle. They
will cut clean the thickest twigs or the most
delicate tendrils without tearing. They are
forged entirely from steel. All parts are milled
and interchangeable. The blade, which is made
of the finest cutlery steel, is fitted to the handle in a unique manner, securing
perfect rigidity and ease of replacement m case of wear or breakage.
No. 109—9 inches overall, 11/-; extra blades, 2/3
No. 110— 10 inches overall, 12 -; extra blades, 2 '3
Spare Springs for Snail pattern
Pruning Shears — 5d. each.
Pruning Saws, Shears, &c.
AjS^PhcrsonS)
9^^"^ Proprietary Limited ^**— --^
SS4-88 Collins Street, Melbourne
CREDIT FONCIER
>
Loar
UP
In
A
and from \\ per ce
in 27i years.
Loans granted
made freehold at a
N
Loans may be
charge if p2ud off w^
Forms may b<
by writing to —
The Inspe
EL
IS on Fc
TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATI
sums from £50 to £2,0i
t 6 per cent. Intere
nt. in reduction of principal, whic
on Freeholds, or Crown Leasehc
ny time on pajmient of the baleinc
D Charge for Mortgage Dei
paid off on any half-yearly pay day
ithin the first five years, but no pen
obtained at any Branch of the Sta
ictor-General, The State Savi
JZABETH STREET. MELBOURf
%rms
ON
30
St
k pays off the loan
Ids which could be
e of Crown Rents.
ed
, subject to a small
alty after five years.
te Savings Bank, or
inga Bank,
<IE.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE YEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAY BE ENROLLED AT ANY TIME
Alternative Courses —
(a) Diploma Course
(b) One Year's Course.
Thi
ree T ears.
Total Fees—
£25/-/- per annum.
The college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Djokie, 1,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS.— Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Farmers.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM, 2,336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raising, Dairying,
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit, &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS, Esq., Secretary, Council of Agricultural Education,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insurance
Society ltd.
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Giaraatec, Plat*
Glass, Personal Accident and Sickness,
Eaployers' Liability, Werkaen's Ceapea-
MtiM. Pablic Risk, Meter Car. and Bnrflary.
Vtn INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
10 May, 1918.]
Journal of Arjriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Fello«».
.enewable Carron
Boxes & Oil Oapa.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
stood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wheels Guaranteed for 3 years against Breakage, &c.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. 1^ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36* and 32' dia. 4' Tyres. Table, 9J x 5J feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 cw*.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 ewt.
Thest Wheels are guaranteed and will last for all time.
Hightr Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to tO tona,
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP— Truck body, and all classes of little Wagons for Farm and Station work.
Wagons Shipped to all Ports in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: :: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
r
LIVE STOCK OWNERS
You know what a good thing whole Linseed is for Stock.
MEGGinSSiLlNSEED MEAL
IS
ALL Pure Linseed
Nothing whatever is added to it. It is ground up fine.
It is cooked and all ready for immediate use. No hoihng is necessary.
IT IS NO TROUBLE TO FEED TO CALVES,
COWS, HORSES, PIGS, SHEEP & POULTRY
h is recognised throughout the world as the very best obtainable food for Stock.
AND the price is on Rails, Melbourne
lOO lbs. 11/6 SO lbs. 6/- 20 lbs. 2/6
Obtainable from all Store) and Batter Factories.
!n country districts sufficient only is charged by your Storekeeper to cover the cost of freight
to your district.
Dept. A, Full particulars for Feeding all Stock.
HARRISONS, RAMSAY, Pty. Ltd.,^i;fELlouRNE:
Joiinifd of Af//iri(/fnre, VirtorKt.
[10 May, 1918.
Qjcloiic ^
A ^^^^faa»^ii|n^^ ^"""^ GET OUR
- ^^"^^^^^^^^^ CATALOGUE
Fig 233. Ornamental Fig- 211 Ornamental Fig 188b OrnamenU)
Handgale. 4 ft high Handgate 4 ft. high Handgate 4 ft- high
CYCLONE PTY. LTD.
459 SWAN8TON STREET
MELBOURNE
A '"
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
-Propy. Ltd.-
OATMEAL. SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
•nd'CORNINA MANUFACTURERS
■ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR
GRAIN TO US.
*
BOX 53.
G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
♦
10 May, 1918.] JomiKil of .\(/rl.ruffiin\ Vicffirin.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If YOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
Joiiriuil of Affiintltn/re, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Elxecutors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS:
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Manacing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD. Eiq., LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE, E«q.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN. E.q. DAVID HUNTER. Em.
Thia Company Acta aa Executor or Joint Executor of Willa, Admlnlatrator, Truataa of
Settlomonta, and Agent for Abaenteea under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices— 1 13 Queen St. (Corner of Little CoUins-st.), Melbourne
=^
"1000 TREES & STUMPS
GRUBBED OUT"
Thus writes Mr. J. Sutherland, Parwan.
" I am very well pleased with the Grubbers, as they are doing very good work. With mine I have
close on 1,000 trees and stumps grubbed out. I have done all this work myself without any assistanc*.
So I consider the Grubber has more than doubly paid for itself."
I\ill The "MONKEY WINCH" will aave time, labour and money on
partieularM your land olearlnc ia alwaya ready, and can be worked in
/run — the very rougheat country and in any claaa of timber.
TREWHELLA BROS. pty. ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
from a Vidorian Deposit.
.^^Ik
CROP GROWN AT BRIDGEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orders can now be supplied and full information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy. Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
10 May, 1918.]
JuiiriKil of A (jriciiltnre, Victoria.
ZIU
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
BURNT LILYDALE LIME
FOR THE LAND
Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should try it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Immediate. The demand for Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Lilydale Lime.
ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide.
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, p Jri:,„. OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works -Cave Hill, Lilydale. Tel. Lilydale 4. Tel. Central 5726.
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Offic«
LONDON
Melbourne Office
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Batter Shipment* Undertaken on Owner's Acconnt
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverinn
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Ckiei A(taU in Victoria f«r tk< PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
JouifKil of A<iri.ciiltitrc, Vlrforia. [10 May. 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
The New Stores at Victoria Dock
have a capacity of 600,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 300,000 boxes
of butter, or 200,000 cases of fruit, or
270,000 carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chambers
direct into the ship's hold. Electric motor power totals 880 H.P.
The Railw^ay Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected with the Cool Stores by direct lines; delay
zmd exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable products are provided.
Expert Officers are connected with every Branch, so that
any one requiring information regarding the production, preparation, and
shipment of produce can rely upon being promptly supplied with up-to-
date Information upon all matters.
10 May, 1918.]
Joiinitil of A (iriridt lire, Victoria.
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
Aid Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poaltry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
«!• ^^^^^^JV.1!j1J^J^9 Manufacturer
OFFICE: 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. Telephone 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
■
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES, SHEDS, &C.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL OUTSIDE PAINTING
Wholaah
Agtnls : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS
Obtainable 1
from all 1
Storekeepert 1
BROO
KS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
J
^ YES, I AM SURE
Your eyes are under a constant strain all day; they are
your most valuable possession, and neglect in
the early stages may lead to eye strain.
DAIRY AND INCUBATOR THERMOMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.D.
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
'PHONE 6778
for an appointment.
Estab.
32 Years
E.WOOD,
EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
95 Elizabeth St., Melb.
LONDON.
LIVERPOOU
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted in all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are eligible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointments in the
Commonwealth and State Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full particulars apply —
The DIRECTOR, Veterinary School, PARKVILLE, VICTORIA
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
DEPARTMENT of AGRICULTURE
Graded Seed Wheat
1918 DISTRIBUTION
Select Bred
— Graded - —
Currawa Seed
Early application is necessary ; Orders will be booked
according to priority of application
Price, 6/- per bushel
The whole of the seed previously advertised, other than
Currawa, has no'w been allotted.
For further particulars apply to the Director of Agriculture,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
THe JOURNAL
OF
^fiQ department of M^vimlfme
OF
VICTORIA
Vol. XVI. Papt 5. 10th May, 1918.
AMERICAN AGRICULTURE.
Report to the Director of Agriculture on Agricultural Education
Methods and Agricultural Research Work in the State of
California, by A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc, Agricultural
Superintendent.
I. Introduction.
California, from an agricultural point of view, is probably tbe
most interesting of all the States in the Union. The physiographic
features of the State, the long coast line, and the movement of the great
air currents from the Pacific give it a range of climatic conditions wider
that those possessed by any other State. It is nearly 800 miles in length,
and extends from 321 to 44 degrees north latitude, and, as its land surface
varies all the way from 200 feet below to 13,000 feet above sea-level, it
possesses greater diversity in climate than any other State in the Union.
In the south long-stapled Egyptian cotton and semi-tropical pro-
ducts thrive to perfection, whilst in the north winter cereals are exten-
sively grown. Indeed, in one section of the country — -Butte county-
such a remarkable diversity of crops as apples, pears, barley, oats, rice,
cotton, and oranges are grown extensively within a radius of 20 miles
from Chico. The variety of climatic conditions conferred on California
by the topographical features of the country accounts in large measure
for the range of crop products and also probably explains the large
range of subjects dealt with at the College of Agriculture at Berkeley.
In order to appreciate the character of the agricultural institutions a
preliminary account of the physiographic, climatic, and soil conditions
is desirable.
2. PiiYsiOGEAPJiic Features of California.
California is, roughly, 780 miles in length, and varies from 150 to
350 miles in width. It has an area of, approximately, 100,000,000
acres, and is, therefore, not quite twice the size of Victoria.
5876.
258 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
The greater part of the country is mountainous in character, less
than 30 per cent, of the area being in farms. The estimated population
of California is at present almost exactly 3,000,000. On the eastern
side of the State are the Sierra Nevadas, and on the Avestern side the
Coast Range. Between them is the gi'cat interior valley drained through
the San Francisco Bay. The upper part of this area is known as the
Sacramento Valley (drained by the Sacramento River), and the southern
part as the San Joaquin Valley, drained by the San Joaquin River.
In the northern part of the State the mountains unite, forming the
Siskyou Mountains, with Mount Shasta as the highest Peak. In the
south, they are united by a cross range called the Tehachapi Mountains,
and beyond this is Southern California, with the San Bernardino Range
separating the highly developed valleys from the more or less desert
regions eastward.
California has the highest and lowest land in the United States, the
greatest variety of temperature and rainfall and products of the soil.
Thus, in the Imperial Valley, near the border of Mexico, the normal
rainfall is but 2 inches per annum. In the north-western part of lhe
State the rainfall is 60 inches.
Again, in the Imperial Valley, the Salton Sea is actually 200 feet
below sea-level, whilst many peaks in the Sierras exceed 12,000 feet in
height.
3. Climatic and Soil Conditions of California.
In the agricultural areas of California the rain falls almost exclu-
sively in winter and spring, while the summer is practically dry. The
distribution of rainfall is not unlike that in Western Australia, where
as much as 85 per cent, of the annual fall occurs between May and Sep-
tember, except that in California the rainy season is from November
to March.
As with us, winter cereals, principally barley, are grown on the dry
'lands, whilst fruit, garden products, and dairying are conducted in the
better rainfall areas, or under irrigation.
On the whole, California has a much larger area of dry country
than Victoria. The Imperial Valley and the greater part of the San
Joaquin Valley — two of the great valleys of California — have an annual
rainfall of from 2 inches to 10 inches. These are the two valleys where
irrigation has been so much developed. In fact, 95 per cent, of the
cultivated area of the Imperial Valley is under irrigation. Between
the Coast Range and the sea, and in the Sacramento Valley, the rainfall
is ample for raising fair crops without irrigation. Still, even on these
lands, irrigation is extensively practised. The summers are dry and
hot. In the interior valleys the summer would be much like our northern
wheat areas. Only in the Imperial Valley does the heat in summer
become intolerable, and here temperatures of 120 degrees in the shade
are frequently registered. No wonder that semi-tropical fruits and
cotton grow well in this valley. In 1910, according to the United States
census, no less than 2,664,104 acres were irrigated, and the acreage under
irrigation to-day is estimated to be well over 3,000,0<00 acres.
On the whole, the soils of California are fertile. The ^soils of the
great interior valleys are deep, friable, porous, and, in most cases, rich.
10 May, 1938.] A in ni can Agriculture. 259
Where the rainfall is siiffieiont, or where irrigation is practised, fruit,
alfalfa, and vegetables can be grown to perfection. Remarkable yields
of almonds, peaches, apricots, figs, and vines are recorded throughout
these two great valleys, while alfalfa commonly yields from 5 to 8 tons
per annum.
The soils are, I should say, much more free working, friable, and
deep than the general run of Victorian soils, and in most cases there
are no highly-retentive clay subsoils underneath. Deep brown sandy
loam seems to be the most common type, and it is on these types that
heavy crops are obtained. In the coastal valleys, e.g., Santa Rosa
Valley, black adobe soils are met with (soils not unlike those of the
Wimmera), but even these appear more friable than their counterparts
in Victoria. In the San Joaquin Valley there is a large area of alkali
land — sandy soils, where irrigation has raised the soluble salts near the
surface. Large areas of such land are found in Kern, Tulare, Kings,
and Fresno counties. At present portion of these areas are falling out
of cultivation. The remedy is that prescribed for the Cohuna area, in
Victoria — provision of drainage channels to take the salts to the rivers
draining the area. The eastern portion of San Bernardino, Inyo, and
Riverside counties — a large area — is desert country, deep white gravelly
soils, with a low rainfall, and covered with desert vegetation.
4. Economic Conditions.
There is a good demand for all Calif ornian products, and these pro-
ducts meet with a ready sale in the eastern markets. But the price of
many of the commodities are not as high as in Australia. For example,
take one of the staples — raisins. The usual price received by the grower
is 4 cents a lb. ($80 a ton, roughly £16). Last year they received 4|
cents per lb. ($90 per ion, equal to £18). The price received by the
Mildura grower is probably double that received by the California
grower. Then, again, the cost of labour in California has always been
higher than in the eastern States. The price of pruning vines at the
present time is $3 a day. At Kearney Park (Fresno), a gang of 40
men were engaged in pruning a vineyard of 800 acres wheii I visited the
county.* Picking is usually done by contract. At Kearney Park
last year the average amount earned by 300 pickers was 5.2 dollars a
day (23s.). The standard rate is $3 per long ton of fruit (100 trays
of 22 lbs.). The manager of Kearney Park produced time and pay
sheets to show that the Japanese labourers in his employ earned as much
as $12 a day for the picking season (about five Aveeks) last year. The
standard price for ordinary farm labour is $2 to $2^ a day, according
to the class of work. Most of the fruit industries are organized on a
co-operative basis, and practically the whole of the crop is handled and
sold on a co-operative basis. Thus the California Fruit Growers Asso-
ciation has its head-quarters in Los Angeles. It has in its organization
80 per cent, of the growers of the State. The remaining 20 per cent,
not under the Citrus Association are mostly scattered over the State,
and are small men.
This organization takes control of the entire crop, and has citrus
exchanges established in every city of the United States for selling the
* At the time of my visit the mijirity of the workmen came to work in motor cars of their own.
V Ford car costs S470 and petrol 20 cents per gallon.
I2
m
260 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
fruit on the most advantageous terms. An advance is made to tlie
grower at the beginning of the season to cover costs, and at the end
of the season the grower receives the whole of the balance of sales, less
marketing and operating expenses — not unlike the Australian wheat
pool. Similarly, the raisin growers have their association; so also have
the peach, apricot, and almond growers. Co-operative disposal of
every type of crop, save cereals and vegetables, seems to be the regular
thing in California.
5. Resemblance to Yictoria.
On the whole, Victoria is very like California in climate, soil, and
density of production. But the difference lies in the extent to which
California has developed her irrigation resources and intensified her
agriculture. Only on the poorest land do we find cereals grown. Whore
the soil can be irrigated, fruit, alfalfa, and vegetables are grown.
In regard to the cereal production, it is interesting to note that
barley is far more intensely grown than wheat. Thirty-three and a
third million bushels of barley were raised from 1,190,000 acres in
1915, as against 5,60'0,000 bushels of wheat from 350,000 acres.
Strangely enough, barley has the reputation of being more reliable and
hardier than wheat, and better able to stand dry spells. It certainly
matures much quicker than wheat, and, cut at the right time, makes
excellent hay. This year California has suffered from the v/ca-st
drought since 1849. Wheat is usually sown in Doiiember, b;it this
year most of the wheat planted failed to come up. The barley crops,
.however, are doing fairly well, and are in striking contrast to th3 wheat
crops.
0. Farm Crops of California.
A few words regarding the farm crops of California may be added,
in order to give an idea of the intensity of the farming practised in a
country very like our own. Unfortunately, the State Statist's figures
are not complete. I shall, therefore, take the census figures of 1910
compiled by the United States Department of Agriculture. The follow-
ing was the value of the principal farm crops in 1910: — •
Fruit and nuts . . . . . . . . $48,417,655
Cereals (principally barley) . . . . . . 28,039,826
Hay and forage (principally alfalfa and barley) 42,187,215
Edible beans .. .. .. \. 6,295,457
Beet sugar . . . . . . . . . . 4,335,358
Potatoes . . . . . . . . . . 5,235,073
Vegetables . . . . . . . . . . 6,886,885
Flowers and small fruits . . . . . . 5,400,515
Total farm crop .. :. ..$153,111,013
Since 1910, production of some of these crops has been greatly in-
creased. This applies particularly to sugar beets, edible beans, hay
forage, and fruits and nuts, whilst rice and cotton are now being grown
in large quantities. Thus the cotton crop for 1917 is estimated to be
worth $12,000,000, and the sugar beet crop $20,000,000. Reliable
statistics for the live stock industry are wanting. The output of dairy
products, however, for 1910 was $20,443,977, and for eggs $10,262,694.
10 May. 1018.]
^1 mcrirun Agriculture.
261
All these figures point to the intensification of farming as compared with
Victoria, and much greater diversification in crop production.
AGEICULTUEAL EDUCATION IN CALIFORNIA.
The educational system in California is very sim.ilar to that of
Victoria, but the system of control is utterly different.
(A) The County is the Unit.
Each county of the State controls its own educational system, and
is responsible for raising by taxation the necessary funds for this pur-
pose. The statutes or the political code of California prescribe what
type of education shall be given by the State as a whole, but it is left
to the individual county Government to see that the educational pro-
gramme is carried out. I am given to understand that the schools in
each State of the Union are governed in a similar manner. This is
High School at Patterson. Erected at a Cost of 60,000 dollars.
quite the opposite of the centralized administration of education which
prevails in the Australian States. The educationalists contend that
the county system produces excellent results. There is rivalry between
the counties, and each takes great pride in the schools erected within
the county. It develops county initiative in educational policy. The
high schools and grammar schools throughout California are on the
whole magnificent buildings, replete with elaborate teaching equipment,
and giving evidence of liberal policy and wise provision for the future.
As an example, a new irrigation settlement at Patterson, which I
visited, and which comprises 17,000 acres of land, the 600 settlers of
Patterson erected an elementary school, at a cost of $55,000, and a high
school at a cost of $60,000. The money was raised by bonds floated
at 5 per cent., repayable in 40 years. Initiative is shown, too, in mould-
ing the school policy in accordance with the trend of the people's
requirements in the county. Thus Oakland is a centre of manufactur-
ing industries. It has erected a magnificent technical school, with a
highly-trained technical staft', and has elaborately equipped it from
202
Journal of Af/rii-nlturc. Victoria. \ 10 May, 1918.
funds largely obtained from its own citizens. Again, at Gardena, 14
miles from Los Angeles, which is the centre of a rich agricultural
district, a high school was used to train boys in agriculture. A farm
of 20 acres of rich land was purchased and add(>d to the school, and
each year from 80 to 100 boys are given a course of training in agricul-
ture. It may be claimed that uniform training and uniform standards
of teaching naturally arise from a system of centralized control, and
that the cost of administration is less in such a system. The Cali-
fornians say, however, that you get greater etJicneiicy with local govern-
ment, and, as far as uniformity is concerned, the high-school graduate
of, say, Ohio, has almost exactly the same standard of training as the
high-school graduate df Idaho or California. Moreover, it is clainifd
that, in a big country like the United States, it is wise to give each
community the opportunity to develop its own educational ideals. It
promotes among the counties and States healthy rivalry, and when one
county adopts any progressive idea, or initiates some successful move-
ment, it is soon followed and tested in thousands of other counties. In
a centralized system they say local leadership and progress would tend
to be stifled.
Main Channel, Patterson Irrigation Colony.
(B) AoRICULTUKK IN THE ScHOOLS.
Education in California is free, secular, and compulsory from 7 to
14. The grades in the system of education are: —
Primary grade, 7 to 10 years.
Grammar school grade, 11 to 14 years.
High school grade, 15 to 18 years.
University grade, 19 and upward.
Graduate work, 23 to 26 years.
Age is recognised as it should be —as a factor in education. This is
a very important point in agricultural education, and yet it is a factor
which is commonly overlooked. In the primary schools, nature-study
is one of the subjects of instruction. The children are taught to observe
the soil, plants, flowers, animals, insects, butterflies, just as they do in
Victoria under Dr. Leach.
10 May. 1918.] American Agriculture. 263
An attempt is made to nuike them appreciate their surroundings,
and to slowly unfold the story of nature.
In the summer schools (corresponding to the elementary schools in
Victoria, with pupils between grades 5 and S), the children in the
rural districts are usually given lessons in school gardening, and taught
simple soil and plant studies. In the high school, the study of agricul-
ture is more thorough and systematic, and no less than 2,200 high
schools of the United States have been recorded as giving courses of
instruction in agriculture.
In California, agriculture is a subject of study in 73 out of 280
high schools on a commercially productive basis.
At the Gardena high school, over 30 boys are now engaged _ in
vocational agriculture. Each has a project, e.g., keeping two pigs,
raising chickens, growing vegetables, raising calves, growing sugar
beets or alfalfa. Tliey do all the work themselves, and keep time-sheets
and check up the whole cost of work, including labour, feed, interest on
capital, &c., and, after deducting the marketing expen.ses, they deter-
mine the net profit on the project. Then they write an essay, " How I
grew an acre of sugar beets " ; " How I raised my pigs," &c. One lad^
Gail Poulton — whom I visited, 17 years of age, had three projects:
vegetable growing, two brood sows, and a pen of fourteen pullets. He
purchased the pigs at six and eight weeks, and fed them on alfalfa,
barley, corn, and scraps. He had a record of their weight each month,
the amount of food consumed by each daily, the time and cost of
attendance of each, &c. lie also had a record of the amount of bran,
alfalfa, meal, meat, grain, grit, and charcoal consumed by his fourteen
pullets each day. He had a record of the daily egg production, and
had made detailed notes of the effect of slight alteration of the ration
on the production of eggs. He had a detailed analysis of the time and
feed costs to date, and the weekly sales of produce. This struck me as.
a fine educational work. This same lad had also a one-third acre patch
of onions, beets, and cabbage, which he intended to market. He had
the same detailed notes on costs and time as before, together with notes
on growth, appearance of insects and pests, effect of sprays, &c. I
asked this lad what he intended doing later on. He replied that he
intended going for three years to the University Farm, and then his
father would provide a block of land for him.
Previous to 1917, vocational training in agriculture; was not given
at the high schools of California, though in Indiana and Massachusetts
vocational training in agriculture has been in vogue in high schools for
some four or five years.
Previously the courses in agriculture at the State schools were science
courses with an agricultural bias. Now it is purposed to establish
throughout the State vocatiounl courses in agriculture.
These courses will be subsidized by the Federal Government. Under
a recent Act — the Smith-Hughes Act — the Federal Government pro-
poses, according to the terms of the Act passed by Congress in 1917—
"To provide for the promotion of vocational education; to
provide for co-operation with the States in the promotion of such
education in agriculture and the trades and industries; to provide
for co-operation with the States in the preparation of teachers of
vocational subjects, and to appropriate money and regulate its
expenditure."
264 J oinnal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
The main purpose of this Federal Vocational Act is to promote
clearly defined courses in vocational education.
These courses are intended to provide, as far as possible, for finished
education in occupations for those who have entered or intend to enter
employment without securing a schoeiling beyond that provided by the
elementary school.
The Federal Act states that all those high schools which are to
benefit by the Act must —
1. Give the boy who is taking a vocational course in agriculture a
project which will occupy six months' practical work either
on a piece of land rented by the boy from his father or from
the school. Three hours' practical work daily must be spent
on this project work on a commercially productive basis.
2. Give each pupil three hours daily, or an equivalent amount of
time, to work in school in (1) rural science, (2) rural mathe-
matics, (3) rural English, to supplement the practical work
mentioned above, and
3. The practical work must be conducted under the direct super-
vision of a teacher holding a special certificate in agricul-
ture, or a vocational certificate in agriculture.
Several million dollars have been appropriated for this purpose
this year, and the amount appropriated will automatically increase
year by year for ten years, when the maximum amount voted will be
over 10,000,000 dollars per annum.
Dr. Snyder has been appointed State Supervisor of Vocational
Education. I called on him at his office at Sacramento, and had a long
discussion on the method of working of this Act, and he was good
enough to make arrangements to meet some of the boys who were taking
a course in vocational agriculture for the first time.
Dr. Snyder stated that the Department was very short of trained
teachers in agriculture. He proposed to get over the difficulty by
trying to find educated farmers who are interested in teaching. He
proposed to give them six months' intensive teaching at the University
Farm, Davis, and pay them commencing salaries of $1,500 to $1,800
per annum.
The general opinion of teachers and University extension workers is
that the Smith-Hughes Act will revolutionize the teaching of agricul-
ture in high schools, and will ultimately profoundly influence the work
of the agricultural colleges themselves. The Smith-Hughes Act is
interesting, because by it the Federal Government has established the
principle of Federal aid to secondary education.
The general feeling is that the old method of teaching agricultuio
in the high schools has not been satisfactory.
In asking for reasons, 1 have been given the following as mainly
the cause of non-success of agriculture as a high school subject : —
(a) The newness and the consequent want of a good method of
teaching agriculture.
(b) The instruction in the high school has been an imitation of
that given by the agricultural college — that is to say, there
has been an attempt to teach an advanced college course
to young boys at the high school, without adapting the
courses to the age of the boy, and college courses have beeii
m
10 Mav, TOJS.] American Agriculture. 265
undertaken in the liigh school without the facilities which
the colleges possess. The methods employed in the high
school have been those of the college, overlooking the fact
that pupils between 15 and 18 are different from those
between 19 and 22, physicalh^ and intellectually.
(c) Suitable text books for high school instruction have been
lacking. Most of the existing books have either been
written by University men who knew little of the high
school mind, or by high school men who knew very little
of practical agriculture.
Dr. Hunt, Dean of the College of Agriculture at Berkeley, in discuss-
ing this matter, attributed some of the failure to the school laws. He
put the matter in this way: —
" In order to secure a regular certificate to teach in a high school
in California, one must have five years' preparation in a University.
Undev certain conditions, a person having four years' University train-
ing, and a special preparation in agriculture, may be allowed to teach
agriculture in a high school, but he must not teach anything else, such
as chemistry, physics, or botany. The person wjio has the regular certi-
ficate is allowed to teach any subject, whether he has had preparation
for it or not. What has happened in far too many cases is something
like this : A community having a rather small high school, and
struggling to support it properly, starts an agitation for the introduction
of agriculture. The school has, say, five teachers — two men and three
w^omen. The Board of Education looks around for a teacher of agricul-
ture. To get a man with a regular teacher's certificate would require a
salary of $1,500 or $2,000. To secure a man with a special certificate,
perhaps $1,200 or $1,500 is required. This means an additional man
to teach one subject. The Board of Education cannot afford it. If
they employ a man to teach agriculture who has a regular teacher's
•certificate in place of the man who has been teaching physics and
chemistry, they must pay him more than the principal. The result is
that the man who is already oA^erburdened with teaching physics and
chemistry is asked to take on the teaching of agriculture, though he
knows nothing whatever of the subject.
. Often he is afraid to get acquainted with the farmers of the neigh-
bourhood, because they might ask some questions which would display
his ignorance."
Such is Dean Hunt's view of the situation.
That his view is not overdrawn may be shown by the fact that the
Federal Bureau of Education has sought to determine the training
of the teachers of agriculture in -the 2,200 high schools of the country,
and has found that 51 per cent, of the teachers of agriculture in the
schools reporting have had no training whatever for agricultural work.
Dr. Hunt considers that the solution for this problem is that where
the high school can only aff'ord five teachers, or less, the teacher -of agri-
culture should be principal of the school.
Where the schools are larger, and good salaries' can be paid, better
results would be obtained Avhen the teacher of agriculture is not charged
with the responsibilities of the principal.
260
Journal of AgricitUure, Victoria. \ 10 May, 1918.
THE UNIVERSITIES OF CALIFORNIA.
There are three Universities in California :-t-
1. The University of California (which is the State University),
situated at Berkeley.
2. The Leland Stanford Junior University, situated at Palo Alto,
some 30 miles south of San Francisco.
3. The University of Southern California, situated at Los
Angeles.
I visited each of these institutions. Only at Berkeley is provision
made for the courses of agriculture. The Leland Stanford Junior Uni-
versity was endowed with an estate worth $40,000,000, and has i:iost
elaborate and ornate buildings. Its normal attendance is about
2,000 students. At present it does not provide instruction in agricul-
ture, though the regents contemplate providing for an agricultural
department in the near future. The University of Southern California
appears to be restricted in its work by lack of funds. ■ The principal
feature of the institution is the College of Liberal Arts. The maiority
of the students in attendance take the arts course.
View of the College of Agriculture— University of California.
The University of California is a fully-equipped institution, and is
supported liberally by State funds.
I propose to discuss briefly the organization and administration of
the University, and then deal in some detail with the work of the Col-
lege of Agriculture.
The University is administered by a president — Benjamin Ide
Wheeler. The president is responsible to a body of regents, sixteen in
number. These regents are appointed by the Governor for a term of
sixteen years. As the Governor holds office for four years, each 'Gover-
nor appoints four of the sixteen regents. In addition, there are several
regents ex officio. The regents determine the financial policy. In some
States, e.g., Illinois, they are elected by popular vote. Dean Hunt
considers the ideal system of University government would be —
(1) A president;
(2) Seven regents, appointed for seven years, one regent being
appointed every year.
10 May. 191;s.|
. I merit nn Agriculture.
267
The University of Califorina has ten colleges, each with its own
faculty (each faculty consisting- of members of the teaching staff of the
■college).
These colleges are : —
(1) Agriculture, (2) Letters and Science, (3) Commerce,
(4) Law, (5) Medicine, (6) Mining, (7) Civil Engineer-
ing, (8) Mechanics, (9) Education, (10) Dentistry.
Each college has a Dean, who is responsible for the control and
administration of the college.
The University spent $3,500,000 the last financial year, of which
approximately $1,000,000 was spent on buildings.
Of this sum, $605,000 (£121,000) was spent by the College of Agri-
culture.
^m
A view of one side of the Campus — Leland Stanford University — showing
the Jordan Hall.
The College of Agricultuke.
The College of Agriculture is organized to carry out three classes
of work: —
(1) Research, (2) Education, (3) Public welfare.
It carries out these activities in the following way: — ■
(1) Research: Funds received from the Federal and State Govern-
ments are used to maintain the Agricultural Experiment Station at
Berkeley, and to conduct experimental and research work at the Uni-
versity Farm, Davis.
(2) Educatio?i: The College of Agriculture provides (a) University
instruction to students who are candidates for the degree of B.Sc. in
Agriculture.
(&) Farm school instruction at Davis to students of eighteen
years who do not take degrees.
(c) Short courses of instruction for practical farmers at the
University Farm, Davis.
(d) Correspondence courses in agriculture.
268
Journal of Agriculture, Vicloria. [10 May, 1918.
(3) Public Welfare: One of tlio most remarkable features of the
College of Agriculture is the extension work, which has grown very
rapidly during the past three years.
The work of the Extension Department comprises farmers' insti-
tutes, the country farm advisers and farm bureaux, and boys' agricultural
clubs in rural and high schools.
(1) Research,
The School of Agriculture and the Agricultural Experiment Sta-
tion are housed in the same buildings. Dean Hunt is head of the
College of Agriculture and Director of the Experiment Station.
Most of the research work is done in the laboratories of Hilgard
Hall.
Hilgard Hall is a magnificent block of buildings erected by the
people of California in memory of Professor Hilgard, the soil chemist,
who did so much for Californian agriculture. The money — $350,000 —
.«^.iir*.
Hilgard Hall — University of California.
was voted by initiative referendum by the people in 1914. In addition,
$25,000 was voted for equipment. Hilgard Hall comprises the second
of three buildings which will complete the agricultural quadrangle of
the School of Agriculture.
The principal facade is 180 feet in length, and bears the inscrip-
tion : " To rescue for human society the native values of rural life."
It has three main floors and a basement.
It has six lecture halls, with seating accommodation for 428 students,
sixteen laboratories, each holding from 40 to GO students, 50 offices for
professors, assistants, and stenographers.
In addition, there are rooms for students, and special equipment,
such as storage rooms, cold storage plant, &c.
Hilgard Hall is the head-quarters of seven divisions of the Agricul-
tural Experiment Station and School of Agriculture — Agronomy,
forestry, soil technology, pomology, viticulture, genetics, and citri-
' culture.
I have secured detailed information regarding the construction,
equipment, and research work conducted by each of these divisions, as
10 May. 1918.]
American Agriculture.
269
well as the eleven other divisions into which the college is divided, but
it is unnecessary to describe these at the present juncture. The in-
formation will, however, be most useful in considering plans for the
extension of our own work in Victoria.
At the time of my visit, the eighteen divisions of the college were
engaged in working on 366 projects.
Before any piece of research is undertaken, a statement is sub-
mitted to the Director, specifying —
(1) The objective of the research;
(3) The points to be investigated — specific questions to be
answered ;
(3) Plan of organizing work, or methods of procedure;
(4) Literature of subject.
(2) Education.
The main educational work is preparing candidates for degrees in
agriculture.
University Farm, Davis, Calif oriiia.
A, Students' Luncheon Rooms; B, Administrative Office; C, Dormitories.
During the first two years the undergraduate course in agriculture
at Berkeley is substantially the same for all students. It gives a train-
ing in chemistry, botany, bacteriology, geology, zoology, mathematics,
and surveying.
All students are required to acquire a real reading knowledge of
some foreign language and a knowledge of their own language.
At the end of the second year a student takes a summer practice
course of six weeks, in order to give him some practical knowledge of the
phase of agriculture he intends to enter, and to enable him to change
if he finds that he has been mistaken in the choice of occupations.
The minimum requirements for entrance at Berkeley are high school
graduation (which would correspond to our senior public)'.
During the third ■ and fourth year the student for a degree may
specialize in one of eighteen divisions: (1) Agricultural chemistry,
(2) agricultural education (3) agronomy, (4) animal husbandry, (5)
citriculture, (6) dairy industry, (7) entomology, (8) forestry, (9) forest
utilization, (10) irrigation, (11) nutrition, (12) parasitology, (13) plant
pathology, (14) pomology, (15) poultry husbandry, (16) soils and fer-
tilizers, (17) viticulture and venology, (18) landscape gardening and
floriculture.
270
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
The majority of the students major in agronomy, animal husbandry,
dairying, or irrigation, as these are the courses Avhich they find most
useful in after life.
In a general way, these courses may he said to prepare for three types
of agricultural activity: —
(1) Commercial or productive agriculture. This may be by
owning or renting land, or by employment as a superin-
tendent of a farm or ranch.
(2) Professional or technical agriculture, in which a man may
become an agricultural or soil chemist, a plant patho-
logist, a forester; or he may become an investigator in
any of the several lines of activity in which the college
prepares men.
(3) Teachers of agriculture in high schools, and men who are
to become farm advisers.
North and South Dormitories, University Farm, Davis.
THE DAVIS FAKM.
The University Farm School, situated at Davis, some 70 miles from
Berkeley, is worked in conjunction with Berkeley, and is under control
of the Dean of the College of Agriculture.
The heads of departments at the College of Agriculture are also the
heads of the corresponding division at Davis.
In discussing the origin and scope of the University Farm School,
Dean Hunt said that the school was at first intended for a secondary
school, i.e., as a place where boys of high school age could receive instruc-
tion in agriculture.
There were several reasons why this idea was abandoned : — ■
(1) It was considered that boys between fourteen and eighteen,
i.e., boys of high school, should sleep at home. It is an age when children
are in special need of their parents.
A time comes when boys must break home ties. Experience indi-
cates that eighteen or nineteen is the correct age for this to occur.
(2) The second reason for changing the age requirement at the
University Farm Sschool is a desire to uphold the discipline of the
high school, as well as to promote the teaching of agriculture in it.
To enter the University Farm School, a student must be eighteen
years of age, unless he has graduated from a high school of recognisexi
standing.
10 May. 1918.]
A metiran Agriculture.
271
A study of the scholar-
ship and conduct of the
students of the Uni-
versity Farm School,
covering two years,
showed that the best
students are those who
have regularly gradu-
ated from a high school.
The next best are those
who Ixave reached the
age of eighteen without
having been in a high
school; while the least
proficient in scholarship
and most lacking in
manly conduct are the
students who have left
the high school without
completing the course.
(3) The third reason
for the present procedure
is the well-grounded be-
lief that the important
educational task in
America to-day is to pro-
vide suitable training for
the young men who have
reached college age with-
out having college re-
quirements for entrance.
The University School
is designed for the young
man who has dropped
out of the public school
at some earlier period of
life, but who, at the age
of nineteen to twenty-
two, discovers that he
desires a training in ag-
riculture.
While the primary
purpose has been to
reach the farm boy who
has reached eighteen or
over, and who, through
no fault of his own, has
failed to obtain a high
school education, the
facts are that the ma-
jority of men at the
272
Joiirnal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
University Farm School are graduates of high schools from city
homes.
The Difference between the Course at Berlceley and Davis.
The average age of the students at Davis is higher than that at
Berkelev.
''jHHti^.'
Horticultural Building, Davis Parm.
' The small Ijuilding to the right is a garasre for oflicers' automobiles.
Parm Machinery Shops, University rami, jjhvis.
(Here engines, motors, binders, drills, &c.. of every make are taken to piecca
and re-assembled by students for practice.)
10 May, 1918.'
American Agriculture.
273
-Both the students at
Berkeley and Davis are
equally part of the Uni-
versity of California. The
courses, however, are very
different. - "
The course at Berkeley
IS for a degree, and
students are required to
put in four and a quarter
years for graduation.
The courses at the
Farm School require three
years, but a graduate of
a high school can complete
tliem in two years.
A certificate, but no
degree, is given on satis-
factory completion of the
course.
Every University stu-
dent must acquire a real
1 eading knowledge of some
foreign language as a
requirement for gradua-
tion.
No foreign language is
required fiom University
Farm School students.
A much more extended
study of the underlying
sciences is i-equired of
University students. The
teaching of technical sub-
jects to University Farm
School students is some-
what modified, because in
the diflference in training
of the underlying science.^
otherwise the instruction
is much the same.
It was pointed out
that the University course
at Berkeley was a pre-
paration for commercial
and professional agricul-
ture, for high school
teaching, and for farm
adviser work.
The University Farm
School trains for the first
274
Journal of Afirirnlinrp. Victoria. [10 May. 1918.
of these activities, but is
not a preparation for the
remainder.
(3) Extension Woi?k of
THE University —
Public Welfare.
Besides the resident
instruction to under-
graduates, the College of
Agriculture carries out a
large amount of extension
work.
Indeed, the extension
work is growing so rapidly
in response to public
demand that it will
probably become the most
important phase of Uni-
versity activity.
This extension work
may be classed as —
(a) Coriespondence
courses..
(b) Farmers ' insti-
tutes.
(c) County farm
bureaux.
(d) Boys' high school
clubs.
ie)
Boys' public
school clubs.
Correspondence Courses.
Twenty-two separate
correspondence courses in
agriculture were given at
Berkeley.
Twenty-three thousand
three hundred and seventy-
four students were taking
correspondence course
during 1915. In the
Correspondence School,
183,784 pieces of mail
matter were distributed.
10 May, 1918.
.1 merican Agriculture.
275
The most popular courses were poultry husbandry, swine husbandry,
alfalfa culture, dairy husbandry, and citrus culture, while the courses
least sought were corn culture, beekeeping, and sheep husbandry.
In order to become students, it is necessary to fill out and return an
application for the course desired. Two lessons are then sent to the
applicant. Upon return of the first lesson, he is sent a third lesson,
and so on to the end of the course.
The agricultural staff sent out 92,000 letters last year in answer to
inquiries for specific information, apart from the regular correspondence
courses.
Pot Experiments on the Duty of Water with Alfalfa.
(The pots are 4 feet deep, and hold half a ton of soil. They are raised by
a crane, and weighed every Monday morning. )
Farmers' Institutes.
These are rapidly being replaced by the farm bureaux and the county
adviser organization.
Any community that is not located in a farm adviser county may have
a farmers' institute organized without charge on forwarding a guarantee
that 25 to 50 farmers will attend the meetings.
Dean Hunt says that some people consider the college should hold
meetings whether farmers desire them or not, on the ground that the
people who need them most are those who desire them the least. His view
is, however, that while the college will spare no pains to help any one
who comes for legitimate help, it will not attempt to organize meetings
without the request first comes from the farmers themselves.
{To he continued.)
276 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS.
ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT (SEASON 1917-1918).
'By W. A. N. Robertson, BA\ 8c., Chief Veterinary Officer.
The number of stallions exainined during the past year was lower
than for any previous period, being only 237.
The main cause of this will probably be found in the slump in the
price of horses ; this has induced many to give up, or, at any rate, curtail
the breeding of horses. A further reason for their decision has been
the difficulty in obtaining reliable stud grooms, as so many have enlisted.
The slump, however, is not likely to last — indeed, the prospect for the
future is bright. The world-wide demand for foodstuffs that is bound to
occur when the present upheaveal subsides and the peace of the world is
once more established, will give a great impetus to settlement, and the
demand for draught horses will cause the pendulum to swing back.
Those who are prepared to supply the demand will reap a handsome
reward for their labour, especially if breeding be carried on along sound
lines. It is to be earnestly hoped that the reaction will not produce* the
same results as the boom of 1907 and 1908, and offer an indiicemcnt to
keep as stallions animals of no breeding or type.
Although only 237 horses were examined during the season, the pro-
gramme for the veterinary officers had to be mapped out so as to allow
attendance at 80 parades. Only two veterinary officers being available,
the time-table was arranged as in the previous year, providing for one
officer to be in reserve all the time, and so available to keep appointments
if there should be any alteration of train service or any unforeseen
curtailment in arrangements. Owing to Mr. R. ^NT. Johnstone's dis-
charge from the Military Forces, there will be three officers available
during the coming season, thus providing for two sets of parades a week ;
this will allow them all to be completed before the Royal Show.
As indicated in my last report, the examination of mares was intro-
duced during the season under review. This step was taken in response
to the request of breeders through the Royal Agricultural Society, this
body having determined that only sound mares should be allowed to
compete at their show. As many breeders were put to considerable
expense and inconvenience in bringing animals to Melbourne to have
them rejected by the Society's veterinary surgeon on the Show Grounds,
they asked that Government officers, when examining stallions, should
also examine mares which it was intended to enter in the Royal Show.
Thus the examination of mares was confined to those entered in a stud
book.
10 May, 1918."] Government Qertificatinn of Stallions.
;77
For the coining season tlie same conditions will apply, but, no doubt,
when the members of the Veterinary Staff return from military service,
the system will be extended to embrace all niares.
Thirty-three mares were submitted to Government inspectioii during
the season, and six, or 18.1 per cent., were rejected for unsoundness — five
on account of sidebone, and one for ringbone.
Examinations and Rejections.
The percentage of stallions rejected for unsoundness shows a falling
off on previous years, being the lowest on record, viz., 8.02, as against
11.25 per cent, last year, while 27 per cent, were rejected as being below
standard, as against 30.9 last year. As in previous years, sidebone is
still the main reason for rejection under the first heading, 9.92 per cent,
being rejected for this unsoundness, as against 11.7 and 16.32 during
1916-17 and 1915-16 respectively. This is as was to be expected, and it
is pleasing to find expectations being realized.
Ringbone was found in 1.65 per cent, draught horses, none being
found in any other breed. This is a reduction from 3.72 per cent, last
year. With the fluctuation in the total number examined, there is bound
to be some swaying backwards and forwards of the percentage rejected,
but the general downward trend is an indication that the Avork, so far as
it goes, is having a beneficial effect.
The following table gives the details of the examinations for all
horses : —
Draughts.
• Lights.
Ponies.
Totals (all Classes).
Examined.
121
Certifi-
cated.
82
Examined.
84
• Certifi-
cated.
52
Examined.
32
Certifi-
cated.
20
Per cent.
Rejected.
Examined.
237
Certifi-
cated.
154
Rejected.
Per cent.
Rejected.
Rejected.
Per cent.
Rejected.
Rejected.
Rejected.
Per cent.
Rejected.
Bog Spavin .
Bone Spavin
Cataract
Chorea
Curb
Navicular
Disease
Nasal Disease
Ringbone ...
Roaring
Sidebone ...
Stringhalt ...
Thoronghpin
Whistling ...
2
12
1-G5
9-92
2
1
3
29
2-38
1.')'9
1
"i
3 12
...
3-12
••
3
1
2
12
1
1-26
•42
'-84
5-06
-42
Total unsound-
ness
Disapproved
14
25
39
11-57
20-66
3 57 ' 2
34 52 10
6 25
31-25
19
64
8 02
27-00
Total rejected
32-23
32
3809 12
37-50
83
35 02
278 Journal of A<irUiiUure, Victoria. | 10 May, 1918.
Horses Re-submittkd for Examination.
Seventy-seven horses w^hich had been previously certificated were
submitted for further inspection, and the result of the examination is as
under : —
Horses Submitted for Kenewal of Certificates, 1917-1918.
3 years.
4 years.
5 years.
Totals.
Reason for
Rejection.
Examined.
1
Certifi-
cated.
1
Examined.
26
Certifi-
cated.
■12
Examined.
.50
Certifi-
cated.
40
Examined.
77
Certifi-
cated.
63
Rejected.
Per cent.
Rejected.
Rejected.
Per cent.
Rejected.
Rejected.
Per cent.
Rejected.
Rejected.
Per cent.
Rejected.
Disapproval
Sidebone . .
Ringbone. .
Curb
Spavin
Roaring . .
Cataract . .
2
2
7-69
7-69
6
2
2
12-0
4-0
4-0
••
8
4
2
10-39
5- 19
2-60
Total . .
"
4 \ 15-38
1
10 20-0
14 18-18
Here, also, there is a slight falling off in the percentage of those
refused certificates. In 1916, 13.4 per cent, were rejected for unsound-
ness developed after three years of age, and last year only 7.7 were found
so affected. ■ . •
Transferred Certificates.
The number of certificates presented for transfer to Victorian certi-
ficates was: — ISTew Zealand, 7; New South Wales, 4; while one from
]!^ew South Wales was indorsed as being eligible for Victorian shows.
Appeals.
Only two appeals were lodged against the refusal of certificates, and
both were in respect of light horses, on the question of being below reason-
able standard. The Board appointed by the Hon. the Minister upheld
the action of the veterinary officer, and refused certificates.
The following table shows the number of horses examined by each
veterinary officer. It will be noted that, contrary to custom, I conducted
two examinations myself. These were made in response to earnest
appeals by owners when no other officer was available : -
Name of Officer.
Number
Examined,
Number
Certificated.
Number
Rejected.
Percentage
Rejected.
Mr. R. Griffin, M.R.C.V.S
Mr. W. M. Lerew, G.M.V.C.
Mr. W. A. N. Robertson, B. V. So. ...
Mr. R. N. Johnstone, B.V. Sc.
Appeal Boards ...
111
121
2
1
2
63
88
•2
1
48
33
2
43-24
27-27
100 00
A summary of the eleven years' work is given on the next page.
10 May, 1918.]
Government Certification of Stallions.
279
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280 Journal of A (I rlculiure, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
REGULATIONS
Governing the Examination of Stallions and Mares for the
Government Certificate of Soundness and Approval.
I. — Examination Parades.
(1) Societies within whose district an Inspection Parade is
appointed are required to provide a suitable place for the examinations
to be conducted, and to suitably and reasonably advertise the holding
of the parade on receipt of notice from the Department of the fixture.
The secretary or some member of the committee of the society is
required to be in attendance at the appointed time to assist the examin-
ing officer in the arrangements for the inspection.
(2) The Parades will be conducted and the Veterinary Officer will
attend without expense to Societies other than that involved in adver-
tising and making known the occasion to the public and the horse-
owners in the district, and providing the examination ground.
(3) The Examining Officer will attend Inspection Parades held at
times and places set out in the official Time Table for the year, and
all examinations for the Government Certificate will be made at such
Parades or on some such publicly advertised occasion, unless under
special circumstances as provided for in clause 5.
(4) In the event of it being found impossible for local reasons to
hold the Parade in any district at the time and date set out in the
Time Table, notice to that eff^ect — together with suggestions for alter-
native date and time compatible with the rest of the Time Table —
should be given not later than 1st June, after which no alteration in
the Time Table can be made.
(5) The special examination of horses for the Government Certi-
:ficate of Soundness at other than the advertised parades may
be arranged for in cases where, through accidental circumstances, the
owner has failed to submit the horse at such parade.
Such examinations will only be arranged when the attendance of
the Examining Officer will not interfere with the requirements of the
Department for his services in other directions.
An ovnier requesting such special examinations will be required to
prepay a fee of £1 Is. for each horse examined; also the railway fare
(first class return), and travelling expenses at ttie rate of 14s. per day,
of the visiting officer.
II. — Grounds for Eejection.
(1) Refusal of Certificate on the ground of unsoundness will be
made only when, in the opinion of the Examining Officer, the horse is
affected at the time of examination with one or more of the following
hereditary unsoundnesses, viz. : —
Bog Spavin Ringbone
Bone Spavin Roaring
Cataract Sidebone
Chorea " Shivering" or "Nervy " Stringhalt
Curb Thoroughpin
Navicular disease Whistling
Nasal disease (Osteo-porosis)
or such other hereditary unsoundness as the Minister may at any time
declare. (Blemishes or unsoundness, the result — in the opinion of
10 "May, 1918.1 Government Cprtificatioii of Stallions. 281
the Examining Officer on appearances then presented — of accident,
injury, and over-strain or over- work, will not disqualify.)
(2) For the purpose of these regulations the following shall be the
definitions of "Ringbone," "Sidebone," and "Curb":—
(a) Any exostosis on the antero or lateral aspect of the pha-
langes below tlie upper third of the Os Stiff rmjiins shall
constitute a Ringbone;
(Z>) Any ossification of the lateral cartilage shall constitute a
Sidebone ;
(c) Any circumscribed swelling on the posterior aspect of the
hock in the median line and within the limits of the
lower third of the hock and the head of the metatarsal
bones shall constitute a Curb.
(3) The Certificate will also be refused in the case of animals con-
sidered by the Examining Officer to be below a' reasonable standard fur
Government approval, as regards type, conformation, and breeding.
(4) Horses three or four years old, which are refused a Certifi-
cate as regards type, conformation, and breeding may be re-submitted
annually until five years old, after which the refusal shall be subject
to review under Part V. of these regulations only.
(5) In the case of horses that have been rejected for any reason
whatsoever, a notification containing all particulars of identification
shall be sent to ail Chief Veterinary Officers of the other States of the
Commonwealth as early as practicable after such examination has taken
place.
III. — Certificates.
(1) Particulars concerning the identity of the horse — name,
breeder, pedigree, age, prior ownership, &c. — must be furnished to the
Examining Officer at the time of examination. If deemed necessary
in any case the owner may be called upon to furnish a statutory
declaration as to the correctness of such particulars.
(2) Certificates will be issued within seven days of the holding of
the Parades, and will be forwarded to the owner direct. Secretaries
of Societies inider Avhose auspices the Parade is held "will be notified
which, if any, of the horses submitted for examination obtain their
Certificates.
(3) The owners of horses for which a Certificate is refused will
within seven days of such refusal be officially notified of the fact; the
reason for such rejection will also be given.
(4) Until the issue of a Certificate, or until the publication of the
official list of certificated stallions and mares, the result of the Veterinary
examination will not be communicated to any person except as herein
provided or under circumstances as follow : — The Examining Officer
ma3% on request on proper occasion, communicate to the owner or his
agent — duly authorized in writing to inquire — the result of the
examination. In case of refusal of the Certificate the reasons for
refusal will not under any circumstances, save in legal proceedings
under the direction of the Court, be commimicated to any person
except the owner or his agent duly authorized in writing. Secretaries
of Societies, persons in charge of the horse, grooms or relatives of the
owner will not be considered authorized agents for that purpose unless
282 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
they deliver to the officer the owner's signed authority to receive the
information.
(5) The Victorian Government Certificate of Soundness can only
be issued in respect of horses three years old and over, that have been
examined by a Victorian Government Veterinary Officer, or horses in
respect of which any of the following certificates are produced : —
The Government Certificate of Soundness of any Australian State
or New Zealand.
The Veterinary Certificate of the Royal Shire Horse * Society
(England).
The Veterinary Certificate of Royal Agricultural Society
(England).
The Veterinary Certificate of Royal Dublin Society (Ireland).
The Veterinary Certificate of Highland and Agricultural Society
(Scotland).
The Veterinary Certificate of Glasgow and West of Scotland Agri-
cultural Society.
The Veterinary Certificate of the Board of Agriculture and
Fisheries (England).
The Veterinary Certificate of the Board of Agriculture (Scotland).
Provided that such horses have been examined in accordance with
these regulations.
Any horse which has been rejected by the Veterinary Examiners
for any of the above certificates will not be eligible for examination
for the Victorian Government Certificate of Soundness.
(6) The form of the Victorian Government Certificate of Sound-
ness is as follows : — ' ' G.R. — Department of Agriculture, Victoria, No.
Certificate of Soundness and Approval, issued for the
season {or issued for Life as the case may he), given in
respect of the (breed) stallion or mare (name and description of stallion
or mare) submitted for Government inspection by the owner (name of
owner) at (place of examination) such horse having been found suitable
for stud service and free from hereditary unsoundness and defects of
conformation predisposing thereto on examination by (signature of
Examining Officer) Veterinary Officer on the day of
19
(Signature).
Chief Veterinary Officer.
Issued by direction of the Minister of Agriculture.
(Signature).
Director of Agriculture."
(7) Two-year-old colts may be submitted for examination and a
temporary certificate will be issued in respect of such as pass the
examination. Such temporary certificate must not be taken to imply
suitability for stud service of approval as regards type, nor is the
issue of it intended as an indication of the likelihood of a certificate
being issued when submitted for examination at a more mature age.
(8) The season in respect of Government Certificates shall be con-
sidered as opening on 1st July. Horses passing the examination any
10 May, 191S.| Govcrnmrjif rertification of Sta]lio>if<. 283
time during the three months previous to this date in New Zealand or
Australia will be granted a Certificate for the season next following.
In respect of horses examined in Great Britain examinations on or
after 1st January will be considered as examinations for the following
season.
(9) In the event of a Certificate issued to any owner being lost such
owner may, on production of satisfactory evidence supported by statu-
tory declaration, obtain the issue of a duplicate thereof on payment of
a fee of £1 Is.
IV. — Tenure of Certificate.
(1) Certificates issued during the season in respect of horses five
years old and over are life certificates; those for three-year-olds and
four-year-olds are season certificates only, and such horses must be
submitted for re-examination at four and five years before a life certifi-
cate will be issued.
(2) The Season certificate issued in respect of any horse must be
handed to the Examining Officer at the time of re-examination or for-
warded to the Chief Veterinary Officer before a subsequent Season
certificate or a Life certificate will be issued.
(3) The Minister retains the right to at any time have a certi-
ficated horse submitted for re-examination, and to withdraw the certifi-
cate, in the event of the animal being declared, to his satisfaction,
unsound.
V. — Board of Appeal.
(1) Any owner of a stallion or mare who is dissatisfied with the
refusal of a Government certificate in respect of his horse may appeal
against the decision to the Minister at any time within thirty days of
the examination, under the folloAving conditions : —
(a) That the appeal be in writing and be accompanied by the
lodgment of £5, such amount to be forfeited in the event
of the appeal not being upheld, imless the Board shall for
good cause otherwise direct.
(&) That the appeal be accompanied by an undertaking to pay
any railway fares and hotel expenses incurred by the
Board of Appeal in connexion with the settlement of the
appeal.
(c) That, in the event of refusal having been on the ground of
unsoundness, the appeal be accompanied by a certificate
from a registered Veterinary Surgeon setting out that
the horse has been found by him on examination since
the refusal appealed against to be free from all the
unsoundnesses set out in Part II. of these regulations.
{d) That, in the event of refusal having been on the groimd of
being below standard for Government approval, the
appeal be accompanied by a certificate from the President
and two members of the Committee of the Society under
whose auspices the parade was held, setting out that in
their opinion the horse is of fit and proper type, con-
formation, and breeding to be approved as a stud horse.
284
Journal of A f/ri culture, Victoria. [10 May. 1918.
(2) On receipt of Notice of Appeal in proper form, and with tin-
above conditions complied with, the IMinister will appoint a Board of
Appeal, which shall consist of: —
(a) In the case of appeals ag:ainst refusal of certificate on tlu-
ground of unsoundness, the Chief Veterinary Officer and
two practising Veterinary Surgeons.
(h) In the case of appeals against refusal of certificate as being
below standard for Government approval, the Chief
Veterinary Officer and two horsemen of repute and
standing.
Such Board shall act and decide on the appeal, and its decision shall
be final, and not subject to review.
(3) In the event of the appeal being allowed, refund shall be made
of the deposit and any expenses paid by the appellant under Clause
1 (6). Further, the Board mny recommend to the 'Minister the allow-
ance of such of the expenses of the appellant in supporting his appeal
as it may consider reasonable under the circumstances of the case, and
the IMinister may, in his discretion, confirm the recommendation in
whole or in part, whereupon allowance shall be made to the appellant
accordingly.
(4) No horse in respect of which a Government certificate is
refused M'ill be allowed to be re-submitted for examination except in
the case of an appeal or in such case as when a three or four years old
horse has been refused on account of type as herein provided for.
In the event of any rejected horse being re-submitted for examination
under another name or under such circumstances as in the opinion
of the IMinister are calculated to mislead the Examining Officer into
the belief that the horse has not previously been examined, the owner
of such rejected horse, if proved to the satisfaction of the Minister
that he is responsible for such re-submission, shall be debarred from
submitting any horse for examination for such period as the T^linistfr
shall determine.
(5) In these regulations the words ''stallion" or "horse" shall,
unless the context clearly indicates to the contrary, be taken to mean
either stallion or mare or animal of either sex, provided that in respect
of mares only those which are registered in a recognised Stud Book for
Draught Horses shall be examined.
10 May, 191S.] Government Certification of Stallions.
285
SUPPLEMENTARY LIST OF LIFE CERTIFICATED STALLIONS.
Cert.
No.
Date of
Name of Horse.
Age.
Owner.
Parade.
Exami-
Officer.
nation.
DRAUGHTS.
3040
Abbott's Best
5 years
J. Esan
Mansfield
13.9.17
W.M.L.
30G0
Abbotsford Cham-
5 years
C. Elphick
Foster . .
10.10.17
W.M.L.
3058
pion
Baron Alexander . .
5 years
R. N. Scott
Korumburra
5.10.17
R.G.
3047
Baron Carlyle
5 years
Gillies and Walter
New South Wales
Exam.
1.4.17
3059
Baron Ramsay
5 years
J. Harry and Sons
Dingie Special
8.10.17
R.G.
3022
Baron's Reserve . .
5 years
R. Bushby
.leparit . .
17.8.17
R.G.
3042
Belmont's Champion
5 years
Turner Bros.
Mernda
17.9.17
W.M.L.
3000
Black Sam
6 years
Mitchell and
O'Brien
Royal Show
Grounds
24.7.17
R.G.
3064
Bold Marquis
5 years
E. Wriuht and Son
Royal Show
24.9.17
R.G.
3024
Bonny Percy
5 years
A. Williams
Nhill . .
15.8.17
R.G.
3027
Colonel Dale
5 years
T. F. .Mijor
Kerang . .
28.8.17
R.G.
3015
General Kitchener. .
5 years
D. Marsliman
Beulah . .
9.8.17
W.M.L.
3002
Glencoe . .
5 years
G. Wright
Royal Show
Grounds
24.7.17
R.G.
3003
Kilmarnock
Aged
J. and G. W. Bad-
man
Royal Show
Grounds
24.7.17
R.G.
3031
King's Pride
Aged
G. T. Hill
Benalla
5.9.17
W.M.L.
3007
Lee Creek Squire . .
5 years
W. Underwood . .
Colac . .
3.8.17
R.G.
3038
Livingstone
Aged-
A. ('. I'c-trass
Kyabram
11.9.17
W.M.L.
3041
Loyalty . .
5 years
A. Tliompson
Werribee
15.9.17
W.M.L.
2999
Moira Commodore . .
Aged
Jno. Vj. I'ifkie
Royal Show
Grounds
24.7.17
W.M.L.
3035
Onward's Star
5 years
T. R. W. Powles . .
Shepparton
11.9.17
R.G.
3033
Pesha
5 years
Chas. Mason
Warracknabeal .
8.8.17
W.M.L.
3030
Pride of the North
5 years
D. Blair
Charlton
31.8.17
R.G.
3023
Queen's First
5 years
P. Miiller
Dimboola
16.8.17
R.G.
3043
Royal Belmont
5 years
Turner Bros.
Mernda
17.9.17
W.M.L.
3018
Royal Colours
5 years
A. D. Hiscock
Warracknabeal .
8.8.17
W.M.L.
2991
Roval Treasure
Aged
Wm. Thompson . .
N. Z. Exam.
5.3.17
3054
Scotty . .
5 years
A. McDonald
Rochester
2.10.17
W.M.L.
3046
Sir Roderick
Aged
W. Bvrne
Kvneton
18.9.17
W.M.L.
3048
Sir William
5 years
W. McClellan
Ballarat
21.9.17
R.G.
3057
The Factor
Aged
Mitchell and
Wickliffe Special .
■
5.10.17
W.M.L.
O'Brien
2998
Tulchan Gem
Aged
W. Crosbie
Mildura
.
17.7.17
W.M.L.
LIGHT HORSES
3065
Aberdeen
5 years
J. Troup
Public Offices
17.11.17
R.G.
2996
Al Borak
5. years
T. McCarthy
Mildura
17.7.17
W.M.L
3034
Bob Ash
5 years
T. Moore
Shepparton
11.9.17
R.G.
2997
Bonnie Direct
5 years
W. T. Taylor
Mildura . .
17.7.17
W.M.L
3072
Breakfoot
Aged
L. McRae
Public Offices
Special
13.2.18
W.M.L
1567.
Cannonier
C. H. Wente
New South Wales
23.8.10
N.S.W.
Exam.
3056
Captain Llewcllin . .
6 years
G. Buckley
Wickliffe Special
Exam.
Public Oflaces
5.10.17
W.M.L
3006
Cleve Bells
Aged
J. .J. Kennedy
4.8.17
W.M.L
3021
Dixie Boodle
5 years
C. Zimmer
Public Offices
18.8.17
W.M.L
3061
First Aid..
5 years
Geo. CoUis
Yarram
11.10.17
W.M.L
3036
Golden Wood
Aged
.J. T. Ovens
Kyabram
11.9.17
W.M.L
3055
Goodwood
R. Lose by
New South Wales
Exam.
Royal Show
28.7.13
3050
Gospel Bells
5 years
G. H. Alford
24.9.17
R.G.
2992
Grattan Agiin
5 years
W. J. Parish , . .
Horsham
11.7.17
W.M.L.
3037
Honest Mac
5 years
.T. H. Hunt
Kyabram
11.9.17
W.M.L.
2990
Leonard . .
5 years
P. V. Frauenfelder
Public Offices
7.6.17
W.M.L.
3066
Lord Panic
Aged
Callan Bros.
Public Offices
17.11.17
R.G.
3028
Merrimu . . '
5 years
G. M. Vallence
Kerang . .
28.8.17
R.G.
3062
Muskaloon
5 years
C. Barlow
Yarram
11.10.17
W.M.L.
3053
Musket Bells
5. years
R. Smdilands
Kyneton
18.9.17
W.M.L.
3063
Orient
6 years
W.J. Loh
Yarram
11.10.17
W.M.L
3051
Oscar Asche
5 years
E. Partridge
Royal Show
24.9.17
W.M.L.
3068
Osterlater
5 years
G. Cross
Maffra Special
Exam.
Public Offices
20.11.17
R.G.
3044
Premarvel
Aged
M. .1. Dean
8.9.17
W.M.L
286
Jonrnnl of Af/riculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
Supplementary List of Life Certificated Stallions — continued.
Cert.
No.
Name of Horse.
Parade.
Date of
Exami-
nation.
Light Horses — continued.
3013
Prince Binnia
Aged
R. Harnath and
Sons
Hamilton
1.8.17
R.6.
3029
Rival Loch
Aged
R. M. Thomas . .
Swan Hill
29.8.17
R.G.
3052
Shandon Bells
6 years
G. H. Alford
Royal Show
24.9.17
R.G.
3014
Shandon Bells
5 years
H, C. H. Hately . .
Murtoa . .
10.8.17
W.M.L.
2995
Sir Iver . .
5 years
J. Commini
Horsham
11.7.17
W.M.L
3073
Sunny Voyage
6 years
V. R. Anderson . .
Trafalgar
4.3.17
R.N.J.
2994
The Butler
5 years
A. H. Siemering . .
PONIES.
Horsham
11.7.17
W.M.L
3026
Badaween's Pride . .
5 years
F. O'Donnell
St. Arnaud
22.8.17
W.M.L.
3045
Berkeley S\rell
5 years
D. .1. Reen
Kyneton
18.9.17
W.M.L.
3004
Blickimp
5 years
Orton Bros.
Public Offices
28.7.17
W.M.L.
3003
Federation
6 years
B. Rogers
Warrnambool
2.8.17
R.G.
3010
H ippy Jack
Aged
J. B. Atchison . .
Koroit . .
2.8.17
R.G.
3069
Perfection
Aged
W. Horswood
Emerald Special . .
22.11.17
W.M.L.
3009
Prefix
Aged
R. A. Affleck
Warrnambool
2.8.17
R.G.
3011
Rhymney 11.
5 years
C. Gormm
Koroit . .
2.8.17
R.G.
3071
What Oh
Aged
1
W. Willmott
^HOROUGHBRE]
Dandenong Special
OS.
30.1.18
W.M.L.
3049
Burrawang
Aged
B. S. Wragge
Royal Show
24.9.17
R.G.
3001
Cacique . .
Aged
G. A. Maxwell . .
Royal Show
Grounds
24.7.17
W.M.L.
3016
Crown Steel
6 years
0. J. Coghlan
Minyip . .
9.8.17
W.M.L.
3039
Hayston . . , .
6 years
P. Donohue
Tatura ..
11.9.17
W.M.L.
2993
Lord Pilatus
5 years
0. A. F.irtch
Horsham
11.7.17
W.M.L.
3032
lliiastitch
Aged
R. W. Story
Euroa . .
6.9.17
W.M.L.
3012
Scotch Spirit
6 years
D. Cuthbert
C imperdown
3.8.17
R.G.
3019
Suggestion
5 yeirs
A. Cameron
Wairacknabeal . .
8.8.17
W.M.L.
3020
Trusty Servant
6 ye irs
A. E. Divis
Warracknabeal . .
8.8.17
W.M.L.
3025
Windlesham
6 years
.1. Ferguson
Nhill . .
15.8.17
R.G.
3067
Yeneda . .
Aged
D. A. Hutchison ..
Yan Yean Special
19.11.17
R.G.
LIST OF TERMINABLE CERTIFICATED STALLIONS.
(Four-year-old Certificates expiring 30th June, 1918.)
Date of
No.
Name of Horse.
Owner.
Parade.
Exami-
Officer.
nation.
DRAUGHT
s.
1147/4
Abbotsford Len
P. Rogers
New Zealand Exam. . .
11.6.17
1146/4
Abbotsford Ronald
Mitchell and O'Brien
New Zealand Exam. . .
11.6.17
1177/4
Baron Fenwick
S. J. Lvnn
Orbost
23.10.17
R.G.
1165/4
Belmain
G. Williams
Shepparton . .
11.9.17
R.G.
1149/4
Bold Newton
J. R. Mitchell
Casterton
31.7.17
R.G
1143/4
Clajinore
A.F. CuUen
Royal Show Grounds . .
24.7.17
R.G.
1167/4
Commander . .
T. Coldwell
Shepparton . .
11.9.17
R.G.
1171/4
Field Marshal
G. and W. Lord
Roval Show . .
24.9.17
W.M.L.
1151/4
Gisborne
W. E. Jlillstead
Hopetoun
9.8.17
W.M.L.
1148/4
Hish Commander
Mitchell and O'Brien
New Zealand Exam. . .
11.6.17
117.3/4
HiUhead Knight
W. Black . .
Royal Show
24.9.17
W.M.L.
1144/4
Ivan Dale
Collins Bros.
Royal Show Grounds . .
24.7.17
R.G.
1161/4
King of Ury Park
W. Hicks . .
Kaniva
14.8.17
R.G.
1152/4
Lord Salisbury
A. McRae
Minvip
9.8.17
W.M.L.
1170/4
Magician
W. J. Williams
Korumliurra . .
5.10.17
R.G.
1163/4
Major Dale
F. J. Edwards
Charlton
31.8.17
R.G.
10 May, 1918.] Gori'vnment (\n-tiiication of Stallions.
287
List op Terminable Certificated Stallions — continued.
Date of
Cert.
Name of Horse.
Owner.
Parade.
Exami-
Officer.
No.
nation.
1
Draught.s — continued.
1142/4
Noble Knight. .
Mitchell and O'Brien
Horsham
11.7.17
W.M.L.
1154/4
Northern Chief
H. E. Hul. .
Rainl)o\v
7.8.17
W.M.L.
1145/4
Ormond Dale
Letcher Bros.
Royal Show Grounds . .
24.7.17
W.M.L.
1168/4
Prince C'oupar
J. Archibald
Kyabram
11.9.17
W.M.L.
1141/4
Royal Charm
A.J. Thompson
Horsliam
11.7.17
W.M.L.
1166/4
Royal Douglas
T. Thornton
Numurkah . .
10.9.17
R.G.
1159/4
Royal Harp . .
Kelm Bros.
Dimboola
16.8.17
R.G.
1176/4
Royal Milton
W. Long, senr.
Foster
10.10.17
W.M.L.
1178/4
Royal Robin . .
J. Boyle . .
Boort
31.10.17
W.M.L.
1160/4
Royal Willie . .
F. W. Saltman
Dimboola
16.8.17
R.G.
1150/4
St. Mark
F. W. Marshman . .
Beulah
9.8.17
W.M.L.
1138/4
Waiheno Elector
J. O'Brien..
New Zealand E.xam. . .
28.5.17
LIGHT HORSES.
1153/4
Akabah
A. Cameron
Warracknabeal
8.8.17
W.M.L.
1155/4
Epicure
Dr. Henderson
Wangaratta . .
15.8.17
W.M.L.
1179/4
Flash Dillon . .
J. S. Ford
Bicchus Marsh
31.10.17
W.R.
1156/4
Napar
E. Tozer . .
Wangaratta . .
15.8.17
W.M.L.
115S/4
Plumlea
P. Fischer
Jeparit
17.8.17
R.G.
1140/4
Robin Roy
J. Scott . .
Public Offices
7.7.17
W.M.L.
PONIES.
113V1
Dandy Shine . .
E. Boddington
Public Offices
7.7.17
W.M.L.
1172/4
Hermes of Shetland
Heights
Mrs. J. MacLellan . .
Royal Sho\V
24.9.17
W.M.L.
1174/4
Sandow's Pride
C. E. Gladman
Royal Show
24.9.17
W.M.L.
1164/4
Silver King . .
G. Pyers . .
Charlton
31.8.17
R.G.
1162/4
Young Badaween
T. Morley . .
St. Arnaud . .
22.8.17
W.M.L.
1175/4
Young Comet. .
T. Atkins . .
Korumburra . .
5.10.17
R.G.
THOROUGHBREDS.
1169/4 Several
J. Boyd . . . . 1 Public Offices
8.9.17
W.M.L.
1157/4 Vascara
F. Hoysted . . ,| Wangaratta
15.8.17
W.M.L.
(Three-year-(
)ld Certificates expiring 30th June, 1918
DRAUGHTS.
1841/3
Baron Clyde . .
G. T. Chirnside
Werribee Special Exam.
4.9.17
R.G.
1823/3
Bessboro' Baron
J. and U. W. Badman
Royal Show Grounds . .
24.7.17
W.M.L.
1719/3
Bold Agitation
W. Cumniing
Public Offices
14.7.17
R.G.
1822/3
Bold Alexander
G. H. Hart
Public Offices
17.7.17
W.R.
1821/3
Bonnie Brae . .
King Bros.
Public Offices
14.7.17
R.G.
1837/3
Brestknot
W. J. Moll
New South Wales
Exam.
Dimboola
29.3.17
1833/3
Brethorn
A. L. Elsora
• 16.8.17
R.G.
1842/3
Bute Laddie . .
Crawford Bros.
Werribee Special
Exam.
4.9.17
R.G.
1718/3
Dunsmore Ranger
W. T. Bodcv
Horsham
11. 7. '17
W.M.L.
1820/3
Earl Talbot . .
G. H. Hart
Public Offices
14.7.17
R.G.
1827/3
General Harvey
Koscityke Bros.
New Zealand Exam. . .
11.6.17
1826/3
General Keith
P. J. Nunan
New Zealand Exam. . .
11.6.17
1840/3
Grand March
H. Carr . .
Charlton
31.8.17
R.G.
1838/3
Ian McClelland
H. Naylor
Ararat
28.8.17
W.M.L.
1824/3
King Cole
Forsyth Bros.
Roval Show Grounds
24.7.17
W.M.L.
1843/3
Kitchener
Dookie Agricultural
CoUese
New South Wales
Exam.
29.3.17
1828/3
Lord Simon . .
Mitchell and O'Brien
Public Offices
28.7.17
W.M.L.
1834/3
Nailstone Fancy
J. P. :\Iaiiiiiiig
Nhill
15.8.17
R.G.
1844/3
Prime Minister
W. II. Harrison
Rutherglen . .
3.9.17
W.M.L.
1832/3
Robin
M. .T. Wardle
Beulah
9.8.17
W.M.L
1717/3
Royal Colours
T. N. Davii'S
Horsham
11.7.17
W.M.L.
1825/3
Roval McCormack
W. C. Childs
Royal Show Grounds
24.7.17
W.M.L.
1853/3
Scotch Blair . .
Patterson Bros.
Romsey Special Exam.
2.11.17
R.G.
1852/3
Scotty's Best
J. J. Power
Rochester . .
2.10.17
W.M.L.
1835/3
Shepherd Boy
A. H. Tavlor
Birchip
21.8.17
W.M.L.
1716/3
Simon Pure . .
Mitchell and O'Brien
Horsham
11.7.17
W.M.L.
1845/3
Solomon Prince
G. Esler . .
Yarrawonga
4.9.17
W.M.L.
1848/3
The Link
J. R. Stokes
Ballarat
21.9.17
R.G.
1829/3
Wigton Again
A. and .7. H. Young
Public Offices
28.7.17
W.M.L.
1831/3
Wimraera Ranger
T. Mibus . .
Hamilton
1.8.17
R.G.
288
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May. 1918.
List of Terminable Certificated Stallions — continued.
Cert.
No.
Name of llorse.
Owner.
Parade.
Date of
Exami-
nation.
Officer.
LIGHT HORSES.
1836/3
1846/3
1839/3
1850/3
All Black
Borneo
Latest Fashion
Moving Picture
J. Marks . .
A. G. Hunter
T. 0. Hunter
G. H. Alford
Elmore
Seymour
Bendigo
Royal Show
24.8.17
6.9.17
30.8.17
24.9.17
W.M.L.
W.M.L.
R.G.
R.G.
PONIES.
1847/3
1849/3
1850/3
1851/3
Bonnie Wizard
Haldor
Lord Bally . .
Somerton Sensation
W. Morey
Mrs. aicLellan
G. Smith . .
W. E. .T. Craifj
Dookie
Royal Show . .
Koroit
Royal Show
11.9.17
24.9.17
2.8.17
24.9.17
R.G.
W.M.L.
R.G.
R.G.
(Two-year-Old Certificates expiring 30th June, 1918.)
DRAUGHTS.
256/2
255/2
257/2
Diplomatist . .
Lord Clyde . .
Philosopher . .
.. E. A. Dahlenbeig .. Horsham
. . D. L. Bodey . . Horsham
. . E. A. Dahlenberg . . Horsham
LIGHT HORSES.
11.7.17
11.7.17
11.7.17
W.M.L.
W.M.L.
W.M.L.
258/2
Jack All Style
. . 1 D. Whitchureli . . | Mildura
PONIES.
.. 1 17.7.17
W.M.L.
259/2
Grifl Bangor . .
. . 1 Mrs. J. MacLellan . . 1 Royal Show . .
24.9.17
W.M.L.
It is pointed out by the secretary of tlie Pereheron Society of America
that exports of horses and mules have at last passed the million mark.
Official figures given out by the Department of Foreign and Domestic
Commerce show that during the 27 months ended 1st December, 1916,
1,029,961 horses and mules, valued at £45,196,240, were exported from
the United States. Most of these went directly to the European war
territory. Purchases are continuing at a heavy rate.
A member of a firm which has sold more than 70,000 horses annually
for the last two years estimates that the prices which farmers realized
for the horses on the farm were substantially as follows: — Cavalry
horses, £24 per head ; French artillery horses, £29 5s. ; British artillery
horses, £34 7s. 6d.; draught horses weighing more than 1,650 lbs., £44
15s. to £50. Horses from 1,000 to 1,100 lbs. in weight have brought
farmers £24 each, but one cross of draught horse blood on the same mare
that was used to produce this light cavalry horse would have i^roduced a
horse ranging from 1,200 to 1,500 lbs. in weight, thus raising the value
from £24 to £29 5s. or £34 7s. 6d. per head. One cross of draught blood
increased the value of the progeny from light-weight mares from £7 to
£10, and a second cross on the half-blood mares from £7 to £10 more.
In the judgment of the most experienced market men, fully 75 per cent,
of the horses sold abroad for artillery and transport work have been
grade Percherons. — Producers' Review, April, 1917.
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses. 289
A CONTRIBUTION TO THE STUDY OF HEREDITARY
UNSOUNDNESS IN HORSES.
By W. A. N. Rohertson, B.V. 8c., Chief Veterinary Officer.
During the eleven years in which the Government certification of
stallions has been in operation, a total of 7,894 horses has been examined.
Of this number, 4,957 were draught horses, and 842, or 16.9 per cent.,
of these were unsound.
For the purpose of ascertaining to what extent unsoundness is here-
ditary, the pedigree through the sire line of nearly all the draught horses
has been tabulated, as shown in the following tables. Draught horses
only have been taken for the reason that, from the greater number
examined and also rejected, more weight can be given to deductions
drawn. The tables show all the generations in their proper relation to
one another from the foundation member, which member may, and in
most cases does, represent a horse that has never been in Australia.
I have said that nearly all the pedigrees of the draught horses
have been tabulated. Approximately 500 have not been included,
for the reason that their full pedigree cannot be obtained. Owners
have been written to, and old-established newspapers and records
have been searched for information, but without avail. The policy
has been not to include any horse unless the evidence of his breeding
was quite clear, and the difficulties encountered here will be recognised
when it is known that there are recorded 5 British Oaks, 8 Champions,
7 Clansmen, 7 Commanders, 15 Crown Princes, 6 Darnleys, 9 Dread-
noughts, 5 Dundonalds, 7 Gallant Lads, 6 King Georges, 10 Lord Clydes,
10 Lord Koberts, 10 Prince Alberts, 13 Prince Charlies, 8 Prince of
"Wales, 11 Sir Williams, 9 Young Champions, and so on. It is quite,
uncommon to meet with a stallion whose name has not been at least
duplicated.
In such circumstances, when only a short pedigree is given, going
back, say, for sake of illustration, to Prince Charlie, without any identi-
fication as to which of the thirteen Prince Charlies is meant, it has been
impossible to tabulate that horse's pedigree.
The owner of each horse was written to and asked to supply the
necessary information. A very large number responded, but no notice
has been taken by the owners of quite 500 stallions. Amongst these
500 there probably would be about 200 unsound horses, of which infor-
mation was sought. It is quite possible that many of the horses referred
to in the tables as " Not examined " were, in point of fact, examined, but
the evidence is not sufficient to link them together.
It will be readily apparent that the names of stallions cannot be
published. The system that has been adopted is to give a number to the
foundation member, 1, 2, 3, &c., and to use decimal points for the subse-
quent generations, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 representing the first, second, and third
son of 1 respectively. This arrangement does not refer to order of birth,
but merely to first, second, or third son recorded, and so on. Another
figure is used in the next generation, 1.39 representing the ninth recorded
son of the third recorded son of the founder 1. When over nine sons are
dealt with, the cypher 0 is used in front of the unit of that generation,
and represents 9, thus 1.04 is the thirteenth, and 1.0004 is the thirty-
first (9-)-9-j-9-|-4). Each of these refers to the first generation; the
5876.-2
290
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [3 0 May, 1918.
number of noughts preceding a unit being counted with the unit. In
this way the numbers 1.002,1, 6, 00;» shows four generations from founder
1, and, reading backward, we get twenty-first son of sixth son of first
son of twentieth son of 1. (The commas are introduced to show the
meaning clearly.)
That the tendency to develop unsoundness is hereditary is admitted.
It is hoped that the tables following will confirm this in a more direct
and unmistakable manner than has previously been attempted. Fur-
ther, an effort will be made to show the influence the dam exerts in intro-
ducing unsoundness into sound families, and conversely, soundness into
unsound ones. The clearest indication of this is seen in families twenty-
eight and sixteen.
Twenty-eight was not examined; four of his sons were, and found
sound at five years of age. Fourteen of his grandsons were also sound
— at mature age, in most cases — one of them, 28.033, though certificated
at five years, was known to be sound at ten years of age, yet one of his
sons, 28.0332, the only unsound member of this family, was affected
with sidebone as a three-year old. The dam of this horse was by 16,
a horse that was not examined, but which left five badly side-boned
horses, and one sound one; the dam of 28.0332 Avas known to be unsound.
The sound member of 16 family was from a mare by a son, not recorded,
of 9.11 — only two of this horse's sons were examined — one at six years,
one at four years of age — and both were sound. As will be seen at a
later date this is a sound branch of the family 9. In this case it appears
that 9.11 has introduced soundness into family 16, and 16 has intro-
duced unsoundness into 28 through the respective dams.
Whilst this is quite a clear case, the families concerned are of very
short line, but similar facts will appear in other families, in which a
greater number of progeny is recorded. It is not always possible to trace
the dam's breeding for the same reason as that given in the case of
sires. One aspect of the question which must not be lost sight of is, that
while the presence of sidebone must be accepted as direct evidence of
unsoundness, the absence cannot be accepted as evidence of pure sound-
ness, unless the animal is of mature age, or unless a sufficient number of
his progeny has been examined and found sound to warrant a conclusion
being drawn. Further, it is possible that the tendency to develop
unsoundness may not be evident in a stallion, yet may be transmitted by
him to show in a later generation.
The tables of families 28 and 16, above referred to, are as follows: —
FAMILY 28.
-28.1, not examined-
28 •2, not examined^
23 '3, not examined
28 •4, not examined
28 'a, sound, 5
28 '6, not examined
28 •? sound, 5
28 -8, sound, 5 —
28 "9, not examined — ■
28 -01, not examined
28 '02, not examined-
28 '03, not examined . —
28 -04, sound, 5
28 •05, not examined-
-28-11, sound, 5
28-12, sound, 5
-28 -21, sound, 4
-28-31, sound, 5
-28 -41, sound, 4
-28 -61, sound, 4
-28-81, sound, 3
-28-91, sound, 4
-28-011, sound, ;!
-28-021, sound, 4
-28 -031, sound. 5-
28 -032, sound, 5
28 033, sound, 5-
-28-051, sound, 4
-28-0312, sound, 2
28-0311, sound, 2
-28 -0331, sound, 3
28 -0332, SIDEBONE, 3
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
291
FAMILY 16.
16, not examined 16 •!, founfl 4
16 -2, SIDKBOXE, 4
16-3, SIDEBONE, 4
16-4, SIDEBONE, 4
16 -5, SIDEBONE, 3
16-6, SIDEBONE, 4
16-7, dam of 28 0332, sidebos
Only the unsoundnesses, sidebone and ringbone, are taken into con-
sideration. "While other defects are shown in the tables, the horses are
regarded as sound, inasmuch as they are not affected with sidebone or
ringbone.
The figure following the condition of the horse indicates the age at
time of examination, and the term " Sound D.A.P." indicates that though
sound a certificate was refused on the ground of disapproval.
A Consideration of the Families.
Family 1. In this family 815 descendants have been examined, and
172, or 21.1 per cent., were unsound.
Table showing summary of unsoundness.
FAMILY 1.
Sons.
G
Sons.
GC
Son
GGG
Sons.
GGGG &
Sons.
GGC
Sons
,G
Total.
Sire
6
,j
,j
a;
6
Uj
tt
■c
-3
cS
ci
3
o
a
k
C
O
S
P
o
i
c
c
s
•A
o
c
a
i i
a X
c
o
a
N
5
Ph
H
P
Ph
K
'^
Hh
kl
p
Ph
w
P
Ph V
A
P B
i=>
P4
1-1
21
a
52
•4
72
27
37-5
30
10
33-3
1
. 124
48
38-7
1-2
1
45
16
35-5
43
7
16-3
. 89
23
25
8
1-3
0
2
40 0
62
17
27-4
34
8
23 5
31
4
12-9 .
. 132
31
23
5
1-4
1
12
8-33
1
. 14
1
7
1
1-5
2
100 0
1
3
2
66
6
1-6
4
17
4
23-5 .
. 21
4
19
0
1-7
24
37
10 &
7
1
1
100 0 .
. 69
8
n
6
1-8
(
14-3
56
17
30-4
16
3
18-8
. 79
21
26
6
1-9
5
20 0
3
66-6
8
3
37
5
1-01
1
9
11 -i
4
19
50 0
10-5
4
5
i
20 '6
9
. 33
2
4
22
12
9
1-02 . .
1
1-03
100
•0
2
50 0
3
33-3
6
3
50
0
1-04
2
3
5
1-05
i
6
16-6
7
4i
5
12-2
13
1
. 68
7
10
3
1-06
(
i
14-3
14-3
14
12
6
20
25 '6
16-6
s'o
37
9
19
1
11
■2
3
2
5 '4
33 3
18-2
i
1
i
100 'o ;
2
7
. 52
. 22
. 32
. 11
. 31
1
3
6
2
.3
14
5
27
6
9
3
1-07
a
1"08
3
1 09
•>
1 -001
1 -002
7
Total
23
12
52
■2
149
39
26 2
335
7i)
23-6
234
31
13-2
72
11
15-2
2
. 815
172
21
1
Sub-families 1.7, 1.02, 1.07, 1.09, and 1.002 do not show a large
amount of unsoundness. If pedigrees could be traced on the dam's side
it would probably be found that sound blood had been introduced
through them. An effort has been made to do this, but the pedigrees
only go back to horses which cannot be identified as being in these
tables, or of which there is no record.
None of the sons of 1 was examined, but twenty-three grandsons
were, and they showed 52 per cent, of unsoundness — practically all of
this is seen in the sons of 1.1.
22
292* Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
One hundred and forty-nine grandsons show 26 per cent, unsound-
ness. Half of this is in 1.1, which is, without doubt, the most unsound
sub-family — showing 38.7 per cent, unsoundness in 124 descendants
recorded.
A fact that must not be overlooked in considering these tables, and
"particularly with the progeny of this horse, is that a number of animals
reported sound were so at three years of age. There is no doubt what-
ever that many of these would prove unsound at more mature age.
Experience has shown that, in respect of all families, both sound and
unsound, up to 20 per cent, which are sound at three years are rejected
at four and five years.
Of the 76 descendants of 1.1 which were sound, twenty-four were
three years old, or under, at examination.
Sub-family 1.2 divides itself into two branches — 1.21 and 1.22, and
their progeny. The former shows a large proportion of unsoundness,
while the latter shows only one unsound, viz., 1.22145, and this horse was
from a mare by 3.108, a member not examined, but of the very unsound
family 3. Evidently this is another case of soundness being introduced
into the line, possibly through 1,221.
Whilst the descendants of 1.3 are undoubtedly badly affected, show-
ing 23.5 per cent, unsound animals out of 132 examined, there is one line
of his descendants through 1.34223 which has lost the taint; out of
thirty of the sons of the latter examined, four only show unsoundness,
and on the dam's side their breeding is as under : —
The dam of 1.342232 is by 38, sire of 38.2.
The dam of 1.342236 is by 38.2, badly unsound.
The dam of 1.34223001 is by 38.2, badly unsound.
The dam of 1.342230002 is by 1.6111, the granddam being by 38.
1.6111 was not examined; the limited number of his progeny, which
were 19 per cent., were found unsound.
Thirty-eight was not examined, but it will be observed later that he
occurs very frequently on the dam's side of unsound horses.
Another sub-family, which shows an endeavour to establish sound-
ness, is through 1.71 — 8, or 11.6 per cent., of his progeny were unsound;
but it can be shown that, in respect of the following, unsoundness was
carried in the dam's blood ; —
The dam of 1.713 was by 2.103, not examined, probably sound.
The granddam was by 3, not examined, but the sire of a very unsound
family.
The dam of 1.719 was by a son of 3.
The dam of 1.7107 was by 7.311009, probably sound; granddam
(was by 9.51, not examined, but showing 28 per cent, unsoundness
in his progeny.
The dam of 1.710021 was by a son of 3.1.
The dam of 1.71142 was by 29.112, a sire showing 35 per cent.
unsoundness in his progeny.
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses. 293
1.8 is an interesting family; though 1.811 was sound as an aged
horse, 33 per cent, of his sons were unsound, as under: —
1.8118 from a mare by 4.131, whose two sons examined were un-
sound.
1.8119 from a mare not recorded.
1.81102 from a mare not recorded — granddam by 3.2.
1.81106 from a mare by 4.13, sire of 4.131, above.
1.81109 from a mare by 29.2112, granddam not recorded.
1.811002 from a mare by 3.3, of unsound family.
1.811003 from a mare not recorded.
1.811007 from a mare by 2.1, probably sound, granddam not
recorded.
1.811008 from a mare by 4.13, sire of 4.131, above.
1.811009 from a more by 3.3, of unsound family.
1.8110003 from a mare by 9.51, of unsound family.
1.8110009 from a mare not recorded.
A study shows that in nearly all cases the mares are from unsound
lines, and it is probable that the unsoundness latent in 1.811, on meeting
with unsoundness from the female side, has shown up in what might have
been a sound family if bred always to sound mates.
A very similar condition is seen in the family of 1.05411, himself
sound. Fifty-three of his progeny were examined, and six were unsound.
The dam of 1.054117 was by 3.1020003, a very unsound horse.
The dam of 1.0541108 was by 3.13, a very unsound horse.
The dam of 1.0541100001 was by 1.333, of unsound family, the grand-
dam by 38.
The dam of 1.0541100002 was by 1.333, above.
The dam of 1.05411071 was by 7.24, an unsound horse.
Stallion 1.0711 was not examined; fifty-two of his progeny were,
and three showed unsoundness. The pedigree of the dam of 1.0711304
is not extended far enough to determine definitely her sire. He was
probably 9.1202, of unsound line.
The dam of 1.07110671 was by 7.231, of unsound family, and the
granddam by 4.13, also of unsound line.
The dam of 1.07110042 was by 9.515, which appears frequently in
unsound pedigrees, and is of unsound blood; the granddam was by 4.131,
the sire of an unsound family.
1.00211 shows nineteen sound and one unsound son, and nine sound
and two unsound grandsons; the two latter have the blood of 22 and
of 3.1 in their veins, both of which families are unsound — the latter
particularly so.
294
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. 1^0 May, 1918.
The complete table of all generations of this family is as under
1-1, not-
examined
-111, SIDEBONE, 11
1-12, SIDEBOSE, RING-
BONE, 8-
1 • 13, RINGBONE. 9 — —
FAMILY 1.
■l-lll, SIIiEBONE, 5
1112, SUiKBONE, 6-
111:!, SIUEBONE, 4
1-111, SIDEBONE, 5
1-115, SIDEBONE, 3
1-116, SIDEBONE, 4
1-117, SIDEBONE, 9
1-118. SIDEBONE, 5
1119, SIDEBONE, 3-
1-19, SIDEBONE, a
1-107, SIDEBONE, a
1-lOS, SIDEBONE, 4
1-109, RINGBONE, a
1-1001, SIDEBONE, 6
1-14, not examined—
l-lo, not examined-
1-16, not examined-
1-17, sound, a
1 - 18, not examined-
1-1101, SIDEBONE, 3
11102, SIDEBONE, 4
i-110:!, SIDEBONE, 4
1-1104, sound, 5
1-1105, sound, 5
1-1106, not examined-
1-1107, sound, 3
1 • 1108, sound, 3 —
1-1109 not examined —
-1 121, sound, 3
-1131, RINGBONE, a
1-132, SIDEBONE, 12
1 - 133, sound, 14
1-134, not examined -
1-135, sound, 6
1 - 136, sound, 5
1-137, sound, 2
■1141, SIDEBONE, 3
1-142, sound, 8
1-143, sound, 5
-1-151, SIDEBONE, 4
1 - 152, sound D. A. P., 7
1-153, sound, 3
1-154, sound, 5
-1-161, SIDEBONE, 3
1-162, sound, 5
1-163, sound, 3
-1-171, sound D.A.P., 5
1-172, sound, 4
1-173, sound, 5
-1-181, SIDEBONE, 4
1-182, SIDEBONE, 3
1-183, sound, 5
1-184, sound, 3
1-185, sound, 4
1-186, sound, 5
1-187, sound, 3
1-188, sound, 3
1-189, sound, 3
-1-1121, SIDEBONE, 4
1-1122, sound, 8
-11195, SIDEBONE, 3
1-1194, SIDEBON^:,
RINGBONE, 3
1-1193, SIDEBONE, 3
1-1192, SIDEBONE, 5
1-1191, SIDEBONE, 5
1-1196, sound D.A.P. 5
1-1197, sound, 2
1-1198, sound D.A.P.
1-1199, sound, 4
1-11901, sound, 3
-1-11061, SIDEBONE, 3
-1-11071, sound, 2
-1-11081, sound D.A.P.
1-11082, sound, 4
-1 • 11091 SIDEBONE, 4
-1-1331, SIDEBONE, 5
-11341, sound, 5
-1-1361, SIDEBONE, 5
1-1362, sound, 5
1-101, soimd, 3
1'102, not examined-
1 -103, sound, 5-
1 -104, sound, a
1-105, sound, D.A.P., 10
1-106, sound, a
1 - 1002, not examined —
1-1003, sound, a
1-1004, not examined-
1- 1005, sound D. A. P.IO
1-1801. sound, 4
-11021, SIDEBONE, 5
1 - 1022, not examined-
-1-1031. sound, 8
-1-10021, sound, 8
-1-10031, sound, a
-1- 10041. SIDEBONE,
-1 -1721, sound, 3
-11831, sound, 4
-1- 10221, sound, 5
-l-10311,soundD.A.P. 3
1-10312, sound, 5
1 - 10313, sound, 4
1-10314, sound, 3
-1-103131, sound
[D.A.P., 3
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary U ^soundness in Horses.
295
1-1 not-
examined
— -contd.
1-2, not
examined-
-11006, sound, a-
11007,SXDEBONE,a
1-1008, not ex-
amined
1-1009, sound, 7 —
1- 10001, SIDEBONE,
a-
1-10002, not ex-
amined-
1-10003, not ex-
amined-
1 - 10004, SIDEBONE,
a-
1-10005, not ex-
amined-
Family 1 — continued.
-1-1C1061, sound, a
1-10062, sound, 5
1-10063. sound, a
1-10064. sound, 9
1-1006.5, sound, 3
-1-10071, SIIiEBONE, 5
-1-10081, sound, a
1-10082, sound. 6
-1-10091, SIDEBONE, 4
-1-100011, SIDEBONE, 3
-1-100021, SIDEBONE. 5
-1-21, not examined
-1-100031, SIDEBONE,-
KINGBONE, a
-1-100041, sound, 4
-1-100052. sound, 3
1-100053, sound, 3
1-100054. sound, 3
1-100055. sound, 4
1-100057. sound, 6
1-100058, sound. 4
1- 100051. sound D.A. P.
3
1-100056, SIDEBONE. 3
-1-211, not I'xamined —
■1-1000311, sound
D.A. P., 3
-1 • 1000312, sound, 4
-1-2111, SIDEBONE, 3
1-2112, SIDEBONE, 3
1-2117, SIDEBONE, 4
1-2119. SIDEBONE, 3
.1-21101, SIDEBONE, 3
1-21102, SIDEBONE, 2
1-21103, SIDEBONE, 3
1-21104, SIDEBONE, 6-
1 - 21108, SIDEBONE, 4 —
1-211001, SIDEBONE, 2
1-211003, SIDEBONE, 3
1-211006, SIDEBONE, 3
1-211009, SIDEBONE, 4
1-2110002, SIDEBONE, 4
1-2110008. SIDEBONE. 3
1 - 2110009, SIDEBONE, 4-
1-21105, sound D.A. P. 3
1-21106, sound D.A. P. 6
1.- 2114, sound, 3
1 -2115, sound, 5
1-2110. sound, 5
1-2113, sound. 3 -
1-2118, sound, 5
1-21107. sound, 2
1-21109, sound, 5
1-211002, sound, 5
1-211004, sound. 5
1-211005. sound. 5
1-211007. not ex-
amined-
1-211008, sound, 3
1-2110001, sound, 4
1-2110003, sound, 5
1-2110004, sound, 3 —
1-2110005, sound, 5
1-2110006, sound, 4 —
1-2110007, sound, 3
1-21100001, sound, 4-
1-21100002, sound; 4-
1-21100003, sound, 3-
1-21100004, sound
-1-211044. SIDEBONE,
1-211042, sound D.A.
1-211043, sound, 4
1-211041, sound, 4
-1-211081, SIDEBONE, 3
-1-21100091, SIDEBONE
-1-21141, sound, 5
1-21142, sound, 5
-1-21131, SIDEBONE, 3
1-21132, SIDEBONE, 4
1-21133, sound, 3
1-21134, sound, 5
1 -21135, sound, 5
•1-2110071, sound, 6
•1-2110081, SIDEBONE, 4
1-2110082 sound, 3
1-21100083 sound, 2
■1-21100041, sound, 3
•1-21100061, sound, 3
-1-211000011, sound
D.A. P., 4
-1-211000021, sound
DA. P., 3
-1-211000031, sound
D.A. P.. 3
296
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 May. 1918.
1-2 not-
es imined
— contd.
-1 • 2i, not examined
1-3 not-
examined
•1-31, not examined
1 -32, not examined
Family 1 — continued.
■1 -221, not cxainined-
1 -222, sound, a
■1 -311, sound —
1-312, sound
1-314, not examined
1-315, notexaminod-
1 - 316, not examiiied-
-1-321, sound, 3
1-322, not exammed-
1-323, SIDEIiONE ,a
1-2211, sound. 4
1-2212, sound, 5-
1 -2213, sound, 3
1-2214, notexamined-
1-2215, not examined-
1-2217, sound, 3
1-2216, notexamined-
2218, not examined —
2219, not examined —
2221, sound, 5
2222, sound, 5
3111, sound, 4
3112, SIDEIiONE, 5
3113, SIDEBONE, 7
3114, sound D. A. P., 5
3115, SIDEBONE, 6 — -
3121, not examined —
3122, sound, 4
3124, sound, 3
3126, sound, 9
3127, sound, 3
3128, sound, 3
31201, sound, 3
31202, soimd, 3
31204, sound, 3
31208, sound, 6-
312001, sound, a
312002, sound, 3
312004, sound, 5
312005, sound, 3
312006, not examined
31200", sound, 3
312008, sound, 5
3123, sound D. A. P., 6
3125, sound D.A,P,, 5
3129, sound D, A. P,, 3
3120J, SIDEBONE, 3
31205, SIDEBONE,
RINGBONE, 4
31206, SIDEBONE, 3
31209, Bog Spv., 3
312003, SIDEBONE
3141, sound, 6
1-3142, sound, 3
1-3144, sound, 4
1-3145, sound, 4
1-3143, RINGBONE, 4
1-3148, SIDEBONE, 10-
1-3146, Bog Spv., 8
1-3147, not exarained-
-1 -3152, sound, 3
-1-3161, sound, 4
1-3162, sound, 4
1-3163, SIDEBONE, 3
1-3164, SIDEBONE, 7
-1-3221, Rr. 7
1-3222, Cb. 3
1-3223. sound, 3
1-3224 .sound, 3
22121,
22122,
22123,
2-21-24,
22125,
22126,
22131,
22132,
22133,
22141,
22142,
22143,
22144,
22145,
22151,
22152,
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound. 5
sound D.A.P.
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 4
sound, 5
sound, 3
RINGBONE, 3
sound D.A.P. 5
sound, 3
22161, sound, 5
22162, sound, 3
22181, sound, 5
22191, sound, 3
1-122192, sound, 3
-1-31151, sound, 4
-1-31211, SIDEBONE, Z.
1-31212, sound, 5
-1-31221, sound, 3
-1-312081. sound, 5
-1-3120061, RINGBONE, 5
1-31-20062, sound
[D.A.P., 3
-1-31411, sound, 3
1-31413, sound, 4
1-31414, sound, 3
1-31417, sound, 3
1-31412, sound D.A.P. 3
1-31415, SIDEBONE, 4
1-31416, SIDEBONE, 3
-l-31481,soundD.A.P.,3
1-31482, sound, 3
1-31483, sound, 5
1-31484, SIDEBONE, 4
-1-31471, sound, 3
-1-31521, sound D.A.P., 4
-1-31611, SIDEBONE, 4
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
297
Family 1 — continued.
1-3 not-
examined
— conid.
1-4, not-
examined
-1-33, not-
examined
1-34, not-
examined
-1-331, not
examined -
1-332, not
examined -
1-333, not
examined -
1-335, not
examined -
1-334, SIDE-
BONE, a
1-341, not-
examined
-1-41, not-
examined
1-342, not-
examined
-1-3311, SIDEBONE, 7
l-3313,sound, 4 —
-l■3321, sound, '3
-1-3331, sound, a
-1 -33.51, sound, 5
1-3352, sound, 7
l-3353,soundD.A.P.a
-1-3411, sound, 3
1 -3412, sound, 5 — ■ — -
1 -3413, not examined
1-3414, sound, 5^—
1-3415, sound, 3
1-341G, sound, 3
1-3417, sound, 3
1-3418, sound, 5
1-3419, not ex-
amined-—
1-34101, sound, 3
1-34102, sound, 3
1-34103, sound, 3
1-34104, RINGBONF, 4
-1 -3421, not examined
1 -3422. not examined
-1-411,
sound, 7 1-4111, sound, 4
1-4113, sound, 2
1 -4114, sound, 5
1-4115, sound, 5
1-4116, sound, 4
1-4117, sound, 3
1-4118, sound, 3
1-4119, sound, 3
1-41102, sound, 3
1-41101, sound
D.A.P., 5
1-4112, RINGBONE, 3
1-412, not
examined — 1-4121, sound, 4
•1-33131, SIDEBONE, 4
1-33132, SIDEBONE, 4
-l-34121.soundD.A.P.
-1-34131, sound, 3
-1-34141, sound, 3
-1-34191, sound, 3
1-34192, sound, 3
1-34193, sound, 3
-1-34211, sound, 5
1-34213, sound, 3
1-34214, sound, 5
1-34212, sound
D.A.P, 2
-1-34221, not ex-
amined-
1-34222, sound, 5
1-34223, sound, 6 —
-1-342211, sound, 3
-1-41181. sound. 3
342231, sound, 5
34-2233, sound, 3
342234, sound, 5
342235, sound, 5
342238, sound, 3
3422301, sound, 3
3422302, sound, 3
3422304, sound, 5
3422305, sound, 5
3422307, sound, 4
3422308, sound, 3
3422309, sound, 4
34223002, sound, 3
34223003, sound, 2
34223004, sound, 4
34223007, sound, 2
34223008, sound, 4
34223009, sound, 3
342230001, sound, 3
342230002, sound, 3
342237,soundD.A.P.,3
342239,soundD.A.P.,3
3422303, sound
D.A,P., 3
3422306, sound
D.A.P., 2
34223005, sound
D.A.P., 2
34223006, sound
D.A.P., 3
342232, SIDEBONE, 3
342236, RINGBONE, 3
34223001, SIDEB0NE,5
342230002, SIDEBONE, 7
298
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
Family 1. — continued.
1-5, not-
examined
1-6, not-
examined
-1-51. not ,
examined- -1 -511 . not cxaniiiied-
-1-61, not
examined- -1 Oil ,not examiiicd-
1-7, not-
examined
-1-71, not
examined- -1-71 1-sound,-
1 -712, sound, 3
1 wis, sound, 5
1-716, sound, :i
1 -717, sound, 3
1-718, not examined-
1-7101. sound, 3
1-7102, sound, 5
1-7103, sound, i
1-7104, sound, 4
1 -7105, sound, 5
1-7106, sound, 3
1-7108, sound, 3
1-71001, sound, 3
1-71002, not (X-
amined-
1-71003, sound. 4
1-71004. sound, 3
1-71005, sound, 4
1 -714, sound, 4
1 .^111. RINGBONE, a
1 5112, SIDEBONE, a-
1 ■ lil U . not ex.amined
-1-51121, sound, 3
-1-61111, sound, 5-
1-G1112, sound, 8-
1-72, not
examined-
1-713, SIDEBONE, 6
1-719, SIDEBONE,
RINGBONE, 6
1-7107, SIDEHONE. 3
-1 -7111 . sound. 3
1 • 7112, sound, 5
1-7113, sound, 3
1-7114, sound, 3
1 -7115, sound, 4
1-7116, sound, 3
1-7117, sound, 3
-1-7181, soimd, 5
1-7182, sound, 3
•1 -71041. sound, 5
1-71042, sound, 3
1-71043, sound, 5
-1 - 710021, SIDEBONE. 5
1-710022, sound, 3
-1-7141. sound
D.A.P., 6
1-7142, RINGBONE, 6
1-61113, sound. 6
1-61114, sound
D.A.P., a
sound
D.A.P., 5
721 , not examined-
722, sound, 6
723, sound, 4
724, sound, 5
725, not examined-
726, not examined-
1-7109
-1-7211, not examined -1 -72111, sound, 4
1 • 727, riot examined-
1-728, 5
1-729, not examined -
r251
r26i
(267.
r266
r262
r263
r264
, sound, 5
, SIDEBONE, 4
, SIDEBONE, 3
,soundD.A.P.,4
, sound, 3
, sound, 3
, not examined
■265
•271
sound, 3
sound, 5
-1,7291, notexamined-
1-611111, sound, 6
1-611112, sound, 5
1-611 113, sound, 4
1-611116, sound, 5
lG11117.sound,3
1-611114, SIDE-
BONE, 4
1-611115, SIDE-
BONE, 4
1-611118, SIDE-
BONE, 3
1-611121, sound, 5
1-611123, sound, 5
1-611125, sound, 4
1-611 126, sound, 4
1-611127, sound, 4
1-611129, sound, 4
1-611122. sound
D.A.P., 3
1-611128. sound
D.A.P., 3
1-6111-24, SIDE-
BONE, 5
-1-72641, sound
D.A.P., 3
1-72642, sound, 4
r2911, not ex-
amined-
[BONE, 4
-1-729111, SIDE-
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
299
1-7, not-
examined
— contd.
-1-72, not-
examined
— contd.
1-8, not-
examined
-1-81, not-
examined
Family
-1-7201, not cxamined-
1 • 7202, not examined —
1-7203, not examined —
1-7204, not exumined-
1-7205, not examined-
1 -811, sound, a
1 — continued.
1-812, sound, 9
1-813, SIDEBONE, 9-
1-814, sound, C
1-815, sound, 5
1-816, sound, 6-
1-817, sound
72011, sound, 3
72012, sound, 5
72013, sound, 3
72021, sound, 6
72031, sound, 4
72032, sound, 5
72033, not examined-
72034, sound, 7
72035, sound, 3
72036, sound, 3
72041, sound, 3
72042, sound, 5
72043, sound, 2
72051, sound, 5
8111, sound, 3
8112, sound, 3
8113, sound, 6
8114, sound, 3
8115, sound, 3
8116, sound, 3
8117, sound, 5
81103, sound 5
81104, sound, 4
81105, sound, 4
81108, sound, 3
81109, sound, 3
811001, sound, 5
811004, sound, 4
811005, sound, 3
811006, sound, 3
8110001, sound, 3
8110002, sound, 3
8110004, sound, 3
8110005, sound, 3
8110006, sound, 3
8110008, sound, 3
81101, sound
D.A.P., 5
8110009, sound
D.A.P., 3
8118, SIDEBONE, 4
8119, SIDEBONE, 6
81102, SIDEBONE, 4
81106, RINGBONE, 4
81109, SIDEBONE, 5
811002, SIDEBONE,
RINGBONE, 5
811003, SIDEBONE. 6
811007, SIDEBONE, 3
811008, SIDEBONE, 4-
811009, SIDEBONE, 5
8110003, SIDEBONE, 5
8110007, SIDEBONE, 6
8121, sound, 5
8122, sound, 4
8131, not examined —
8133, sound, 5
8134, soimd, 4
8135, sound, 3
8132, SIDEBONE, 5
8136, SIDEBONE, 4
8138, not examined
1-8137, sound, 4
-1-8141, sound. 3
1 -8142, sound D. A. P., 3
1-8143, sound. 3
-1-8161, sound, 3
1-8162, sound D.A.P., .'3
1-8163, SIDEBONE, 3
1-8164, SIDEBONE, 3
-1-8171, sound. 3
1-8172, sound, 3
1-8173, SIDEBONE, 4
■1 -720211, sound, 5
1- 7-20331, sound, 4
■1-720361, sound, 3
1-720362, sound, 3
-1-81111, sound, 3
1-81112, sound, 4
1-81113.
1-81114,
1-81115.
sound
D.A.P., 3
sound
D.A.P., 3
sound
[D.A.P., 5
-1-81151, sound, 3
•1 ■ 81100021, SIDEB0NE,5
-1-8110081, sound, 2
1-8110082, sound
[D.A.P.,3
-1-81311, sound, D.A.P.
-1-81381, sound, 5
1-81384, sound, 3
1-81382, SIDEBONE, 4
1-81383, SIDEBONE, 3
300
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918
Family 1 — continued.
1-8, not^
examined
— contd.
1-9, not-
examined
1-01, not-
examined
1-02, not-
examined
1 -Si. not exaniineii -1 -821, not I'X nuined
10::!, not-
examined
1 04. not-
examined
1-05, not-
examined
■1 -91, not examined
-1011, not ex-
amined—
1012, not ex-
amined—
-1-021, not ex-
amined-
-1-912, sound, 9 —
1-913, sound, 5
1*915, not examined —
1-916, sound, 4
1-914, sound D.A.P., 3
1-911, SIDEliONE, a
-1-0111, not rxamined-
-1-0121, sound. 9-
-1-0211, sound, 3
■1-031 SIDEBONE a-
-1-041, not ex-
aminod-
1-042, not ex-
amined—
•1'051, not ex-
amined—
1-052, sound, a-
ex-
1 • 053, not
amined
1-054, not ej
amined
-1-8211, sound, 5
1-8212, sound, 7
1-8213, not examined —
-1-9121, SIDEBONE, 5
1-9122, SIDEBONE, 3
-1 -9151, sound D. A. p., 4
-1-011 11, not examined-
-1.82131, sound, 5
1-82132, sound, 3
-1011111,
sound.
-1-01211, SIDEBONE,
1-01214, SIDEBONE,
1-01212, sound, 3
1-01213, sound, 3
1 0212, sound, a
1-0213, sound, 3
1-0214, spavin, 5
1 0215, not examined-
10216, sound, 3
1 -0217, sound, 3
1-0218, sound, 5
1-0219, sound, 3
1-02101, not examined-
1-02102, SIDEBONE 3
-1-0311 not examined —
1.0312 not examined —
1-0313, sound, a
1-0314, SIDEBONE 6 —
-1-0411, sound, 6
1-0421, sound, 4
-1-0511, RINGBONE,
1 0512, sound, 3
-1 -0521, sound, 2
1-0522, sound, 3
1-0523, sound, 5
-1-0531, sound, 4
■1-0541, not examined-
-1-02113,
1-02114,
1-02116,
1-02118,
1-02119,
1-02112,
1-02117,
1-02115,
102111,
■1-02121,
sound, 4
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
soundD.A.P. 5
sotmdD.A.P. 3
SIDEBONE, 4
SIDEBONE, 3
not examined
1 -02122, not examinod-
1-02123, sound, 5
1-02124, sound, 3
-1-02131, spavin, 3
1-02132, roarer, 6
1-02133, sound, 3
-1-02151, sound, i
1-02152, sound, 5— —
1-02153, sound, 3
1-02154, sound, 3
-1-021011, sound, a
-1.03111, sound, 5
-1.03121, sound, a
-1-03141, SIDEBONE, 5
-1 04111, sound, 3
1-04112, sound, 3
1-04113, sound, 3
-1-05111, sound, 3
1-05112, sound, 4
1-05113, sound, 3
1-05114, sound, 5 -
1 05115, sound, 3
-1 -05311, sound, 3
■1 -05411, sound, a -
D.A.P.
•011112, sound, 3
•011113, sound, 4
011114, sound, 4
-1 021211, sound, 5
1-021212, sound, 5
-1 021221, sound, 4
-1 021511, SIDEBONE, 5
-1 021521, sound, 3
-1 051141, sound, 5
-1-054111,
1-054112,
1054115,
1-054116,
1-054118,
1-054119,
1 0541101
1-0541102
1-0541103
1-0541104
1-0541106;
sound, 6
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 5
sound, 5
sound, 6
, sound, 3
sound, 4
, sound, 5
, sound, 6
, sound, 5
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
301
Family 1 — continued.
105,—
net cx-
amini d
— contd.
-1054,-
iiot ex-
amined
— contd
-1'0541 not ex- -
amined — contd.
1 -05411, not ex-
amined—cohW.
106,—
not
ex-
amined
1-07,-
not ex-
amined
1-061,
not
amined
1071,-
not ex-
amined
-1-0611, sidcbone,
4
1 -0612, sound, 5
1-0613, sound, 4
1-0614, sound, 3
1-0615, sound, 3
1-0616, sound, 2
1-0617, sound, 2
-10711, not ex-
amined-
not ex-
amined-
-1-1-0541107, sound, 5-
1 0541108, sound, 4-
1-05411001, sound, 4
l-05111002,.sound. 5
1-05411004, sound, 4
1 -05411005, soimd, 5
1-05411003, not ex-
amined-
1-05411007, sound, 3-
1-05411009, sound, 4
1-054110001, sound, 4
1-054110002, sound, 4
1-054110003, sound, 3
1-054110005, sound, 5
1-054110001, sound, 3
1-054110007, sound, 4
1-0541] 0008, sound, 3
1 054110009, sound, 3
1-054114, sound
D.A.P., 5
1-0541105, sound
D.A.P.,5
1-0541109, sound
D.A.P., 3
1- 054113, roarer, 7
1 054117, SIDEBONE, 3
1 0541108, SIDEBONE,
7
1-0541100001, SIDE-
BONE, 4
1 0541100002 SIDE-
BONE, 4
1-05411006, curb, 5
-1-054123, sound, 3 —
1 054124, sound, 3
1-054121, sound
D.A.P., a
1 054122, SIDEBONE, 5
I 07111, not-
examined
1 07112, sound, 5
1 07113, sound, 3-
~1 0511071, SIDEBONE,
4
-1 05411081, curb, 3
1-05411082, sound
D.A.P., 3
1-05411084, sound
D.A.P., 4
1-05411083, sound, 5
1-05411085, sound, 5
-1 054110031, sound
•1 054110071, sound
D.A.P., 4
-1-0541100021, sound.
1 0541100031, sound,
5
-1 0541100091, string
[halt,
-1 0541231, sound, 6
1-0541232, sound, 5
1-07114, sound, 3
1 -07115, sound, 3
r 071102, sound, 5
1-071103, sound, 3
1-071104, sound 8
1 -071111, sound, 5
1 071112, sound, 3
1 071113, sound, 3
-1 071132, sound, 4
1 071133, sound, 4
1 071134, sound, 5
1-071137, sound, 3
1- 071138, sound, 3
1 071139, sound, 4
0711301, sound, 3
0711303, sound. 5
sound
D.A.P., 5
sound
D.A.P., 5
sound
D.A.P., 4
sound
D.A.P., 4
1 0711304, SIDEB0NE,5
071131,
071135,
071136,
0711302,
302
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
Family 1 — continued.
107,—
not ex-
amined
—co)itd.
1-08,—
not ex-
amined
109,—
not ex-
amined
-1-071,-
not ex-
amined
— eontd.
-1-081,-
not ex-
amined
-1091,-
not ex-
amined
-10711, not ex-
amined— contd.
-1-07116,
-1-0811, not ex-
amined-
-10911, sound, 3
1-0912, not ex-
amined-
1-0913, RING-
BONE, 4
1-0914, sound, 5-
10915, sound, 3
1 0916, sound, 4
1-0917, sound
D.A.P., 3
1-0918, sound
D.A.P., 3
not ex-
.unined-
1-07117, not ex-
uinined-
1-07118, not ex-
iunined-
1-07119, sound, 4
1-071106, sound, a
1 071107, sound, 3
1-071108, sound, 6
1-071109, sound, 3
1-0711003, sound, 3
1-0711005. sound, 4
1-0711001, not ex-
amined-
1-0711004, not ex-
amined-
-1-08111, sound, 4
1 '08114, sound, 0
1-08117, sound, 3
1-08119, sound, 4
1-081102, sound, 4
1-08112, not ex-
amined-
1-08113, sound, 5
1-08115, not ex-
amined-
1-08116, sound, 3-
1-081101, sound, 7
1-081106, sound, 5
1-081105, not ex-
amined-
1-081107, not ex-
amined
1-081102, SIDEB0NE,4
1 -081103, SIDKBONE, 4
1- 081104, SIDEBONE, 3
-1-09123, sound, 5
1-09124, sound, 4
1-09125, sound, 5
1-09121, soimd
D.A.P., 3
1 -09122, RINGBONE, 5
-1-09141, sound
DAP., 3
•1 071161, sound, 3
1-071162, sound, 3
-1-071171, sound, 3
-i-o:
-i-o;
l-O"
i-o-
1181, sound, 3
1191, sound, 5
1192, sound, 4
1193, sound, 5
1194, sound, 3
11061, sound, 3
11062, sound, 2
11(163, sound, 2
11064, sound, 6
11065, sound, 3
11066, sound, 5
11067, not ex-
amined-
-107110011, sound, 5
-1-07110041, sound, 3
■07110043, sound, 5
■07110044, sound, 3
■07110045, sound, 5
07110042, SIDE-
BONE. 3
•07110046, sound
D.A.P., 3
1-081121. sound, 3
-1-081151, sound, 3
-1-081162
1
sound, 5-
081161, sound
D.A.P.,2
081164, sound
D.A.P., 3
081163, SIDEBONE,
4
081165, SIDEBONE,
3
-1-0811051, sound, 5
-1-0811071, SIDE-
BONE, 3
-1 07110671, SIDE-
BONE, 4
-1 0811621, sound, 2
10 May, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
303
Family 1 — continued.
1-03 —
not ex-
amined
— coiM,
1001,-
not ex-
amined
1002, -
not ex-
amined
1003,-
not ex-
amined
-1092. -
not ex-
amined
-1.0921,-
not ex-
amined
-1 09211, not cx-
ainliicd-
10011,-
not ex-
amined
-10021.
not ex-
amined
-1-00.31,
not ex-
amined
1-00111
not ex-
amined
1 00211,
not ex-
amined
1 00311,
not ex-
amined
-1001111,
not ex-
amined-
■1 002111, sound, 4
1-002112, sound, 5
1-002113, sound, 5 -
1-002115, sound, 3
1 002116, sound, 5 -
1-002118, sound. 3
1-002119, sound, 5
1-0021101. sound, 5
1-0021102, not ex-
amined-
1-0021104. sound, 3-
1-002110.5. sound, 4
1-0021106, soimd, 5
1-0021107, sound, 5-
1-002110S. sound, 4
1-0021109, sound. 3
1 -00211001, sound, 5-
1-0021 1002, sound, 3
1-00211003, not ex-
amined-
1-00211004, sound, 4
1-0021103, sound
D.A.P., 4
1-002114, SIDEBONK, 5
1- 002117, ba. spavin, 4
-1-003111, SIDEBONE,
RINGBONE, 8
-1-092111, sound, 3
1-092112, sound, 3
1-092113, sound, 3
1-092114, sound, 3
1-092115, sound, 5
1-092116, sound. 3
092117, sound. 4
092118,- sound, 4
092119. sound. 5
0921101, sound,
0921102, sound,
0921103, sound,
0921105, sound.
4
3
3
1-0921106, sound, 5
1-0921107, sound, 4
1-0921108, sound, 4
1-0921109, sound, 3
1-09211001, sound. 3
1-0921104, sound
D.A.P., 3
1-0011111, sound, 8-
-1-0021131, sound, 3
-1-0021161, sound. 3
1-0021162, sound
D.A.P., 3
■1-00211021, sound, 3
■1 00211041, sound, 5
■1-00211071, sound
D.A.P., 5
1-00211073, sound
D.A.P., 4
1-00211072, sound, 5
•1-002110011, RING-
BONE, 3
1-002110012, sound, 3
-1-002110031, SIDE-
BONE, 4
-1-00111111,
sound, 4
1-00111112,
sound, 4
1-00111113,—
sound, 5
1-00111114,
sound, 3
1-00111115,-
sound, 3
1-00111116,
sound, 3
1-00111117,
sound, 3
1-00111118,
oundD.A.P.,;
Sound, D.A.P.3
-Sound, 3
(To he continued.)
304 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. \'i-0 May, 1918.
STANDARDIZED PACKING AND GRADING OF FRUIT.
By Ernest MeeJcing, Senior Fruit Inspector.
(Continued from page 240.)
EVIDENCE OF EOYAL COMMISSIONS.
The evidence given before the various Royal Commissions on the
Fruit Industry has shown that the malpractices mentioned in the
preceding chapter occur in all branches of the industry. In all, three
Commissions — one Federal and tAvo State — have exhaustively inquired
into the conditions governing the industry. The first was appointed
hj the Commonwealth Government in 1912, the second by the New
South Wales Government in 1913, and the third by the Government of
Victoria in 1915. The findings of all the Commissions, on two points
at least, were practically unanimous, viz., that co-operation amongst the
fruit-growers, and the grading and packing of fruit under standardized
methods were essential to place the industry on a proper basis.
Each Commission took evidence in every State from hundreds of
witnesses, representing all branches of the fruit industry, and the
summaries of all the Commissions showed conclusively that the present
low status of the industry resulted from the non-existence of a proper
basis of value between the seller and the purchaser. This disability was
manifest all along the line, from the orchardist to the householder, and
its influence was apparent throughout the many transactions which
usually transpire during the transit of the fruit from the orchard to the
household of the consumer. For example, tthe wholesale men, both
buyers and agents, complained that, in many of their transactions with
the orchardist, the latter supplied fruit which was improperly graded
and packed, that is, graded and packed in such a way that fruits, which
varied in degree of maturity, colour, and size, were packed in the same
case. In addition, cases often contained a percentage of fruit affected
by disease. The retailer complained also in a like manner, and naturally
laid the blame, or most of it, on the Avholesale men.
Little or no evidence was obtained from consumers, but had such been
called, there is little doubt that a cloud of witnesses, in fact, all the
consuming public of Australia, could have testified to victimization in
fruit-purchasing transactions, and Avould, doubtless, have laid the blame
on the shopkeeper or hawker from whom the fruit had been purchased.
Each of the parties concerned in the transaction of buying and selling
a case of fruit is, therefore, prone to lay the blame on the party with
whom he has had immediate dealings, and in this way only partly arrives
at the truth.
Prevalence of Impropek Packing.
It would seem at first sight that improper packing commences with
the orchardist, that he is mainly responsible for its prevalence, and that
if he in the first instance packed and graded his fruit properly, the
improper packing and grading of fruit would be eliminated from the
industry. This, however, is far from being so, as most of our leading
orchardists grade and pack their fruit honestly, and as well as is possible
under present conditions. Moreover, honesty in the matter of grading
10 May, 1918.] Standardized Packing and Grading of Fruit.
305
and packing on the part of the grower does not always insure that he
will receive the full value for his fruit, nor that the consumer will not
pf # » f €f. i .
p p li H p #. n If p *
f Jp i i #. (p i f 1 1
Plate I. — Case of Oranges, properly packed (square pack), containing 152
oranges.
I
# f # t f In
'#■'#■#■«
^; f f t
r # f t'
r (i # i
^ # #
Plate II. — Same case, re-packed, apparently in same manner, but containing
only 136 oranges,
be victimized when purchasing. It is quite a common practice amongst
certain sections of the distributors to purchase a quantity of first-grade
306 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
fruit and mix this with fruit of a lower grade, the whole being put up
for market in such a way as to deceive the unAvary purchaser into the
belief that he is obtaining fruit of a higher grade than is actually the
fact. It must be remembered that the grower, in transactions of this
nature, has less chance of success than the middleman, as the grower is
selling to the middleman, who is an expert in the business of buying
and selling fruit ; whilst the middleman, or the retail middleman at any
rate, is selling to a member of the general public, who is unacquainted
with the tricks of the trade.
How Fruit may be Repacked to Deceive Purchaser.
Another practice, very common amongst certain sections of the trade,
is to repack fruit in such a manner that, from an original purchase of,
say, twelve cases, a total of thirteen, or perhaps more, cases may be
made up.
To the uninterested, these thirteen cases appear properly packed or
filled, although each case may contain perhaps 10 per cent, less than its
original quantity of fruit.
This practice is especially prevalent in connexion with the sale of
citrus fruits, as these, by their nature, are more easy to manipulate for
this purpose than most other fruits.
Marking of Cases with Net Weight, Number, or Quantity
Should be Enforced.
The provision for the indication of the net weight, number, or
quantity of contents was included in the draft Regulations of the Fruit
Act, for the purpose of defeating this practice, as this end cannot be
attained by any other means. The fruit may be packed in standard
bushel cases, and the faced or shown surface of the fruit may be typical
of the contents of the whole package, but despite these facts, the purchaser
will not be receiving full value.
Plate I. shows a case of oranges properly packed and graded, which
contains 152 oranges. Plate II. shows the same case repacked in the
manner indicated. To all appearances, the case shown in Plate II.
is honestly packed and well filled with fruit, yet it contains only 136
oranges, or 16 less than the case shown in Plate I.
Present Legislation Powerless to Prevent Dishonest Repacking
OF Fruit.
As oranges are frequently worth lOs. a bushel or more, and as a fast
packer easily can pack and nail six cases per hour, it will be readily
understood that the practice well repays the time and trouble of repack-
ing. Until the packing and grading of fruit under the diagonal
numerical system is enforced by legislation, the practice may be con-
tinued with impunity, as neither the Fruit Cases Act nor the Fruit and
Vegetable Packing and Sale (Topping) Act are sufficiently wide in their
scope to deal with the matter. This leads us to a consideration of the
attempts which have been made during the past few years to remove, by
legislation, the disabilities under which the fruit industry has laboured.
10 May, 1918.] Standardized Packing and Grading of Fruit. 307
History of Legislation (Vegetation Diseases Acts).
For this purpose, a short summary of the different Acts will be given,
with brief remarks bearing on their principal provisions, and the reasons
for their enactment.
In 1896, the first Vegetation Diseases Act came into force. This
Act was intended to check the spread of insect and fungus diseases
already established within the State, to prevent the further introduction
from other States or countries of these diseases, and also the introduc-
tion of diseases not yet recorded for this State.
As legislation of this nature was then largely experimental, the Act
was introduced for a term of three years only. Its operation, however,
was found to be so beneficial that, at the end of the term, it was
permanently re-enacted, and has remained in force ever since.
It was found, however, that its provisions with respect to the sale
and distribution of disease-affected fruit were not sufficiently wide, and
an amending Act for this purpose was introduced in 1901.
The Act was further amended in 1906 to enable a more rigid inspec-
tion of imported fruit and plants, and to provide for treatment of
diseased consignments.
The Vegetation Diseases Acts were, so far as the inspection and treat-
ment of plants and fruit imported from oversea countries is concerned,
superseded in 1908 by the Commonwealth Quarantine Act; but the
Vegetation Diseases Act still regulates the importation of plants and
fruits from other Australian States, as well as matters pertaining to
vegetation diseases within the boundaries of the State itself.
Beneficial Effects of Vegetation Diseases Acts.
The three Vegetation Diseases Acts have proved of the utmost value
in preventing the production, sale, and distribution of diseased fruit, as
any one who has been connected with the industry for some years can
testify.
Some fifteen years ago, apples affected with " black spot " or " codlin
moth," and oranges infested with " red scale," " black spot," " false
melanose," and other diseases, were much commoner on our retail
markets, hawkers' barrows, and in retail fruit-shop windows, than at
present, and it cannot be denied that the quality of our fruit, both locally-
grown and imported, has been vastly improved as a result of the legisla-
tion mentioned.
AccoHDiNG to an article in the Popular Science. Monthly (New York),
the undertaking recently established in California for obtaining supplies
of potash from seaweed is proving so successful that one firm alone is
producing three times as much potash as was previously imported from
Germany. The kelp is cut by means of a reaper, which cuts the weed
4 feet below the water. The kelp is carried from a boat-harvester by
a continuous belt elevator to a crushing mill. It is stated that sufficient
potash is being obtained by these means to supply, not only American
needs, but also those of all the Allies.
308 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
ACCIDENTAL ABORTION IN DAIRY CATTLE.
By W. F. Beacoin, Dairy Supervisor.
Disease in stock is feared by all farmers, but naturally it is held in
awe by those who have had experience of its scoiirges.
Drought and flood can in some measure be guarded against ; ordinary
sickness of individual animals can usually be cured, or, at the
worst, causes only isolated deaths; but a visitation of contagious or
infectious disease may reach even the best-tended herd, and result in
heavy monetary loss to the owner. No matter how careful an owner
may be in building up his herd, there is always the danger of disease
being introduced by contact with a less careful neighbour's cattle or
with straying stock. A very unfortunate instance of the introduction of
disease some eight years since into a herd of 200 dairy cattle may be
mentioned. Actinomycosis (lumpy jaw) was unknown in the herd
until a stray bullock affected with the disease broke into one of the
paddocks. The pasture was thus infected with the discharge from the
abscess of the diseased animal, and since then recurrence of the disease
has been common, and the consequent losses have broug'ht home to the
owner what initial neglect of contagion means.
All stock-keepers, whether dairy farmers or graziers, should make
themselves conversant with the symptoms of the common complaints ot
cattle. Then, should they be unfortunate enough to have an animal
attacked by any of these diseases, they will be able to take the required
preliminary measures, and, if necessary, report to a competent authority.
The Veterinary Staff of the Department of Agriculture will always
advise owners as to the necessary precautions to take in case of an out-
break of disease.
Notwithstanding this, however, owners frequently see several animals
die without rej^orting the matter, and meanwhile the disease may have
become so widesj^read that a heavy loss inevitably results, much of
which could have been prevented if professional attendance had been
obtained at the outset. Sometimes a secretive owner endeavours to sell
his cattle when he finds they are diseased. To trade oif a jibbing horse
or an indifferent milking cow is by some regarded as a " bit of smart
business." This is not the place to discuss the morality of such actions;
but the sale of cattle suffering from any notifiable disease is an offence
— a crime — that cannot be too often or too severely denounced. Such
an act is almost sure to result in heavy loss to the unsuspecting buyer,
or, may be, his absolute financial ruin.
Some diseases are of such an insidious nature, owing to the long
incubation period of the germs, or the presence in the herd of a " car-
rier," that they may be very strongly established before the owner is
aware of it. Two diseases especially are much to be feared by dairy-
men on this account, viz., pleuro-pneumonia and contagious abortion.
The symptoms and treatment for combating each have previously been
dealt with in this Journal, the latter disease being discussed at some
length in the issue for June, 1916, a copy of which issue every farmer
should keep at hand for ready reference.
Frequently, however, it is found that dairymen are apt to confuse
contagious abortion with the simpler form of this disease, which is the
10 May, 1918.] Accidental Abortion in Dairy Cattle. 309
result of injury. A few of the possible causes of premature calving
may well be noted, in order that they may be guarded against. The
value of each cow to the dairy farmer is almost wholly dependent on
the animal bearing a calf and renewing her milk each year. With
breeding stock the value of the calf alone is in itself a big consideration,
but in the case of a herd where several cows slip or abort their calves,
and consequently do not come into their milking flush, the financial loss
is very heavy. This is a fact too often overlooked, and, owing to failure
to recognise its importance, farmers are apt to be less mindful of the
causes leading up to it.
Almost every dairy farmer suffers an occasional loss through some
cows slipping their calves, and many of these accidents might be pre-
vented if the owner only knew the predisposing causes. Unless cows
are dehorned, they will always fight more or less, and injure each other,
and a rush in the flank may easily bring about slinking. The introduction
of a strange cow into a herd of springers and milkers will almost always
be followed by fighting, and ripi:>ed flanks or torn udders will probably
result. Everything likely to lead to quietness in dairy cattle should be
looked to. No cow should be roughly driven. The farmer who " dogs "
his herd to or from the sheds is employing one of the most expensive of
helpers. A proof of the folly of seeking its help may be given. A herd
of fifteen cows was repeatedly " dogged " from the sliprails leading to a
small paddock of greenstuff, from which they were cut a small quantity
daily, and this treatment caused every one of them to cast her calf pre-
maturely. Rough handling of the dairy herd is invariably very
costly to the owner. Loss of milk and butter-fat is sure to result
from rough driving, and, with cases of abortion possible, every owner
should see that this sort of treatment does not occur.
Careless leg-roping of a nervous cow may also cause abortion. Some
milkers rope every cow up tightly before they start milking, and timid or
otherwise highly-sensitive cows are apt to resent this treatment. They
will often kick continuously in an endeavour to get rid of the leg-rope,
and thus irritate a cross-tempered milker, who may foolishly give the
animal a blow in the flank. Such ill-treatment may easily lead to
premature calving. (The most effective method of roping a cow to keep
her from kicking is to fasten the leg with which she kicks short across the
other. She simply cannot kick from that angle, but roping straight back
does not prevent kicking.)
Slippery floors in the gangway or stalls are also frequently the cause
of springing cows getting injured by falling on them, and subsequently
slinking.
Allowing cattle to have access from one paddock to another through
an awkward gateway, or over a log or partly broken rail or wire fence,
may also cause similar trouble.
Again, cows are frequently injured at the stock watering places.
Too many cows trying to drink at a small trough is sure to lead to fight-
ing. It is a wise policy to make provision for all the herd being able to
get to water and having their fill within at least half-an-hour. Timid
cows, stock new to their surroundings, and small heifers are frequently
crowded away from the water by the more robust cows for over an hour
in the heat of a summer's day. The milk yield suffers in consequence, for,
in hot weather, a full supply of wholesome water is as important as
good feeding. Another source of injury to springing cows which may
310 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
easily pass unnoticed is found on farms where the stock drink at a
running stream. If the banks are at all soft, the cattle soon cut tracks
down to the water, and it is quite common for such tracks to be from
2 to 3 feet deep and yet no wider than the ordinary cow track. Cows
heavy in calf going up and down these to water, even if taking their own
time, are very apt to get bruised in the flank by knocking against
the sides of the hollows. If they hurry, or are bustled in any way
at watering time, the risk of injury is, of course, so much greater. One
instance of this danger came under notice where quite a number of
cows in the herd had aborted before the cause was discovered, but as
soon as the tracks down the creek banks were widened by a few blows
with a pick there were no more cases of slipping the calf. Even com-
pelling cows heavy in calf to scramble up and down the steep bank
of a creek is liable to result in some of them aborting. Unavoidable
accidents are liable to occur only too often in any herd, and if a dairy
farmer is careless enough to add to these by permitting his sj^ringing
cows or heifers to take preventable risks, he deserves little sympathy.
Ergot — a parasitic plant-growth — has long been knows as causing
abortion through cattle eating it, and possibly this trouble may also be
brought on at times by the injudicious feeding of highly-forcing and fer-
mented food.
Care should always be taken to destroy a foetus or slink, and the
ground where it fell should be disinfected. The hind-quarters and
udder of the cow ought to be cleansed, and the womb flushed out with a
disinfectant. These precautions should be taken in all cases of abortion.
The owner cannot afford to run any risk of possible infection, even if
he is satisfied that the slipping is the result of accident. Where there
is the barest possibility of infection, every endeavour must be made to
prevent it. An hour spent in thoroughly cleaning up every possible
source of infection may prevent a subsequent loss of many pounds cash.
Prevention of disease by reasonable precaution is the least expensive
method of combating it.
HOW TO MAKE HOME-MADE CHEESE.
By G. C. Sawers, Cheese Expert.
1. For making a small quantity of milk into cheddar cheese, the fol-
lowing articles are required : —
(a) A wooden tub (or a jacketed vat) with movable canvas cover.
(6) A long-bladed knife.
(c) Cheese moulds.
(d) Cheese press.
(e) Thermometer.
(/) Curd rake.
{(/) A 1-oz. and a 6-oz. measure glass.
2. When both the evening and the following morning's milk is to be
used in the one operation, it is advisable to cool the evening milk (early
after milking) by standing it over night in cold water.
3. Stir this milk occasionally till bedtime.
10 May, 1918.] How to Mal-e Home-made Cheese. 31 ^
4. In the morning (before the morning's milk has been added) skim
the evening's milk.
5. Add the starter* to the skim milk (1 oz. to every 10 gallons).
6. Heat the cream (by standing in hot water) to about 8'0o Fahr.
and remix with the milk in the vat, stirring thoroughly.
7. Add the uncooled morning's milk. (When mixed the tempera-
tures of the whole milk in the vat should be 84° to 86° Fahr.)
8. If coloured cheese is desired annatte should now be a.dded and
stirred gently for two or three minutes— a quarter or half-teaspoonful
to every 10 gallons.
9. Now ascertain by the following test whether the milk is ready for
the rennet : —
The milk in the vat should be about 85 degrees of temperature.
Take 4 ozs. of the milk in a cup and float a tiny wooden chip
(bit of wooden match) on the milk ; noting the position of the
seconds hand on a watch add 1 drachm of rennet ; stir imme-
diately for 10 seconds; then withdraw the spoon and note
carefully the time of coagulation. (Coagulation is indicated
by the chip becoming stationary.) If coagulation occurs 18
to 20 seconds after the introduction of the rennet, the milk
is ready for renneting without delay. If a longer time
elapses the milk is not yet ripe enough and some delay is
necessary.
10. Assuming the test shows the milk to be ripe, note the time and
add the rennet — about ^ oz. for every 100 lbs. (The amount of rennet
is important, but as different milks vary in their curd content and dif-
ferent kinds of rennet vary in strength, the exact amount can only be
arrived at by experience.) The rennet, before adding, should be diluted
— 20 parts to 1 with clean cold water.
11. Stir the milk for three to five minutes after adding the rennet,
and watch for the milk coagulating. When this occurs, carefully note
the time, because the time which elapses between the adding of the
rennet and the setting of the curd is the best guide when to cut the curd.
(Coagulation should occur in 12 or 14 minut-es.)
12. As soon as the milk shows the first indication of thickening, and
time has been noted, place canvas cover over the vat.
13. The number of minutes which the milk took to curdle should bs
multiplied by 2|, and the number of minutes in the result is the time
to be allowed between coagulation and cutting. Thus, if it took 12
minutes to thicken, it should be ready for cutting 30 minutes after. At
this stage the curd should split clean in front of the thermometer when
inserted diagonally.
14. Cut with a long-bladed knife in strips ^-inch apart lengthways.
Then do the same crossways. so that the surface appears cut into ;|^-inc]i
squares. Uniform cutting is important. After cutting allow the curd
to settle to the bottom of the tub for a few minutes, but dip off a portion
of the whey and scald it up to 140^ Fahr.
15. Stir the curd gently by hand for ten to fifteen minutes before
applying the rake.
16. Add a little hot whey.
* An article on tlie propagation of culture starters for Cheese-making was published in this
Journal for November, 1915.
^V2 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
17. Stir gently with rake and add whey every fifteen minutes, increas-
ing the quantity of each application. While stirring continuously, the
hot whey should gradually be raising the temperature required, viz.,
96" Fahr. in warm weather, or 102° in cold weather, and this should
be reached 40 to 45 minutes after stirring commenced.
18. Except during an occasional stir to prevent consolidation, it
should be now left covered up with the canvas to maintain the tempera-
ture (96"-120°) till it is time to run off the whey. This is ascertained by
the hot iron test, as follows: — Heat a piece of iron rod or pipe, not red,
but hot enough to make water sizzle when dropped on it. Take some
curd in the hand and squeeze tightly to press out the whey. Gently
apply the iron rod to this curd for a few seconds and lift slowly away,
observing while doing so the adhesive properties of the curd. If the
curd adheres to the iron, and draws out in short fine silky threads -^-inch
long, it is at the right stage for running off some of the whey (enough to
expose the curd). With good milk the first whey is usually run off two
and a half to three hours after the adding of the rennet. If curd is not
ready for de-wheying in three hours, a faulty cheese is almost certain to
result. If ready earlier than two and a half hours, a pasty cheese may
be expected. The remainder of the whey may be drained off when
another test of the hot iron produces threads |-inch long.
19. Gather the curd 6 to 8 inches deep, and tilt the vat for better
drainage. Allow the curd to remain so stacked to become solidified (this
process is called matting) for a quarter of an hour, when it should be cut
to its full depth, lengthways and a,cross, into junks abou 9 inches by 4,
and turned completely over. Repeat the turning every quarter of
an hour, the temperature being maintained evenly — 94 or 96 degrees —
until the curd becomes tough or meaty, usually about two hours after the
stacking. (The frequent turning insures even drainage and uniform
colour.) Again apply the hot iron test to the curd, and threads should
draw out f to 1 inch long. If this occurs, the curd is ripe for milling.
20. Milling may be done, with small quantities, with an ordinary
carving knife, with which cut the junks into cubes of ^-inch dimensions.
It should then be stirred every quarter of an hour, but always cover
when nob stirring, as the heat should be maintained at about 95°.
21. One hour from milling apply the hot iron test again. If curd
pulls out in threads 1^ inches it is ready for salting. At this stage the
curd assumes a peculiar velvety feeling, and when compressed in the
hand exudes moisture composed of equal parts of whey and butter fat.
Salt at rate of about 4 ozs. per 10 gallons of milk, but add only half the
amount at one time, and stir thoroughly before adding the remainder.
Mix well and leave curd massed up for fifteen minutes. During tbe
process of salting the temperature may be permitted to fall, and at com-
pletion should be 84°.
22. Pack the curd firmly into the mould, in which cheese cloth has
been inserted. When filled, lap the cloth over the ends. Put wooden
follower on top and place in press. Apply pressure gradually until
whey ceases to escape. Then remove cheese from mould, lift loose ends
of cloth from top, draw out the wrinkles, and insert disc of muslin on
top. Lap loose ends over again and place back in press. Gradually
increaoe pressure until late at night, when it may be left. Eemove
cheese from mould next morning, and place in storing room, where
temperature should not exceed 60%. Stand on clean shelf, and turn
over daily for two months, at which time it will be ready for use.
10 May, 1918.1
Victorian Rainfall.
313
VICTORIAN RAINFALL.
First Quarter, 1918.
^
1 ,.
District.
d
t->
Quarter.
►^
^
Points.
Points.
Points.
Points.
Mallee North . .
District Mean . .
46
65
141
252
Normal
55
64
112
231
Per cent, above normal
:i
26
9
„ below ,,
16
66
187
Mallee South . .
District Mean . .
166
419
Normal
57
74
98
229
Per cent, above normal
16
153
69
83
„ below „
69
134
88
North Wimmera
District Mean . .
291
Normal
64
69
95
218
Per cent, above normal
8
94
28
„ below „
80
88
/
South Wimmera
District Mean . .
86
254
Normal
93
76
109
278
Per cent, above normal
16
„ ^ below „
14
21
9
Lower Northern Country
District Mean. .
305
180
258
743
Normal
90
81
116
287
Per cent, above normal
L39
122
122
159
„ below „
••
Upper Northern Country
District Mean . .
340
176
267
783
Normal
116
95
135
346
Per cent, above normal
193
85
98
126
„ below „
••
Lower North-East
District Mean . .
385
195
224
804
Normal
154
138
224
516
Per cent, above normal
150
41
56
„ below „
442
124
••
••
Upper North-East
District Mean . .
369
935
Normal
217
207
277
701
Per cent, above normal
104
33
33
„ below „
••
40
••
East Gippsland
District Mean . .
292
239
337
868
Normal
256
2-3
241
720
Per cent, above nonnal
14
7
40
21
„ below „
301
West Gippsland
District Mean . .
144
430
875
Normal
229
168
274
671
Per cent, above normal
31
57
30
„ below „
14
••
••
East Central . .
District Mean . .
216
113
457
• 786
Normal
233
174
274
681
Per cent, above normal
67
15
,
„ below „
7
35
314 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
Victorian Rainfall — continued.
District.
j=
.=■
Quarter.
P^
^
Points.
Points.
Points.
Points.
West Central . .
District Mean . .
95
78
334
507
Normal
U()
130
208
484
Per cent, above normal
61
5
„ below „
35
40
North Central
District Mean . .
173
88
337
598
Normal
130
122
173
425
Per cent, above normal
33
95
41
„ below „
28
64
Volcanic Plains
District Mean
90
183
337
Normal
139
114
176
429
Per cent, above normal
4
„ below „
35
89
•J4
109
21
West Coast
District Mean . .
117
315
Normal
148
124
198
470
Per cent, above normal
„ below „
4')
12
41
33
N.B. — 100 points = 1 inch.
HOW TO MAKE WASHINGTON LMEWASH.
Slake a busliel of quicklime in a barrel, covering with a bag while
the lime is working; melt 1 lb. common glue to a thin size; make
1^ lb. ground rice into a thin .paste with boiling water; mix up 1 lb.
of whiting as you would mustard. When the lime is quite slaked, add
the glue, whiting, and rice paste, and a half-peck of common salt. Mix
well, and let stand for 48 hours, keeping covered. Thin down to con-
sistency of ordinary whitewash, and apply hot.
Anothek Method.
Slack half-a-bushel of lime in boiling water, cover during the pro-
cess, to keep in steam. Strain this through a fine sieve or strainer, and
add to it a peck of common salt, previously dis.solved in warm water,
and 3 lbs. of ground rice, boiled to a thin paste, and stirred in while
hot. Add also ^ lb. of Spanish whiting and 1 lb. of glue, previously
dissolved by soaking in cold water, and then melted in a glue pot. Add
5 gallons of hot water to the mixture, and stir well. Let it stand a few
days, protected from dirt, and apply hot.
10 May, 1918.1 A Few Hints on the Feeding of Horses. 315
A FEW HIXTS ON THE FEEDING OF HORSES.
By W . M. Lerem, G.M.V.C, Veterinary Officer.
Inquiries regarding the feeding of horses are often made by people
new to farm work, and it is with the intention of helping the novice
that these notes have been written. There is a right and a wrong way
of doing most things, and in the feeding of horses, the right way
means an improved condition of the animals and a corresponding
increase in the work done by them; whilst the alternative is animals
in low condition or ill-health, and no matter how willing they may be,
they are physically unfit to do the same amount of work as horses that
are properly fed.
The first and most important matter to attend to is to see that the
horse's teeth are in proper condition, so that when he is supplied with
feed he will be able to masticate it properly. There are several signs
which point to the teeth being out of order, such as dropping food when
eating, excessive noises from the sharp edges of the teeth grinding
together, or else no noise at all — -showing that the grain is not being
crushed. Failure to masticate the food means that the full amount of
nutriment will not be extracted therefrom ; proper digestion will not take
place, followed by loss of condition, and probably attacks of colic, and
at the same time, great pain from the sharp edges of the teeth lacerating
the tongue and cheeks.
In order to examine the teeth of a horse a gag should be placed in
his mouth and any irregularity corrected by the careful use of a tooth
rasp.
Regarding the feed itself, only one quality should be purchased,
and that the best, which is the cheapest in the end, for a smaller quan-
tity will supply the requisite amount of nourishment, and keep the horse
in better health.
The staple diet of a working horse should consist of chaff, oaten or
wheaten, the former for preference, oats, bran, and oaten hay, varied
by an occasional feed of sliced carrots, lucerne, fresh or dried, green
stuff, such as green barley, oats, &c. Owing to the small size of the
stomach of the horse, the feed should be rich and not too bulky, which
will allow it to remain long enough in the stomach for partial diges-
tion, instead of over-flowing into the bowel too soon.
When a horse is turned out at grass, no other feed is necessary,
unless there is a shortage of grass, when a little may be necessary. On
bringing the animal into the stable for work, some care is necessary,
as a sudden change to dry fodder is harmful. For a few days the feed
should consist of chaff and bran well damped, and without the addition
of any grain. At first the work should be light and the horse's muscular
condition hardened. Grain may be given gradually till the animal is
on a full ration. If low in condition, steamed barley or oats should
be mixed with the chaff and bran, and sliced carrots given for a change.
Lucerne chaff (soaked previously in water over night) may be mixed
with, or substituted for, the oaten chaff. When an animal is stable
fed, light work or regular exercise is essential and helps to improve the
condition.
Regular feeding is another important point to be noted. Four
feeds a day ought to be given, the first being put in the feeder early
enough to allow of its being finished before harnessing up. The first
316
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
three feeds, given early in the morning, noon, and after work is finished,
may consist of chaff 5 lbs., oats 3 lbs., bran 1 lb., per feed, for each
1,000' lbs. weight of the horse. It is a good plan to give a feed of hay
last thing at night, as it takes the animal longer to eat this, and keeps him
contented through the night. If the chaff be dry and dusty, it is advis-
able to damp it slightly. If the feed be damped, care must be taken
that the feeders are always thoroughly clean, as any damp bran that is
left will quickly sour and spoil the next feed. Horses should never be
given -as much as they can eat, as over-feeding will tend to set up diges-
tive troubles, indicated by colic, skin eruptions, loss of appetite and
sluggishness. Kather give them a little less, and they will be ready for
the next feed. If resting in the stable instead of working, immediately
reduce the oat ration and make up with extra chaff and bran. Some
horses eat less than others of the same weight; therefore measure out
their feed accordingly, and it will be worth the little extra trouble
involved.
A lump of rock salt in the feeder is greatly relished by the majority
of horses and is very beneficial.
Two or three packets of Epsom salts, dissolved in a little water, and
mixed with the feed, if given occasionally, will act as a laxative, and
improve the general standard of health.
Watering. — Undoubtedly the best time to give a horse drink is before
he is fed, because, if watered just after feeding, a lot of undigested
food is washed out of the stomach into the intestines, and may give
rise to an acute attack of indigestion or colic. Always allow the horse
to have a plentiful supply of cool, clean water, and if a trough or tub
be used, keep it clean, and in a shady place.
Stallion Feeding. — Stallions suffer more from injudicious feeding
than any other horses, and the results are very noticeable, especially in
draught stock. Swollen and thickened hocks, often badly scarred in
front where they have broken out, thickened legs, and pasterns dis-
figured by greasy swellings, are only too common. This is caused by
over-feeding on rich heating food, insufficient exercise, and the want of
laxative diet. Every stallion owner naturally likes to see his horse in
good condition, and generally tries to put this on too quickly at the
beginning of the season, by over-feeding.
The horse should be gradually brought on to the hard grain diet,
and always be given a ration of carrots, green lucerne, &c., along with
the other feed. Laxative doses of Epsom, salts occasionally, and plenty
of walking exercise, are very necessary.
The following is the scale of feeding for Australian military
horses : —
SCALE I.
SCALE II.
SCALE III.
—
Light Horses.
Mt^tliiim Draught.
Heavy Draught.
In Stables.
In the Open.
In Stables.
In the Open.
In Stables.
In the Open.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Oats
10
12
10
12
14
14
Chaff
8
12
12
14
12
14
Hay
6
4
4
Bran
1
i
1
1
0
2
Straw (bedding)
7
7
7
10 May. 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 317
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Pomologist.
The Orchard.
CuLTIVAiTION.
Cultivation work should be well on the way by this time. The
ploughing should be advanced, so as to leave plenty of time for other
orchard work. Autumn ploughing may he rough, but care should he
taken to plough to the trees, so that a drainage furrow is left between
the rows.
Manuring.
It is just possible, where heavy crops have been carried, that a top
dressing of stable manure will be required to add humus to the soil.
The fertility of the soil must be maintained; and, although stable and
chemical manures as a general rule are of undoubted value as tree stimu-
lants, well-cultivated and thoroughly tilled land will always carry fair
crops with far less manure. Further, if the orchard land is well
drained, cultivated, and sub-soiled, any manures that are used will be
far more beneficial to the trees. The more suitable the conditions that
are given to the trees, the better they can appreciate and assimilate
their food.
Perhaps the most useful and valuable of manures is stable manure.
It is of great use, not only as a manure and as an introducer of neces-
sary bacteria into the soil, but its value in adding humus to the soil is
incalculable. Organic matter, such as stable manure, introduced into
the soil quickly becomes humus; this greatly ameliorates and improves
soil conditions. It is impossible to say what quantity of stable manure
is necessary per acre; that can be determined only by circumstances.
Orchards in different climates and varying soils will require differing
quantities. A too liberal use of stable manure will be over-stimulating
in most cases, and at all times an excess beyond Av^hat is necessary for
present use will only be waste, as humus is readily lost from the soil,
once it is in an available food form.
It has been pointed out in these notes previously that an improved
physical condition is far more profitable to the fruit-grower than the
continued use of manures. A tree will be far more productive if it is
happy in its soil conditions; uncomfortable conditions will always result
in unprosperous trees.
A dressing of lime, using about 4 or 5 cwt. per acre, is of great value
in stiff or heavy orchard lands; and it may be given at this season. The
lime, which must be fresh, should be distributed in small heaps between
the trees, covered with a layer of soil, and allowed tO' remain for a few
days before ploughing or harroAving in.
Pests.
The advice given last month for spraying should be followed, particu-
larly where any oil emulsions or washes are to be used.
318 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
Orchards will benefit if an attack is now made upon the Codlin moth.
All hiding places, nooks, and crannies, where the larvae have hidden,
should be thoroughly searched and cleaned out. The orchardist has far
more time now to do this work than he will have in the spring time.
General Work.
Drainage systems should now be extended with as little loss of time
as possible.
New planting areas should be prepared, and subsoiled or trenched
wherever possible.
Vei^etable Garden.
Weeds must be kept down in the vegetable garden. Weeds are
generally free growing at this season; their growth is very insidious, and
they will crowd out the young seedlings or plants in a very quick time.
Hoeing and hand weeding must be resorted to, preferably hoeing. The
frequent use of the hoe in winter time is of much benefit in the vegetable
garden. A varied assortment of crops is now being produced; and if
these can be kept growing much better crops will result. The soil
quickly stagnates in the winter, and the only way to prevent this is to
keep the surface stirred. Thus, a double service is performed with the
aid of the hoe.
The application of lime is of great necessity at this season. In addi-
tion to amending unhealthy and unsuitable soil conditions, lime is par-
ticularly useful as an insecticide. It assists in destroying in immense
numbers both eggs and insects that would breed and live in the ground
ready to do damage to all classes of vegetable crops. Therefore,
wherever possible, the soil should receive an application of lime. The
garden should, as well, be manured with stable manure, but not for
some weeks after the lime application.
Cabbage and cauliflower plants may be planted out; and seeds of
parsnips, carrots, onions, peas, and broad beans may be sown.
Flower Garden.
The whole flower section should now be thoroughly dug over. All
beds should be cleaned up, top-dressed with manure, and well dug. The
light rubbish, such as foliage, twiggy growths, weeds, &c., may all be
dug in, and they will thus form a useful addition to the soil. These
should never be wasted. Only the coarser and stouter growths should
be carted away for burning, and then the ashes may be used as manure.
No part, whatever, of garden rubbish or litter need be wasted. in one
form or another it should be replaced in the soil.
May is a good month for establishing new gardens, and for planting
out. All deciduous plants and shrubs may now be planted. It is not
necessary to dig a deep hole for planting. A hole in which the roots
of the plant can be comfortably arranged, without crowding or cramp-
ing, will be quite sufl&cient for the purpose.
10 May, 1918.] Reminders. 319
Continue to sow seeds of hardy annuals, including sweet peas,
althougli tlie main crop of sweet peas should by this time be well above
ground. Where there has been any overplanting, the young plants will
readily stand transplanting, and this will greatly assist those that are
to remain. Annuals should not be crowded in the beds. They require
ample room for suitable development, and thus the seeds should be
sown thinly or the plants set out a good distance from each other.
All herbaceous perennials that have finished blooming may now be
cut down. Included amongst these are phlox, delphiniums, &c. If
these are to remain in their present situation for another season it is
always an advantage to raise them somewhat, by slightly lifting them
with a fork, so that too much water will not settle around the crowns ;
they may also be mulched with stable manure, or the manure may De
forked into the soil around the crowns.
HEIVIHSIDERS FOH JUNE.
LIVE STOCK.
Horses. — Those stabled and in regular work should be fed liberally. Those
doing fast or heavy work should be clipped; if not wholly, then trace high. Those
not rugged on coming into the stable at niglit should be wiped down and in half-
an-hour's time rugged or covered with bags until the coat is dry. Old horses and
weaned foals should be given crushed oats. Grass-fed working horses should be
given hay or straw, if there is no old grass, to counteract the purging effects of
the young growth. Old and badly-conditioned horses should be given some boiled
barley. Paddocked horses should be looked at from time to time to ascertain if
they are doing satisfactorily.
Cattle. — Cows, if not housed, should be rugged. Rugs should be removed
and aired in the daytime when the shade temperature reaches 60 degrees. Give
a ration of hay or straw, wliole or chaffed, to counteract the purging effects of
young grass. Cows about to calve, if over fat, should be put into a paddock in
which the feed is not too abundant. If in low condition feed well to tide them
over the period and stimulate milk flow. It should be borne in mind tliat the
cows most liable to milk fever are those that have been low in condition and are
rapidly thriving. The treatment described in the Year-Book of Agriculture, 1905,
should be almost invariably successful. It will generally be found most profitable
to have cows calve in autumn. They will then pay well for feeding through the
winter, and will flush again with the spring grass. Calves sliould be provided
with warm dry shed. Cows and heifers for early autumn calving may be put
to the bull. Observe strict cleanliness and regularity with regard to temperature
and quantity of feed to avoid losses and sickness incidental to calf rearing.
Pigs. — Supply plenty of bedding in well ventilated sties. Sows in fine weather
should be given grass or lucerne run. Bulletin on the Pig Industry is now
available.
320 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
Sheep. — Clear muck-balls from tails and legs of all sheep. Have the wool
cleared from round udders and eyes of all young lambing ewes, and see them
first thing every morning. Mark the ram lambs at earliest chance. Cut off
ewes with oldest wether lambs to best pasture or fodder crops.
Sheep with overgrown hoofs are unthrifty. Whenever noticed trim back into
shape; they cut easily during winter. If left, are conducive to lameness, and
even foot rot. In the case of common foot rot, or scald, the feet can be phced
in a thick paste made of lime and boiling water. Obstinate cases of long
standing may need more drastic remedies, and persistent attention. In nil
cases pare away all loose portions, and leave the diseased parts clearly exposed.
Foxes are more ravenous during winter montlis. Sparrows, starlings, and
parrots are crood bait. Poisoning lambs already killed usually accounts for
scavenger foxes only.
Every fox is not a lamb killer. Remove all lambs for two or throe nights
if at all possible, and birds then will rarely fail to entice Reynard the second
or third night.
Powdered strychnine, just sufficient to cover nicelv a threepenny-piece, is
the usual dose. On the more valuable lambs fix a light tin collar, cut from
2 inches wide at the top of the neck to 3 inches wide below, fastened underneath
in one place only, near the breast, with fine wire, and lying open towards the
throat, allowing the lamb to both suck and feed. It should be cut as large as
possible, yet not large enough to permit of its falling off over the lamb's head.
This makes a guard that rarely fails to prevent a fox getting to the main blood
vein. Remove the guards when the lambs are about eight weeks old.
Poultry. — Supplies of shell grit and charcoal should always be available.
Sow a mixture of English grass and clover; this not only removes taint in soil
but provides excellent green fodder for stock. Where possible, lucerne and
silver beet should now be sown for summer feed; liver (cooked) and maize aids
to egg production during cold weather. Morning mash should be mixed with
liver soup given to the birds warm in a crumbly condition. All yards should
be drained to ensure comfort for the birds.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Plough potato land. Land to be sown later on with potatoes, man-
golds, maize, and millet should be manured and well worked. Sow malting barley
and finish sowing of cereals. Lift and store mangolds, turnips, &c. Clean out
drains and water furrows. Clean up and stack manure in heaps protected from
the weather.
Orchard. — Finish ploughing; plant young trees; spray with red oil or
petroleum for scales, mites, aphis, &c.; carry out drainage system; clean out
drains; commence pruning.
Vegetable Garden. — Prepare beds for crops; cultivate deeply; practise rota-
tion in planting out; renovate asparagus beds; plant out all seedlings; sow
radish, peas, broad beans, leeks, spinach, lettuce, carrot, &c.; plant rhubarb.
Flower Garden. — Continue digging and manuring; dig all weeds and leafy
growths; plant out shrubs, roses, &c.: plant rose cuttings; prune deciduous trees
and shrubs; sow sweet peas and plant out seedlings.
Vineyard. — Thoroughly prepare for plantation, land already subsoiled for the
purpose. Remember that the freer it is kept from weeds from this forward, tlie
less trouble will there he from cut-worms next spring. Applications for im-
grafted resistant rootlings and cuttings must be made before the end of the
month — see Journal for last month. Pruning and ploughing should be ac-
tively proceeded with. In northern districts plough to a depth of seven or
eight inches. Manures should be applied as early as possible.
Cellar. — Rack all wines which have not been previously dealt with. Fortify
sweet wines to full strength.
10 May, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Jnnrnol of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
POULTRY FOR SEHLERS
Cockerels and Pullets
Bred from the following matings
WYUNA WHITE LEGHORNS-DISTINCT STRAINS
each
Wyuna Special Mating - - - - - £l 1 0
Cosh No. 1 Special ~ - - - - - I I 0
Subiaco No. 1 Special - - - - -110
Cosh-Swift X Moritz 110
Cosh-Swift X Fulham Park - - - - - 1 1 0
A limited number of Cockerels from Trap-nested Hens
(250 upwards) x Moritz Cocks - - 2 2 0
The Moritz Cocks are full brothers to the sire of pullet which laid 315 eggs at
Bendigo Single Pen Competition, 1916-17 — World's Record.
Orders may now be hooked from the Poultry Pens
at the Wyuna Farm for delivery from March, 1918
RHODE ISLAND RED COCKERELS
£1 : 1 : C £2 : 2 : O
Note.-W. N. O'MullaPc's Champion Burnley Pen (1914-1915). which
established the still unbeaten world's record of 1 ,699 eggs, was the progeny of a
hen hatched from a Wyuna sitting. This pen recently realized £75
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria
SR 2
GARGOYLE Prepared Red Spray-
ing Oil is responsible for more
good fruit crops than any other
spray on the market.
Neither Scale, Aphis. Red Spider, nor
other insect pest can live where
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying Oil is
I'sed It is so thorough — so searching.
It is ENDURING, too, and pelting
rain will not wash it off
If you are looking forward to a big
yield of clean fruit, you must spray with
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying Oil —
the spray that nvigorates -the spray
that thinking Orchardists everywhere
have proved and adopted
Ask your storekeeper for
PREPARED RED
SPRAYING OIL
Vacuum Oil Company Pty. Ltd-
.I'.nrnal of Agrlcidturt, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T.A.J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Cannody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knight.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Kenyan, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. G. 77. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. //. T. Eastcrbn.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cameron, D. V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Saivers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. Baxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T. A. J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. -R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
Dr. S. S. Cameron and others.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Mivking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. W. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. O. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1913-14. W. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING. ETC.
A. TTart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. R. Beuhne.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLiCNS
— 1914-15. \V. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
3?. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. W. A. iV. Robcrtsim, B.V.Sc.
Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring
Bees, Feeding Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
ing, Some Vintage Considerations, Spring Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato.
A PROMINENT FARMER'S
OPINION OF
"Mitchell"
Harvesters
" From the time the three "Mitchell" 6 ft.
Harvesters were started till they finished
950 acres, we never had a single hitch or
stop with any one of them. The crop
went up to 12 bags to the acre, and they
made a remarkably good sample, and pull
easy. Four horses would pull them but
with five horses a good pace can be kept
up all day. I have worked and owned
various other popular makes of Harvesters,
but 1 can honestly and conscientiously say
the "Mitchell" is absolutely the best, and
I must compliment your firm on turning
rjt such a good and reliable machine. I
tan honestly recommend the "Mitchell"
Harvester to any farmer wanting a machine
a; an excellent one."
H. A. PAECH. Walla Walla. N.S.W.
As these 3 "Mitchell's" handled
this 950-acre 12-bag crop with-
out a single hitch, don't you
think it's safe to handle yours?
Ask for Catalogues of our Farm and Dairy
Machines, and please say you saw this '^d.
ITCHELL
& Co. Pty. Ltd.
WEST FOOTSCRAY, MELBOURNE
SHOWROOM: 596 BOURKE STREET. MELBOURNE
And at Bay-street, Sydney.
Agencies in all Chief Towns.
J
10 May, 1918.] Journal of Agricultvrc, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
Facilities are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers in an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STOR S, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Tcl phones:
Office: 10383 Central. Superintc^ident and Engineer-in-Charge : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars rr.iy he obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telephone 93SO Central.
XXll
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 May, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
Red Poll Dairy Herd
This Herd contains the first cow in order of merit amongst all breeds under
the Government Herd Test for 1914-15, and the third for 1915-16; also the
Winner of the Weekly Times Butter Test at the Melbourne Royal Show, 1916
Proof of DUAL PURPOSE CHARACTER is given by the Prices for Culled Cows in
the Fat Stock Market reaching to £27 10s. and £29 10s.; by a cow yielding 1,000 gallons of
milk containing 448 lbs. butter in a year and selling at butcher's auction for £22 7s. 6d.;
and by cows in milk weighing upwards of 1,500 lbs. live weight.
The Bulls in Use include —
LONGFORD MAJOR (Imported)
Dam's Record 14713 lbs. milk
G. Dam's ,, 10548 .,
6 years average 10548 lbs. milk
4 ,. ,. 9155 ..
BELLIGERENT (Imported)
Dam
Dam's Dam
Sire's Dam
Sire's D. Dam
G. Sire's D. Dam
G-G- Sire's D. Dam
G.G-G- Sire's D. Dam
s Record (1st milking) 7144 lbs- milk-
14533 lbs. milk ... 4 years average 12871 lbs- milk
10370 ,, 7 .. ., 9354
9510 ,. 12 ,, ,, 8033
10215 .. 7 „ ,. 9386
12565 ., 10 .. ,, 8853
1C088 2 ,. ,, 9754
BULL, CALVES are sold at prices based approximately on the actual milk and butter
fat record of the dam at the rate of Is. per lb. of butter fat yielded.
(NOTE. — All the bull calves of 1917 drop have bean sold, and choices from cows to calve
this season have been booked ahead of calv'i.f. The demand for bull calves is so strong
that farmers contemplating purchase are advised to study the records of the herd published
in the March (1918) Journal of Agriculture and book their orders ahead, indicating a choice
by mentioning approximate value.)
Inspection of th& Herd is invited.
Visitors will be met at the Station on notification to: —
Mr. R. R. KERR, Dairy Supervisor^
— or — V ftate Research Farm, Werribee
Mr. ED. STEER, Herdsm.^n J
Application for purchase to DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE.
10 May, 1918.]
Journal of Ar/rici!'t>ire, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal Is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kingdom and foreign
countries. Single copy, 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7, 8, and 9 (July, August, and September) out of print; V. (1907), and VI.
(1908), 12 parts each; VII. (1909), 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print ; and VIII. (1910), 12 parts, are at present in stock, and
will be supplied at the foregoing rates. The parts forming the current volume may also
be obtained. A few bound copies of Volumes VIII. (1910), IX. (1911), II parts,
exclusive of February, X. (1912), 6 parts, exclusive of January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), II parts, exclusive of June, are at
present available. Price, 5s. per volume. Postage: C, 3^d. ; N.Z., U. 2d. ;
B. & F.,2s. 4d.
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp., 200 illustrations. 2
coloured plates. Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2s. 6d. Postage: C, cloth 2|d., paper
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d.. paper 8d. ; B. & F., cloth Is, 6d.. paper Is. 4d.
AUSTRALIAN FUNGL By Dr. Cooke. £lls. Poi/age .- C, 5d.; N.Z. lOd.;
B. & F., Is. 8d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2.. 6d.
Postage, Id.
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), 1/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet, 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly " or " Weekly."
By Professor A. J. Ewart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS. POISON PLANTS, AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C. IJd.; N.Z., 5d.; B. & F., lOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II.. lOs. Postage : C. 2d.:
N.Z..8d.; B. &F.. I«. 4d.
By C. French, F.E.S., Government Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts i., II., III., IV.. V.. 2s. 6d.
each. Postage: Parts I. and III., C, 'd.; N.Z., 3d.; B. «c F., 6d. each. Parts
II. andlV., C, lid.; N.Z.. 4d.; B. & F.. 8d. each. Part V.. C, Id. ; N.Z.,
4d.; B. &F.. 7d.
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must bs made to
The Director of Agriculi.jref Melbourne
.lovrnal of AffricvUvre, Victoria. [10 May, 1918.
SEED POTATOES
FOR SALE
Selected, Immature Seed Potatoes
of the following varieties, ex Depart-
mental Plots at Leongatha: —
Scottish Triumph - \
Up-to-Date - - / Sh-
earman No. 1 - J> per cwt.
Coronation - - \ , i.o.t.,
\ Leongatha
Clark's Main Crop
A.a„ Chief - . < go/-
f.o.r., Leongatha
Application to be made to the
Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
By Authority: Aluert J. Mullett, d^j'^prnment Printei Melbourne
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Vinegrowers !
Phylloxera
V. :: Resistant :: ::
Stocks
Limited numbers of Resistant Vines are obtainable from tlie
Department of Agriculture at the following prices for each
description of plant
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Grafted), per l.OOO (packing extra)
Supplied from July to September. 1919
£6
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Ungrafted), per i.ooo (packing extra) £1 10 -
Supplied from July to September, 1918
RESISTANT CUTTINGS, per l.OOO (packing extra)
15/-
Supplied in July and August, 1918
Applications must be made on the official order forms which may be obtained from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Principal, Viticultural College, Rutherglen
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be
complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
L
To Intending Citrus Growers !
LIMITED NUMBERS OF
CITRUS TREES
Are Obtainable from the Department of Agriculture
THE VARIETIES ARE—
Washington Navels, Valencia Late, Eureka & Lisbon
Price, £6 per Hundred
f.o.r at WAHGUNYAH
An amount of 10s. {or each hundred ordered is to accompany applications,
and the balance, £5 10s. for each hundred, is to be paid when consignees
give directions to have consignments forwarded. A charge of 2/6 per hundred
will be made for packing unless the casings be returned.
Applications must be made on the official order forms, which may be obtained
from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Citrus Nursery, Wahgunyah,
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must
be complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
Vol. XVI.
REPORT ON EGG-LAYING
COMPETITION.
Part 6.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
Wfllm..^
BLACK ORPINGTON
RECORD QUEEN"
LAID 335 EGGS IN
TWELVE MONTHS
A WORLDS RECORD.
ym
m
viiuL^
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— VIoteria, lnter-Stat«, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foralj(;n, 5/^)
GROW LUCERNE
FARMERS ! ! !
BRUNNING'S "STANDARD"
QUALITY LUCERNE
Rightly called the Wealth
Bringer to the Producer
Excels every other Crop
(a) In yield per acre
(b) In feeding value
(c) As a drought resister
(d) As a soil enricher
Free from dodder and other harmful weeds. Triple
Machine-Dressed. REMEMBER the Best Seed it
the Cheapest.
Full Particulars and Price by Return
BRUNNING'S SERVICE includes advice as to How, When, and
>Vhere to Sow. Our Sales force is made up of practical
people, who are pleased to g>ve practical advice.
"VICTORIA SEED HOUSE" 64 ELIZABETH ST., MELBOURNE
THE .TOTJTiNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUIIE,
VICTOKI^^, .A.XJSTE,v^I-.I ^-
CONTE NTS.— JUNE, 1918.
I'AOK
Report on Seventh V^ictoriaii Egg Laying Competition, 1917-JS ... A. Hart 321
Report on Agricultural Edncation Methods, &c., in the State
of California
Apple Culture in Victoria
Review of the Butter Export Season
Report on Fallow Competitions at Goroke
Standard Test Cows— Report for March Quarter
Orchard and Garden Notes
Reminders for July
.4. E. V. Richard-son, M.A., B.Sc. 839
J. Farrell 355
//. Croice 364
... //. A. Mullen, B. Ag. Sc
370
376
380
383
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the .Journal of the Department of Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprieto'rs of newspapers wishing
to repuljlish any matter are at liberty to do so, proviiled the Journal and author are
both arknotdeclged.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per a>iiunn for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
OS. for the United Kingdom and Foreign Countries. Single copy, Threepence.
Subscriptions should V)e forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
J oil null of Agriciiliiire, Victoria.
[10 June, 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
locladinK Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Inspedlion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
Intending Buyers of Jersey and HoUtein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES.
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
'Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springhurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls.
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended (or a time to overtake orderi.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply—
C. GORDON LYON,"BanyuIe," Heidelberg, Victoria
^v;^
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To O-wners of Pedigreed Stock of all
kinds. Dairy Farmers, and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
s :: Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock :: ::
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather.
Price, 10/6 Po„.,e-Vic
A limited number available.
^ostase — Victoria and other States 1/6, New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
Appliotion* accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postace, to
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 June, 1918.]
Journal of AgricuUtire, Victoria.
m
^1^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. MELBOURNE, VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA.
NOW AVAILABLE .-. BULLETIN SI.
BEE-KEEPING in VICTORIA
By F. R. BEUHNE, Goverament Apiculturist.
Coinprisinti 126 pages, divided into 23 chapters (illustrated) dealing with various phases of
BEE-KEEPING, and specially adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed'
Price: ONE SHILLING. Postage: Commonwealth. Id. ; New Zealand. 2id. ; British and Foreign. 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postag-e, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 190S
448 Pages
200 Illustrations
2 Coloured Plates
rifttll ^« RA • nanf»r 7« fid ''<"'<'»« ■ ^- '='°«'' ^^d.. paper 2d. ; N.Z., cloth 9d..
viom, OS. oa. , paper, ^s. oa. pap^, gj . b. and f.. doth u. 6d.. paper, u. 4d.
LESLIE SALT LICKS
A NEW FOOD FOR SHEEP, COWS, AND HORSES
Leslie Salt Licks which supersede rock salt are composed of pure sterilized
salt, together with lime, a small proportion of Epsom salts, and other
scientifically blended ingredients. Thej' are the finest conditioner and
animal medicine known, and will do more to prevent disease than any
medical treatment. 2/- per block ; or 22/6 per case of 12 blocks (plus
freight to country centres). Order from saddler, produce merchant, black-
smith, butter factory, general store, or any of the following agents : —
Gippsland and Korthern Selling and Ins. Co. Ltd., Melb. ; James McEwan
and Co. Pty. Ltd., Melb. ; Price, Griffiths & Co., Melb. ; J. Bartram & Son
Pty.Ltd., Melb. ; Lyall&Son, Nth. Melb. &Geelong ; New Zealand Loan and
Mercantile Co. Ltd., Collins & King-sts., Melb. ; or Alex. Mair & Co., Melb.
The Electrolytic Refining and Smelting Company of Australia Limited
COPPER
OUR prodact is equal to the best
imported brands on the market and
we GUARANTEE THE PURITY
ORDERS are being booked for the
coming season.
(Bluestone)
We are Manufacturers of E.S.A. HIGH
GRADE COPPER SULPHATE (Bluestone)
for SPRAYING and PICKLING PURPOSES
and also for ELECTRICAL PURPOSES
SULPHATE
The
Manaser
FULL INFORMATION as to PRICE and DELIVERIES will be supplied ON APPLICATION to—
The Electrolytic Refining & Smelting Company of Australia Ltd.
^i^^.^..^^ PORT KEMBLA, ■^' "^ *" ^
>v
Journnl of Ag-riculture, Victoria.
[10 June, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. VICTORIA
^^1 NOW AVAILABLE ['^g
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. McALPINE,
GOVERNMENT VEGETABLE PATHOLOGIST.
With Appendicei by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologitt),
on Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (CoTernnieni
Entomolositt), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
235 Pa«et (Cloth). 58 Full Platei. Prirp ^ /> Poitage: Commonwealth, 2d.: New Zealand, Sd.;
176 Illnitrationt. 1 IICC, %J/ British and Foreign, 1/4.
Application! accompanied by Poital Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director •!
Apiculture, Melbourne. Victoria, Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and IV. Percy Wilkinson.)
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, la.
Postage : C, IJd. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, Jd. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage ; C, Id. ; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEXfT METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION WITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage: C, Id.; N.Z., 2d.; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, \\d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON W^INE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage :
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
By D. Mc Alpine, Gocernment Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Postage: C. 2d.: N.Z., 8d. : B. & F., Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C. 2id.: N.Z., 9d.; B. & F., Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. Postage: C, Id.; N.Z,.
3d. : B. & F.. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C. lid.:
N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3>. Postage: C, 2d.: N.Z..
8d. : B. & F., Is. 4d.
Applioationt accompanied by Poital Note or Cheque covering price and postage to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the ComTnonwealth to be mad* by Pott Office Order.
10 June, 1918.]
Journal of Agricultuf'e, Victoria.
Leave nothing to Chance
Your Water Supply, especially.
Needs Forethought
We shall be glad to post you particulars of " Billa-
bong" Windmill Plants, which are doing good
service throughout Australia. The "Billabong"
Mill has been designed to meet Australian condi-
tions, and its valuable and exclusive features are
the result of many years manufacturing and selling
experience. It is made at our Melbourne works
by Expert Windmill Engineers, and is built for
hard service, and a long life. Made in sizes from
6 ft. to 20 ft.
Send
for
Catalogue
Here are a few of the special features —
Ball-bearing Bedplate, Wheel-bearing Guide
Rod, Smooth-running Gears, Efficient Sail
Surface, Thorough Lubrication, Minimum
of Wearing Parts, Central Lift of Load.
'm^^j^^:mm:;^i:
Agents —
W^.A.— W. D. Moore & Co.
QLD.— Messrs. Dalgety & Co. Ltd.
S.A.— J. H. Horwood & Co. Ltd.
FREMANTLE
BRISBANE
ADELAIDE
Makers of
Windmills
and Pumps
Makers of
Troughing
and Pluming
Melbourne and Sydney
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 June, 1918.
Two Separators with One Message
Save! Save! Save!
The "Viking"
Costs half the price of other high grade separators, which it beats
hands down for durability and efficiency. It skims every particle
of cream. The bowl is self-balancing, plates are shaped. There
are no discs to bend or get lost. Cleaning is easy and thorough.
A Month's Free Trial
given with every separator. Return at our expense if you are not satisfied. Made in various sizes.
15 galls, per hour to I 13 galls, per hour. Two years' guarantee given with every machine.
Can be purchased (or £1 Deposit, and £1 Monthly. Send (or special catalog.
Last 400 "Favorite" Separators at present prices
These have just been landed. Future shipments will carry a big increase in price.
Buy one now and save pounds. The " Favorite" is the best household separator
for the man with one or two cows. A boy can turn it, and it works perfectly. Full
skimming capacity guaranteed. Only two parts in bowl. Easy to clean. Solid,
compact, strong, & efficient. Thislast 400 are sure to sell rapidly. Secure yours now.
No. 1 — 11 gal. per hour
No. 2— IS gal. per hour
Terms —£, 1 down
£ 1 monthly
Lang will Bros. & Da vies Pty. Ltd.
1 1 0 - 1 1 4- Sturt Street, South Melbourne
Agent for Tangye Oil, Steam, and Gas Engine*
JJOXA
NO
Danger
of
FIRE!
:: :: THE WELL-KNOWN ::
RABBIT DESTROYER
In 2 !b. Tins, 30/- per doz.
FELTON, GRIMWADE, & CO., Melbourne
1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
To Increase Profits
from Maize
Every Maize Grower should
have an
"INVINCIBLE"
CORN SHELLER
Saves tiuR-. nioiie\ , and trouble ;
also gi\'es extra clean maize
owing to its special oscillating-
screens. Heavy frames of sea-
soned timber. Easy running:.
Nothing to get wrung.
— Capacity
•i.T bushels hour
One Hole Sheller,
"T* IJ,^1q QKaII^xv ^^"^ hand or power. Fitted with pullev.
I WO nOie Oneiier, capacity M to 60 bushels hour — "-
- £10 15/.
V^""^ Proprietary Limited ^*— -^
554-66 & S82-fi8 Collins St., MELBOURNE
CREDIT FONCIER
Loar
UP
In
A
and h'om I \ per ce
IB n\ years.
Loans granted
made (reehold at a
N
Loans may be
charge if pud off w
Forms may b<
by writing to —
The Inspc
EI
IS on F^
TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATI
sums from £50 to £2,0
t 6 per cent. Intere
nt. in reduction o[ principal, whic
on Freeholds, or Crown Leasehc
ny time on payment of the balanc
0 Charge for Mortgage De
paid off on any half-yearly pay daj
ithin the first five years, but no pen
; obtained at any Branch of the Sts
ictor-General, The State Sav
JZABETH STREET. MELBOURT
irms
ON
00
St
h pays off the lo&n
)lds which could be
e of Crown Rents.
ed
\ subject to a small
alty after five yean.
ite Savings Bank, or
ings Bank,
4E.
JoKiual of Af/riculi'iire, Victoria.
[10 June, 1918..
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
ProTides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
- agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE YEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAY BE ENROLLED AT ANY TIME
Total Fees —
£25/-/- per annum.
Alternative Courses — •
(a) Diploma Course .. Three Years.
(b) One Year's Course.
The college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Dookie, 1,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS.— Agriculture. Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Farmers.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM, 2,336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raising, Dairying,
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit, &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS, Esq., Secretary, Council of Agricultural Education,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insuranee
Society Ltd.
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Guarantee, Plate
Glau, Personal Accident and Sickness,
Employers' Liability, Workmen's Compen-
sation. Public Risk, Motor Car, and Burflary,
S^ INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
10 June, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Oarron
Boxes & Oil Oap«.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
stood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wbeels Guaranteed for 3 years agaiast Breakage, &c,
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. H tons, £27.
Wheels, 36' and 32* dia. 4' Tyres. Table, 9^ x 5J feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 owt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 ewt.
These Wheel* art guaranteed and will last for all time.
Higher Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to iO toif.
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP — Truck body, and all claues of little Wagons for Farm and Station work.
WaKons Shipped to all Ports in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: BRUCE STREET, :: :;
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
This Journa
offers exceptional
: : advantages : :
To Stock Owners,
Produce Agents
and Stock Sales-
men, Implement
Makers, Sellers
of Milking Ma-
chines and Dairy
Utensils, Orchard
Appliances and
Materials, and all
Farmers' Supplies
for Advertising
7,.")00 copies per montli Guaranteed
Circulation thioughoat the Country
Districts of Victoria and amontrst
Farmers of the Commonwealtli, leucli-
iug also country professional men,
tradesmen, schoolmasters, teachers,
and the like. Exceptionally satisfac-
tory results have followed the adver
tising of Stud Stock in this Journal.
^fSir'St:^ Mr. J. J. WRIGHT and Mrs. HEMMING
c/o Editor. Department of Agriculture, Melbourne.
Journal of Ayriculture, Victoria.
[10 June, 1918.
W ft W Ml
Fig. 233. Ornamental
Haadgale. 4 ft high
Fig. 211 Ornamental Fig, 188b Ornamenul
Handgate 4 ft. high Handgate 4 ft- high
CYCLONE Pty. Ltd. *^^Z\1VoVnii'^
w
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
-Propy. Ltd.-
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
andtORNINA MANUFACTURERS
-ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR
GRAIN TO US.
t
BOX 53,
G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
A-
4
10 June, 1918.] Joitmol of Agriculture, Victoria.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If YOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
■J OK nidi of A r//i<'ultiire, Victoria.
. [10 June, 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Manacins Director.
EDWARD HTZGERALD, Esq.. LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE, Esq.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE, M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN. Esq. DAVID HUNTER, Esq.
This Company Acta as EMOOutor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trust** sf
8ettl*m*nts, and Agent for Abs*ntees under Pow*r of Attorn*y.
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10 June, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
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Journal of A f/rlrtilt iire, Virforia. [10 June, 1918.
SEED POTATOES
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of the following varieties, ex Depart-
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THe JOURNAL
or
^fte department of Mgrmliure
OF
VICTORIA
Vol. XVI. Part 6. 10th June, 1918.
REPORT ON THE SEVENTH VIUTORIAN EGG-LAYING
COMPETITION. 1917-18.
Conducted at the Burnley School of Primary Agriculture by the
Department of Agriculture, Victoria.
Bj/ A. Hart, Chief Poultry Expert.
In presenting my rejiort of tlie Egg-layiug Competitions, concluded
at Burnley in March last, there are a few matters, to which reference
has not been previously made, that call for conmient.
The decision to extend the competitions over a period of only eleven
instead of twelve months, as formerly, will prevent comparisons of the
figures for the last competitions being readily made with those of previous
years.
The most interesting result of the 1917-18 competitions is the per-
formance of a Black Orpington hen, owned by Mr. C. E. Graham, which
was entered in the Individual Orpington, Wet Mash Test, and which
laid 307 eggs in the period of the competition, viz., eleven months. As
it appeared likely that this bird would establish a new record if permitted
to remain for a full year, arrangements were made accordingly. The
result fully, justified this confidence, for her total number of eggs for
the twelve months, 335, is a world's recoi'd. This excellent result is
all the more remarkable when it is remembered that the average weight
of the eggs was approximately 26^ ounces per dozen.
Another fine performance was that of a White Leghorn, belonging to
Messrs. Rogen and Andrew, in the Wet Mash Test for Individual
Leghorns. During the competition this bird laid 300 eggs, and, as it
seemed probable that, if given the opportunity, her total for twelve
months would exceed previous records for Leghorns, she was retained
7416.
322 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
at Burnley for a month after the competitions were ended. Unfor-
tunately, just at the beginning of this month, the bird began to moult.
Mr. C. E. Graham's Black Orpington (laid 335 eggs in twelve months).
Eogen and Andrew's Winning Bird in Test for Highest Number of Eggs
Laid during Competition.
Of course, her egg production then ceased, and only a single egg was
added to her total for the eleven months of the competition.
10 June, 1918.] Report on Egg-layiyig Competition.
323
The value of the tests at Burnley cannot be over-estimated. The
Aveekly reports showing the results obtained in the several sections are
read with interest by poultry-breeders, and the final figures are always
waited for Avith very great interest. Eecords made at Burnley are of
special interest to those interested in egg production, for the competi-
tions, being carried out under the supervision of Government officials,
the figures are unhesitatingly accepted as correct; and big prices have
been paid, both in the Commonwealth and overseas, for birds that have
been prominent in the tests.
It may be claimed for the competitions that they have done much
to improve the laying qualities of fowls generally. If the figures of
the last competition be compared with those of previous years, it will
be seen that there has been an improvement in the quantity of eggs
Ideal Single Testing Shed at Burnley.
obtained, not only from the birds in the individual tests, but also from
those entered in the pen competitions. This latter result is even more
satisfactory than the establishment of a world's record by one bird, for
the improvement shown in the several pens entered is bound to be
reflected in the thousands of flocks throughout the State.
On comparing the returns from birds fed on different foods and kept
under different conditions, it will be noticed that the best total average
performance was made by single-pen birds. The highest number of
eggs from a single fowl was also obtained from a single-pen bird. The
average production from the whole of the single-pen birds of all varieties
was slightly over 200 eggs per bird for the eleven months over which the
competitions extended. The best results were yielded by Black Orping-
tons, 39 of which gave an average return of 211 each. The breed
giving second-best results was the White Leghorn (Wet Mash Section),
Iz
324 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Junk, 1918.
with an average return of 209 eggs from 54 birds. In the Dry Mash Sec-
tion, 23 White Leghorns laid, on an average, 205^ eggs each during the
competitions. In the class for those heavy breeds other than Black
Orpingtons, which included Rhode Island Reds, Silver Wyandottes,
White Plymouth Rocks, &c., 19 hens averaged 175 eggs each. From
the light breeds other than White Leghorns, which included Minorcas,
Spanish, and Anconas, an average of 150 eggs was obtained from
11 birds — one Minorca hen giving the very fine total number of 250.
In the various competitions for pens of six birds, White Leghorns
were to the front. The birds in the Dry Mash Section, numbering 144,
laid, on an average, 190.201 eggs each; and the average of the 264 in the
Wet Mash Section was 190.178. This shoAVs a slight margin in favour of
the dry mash; but, as a much greater number of birds were fed on
wet mash diet, the comparison is not on equal lines. Turning now to
the heavy breeds, 120 birds in the Wet Mash Section averaged 169 eggs
for the eleven months, and 48 fed on the dry mash principle gave an
average of 157 eggs. The average yield of each bird in the teams
competition, 576 in all, was 183. This is a very satisfactory result,
more especially as, in making the computation, no deduction has been
made for birds that have died or been withdrawn from the competitions.
The results of the recent competitions, as well as those of previous
years, show that when birds become accustomed to being penned singly,
their yield of eggs is not decreased. The conditions under which the
birds are penned allow each bird to have a full view of the others on
either sides, as only wire netting separates them. This, of course, is
much better than if the partitions prevented the birds frona seeing each
other. For competitions, single-pen testing has been found the most
satisfactory method — indeed, it is the only thoroughly reliable way of
ascertaining the egg production of each bird. For the same reason,
single-pen testing is equally valuable for the breeder desiring to select
the eggs of his most productive fowls. A team of six birds may yield
a big total return, but it may be that one of the team is an indifferent
layer, and that, but for her presence, the result would have been still
better.
Methods of Feeding.
The feeding of the birds which competed in the several tests in the
last competitions was on lines which can be practised by ahnost any
poultry-keeper.
The wet mash was composed (by measure) of two parts wheat
pollard, two parts bran, one part pea meal, one part oaten pollard, and
one part chaffed green-stuff (lucerne, clover, &c.), and to this was
added a small ration of minced liver (about 5 per cent, of the whole).
This feed was mixed to a crumbly consistency with liver soup, and a
very little salt added. About 2 ounces of the mash was allowed to each
hen for the morning meal, and a further ounce was given at mid-day.
The grain ration, which formed the evening meal, consisted of six parts
wheat, two parts oats, and one part crushed maize. About an ordinary
handful of this was allowed for each bird, the amount being slightly
varied at the discretion of the attendant. This mixture was fed to the
birds in both the wet and dry mash tests.
10 JuNE^ 1918.] Report on Egg-laying Competition.
325
Green Food Essential for Poultry to insure Health and increase Egg Production.
Returned Soldiers cutting the First Crop of Green Barley for Fowls
at Dookie Agricultural College.
Returned Soldiers cutting Rape at Dookie Agricultural College for Fowls.
326
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
The dry mash was made up of one and a half parts bran, one part
pollard, half a part oaten pollard, one part green leaf (lucerne), and a
third of a part pea meal. Boiled minced liver, at the rate of from 1| to
2 ounces, was allowed daily to each pen of six birds. Greenstuff was fed
liberally to all the fowls, supplies of lucerne, green maize, silver beet,
rape, thistles, barley, and clover being given as available. Fresh water
was always provided, raid a regular supply of grit, shell, and ehaieoal
was always before them.
The value of green food for poultry cannot be over-estimated. There
is no doubt that its use increases egg-production; and, further, it will
help to keep the birds in good health and condition. Suitable green
food should always form a considerable portion of the daily ration.
One has only to note the large quantity of green food which hens running
in a paddock will eat daily, to understand the necessity for keeping
penned fowls liberally supplied with lucerne, thistles, &c., &c.
Interior of one of the Fowl Houses at Burnley.
General Remarks on the Competition.
The total number of eggs laid by the 750 birds in the whole of the
tests was 134,726, and, reckoning the average price as Is. 3d. per dozen,
the return may be roughly stated at £700.
The prize for the greatest number of eggs was won by Mr. C. E.
Graham's Black Orpington hen, which produced 335 eggs. At an
average price of Is. 3d. per dozen, this number of eggs would have
yielded £1 15s. The prize for a team producing the highest number of
eggs went to Mr. G. McDonnell, whose 'six White Leghorns laid 1,405
eggs. At an average of Is. 3d. per dozen, these eggs were worth
£7 6s. 3d. For the heaviest average eggs laid by any pen, the prize was
allotted to Messrs. Bennett and Chapman. Their team of Black
10 Junk, 1918.] Report on Egg-laying Competition.
327
Orpingtons laid eggs wliich averaged, approximately, 25| ounces per
dozen during tlie period of the competition ; and the prize for the
heaviest average eggs laid by any individual bird went to Mr. C. E.
Graham, whose Black Orpington " Itecord Queen " laid eggs which
averaged 26^ ounces per dozen. Though the actual average price realized
for the eggs with delivery taken at Bvirnley was approximately la. Id.
per dozen, Is. 3d. has been used for our calculations, except in the case
of the eggs laid during the winter tests, as the equivalent of the
market price (including cartage, delivery at the market, &c.).
A complete list of the prize-winners is given on pages 337-8.
HIGHEST WHOLESALE
MARKET FRICESOF EGGS FROM 15TH APRIL. 1917, TO 14TH MARCH. 1918.
FTi ce
s. d.
M'RIL
MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUG.
SEPT.
OCT.
NOV.
DEC.
JAN.
FEB.
14th
MARCH
I 10
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Necessity for Maintaining Type, &c.
The diversity in type and general appearance of some breeds, parti-
cularly the White Leghorns, competing in the tests now being conducted,
may be easily noted. While breeders are justified in using every endea-
vour to increase egg production, they should also pay strict attention
to the maintenance of type, according to the standards which are laid
down for the different breeds. When type is not considered, there is
undoubtedly a danger of the birds' constitutions being weakened, and
this means ultimate disaster. A proof of the necessity for conforming
to the type and character of the different breeds was given by an expert
writer when commenting on tests recently held at Gatton College,
328 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
Queensland. He says, " The type of the competing hirds was most
variable, and shows most emphatically that severe steps must be taken
to save some of the breeds from losing every resemblance to the standard.
A number of the competitors seem to be under the impression that when
more size and closer approach to the standard were asked for, Avhat was
required was the biggest, and often the coarsest birds they could find
in their yards were sent along. The consequence has been more broodi-
ness, bad laying averages, and keen disappointment."
Price of Eggs and Poultry.
The price of eggs is now very high, but as the season advances, large
flocks of pullets and hens will come into full profit on the poultry-
farms throughout the State. Almost every year, during the spring
and summer months, the supply of eggs produced here is in excess of
Flock of Utility Pullets, hatched in September in order to avoid Second
Moult and to insure Winter Eggs.
the quantity required to meet local normal needs. The graph on page
327 shows the highest wholesale price per dozen during the period of the
last competitions at Burnley. From it the reader will see at a glance the
high price of eggs from the beginning of the competitions in April, and
during the month of May, and the gradual decline in the month of
October, when eggs were worth only Bid. per dozen.
The problem to be solved is how to dispose of the excess at a rate
that will be satisfactory to the poultry-farmer. "With new-laid eggs
selling in England at 5d. each at present, it would seem that there is
a market for Victorian surplus eggs; but, owing to the difficulties in
transport now obtaining, the question of selling in the markets of the
Mother Country must be held over. However, when peace once more
returns, the matter of sending eggs overseas in cold storage is one that
is certain to come up for consideration.
10 June, 1918.] Beport on Egg-laying Competition. 329
Between the English and Victorian prices for all classes of table
birds there is a great difference. In our Melbourne markets, second-
grade table birds, such as fat hens of first or second season, as well as
first-class table poultry, may be purchased at a lower price per pound
than beef or mutton. This fact alone shows that the poultry-farmer
is scarcely obtaining as good a return from one branch of his industry
as he might reasonably look for. No doubt, when the war is over, and
shipping becomes normal again, much of our poviltry will be sent to
the other side of the globe, and, with this outlet, local prices will harden.
A number of our returned soldiers have decided to become poultry-
farmers, but it will be difficult for them to carry on the work with profit
to themselves unless the sale of some of their produce overseas is
assured.
Hints to Prospective Competitors.
When single birds are entered, there is not so much trouble for
beginners to select birds for laying competitions as in the choosing
teams of six pullets. Competitors in past tests have learnt, wholly or
partly by experience, the best methods of selection ; and, if new nomina-
tors wish to succeed, they must acquire this knowledge. A few hints
on the subject, therefore, will not be out of place. When a pen of six
is required, fifteen or sixteen birds of the same age and strain should
be placed in an observation pen, where the number of eggs laid by each
may be carefully noted. The poorer layers should be gradually culled
out, and no doubt in two or three weeks the number remaining will be
reduced to eight or ten. A little further observation will serve to show
the best six, and these should be sent to the competition. Where single
birds are to be entered, it is advisable to place pullets of varying ages
and strains in the observation pen. While the birds are in the pens,
they should be fed on similar lines to those followed at Burnley, so that
when the competition commences the competing birds will not have to
undergo a change in diet. Particulars of the food given to the fowls
at Burnley are mentioned later, and it should not be difficult for owners
to adopt these rations. The crates used for sending the birds to Burnley
should be large and roomy, so that the inmates may not be too closely
packed. A heavy feed should not be given to the birds immediately
before putting them into the crate. A few handfuls of grain may be
placed in the litter which, for preference, should consist of coarsely-cut
chaff, as it is easy for the birds to scratch in such material for the grain.
The address should be affixed on the top of the crate, and the owner's
name also indicated. JSTotification should be given to the authorities
at Burnley of the dates crates are being sent from the consigning
stations.
Conclusion,
Every credit is due to Mr. Macauley for the way in which he per-
formed the arduous duties in looking after the various competing birds,
and there is no doubt that the increased egg-production at the competi-
tions was, to a large extent, due to his untiring efforts during the whole
period of the tests.
330 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
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10 June,, 1918.] Eeport on Egg-laying Competition.
337
Prize List of Seventh Victorian Egg=laying Competition, 1917=18.
For the gr'atest total numb r of fggs laid by a pen in each Class of
Sections A and B.
Owner.
Breed.
Total
number
eggs laid.
Average
number
per bird.
1. G. McDonnell
2. S. Buscurab
3. W. M. Bayles
1. W. H. Robbing
2. John Walker
3. W. M. Bayles
1. A. L. Bull
2. McKinnon Utility
Farm . .
3. Oaklands Poultry
1. A. D. McLean
2. Mrs. T. W. Pearce
3. W. M. Bayles
Section A.— Groups of Six Birds.
Light Breeds.— Wet Mash.
White Leghorns .
Light Breeds.— Dry Mash
White Leghorns
Heavy Breeds.— Wet Mash.
Black Orpingtons . . 1
Poultry
Farm . .
Heavy Breeds.— Dry Mash
Black Orpingtons . .
1,274
1,204
1.201
1,105
1,100*
1,030
212
201
200
184
183
172
Section B.— Individual Birds
Leghorns— Wet Mash
1. Rogen and Andrew
2. R. Berry
3. E. A. McIntoshBrown
Izard and Tierney
A. Chung
E. A. Mcintosh Brown
Leghorns.— Dry Mash.
All Light Breeds other than Leghorns
1 ■ Champion Poultry Farm . . | Minorca . .
2. A. Rushworth . . • • Black Spanish
3. Rogen and Andrew . • 1 Ancona . .
300t
271
266
249 I
247
238 I
Wet Mash.
250 1
223
187 I
C. E. Graharti
J. C. Mickelburough
Oaklands Poultry Farm
Orpingtons, any colour.— Wet Mash.
.. I Black Orpingtons .. 1 307{
275
All Heavy Breeds other than Orpingtons.— Wet Mash.
1. W. E. Boyes
2. A. Bennett
3. Mrs. G. R. Bald
Rhode Island Red .
White
Rock
Plymouth
234
232
228
Market value
at Is. 3d.
per doz.
£ s. d.
1,405
1,399
1,393
234
233
232
7 6
7 5
7 5
4
7
1
1,3771"
1,3241
1,313
229
221
219
7 3
6 17
6 16
4
11
9
* Five birds only. , , . , -j on-,
t Bird retained till 14th April, 1918. Total number of eggs laid, 301.
t Bird retained till 14th April, 1918. Total number of eggs laid, 335.
6 12 8
6
5
5
6
5
1
5
15
1
5
14
7
5
7
3
1 11 3
6 0
5 9
4 9
1 6 0
1 3 2
0 19 5
1 11 8
9 9
338
Journal of AgricuUure, Victoria. [10 Jlne, 1918.
For the great st number of eggs laid by pens of Light and Heavy Breeds
during the first four months of the Competition, i.e., from 15th April to 14th
August, 1917 (Winter test).
Section A. — Groups of Six Birds.
Light Breeds.
1. Mis3 N. B. Bruford . . i White Leghorns . . j 489
2. G. McDonnell . . . . 1 „ „ . . | 483
Section B. — Individual Birds.
Light Breeds.
1. Rogen and Andrew • . . 1 White Leghorn* . . I 103
2. A. Chung . . . . I „ ,, • • I 98
Section A. — Groups of Six Birds.
Heavy Breeds.
81
80
£ s. d.
2 10 11
2 10 3
0 10 9
0 10 2
Black Orpingtons . .
511
85
2 13 3
470
78
2 8 11
1. Oaklands Poultry Farm
2. McKinnon Utility Poultry
Farm
Section B. — Individual Birds.
Heavy Breeds.
1. C. E. Graham . . . . 1 Black Orpingtons . . I 115
2. Morville Poultry Farm . . 1 „ „ . . I 102
0 11 11
0 10 7
For the pen which shows the gr atest average weight p^r dozen eggs laid
during th? whole period of the competition.
Section A. — ^Group of Six Birds.
1. Bennett and Chapman
Black Orpingtons . .
1,114
Section B. —Individual Birds.
1. 0. E. Graham
Black Orpingtons . .
307*
(Average weight, 25|
ounces approxi-
mately per dozen)
(Average weight, 26i
ounces approxi-
mately per dozen)
For the pen the eggs from which r> ahzed the highest mark t value
throughout the competition.
Section A. — Group of Six Birds.
1. G. McDonnell . . . . I \Miite Leghorns . . I 1,405 I 234 I 7 6 3
I I I |at 1/3 per doz.
Section B. — Individual Birds.
1. C. E. Graham
Black Orpingtons . .
307"
I 1 11 11
at 1/3 per doz.
* This bird was retained till 14th AprU, 1918. Total number of eggs laid, 335.
10 Junk, 1918.] American AgricuUnre. 339
AMERICAN AGRICULTUllE.
Report to the Director of Agriculture on Agricultural Education
Methods and Agricultural Research Work in the State of
California, by A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc, Agricultural
Superintendent.
(Continued from page 275.)
COUNTY FAEM BUREAUX.
Farmers' institutes are not held in counties where there is a farm
adviser. Here the meetings of the County Farm Bureaux take their
place.
The farm adviser county agent movement is one of the most recent
developments of American extension work. Judging from the brief
experience I have had of it, and from what I have observed in farming
districts, I should say that it is one of the most promising agricultural
movements of the time, and is destined to play a big part in developing
better systems of farming throughout the country. The Federal Go-
vernment now works in co-operation with the States, and provides half
the money required to pay the salaries of the farm advisers. In Cali-
fornia', the practice of appointing farm advisers is rather different
from that of the States. California requires that one-fifth of the
farmers of a county must join an organization known as the Farm
Bureau before a county adviser will be assigned to that county.
The farmers must request that a farm adviser be stationed in the
county, and the Board of Supervisors (or the Local Government Board)
must make an appropriation of $2,000 per year to cover the office and
travelling expenses of the farm adviser. When these preliminaries are
arranged, the University appoints the adviser, and the Federal Govern-
ment and the University pays the adviser's salary, which usually ranges
from $1,500 to $2,000 per annum, and provides a motor car for travel-
ling.
In each county the people who join the Farm Bureau are divided
into ten or twelve groups, called Farta Bureau Centres. Each of these
centres receives a visit from the farm adviser once a month. The local
groups of farmers elect a chairman, who acts as director for that
centre.
The farm adviser responds to any individual calls for consultation,
help, or advice, the desire for which may have arisen during the month,
and of which the director of that particular centre has been notified.
In the evening, the farm adviser holds a meeting. Thus there are
each month ten meetings in each county having a farm adviser, where
previously, under the system of farmers' institutes, one or two meetings
were held during the year.
The directors of each farm centre meet once a month at the farm
adviser's office, to transact business and shape a policy for the Farm
Bureau. These meetings usually last two hours. Each farmer who is
a member of the Farm Bureau pays $1 per annum toward the organiza-
tion.
I inspected the work of farm advisers in three counties — Keren, Los
Angeles, and San Joaquin.
There is no doubt that the organization is doing splendid work.
340 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
I may remark that G. C. Kreutzer, formerly of the Water Commis-
sion, Victoria, is farm adviser in Kern County, Bakersfield.
I visited him at his office at Bakersfield. He informed me that
Kern County had thirteen Farm Bureaux, and over 600 members, each
of whom paid a dollar for organization work. He had an assistant — a
young graduate of Berkeley — fine office and equipment, and two motor
cars.
He appeared to be doing very good work in the county, and the
membership and number of meetings was rapidly increasing.
The function of the farm advisers is to act as clearing houses for
information for farmers of the county. They bring the information of
the Agricultural College, the Experiment Station, and the Department
of Agriculture to the farmer needing it.
The adviser is in all cases a scientifically trained man — one who has
graduated from an agricultural course at the University, and who has
had practical experience of agriculture to supplement his scientific
trainings. He spends his whole time in the county, having his offices
and head-quarters at the county seat.
His work is, broadly : — -
(1) To advise on soil treatment, fertilization, crop adaptation
and culture, animal husbandry.
To answer any questions and give any advice to those who
apply for information.
(2) Organization work for the farmers of the community, e.g.,
giving assistance to boys' clubs, farmers' organizations,
marketing and buying organizations. Kreutzer, for
example, in Kern County, organized a series of stock sales
for the sale of hogs, calves, and sheep. It appears that,
in California, there are no regular stock sales such as we
have in Australia in country centres and in the metropolis.
The packers and butchers merely visit farms and settle
what prices they will pay. In Kern County a series of
stock sales were organized on what the farmers called
" the Australian system," and these sales attracted large
attendances of buyers.
(3) Investigation of the larger problems of farm management
in the county.
(4) Demonstration of these principles and practices through the
co-operation of the interested farmers.
The salary of the farm advisers is usually $1,500 to $1,800. In
California there are 58 counties, and 29 of these have farm advisers.
These 29 counties have three-quarters of all the farms of the State.
N^o farm adviser is stationed in any county in California unless the
county carries out the following : —
(1) Enlists 20 per cent, of the farmers of the county as members
of the Farm Bureau, and secures $1 from each for
organization work.
(2) The Board of Supervisors of the county must appropriate
$2,000 per annum for expenses of the county agent.
In each county usually twelve farm bureaux are organized, and these
hold meetings once a month. County-wide campaigns for county better-
ment along definite agricultural lines are often projected by the farm
10 JuxE, 1918.] American Agriculture. 341
adviser, and organized througli committees from the Board of Directors
and from farm bureau centres. For example, " contesting associations,"
" boys' clubs," " squirrel extermination," " increased food production,"
" food conservation," " drainage control," " electric power extension,"
" pure seed campaigns," and many other projects have been undertaken
by farm advisers working through the farm bureau centres.
It may be remarked that no county is ever approached to introduce
the farm adviser's system. The initiative and organization must arise
in the county.
Tbe farm adviser's work is organized through the county Farm
Bureau. The adviser travels through the county on schedule, calling
at each farm centre in turn, where he visits only those farmers on ivliom
he has been requested to call, the calls being scheduled in advance by the
local farm bureau director.
Over 1,300 counties in the United States now have farm advisers.
The movement only started a few years ago, and it is too early to say
what the ultimate results will be. Probably ten years must elapse
before the full value of the movement can be estimated. There is no
question, however, that in California fine results are being achieved.
For example, in 1917, in nineteen counties in California, 8,177 farmers
were visited on their farms, 22,864 calls were made by farmers at the
farm adviser's office, 2,529 meetings were held under the auspices of
county farm bureaux, 5,049 meetings were attended by the farm ad-
visers, and the total attendance registered was 103,792.
Large increases in areah for crops have been registered in counties
where farm advisers have been stationed, and much progressive w^ork
with live stock and orchards have been registered.
BOYS' SCHOOL CLUBS.
These have done excellent work in California. Each farm adviser
has general control of all extension activities in his county. One thou-
sand nine hundred and twenty boys in California were organized in
high schools and elementary schools last year. The work was only
begun two years ago, but it is anticipated that the number of boys taking
part in club work will rapidly increase.
The work in the clubs relates to raising crops and animals for com-
petition puii^oses. The crops usually selected are potatoes, grain,
sorghum, beans, vegetables, and sugar beets. Wheat is not used for
crop competitions. The animals usually used for club work are pigs
and poultry.
Graduates of Berkeley are usually chosen as club leaders, but in
many cases teachers of high schools are selected for the task.
In the latter case, the University pays the teacher a sum to cover
travelling expenses and provide a small bonus.
Dean Hunt says he does not believe in volunteer work; he believes
in payment for all services rendered by the teachers.
The clubs are the means by which the boys make money in farming
by the practice of it.
The usual sizes of the plots are : — Potatoes, ^ acre ; grain sorghum,
1 acre; corn, 1 acre; beans (Tepary, Mexican red, or Pink), ^ acre;
vegetables, i acre.
342 Journal of Agriculture, Vlrtoriu. [10 June, 1918.
These boys' clubs have reached a very high pitch of dovolopment in
Utah, where, I understand, in a total population of some 400,000 people,
there are not less than 15,000 boys engaged in farming crops and rais-
ing stock. The Pig Clubs are usually worked as follows: —
The boys select two pigs, eight to ten weeks old, and keep
them four months. They are then six months old, and should weigh
between 175 and 200 lbs. They keep records every day of the total
quantities of feed used. This feed is valued at cost. The total time
and feed costs are carefully checked out, and the profit on raising the
pigs after charging all expenses is determined. The boy then writes an
essay on " How I raised my pigs." It may be mentioned that the banks
will lend money at 6 per cent, to any boy in a pig club for purchase of
pigs on the boy's note of hand.
After the boys' high school clubs were organized there was a move-
ment established to bring the clubs to the intermediate schools, and the
University was asked to lend itself to the organization of such clubs.
I^xperience in high school clubs has shown, however, that the success
of boys' clubs of any sort depended on supervision. It is essential to
the success of the club that the work of each individual be inspected
at least once a m.onth during the progress of the work.
It was obviously impossible for the college directly to undertake so
stupendous a task with its present resources, and it was unwilling to
make the attempt under conditions which spelled failure. Hence it pro-
posed to Boards of Education and to principals of high schools that it
would lay out plans for the conduct of boys' agricultural clubs in the
public schools, and help the school authorities to organize them, if they
would assume the entire responsibility for their supervision.
Already in ISTapa County the High School, through its teacher of
agriculture, C. L. Hampton, has started the movement of boys' agricul-
tural clubs. Six such clubs Avere conducted in Xapa County during
the past year, and the prize winner of each attended the third annual
convention of the Boys' High School Agricultural Clubs, held at Davis
in October.
In the past, high school teachers of agriculture have been itinerant
in character, going from school to school from year to year, remaining
but nine or ten months in any one community. It is highly desirable
for the future development of California country life that these men
should become established parts of the community in which they are
placed. They should spend the entire calendar year, with a vacation at
Christmas, in farming activities of benefit to their own people.
In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this plan, the College of
Agriculture, through the Agricultural Extension Division, has proposed
to the high schools and to the Boards of Education that they should
employ these teachers for twelve months in the year, and furnish them
with adequate transportation in order to reach their work out on the
farms. If at least three months is spent in agricultural extension acti-
vities, and if these activities are under the direction and supervision of
the University of California e$200 per year will be contributed by
the United States Department of Agriculture, and by the University of
California, to the salary of each of the agricultural instructors.
Already ten Boards of Education have officially entered into such
an agreement. Briefly, the agreement is this : That the teacher of
10 June, 1918.]
Ajnerican Agriculture.
343
agriculture agrees to spend three months in agricultural extension
activities. The Board of Education agrees to spend $200 for his
expenses, while the United States Department of Agriculture and the
University of California agree to add $200 to his salary and supervise
his work.
Expenditure of Department of Agriculture, University of
California.
The total expenditure for 1917-18 was $605,188, and the estimated
expenditure for 1918-19, $638,584. The detailed results are summarized
in Table I. hereunder: —
It will be seen that of the $638,000 to be expended in 1918, $470,000
represents State appropriations, and the balance Federal Fund.
No fees are received from students, as instruction is free. A student,
however, must be a graduate of a high school to enter the University.
Table I.
Budget for Salaries, Maintenance, and Equipment of the Depart-
ment OF Agriculture, University of California, for the
BlENNIUM ENDING 30tH JuNE, 1919, ShOWING THE DISTRIBUTION
OF Funds.
1917-18.
1918-19.
1917-19.
State Appropriation
General Agriculture
Hatch Fund . .
Adams Fund . .
Morrill Fund . .
State Appropriation Insecticide and Fungicide Control
Carnegie Income
Federal Smith-Lever Fund
State Smith-Lever Fund
$430,000
$40,000
$15,000
$15,000
$27,500
$5,000
$3,820
$39,434
$29,434
$445,000
$40,000
$15,000
$15,000
$27,500
$5,000
$3,820
$48,632
$38,632
$875,000
$80,000
$30,000
$30,000
$55,000
$10,000
$7,640
$88,066
$68,066
Total
$605,188
$638,584
$1,243,772
Table II. shows the appropriation for each department of the Col-
lege of Agriculture. It will be noticed that, in the appropriation for
1917-18, the expenditure on the ten leading divisions in the College
are : —
1. Agricultural extension work
. $81,000
2. University farm
. 73,000
3. Citrus Experiment Station
. 72,000
4. Director's office
. 40,000
5. Animal husbandry . . . .
. 33,000
6. Agronomy
. 26,000
7. Pomology
. 25,000
8. Entomology
23,000
9. Forestry
. 23,000
10. Agricultural education ' . . ■
19,000
Total
$415,000
344
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
Table II.
Appropriation for Salaries, Maintenance, and Equipment,
Department of Agriculture, University of California.
1916-17.
Salary Increase,
1917-18.
1917-18.
Agricultural Chemistry . .
$7,700.00
$1,000.00
$9,000 . 00
Agricultural Education . .
$18,720.00
$200.00
$19,000.00
Agricultural Engineering
$11,000.00
$1,625.00
$13,000.00
Agricultural Extension
$64,792.00
$7,010.70
$81,000.00
Agronomy
$24,760.00
Decrease
$26,000.00
Animal Husbandry
$.32,110.00
$400.00
$33,000.00
Botany
$1,080.00
$1,080.00
Citriculture
$6,920.00
$1,400.00
$8,000.00
Citrus Experiment Station
$6.5,840.00
$1,833.34
$72,000.00
Dairy Industry . .
$8,500.00
$2,800.00
$11,000.00
Director's Office
$40,548.00
$40,242.00
Entomology
$21,040.00
$1,900.00
■ $23,000.00
Forestry
22,360.00
$200.00
$23,000.00
Genetics
$6,720.00
$100.00
$7,000.00
Horticulture
$2,666.00
.$2,666.00
Imperial Valley Experimental Farm
$9,140.00
$300.00
$8,000.00
Irrigation Investigation^
$0,320.00
$800.00
89,000.00
Landscape Gardening and Flor.
$11,020.00
$200.00
$10,000.00
Library
$3,.'540.00
S.5,000.00
Nutrition
$8,340.00
$100.00
$8,200.00
Plant Pathology
$11,400.00
sioo.oo
$12,000.00
Pomology . . . . ...
$20,630 . 00
$700.00
$25,000.00
Poultry Husbandry
$8,440.00
$500.00
■ $10,000.00
Rural Institutions
$7,000.00
$7,000.00
Soil Chemistry and Bacteriology . .
$1,5,086.00
$400.00
$18,000.00
Soil Technology and Soil Survey . .
$18,980.00
$600.00
$19,000.00
University Farm Administration . .
$.50,280.00
$500.00
S54.000.00
University Farm School . .
$17,660.00
$1,120.00
$19,000.00
Veterinary Science
$15,120.00
$1,200.00
$17,000.00
Viticulture
$14,080.00
$700.00
$15,000.00
$551,792.00
$24,889.04
$605,188.00
Staff and Equipment and Students at Berkeley.
The expert agricultural staff of Department of Agriculture of the
University of California numbers 165.
In general, the staff is provided with five commodious rooms and
generous equipment.
The staff is divided into eighteen divisions, as before indicated, each
division being in charge of a professor, and each division being provided
with separate teaching and research laboratories.
The number of students taking the agricultural course at Berkeley
last year was 637. This year there has been a drop to 300, because of
the calls made by the first draft for military service.
The total number of students in regular attendance at the University
of California in normal times is 7,000.
In addition to the numbers attending the four years' agricultural
course at Berkeley, 314 students took the course at Davis, and 250
students were enrolled for short courses, making a total of over 1,000
for 1917.
10 June, 1918.] American Agriculture. 345
WORK AT THE DAVIS FAEM.
The farm is situated 10 miles from Sacramento, tlie capital of Cali-
fornia, and the farm adjoins the railway line and the town of Davis.
The area of the farm proper is 779 acres, but 300 acres are rented,
making a total area of 1,079 acres. The original cost of the farm was
$125 per acre. It was a big grain ranch in 1906.
Youths must be eighteen years of age before entry.
The standard of education of the entrants varies. Some have only
a grammar school education. Others are graduates of the high school.
The course of training for high school graduates is two years, for others
three years. The students live in dormitories on the farm, and are
allowed to' govern themselves very much on the system of prefects at
our public schools.
Under normal conditions, 175 to 200 students live in the dormitories,
and a number in the town of Davis.
Greenhouse for Study of Plant Propagation at Berkeley,
The University farm is divided into nine major divisions : — ■
(1) Agronomy, (2) annual husbandry, (3) agricultural engi-
neering, (4) poultry husbandry, (5) pomology, (6) viti-
culture, (7) irrigation, (8) dairy industry, (9) citriculture.
All these divisions carry out experimental and research work. They
all have projects 'on a similar plan to that prescribed for Berkeley, and
report to Dean Van Norman, the Director, who in turn passes these
reports to Dean Hunt.
I was informed at Davis that the total appropriation was $140,000
per annum. This is higher than the $73,900 given me by Dean Hunt,
but the discrepancy may be accounted for by taking the lower figure
as maintenance and salaries, and the higher figure as including perma-
nent improvements and buildings, and in addition to salaries. I could
not get segregated details of the cost of each division, and especially the
cost of running the farm, as Dean N^orman, the Director, was out of the
State, and his assistant did not have the details.
346
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
The main features of interest were : —
1. The Buildings. — The administrative block, the cafeteria, the
three large dormitories (accommodating 200 students), Shields Hall for
the classrooms, form an imposing set of buildings on the main campus.
Each of the divisions referred to above has a building replete with
laboratories and classrooms for students.
Dairy Industry Division.- — The dairy division occupies a two-story
block of buildings and a basement equipped as a creamery. The build-
ing contains rooms for the staff, a finely equipped dairy laboratory,
and numerous classrooms. In the laboratory were five 24-bottle facile
centrifuge Babcock testers, two 12-bottle testers, a Farrington moisture
test oven (made by the Creamery Package Company, Chicago), and
several sets of apparatus for conducting the Hart casein test. The
creamery does all the marketing of millv for the town of Davis. The
State l^w requires all milk for human consumption to be pasteurized
for 25 minutes at 140° F. Each dairy is compelled by law to have a
self-recording thermometer. The thermometer used here is a Fox-
borough Patent Recorder, made by the Foxborough Company, Massa-
chusetts. The record made by this thermograph showed graphically
Battery of Silos, University Farm, Davis.
the rise of temperature and the number of minutes held at 140° F., and
the number of minutes the milk took to cool.
These records are kept for inspection by the State Dairy Bureau.
The plant was treating 180 gallons a day.
The State law further requires that all cream made into butter must
be pasteurized unless produced from tuberculin-tested herds.
The cream was being treated by a Wizard pasteurizer in 200-gallon
vats (maker, the Ci-eamery Package Company, Chicago). At the time
of my visit, they were making sweet cream butter, i.e., the cream was
pasteurized and churned immediately afterwards without ripening.
Churning was conducted at 56 to 58° F., and buttermilk used by the
poultry plant.
Tests were in progress to make an edible cheese from this butter-
milk.
A patent steam sterilizer was used for sterilizing cans (maker, A.
Jensen and Company, Oakland, California). A patent butter cutter,
which cut the butter into perfect cubes of 56 lbs., was in working. The
maker of this cutter was A. Simpson, Oakland, California.
The State law further prescribes that all milk must be dated with
the day the milk is pasteurized. The milk was being put up in bottles
10 June, 1918.] American Agriculture. 347
similar to those in use by the Talbot Milk Institute and the Willsmere
Company, in Melbourne. Seven different types of separators were in the
dairy. Students became familiar with the working of these by assemb-
ling and dismantling the machines.
In the cheese room, 200 lbs. of cheese per day was being made. All
cheeses are paraffined when six days old by dipping in paraffin at
225° F.
An ice cream plant was in operation. Ice cream seems to be very
extensively eaten in the United States, even in the depth of winter.
The State law prescribes that all cream used for ice cream must be pas-
teurized. The plant used was made by the Creamery Package Com-
pany. The ice cream took fifteen minutes to freeze, and was then
packed in brine at 14° to 16° F.
Three kinds of cheese were being made by students : — Full cream,
half skim, full skim.
A large electric oven, capable of holding 432 samples of soil or
cheese, was extensively used by the dairy branch.
'%^^ ,
A view of the Dairy and Beef Barns, Davis Farm.
The course in dairy industry includes four divisions, each requir-
ing two hours' lectures and four hours' laboratory work for one
semester (half-year) : —
(a) Elements of dairying;
(6) Dairy practice;
(c) Market milk and cheese making;
{d) Dairy manufactures.
Annual Husbandry. — This course includes stock judging (1) and
(2); breed and types (1) and (2); stock management; foods and
feeding (1) and (2).
The head-quarters of the division is a commodious brick building,
with rooms for the professional staff, stenographers, clerks, and record
keepers of the division of annual husbandry.
The horses were housed in a large horse barn, with ten stalls and four
horse boxes on either side of a central alleyway. The overhead loft was
used for storing feed. The working horses were regularly fed on 6 lbs.
of crushed barley and all the alfalfa hay they would eat. For breed-
348 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
ing horses, oats were added to the rations. The horses were ahnost
exchisively Percherons. A grey two-vear-old colt had just been pur-
chased for $1,500.
The cow barns were very extensive. Beef cattle were kept in one
wing of the barn, and dairy cattle in another, and a feed room con-
nected the two portions.
Records were kept of the amount of feed — alfalfa, hay, silage, roots,
grain, brash, beet pulp, &c. — fed to each animal; the body weight,
weight of milk, percentage of fat and solids in the milk. The records
of milk and butter fat production of the cows were set up in front of
the stalls. Two records which appealed to me were : —
Holstein— 20,106 lbs. milk, 718 lbs. butter fat.
Jersey— 13,165 lbs. milk, 809.7 lbs. butter fat.
The floors were of cement, and the feed bins were open cement
structures. They were milking 31 cows, mostly Holsteins and Jerseys.
The cows were being fed on moistened beet pulp and alfalfa hay, with
a little crushed barley.
The bails were not unlike those of Werribee, except that they had a
movable centre piece, which could be adjusted to move 4 inches forward
or backward, according to the length of the cow.
The beef cattle section comprised Shorthorns, Herefords, and Aberdeen
Angus. They were being fed on corn silage and alfalfa hay. The cattle
were certainly fine specimens, and were kept in excellent condition. A
long open shed with racks fitted at_ the back for hay were used for
young stock. The cattle also were allowed to eat as much alfalfa hay
as they chose.
The hog house was a large building divided into 40' pens, connected
by races with hog yards containing portable self-feeders and triangular
hog houses.
The breeds kept were Duroc Jersey, Chester White, Berkshire, and
Poland China.
The animals on the whole were an exceptionally good lot.
Two hundred and sixty sheep were kept on the place, the principal
breed being Shropshire, Hampshire, Romney Marsh, and Rambouillet.
The latter appears to have a much bigger frame than the merino, and
certainly has as many folds. One ram shore 301 lbs. of wool, with 364
(lays between shearing.
On the afternoon I visited the sheep and hog yards the students were
standing around watching the assistant marking the lambs. The
students caught the lambs and held them on a block whilst the instruc-
tor seared off the tails with a hot iron. All went well till the Persian
fat-tailed sheep were marked. The size and thickness of the tails tem-
porarily puzzled the operator and the students, but an extra heating
of the iron and a little more fortitude on the part of the operator
enabled the operation to be carried out without mishap. Nor did the
fat-tailed Persian appear to suffer more discomfiture than the other
breeds.
Irrigation Division. — This division deals with the preparation of
land for irrigation, the water requirements of field crops and orchard
and application of water, the design and construction of farm laterals,
and^ methods and devices for measuring water and drainage problems.
The water requirements of alfalfa under various conditions were
being tested by a series of 24 pots 4 feet deep and 23 inches in diameter.
10 June, 1918.] American Agriculture. 349
An interesting feature of the division was a collection of all the
meters used in measuring water. These are fed from a reservoir, and
the students make comparisons of the rate of flow from each meter. .
Large numbers of soil samples are taken during the irrigation season
to various depths, to determine the depth of penetration of water in
various fields and on various crops with different systems of irrigation.
These soil samples are taken with special 2-inch soil augers, obtained
from the Sacramento Implement Company, Sacramento, California,
and the investigations are very helpful in establishing the maximum
duty of water with various types of crops.
Pomology. — This division includes horticulture. The work com-
prises instruction and research. Research work is being conducted on
24 projects, included in the 360 projects outlined above. The experi-
ments comprise pruning, pollination experiments and bud studies, the
effect of mulching and various types of cultivation on crop yields — til-
lage tests, the proper distance apart to plant deciduous trees.
Moreover, small orchards have been planted at all distances apart,
from 12 X 12 to 36 x 36, to determine the best distance apart to produce
the maximum yield for each type of tree.
Very complete records are taken of the blooming period of every
variety of tree. A feature of the horticultural branch is a card index
system, with cards for each tree, showing its history and treatment
annually since it was planted.
Sixty acres of the farm are devoted to these various tests, and the
chief types of trees grown are plum, peach, apricot, prune, almond,
and cherry. The apple does not thrive at Davis.
Poultry Division. — At present 25 men were specializing in poultry
keeping. This is about half the normal number.
The equipment comprises two lecture rooms, incubator room, stor-
age rooms, candling rooms, two laboratories.
Several thousand birds, mostly white leghorns, were kept for instruc-
tion purposes. Three dozen incubators, of ten diffei-ent makes, each
incubator with a capacity of 150 eggs,/were used for practice in incubation.
On the whole, the equipment was good, but notably lacking in many
of the labour-saving devices to be found on the suburban poultry farms
near Melbourne. Trap-nesting was adopted to determine the laying pro-
pensities of the best hens. No single pens had been installed for test-
ing the birds.
Agro7iomy. — This division had the usual complete equipment of
lecture rooms, laboratory rooms, and offices. The laboratories were well
equipped with specimen crops of all kinds for instructional purposes.
The field plots were very numerous, and consisted of variety tests of all
types of dry land and irrigated crops.
The cereal tests were very like our own, except that they were very
much smaller than those at Werribee, varying from 1/40 to 1/100 of
an acre. I was rather astonished to find practically every variety of
Australian wheat was being tested side by side with American wheats.
These Australian varieties were obtained from the New South Wales
Department. Rotation and fertilizer tests were carried out, but I have
no hesitation in affirming that our Werribee crops were better planned
than the Davis permanent plots. On the other hand, they have at
Davis a much larger number of tests with the grasses, legumes, and
new crops like grain sorghums, than we have.
350 Joiirnnl of Agriculttire, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
Otlier features of interest were : —
(a) The farm machine shed, where, under competent agricultural
engineers, all types of farm machinery were taken apart and re-assembled
as practice for students.
(b) The cafeteria, where the students were their own waiters. They
took a large tray, a serviette, fork, spoon, and knife, and walked along
a railing containing all types of eatables. They selected what they
required, and carried the eatables on the tray to their seats, and paid for
the meals on a la carte basis.
(c) The battery of silos: Six 120-ton silos were erected side by side
near the cow barn.
(d) The vineyard, comprising 35 acres of vines, Avith 550 different
varieties of grapes.
The stock on the farm at the time of my visit comprised 130 head
of dairy cattle, 56 head of beef cattle, 260 sheep, 25 goats, 400 hogs,
12 light horses, and 15 pure-bred Percherons and Shires.
University Farm, Keakney Park, Fresno.
This farm consists of 5,400 acres of rich land, bequeathed to the
University by a wealthy bachelor named Kearney. The value of the
property is estimated at $1,000,000, and it is used to provide revenue
for the University. The net profit last year was over $60,000. Por-
tion of the area — 2,000 acres — has been rendered unfit for cultivation
by the rise of salt and alkali — just as at Cohuna, Victoria.
In the county of Fresno over 200,000 acres of raisins are grown, the
majority being the Muscat of Alexandria and Thompson's Seedless.
The average production of raisins in Fresno is from IJ to 2 tons.
Kearney Park is in charge of a very able manager — Mr. Friselli —
and I am obliged to him for much valuable information on various
aspects of fruit culture in California.
At Kearney Park, 800 acres are planted to vines. Most of these
vines are twenty years old. The crowns of the vines are like huge
balls, and on the south side (the sunny side) the vines get badly burnt
with the heat of summer. Mr, Friselli is attempting to rejuvenate these
by bringing up suckers from below the ball-like crowns.
Although the rainfall is otily 8 inches, for six years these vines have
not been irrigated, owing to the water table being so near the surface.
The annual yield of raisins for the past six years was 1,020 tons from
800 acres of vines.
Two mules were hauling a steel waggon on which cuttings made two
days before were being burnt as the car moved along the rows. The
cost was Is. 8d, per acre.
The men were pruning at the time of my visit. Forty were engaged
on this work, and they received $3 per day. The average grape-picker
earned $5.20 per day last year. They receive $3 per long ton — 100
trays of 22 lbs. green weight. The Japanese labourers earned $12 a
day picking grapes by piece work. The grapes dry in the proportion of
3,4 to 1.
The principal raisin is the Muscat of Alexandria, This is dried in
the sun — not dipped in lye — by placing in boxes 2x3. The bulk of the
raisin crop of the United States is marketed in cartoons. The raisin
industry is in the hands of a co-operative raisin company — an associa-
tion of 85 per cent, of the groAvers of California.
10 June, 1918.]
itcrican Agriculture.
351
This association pays a flat rate of Si cents, a lb., equal to $70 a
ton, for all raisins delivered. Then the manufacturing, advertising, and
selling expenses are deducted, and the grower gets the balance. Last
year they got an extra cent per lb., equal to $90 per ton — £18. This
price gives a good return to the grower. Mr. Friselli estimates that the
raisins cost him $35 a ton to produce, so that the average net return is
$55. Vineyards within a radius of 4 to 6 miles of Fresno sell for $800
per aucre.
The Italian-Swiss colony has a machine for grafting phylloxera-
resistant vines. I saw one in operation at the United States Plant and
Seed Introduction Farm at Chico. It consists of a lever which operates
two knives which can be set at any angle. After the wood has been
sorted it is just held to the machines, and one knife cuts a section at a
slope of, say, 60°. The second knife then comes down and cuts a tongue
two-thirds the way along the slope. The wood can be cut and the
tongue cut as quickly as a man can pull a lever back and forward. The
Workmen's Cottages in a Park of Eucalypts and Palms at Kearney Farm.
(Note Alfalfa Stack thatched with Palm Leaves.)
price is about $40, but I should think it would save an immense amount
of labour in grafting.
The advantage of the grafting machine appears to be that it cuts
all similarly sized pieces of wood alike, and makes a uniform cleft in
the wood.
Olives and Figs. — Olives are very profitable at Fresno. They re-
quire very little water. The best pickling olives return $175 per ton,
and Spanish Queen, an exceptionally good olive, realizes up to $300 per
ton. Olives for oil realize $45 to $55 per ton. Oil olives have only one-
third the value of the pickling olives. Frozen berries and small berries
are used for oil.
The best pickling olives grown at Fresno are the Mission Olive,
Spanish Queen, and Manzanillo. They are planted in squares 25 feet
apart, then alternate diagonal rows are taken out, leaving the trees
36i feet apart.
The olive comes into bearing at the fourth year, but the yield is
small. The fifth and sixth years they pay for their cultivation. The
352
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
yield afterwards averages li to 2 tons per acre, though 3 tons per acre
have been obtained at Fresno. The cost of harvesting the crop is $17.50
to $25 per ton, according to the heaviness of the crop. The crop is har-
vested by the ton. The value for oil is $45 to $55 per ton ; for })iekling
$175 per ton. The pickling olives are picked by hand, while for oil pur-
poses the olives are shaken off the trees.
The price of both olives and figs is continually rising. They
represent one of the best investments that can be made.
Wherever I travelled in California I saw young olive plantations
scattered throughout the State.
Fresno has the largest fig orchard in the world. J. C. Forkner has
7,000 acres of figs in one block. The chief varieties are the Adriatic
and Smyrna. Both of these are used for drying, and the estimate of
Fresno men is that they net $3 per producing tree.
It is a common sight to see a row of fig trees around a vineyard in
the Fresno district. The figs are grown along the roads as avenues.
Very few fences are seen in the Fresno district, as few stock are kept.
Homestead, Kearney Park, with Bachelors' Quarters in foreground.
The figs are dried on trays just in the same manner as the raisins.'
At Kearney Park there are 2,500 trees around the estate. These brought
in a net revenue last year of $12,000.
The buyers purchase the figs on the tree, and take all the risks of
harvesting themselves.
The trees are usually planted from 40 to 48 to the acre. The figs
do not come into bearing until six to ten years after planting. That is
the drawback to raising fig trees. The 2,300 trees on the Kearney
estate average 110 tons of figs annually over a five year period.
The blastophaga insect has been introduced, so that the Smyrna figs
set well in the Fresno district.
Features of Interest on Kearney Farm.
Among many features of interest on the property, the following
might be mentioned: —
1. The excellent system of bookkeeping practice, which enables
the management to detect all leakages and immediately correct them.
10 June, 1918.] American Agriculture. 353
2. The organization of the farm labour. The ordinary farm hands
work from 7 to 5. Sixty-five to 300 men are employed, according to the
season of the year. Provision is made for 25 families, and each family
has a modern cottage. Single men are accommodated in barracks. The
men receive $2 a day. There are eight " straw bosses," each of whom
is in command of a company of eight to ten men. These straw bosses
receive $60 to $75 per month and board. Over these is a foreman at
$150 per month, responsible to the manager. The manager does all the
buying and selling, and determines the policy of the farm.
3. The magnitude of the operations involved in the farm.
There were 800 acres of vines, 100 acres of olives, 1,000 acres of
alfalfa, 1,200 acres of oats and barley.
The annual profit, after all expenses, interest, and depreciation were
allowed, amounted to $60,000 per annum.
An Alfalfa Stack, 35 feet high, thatched with palm leaves.
4. Cotton has been grown on experimental plots for some years at
Kearney, and now a company proposes to grow several thousand acres
of long-stapled Egyptian cotton in the San Joachin Valley this year.
The cotton is planted in March and April, and is ready to harvest
on 15th October at Fresno. The cotton would work in well with the
staple crop vines.
Fourteen thousand excess hands are required to take off the raisin
crop each year. The raisin crop is harvested by 15th October, so that,
if cotton is grown, the period of employment for labourers would be
greatly extended.
5. On this estate 160 acres of " alkali " land has been successfully
reclaimed.
The surface foot of this land contained from 2 to 4 per cent, of salt
and carbonate of soda.
Three years ago 25,000 feet of tile was used for draining — 2 and 4
inch laterals and 6 and 12 inch main draws were used. The land has
been successfully reclaimed and planted with alfalfa.
7416.— 2
354 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
SUMMARY.
I asked Dean Hunt what he considered would be the future for
agricultural education in California. He said that by 1922 he con-
sidered there would be 40 counties in the State, comprising practically
all the farming area of California, with county advisor systems; there
would be 400 bureau centres, with perhaps a membership of 20,000
farmers. Probably 100 of these farm bureaux would hold their meet-
ings monthly in high school buildings, having present both the farm
advisor and the principal of the high school, each an agriculturally
trained man.
Two hundred high schools will have boys' agricultural clubs, in
which 2,000 boys will actually raise some crop or animals under the
supervision of the College of Agriculture. Each of these high schools
will have a teacher of agriculture, who, instead of being an itinerant,
will live in and work with that community, not only through the pupils
of his own school, but also by organizing and supervising boys' clubs
in the public schools of his particular territory.
Several thousand mature person, realizing that, to be effective, the
educational process must be continuous, will be pursuing correspondence
courses in agriculture. As the reading becomes more universal, and
accurate information becomes more available, the daily and weekly
papers will give greater space to agriculture, while books, circulars,
technical journals, and reports on agricultural subjects will become
a recognised part of every farmer's equipment.
He considered, too, that the College of Agriculture at Berkeley
would have 1,000 regular students on its rolls.
At Davis he expected to see 500 farm school students., and another
500 taking short courses in agriculture.
At Kearney Park he hoped to have an organization that would give
200 students a real experience of farm life.
The Agricultural Experiment Station would grow to larger propor-
tions, and become more specialized in its activity. Several hundred
trained men would be working at this institution, delving after the
truth in order that exact and accurate knowledge of agriculture may be
obtained before it is passed on to the extension division to be broadcasted
over the land.
The remarkable progress of Berkeley to-day is possible, because
the pioneers who have gone before — Hilgard, Wickson, and others —
have devoted their lives to discovering and classifying facts and know-
ledge upon which the superstructure of modern agriculture and horti-
culture rests. Little wonder that the grateful people of California
have voted $350,000 to keep green the memory of their greatest
scientist — Hilgard — the man who laid the foundations of scientific agri-
culture in California, and that his devotion to his work and the untiring
efforts of his colleagues have made possible the present spectacular pro-
gress of Californian agriculture.
" Don't forget," says Dean Hunt, " to dig well the foundations for
agricultural research, for without patient research, working over years,
the basis for future development and progress cannot be laid."
Surely, in California's record, there is a message for Victoria.
]0 June, 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 355
APPLE CULTURE IN VICTORIA.
(Continued from page 213.)
By J. Farrell, Orchard Supervisor.
Ireigation.
The splendid results in fruit obtained in Victoria, and in other
States of the Commonwealth, from the judicious application of water
to orchard lands during the periods of the trees' growth, as well as
those effected in other countries in which comparatively dry and warm
climatic conditions similar to ours obtain, have so conclusively demon-
strated the advantages of irrigation that the further advocacy of this
practice would seem unnecessary. N"evertheless, there are still many
districts in this State suitable for channel irrigation schemes which,
notwithstanding the considerable sums of money required for their con-
struction, could be established with incalculable advantages to our
producers, and would prove a sound investment for the State. But
even without this extension of the Government's irrigation schemes,
apple production would be greatly increased if the dam system of irriga-
tion employed by some of the fruit-growers in the undulating districts of
central and southern Victoria were in more general use.
The dry, warm conditions experienced here during summer cause
excessive evaporation from orchard land, and transpiration from the
fruit trees, and thus quickly depletes the soil of the moisture accumu-
lated during the previous winter. Owing to our comparatively light
summer rainfall being usually insufficient to replenish these losses, irri-
gation is essential if the best results are to be attained.
Knowing that the trees absorb, in a state of solution, their food from
the ground, it is obvious that the soil ai'ound the feeding roots should
be kept sufficiently moist to maintain the solution during the vegetative
periods, in order that the trees may be enabled to make good grow+Ji,
fruit satisfactorily, and develop their fruit buds for the succeeding
year.
Owing to the fluctuations of temperature and variations in the quan-
tity and frequency of our summer rains, the quantity of water to be
used, and the number of waterings to be applied to keep the soil in the
necessarily moist condition, cannot be definitely fixed. However, the
new settler commencing operations in a fruit-growing, irrigation centre,
with the assistance of the departmental experts, by association with
local irrigationists and by intelligent application to his work, should
soon become acquainted with the principles governing the artificial
application of water to the soil. When he thoroughly understands the
climatic influences on the soil, the advantages of watering, cultivation,
and the main requirements of his trees, irrigation, which, at first
usually appears intricate, resolves itself into a rather simple proposi-
tion, provided good drainage exists, and that the soil be friable, and of
a character amenable to general cultural treatment.
The rich friable chocolate soils occupying the pine ridge portions of
the northern districts offer ideal natural advantages for irrigation, as
they mostly overlie permeable clay subsoils which offer good natural
drainage. Whereas, on other areas in close proximity to the ridges,
2^
356
Journal of Agriculture, Victr
|]0 June, 1918.
unfavorable conditions are often experienced. In the latter ease the
surface soils are of almost similar character to the former, but overlying
impervious clays, are consequently not so suitable for irrigation on
account of bad drainage. This condition, however, is usually rectified
by the introduction of a system of sub-drainage.
Whether working under the former and more favorable conditions,
or when he has overcome the difficulties in the case of the latter, the
settler should make judicious use of the water, both in respect to quan-
tity and number of applications, according to the requirements of his
trees, and consistent with the regulations governing its supply.
The Channel System of Ikkkjation.
Our channel system of irrigation consists of a dam or weir placed
across a river or other water course, causing the water to become
banked up, and, at the higher level, deflected through a suitably placed
Plate 164.— A View of the Goulburn Weir.
delivery duct into a main articulation chaniud in which it is carried to
the irrigation settlement. Having reached this point the water is
diverted at suitable levels into the necessary number of smaller channels
which, in turn, supply the individual orchard areas.
The State Rivers and Water Supply Commission controls our irri-
gation systems. The officers of the Department of Agriculture and
Closer Settlement Board, &c., working in co-operation and harmouv
with those of the Commission have been successful in establishing irri-
gation settlement on sound and permanent lines.
From a study of the following illustrations depicting the weir, main
articulation channels, smaller supply channels, and the furrow mode of
applying the water, the reader will be enabled to gain a fairly compre-
10 JuxE, 1918.]
Apple Culture In Victoria.
357
hensive knowledge of the engineering in connexion Ax-ith, and general
principles involved in, the practice of modern irrigation.
Plate 165. — A Main Articulation Channel at Shepparton.
Plate 166. — A Main Articulation Channel entering an Orchard
Settlement Area.
Plate 164 is a photograph of the Goulburn weir from which the
Shepparton, Ardmona, Kyabram, Tongala, Rochester, &c., districts in
the Goulburn Valley are supplied.
358 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
Plate 165 illustrates a main articulation channel at Shepparton
settlement, which was brought under irrigation about ten years ago.
Plate 166 shows a main channel entering an orchard settlement area
with the fruit trees situated to the right.
In localities where porous soils exist seepage from the channels is
prevalent, but to prevent this, and protect land-owners in these places,
the channels are constructed or lined with cement concrete.
The chief factors essential to successful irrigation, once the water
is made available, consist of a perfectly graded orchard surface of
deep, rich, friable soil, a permeable subsoil to afford good drainage, and
the smaller supply channels conveniently arranged.
The virgin surfaces of the Goulburn Valley irrigation areas were
almost invariably of naturally perfect grade, and where rare inequalities
did occur these were of only minor importance and easily rectified. In
other districts, however, owing to more serious surface inequalities con-
siderable difficulties are experienced and expense involved in regulating
the grade to irrigation requirements.
When all the preliminary arrangements have been completed and
the water is made available for the orchard its application to the trees
requires careful and intelligent management. Some years ago a practice
often employed by irrigationists in the north was to flood the whole
orchard area with water, when available, to a depth of from 4 to 6
inches, frequently irrespective of the condition of the soil or the indivi-
dual requirements of the trees. Orchardists, who carelessly carry out
this phase of their work, especially in situations where highly satisfac-
tory results are difficult to obtain, set up soil conditions, even more
inimical to the welfare of their trees than those previously existing.
The experience of the writer, while inspector in charge of the Goulburn
Valley irrigation settlements, as well as that gained by the settlers
themselves, is that the furrow method of applying the water- is the most
economical and generally satisfactory system. By this means the
operator is enabled to control the supply and apply the water in quan-
tities to suit the different classes of soils in their then existing condi-
tion, and meet the requirements of the kinds and varieties of trees under
treatment.
In connexion with the flooding method it may be further stated that
a considerable quantity of water is lost through evaporation during
warm weather. The flood, on the surface is often visible for a consider-
able time, and its presence there almost prevents the escape from the
soil's interspaces of the air, which impedes the downward percolation
of the water. Cultivation contingent on irrigation becomes much more
necessary in the case of soil drying up after flooding than when the
furrow system is employed, because a considerably greater number of
capillary vapour ducts is created in a given area treated under the
former system than appears after the latter.
After flooding, particularly if the water be used sparingly on a
surface with impervious sub-strata, which prevents rapid downward
penetration, the undesirable condition of shallow rooting is encouraged.
Whereas, when furrows are employed these may be ploughed to a suit-
able depth and the water controlled in them until such time as the
subsoil is saturated, and more favorable conditions for lower root
establishment thus created than would follow the flooding method.
10 June, 191S.J
Apple Culture in Victoria.
359
In irrigating trees the first year after planting, two furrows, one
on each side of the row, and about 2 feet away from the trees, are
usually found the most suitable means for supplying the water to the
best advantage. During the second and third years successively, how-
ever, the furrows may be ploughed according to the root extensions
further and further from the trees to encourage the roots to radiate and
extend their pasturage sufficiently.
Plate 167. — The Irrigationist at Work on the Two-furrow
System of Watering.
Plate 167 illustrates the irrigationist at work and employing the
two-furrow method of watering large trees. In this case the water
enters the furrows through a break in the bank of the supply channel
as indicated by the arrow.
This was the old mode of liberating the water, but the more modern
method of discharge is by the employment of a narrow outlet box placed
in the channel bank. The box may be made of galvanized iron or wood,
and should be of sufficient length to allow it to protrude about 1 2 inches
360
Jounml of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
beyond the channel bank at the delivery end. The box is fitted with a
sliding gate at the intake to regulate the outflow.
Plate 168 shows the irrigationist adopting the four-furrow method
of watering. Here the water is drawn from the channel through
lengths of 2-inch galvanized iron piping placed in the bank at points as
indicated by the arrows. When it is necessary to discontinue the flow
of water from the channel, wooden plugs are placed in the intake ends,
or the pipes may be drawn from the bank, and the opening in the earth
closed in. Any old iron piping of the necessary diameter suits this pur-
pose, and as regards cost, utility, and freedom of manipulation, this
method is, in the opinion of the writer, preferable to the outlet box
principle.
Plate 168. — Irrigationist adopting the Four-furrow Principle.
Plate 169 is a drawing showing the cross section of a supply channel
and depicting the outlet pipe in the bank. The intake end of the pipe
should be sufficiently low to insure a flow as continuous at those times
when, owing to the working of a large number of outlets, the water falls
as when it was at the highest level. The delivery end of the pipes should
protrude at least 12 inches beyond the bank, and be near the surface
level to afford easy access of the water to the furrows in which it is
controlled and by means of checks and deviations distributed as
occasion requires.
Cultivation Contingent on Irrigation.
Although the intelligent settler soon masters all the details con-
nected with fruit-growing under irrigation, ultimate success can only
10 June, 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
361
362
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. | K) June, 1918.
be achieved through constant and strenuous effort. Of these details
none can be regarded of greater importance than the cultivation con-
tingent on irrigation. When the surface of the soil dries after each
watering, it cracks, and the fissures act as capillary vapour ducts
through which the moisture is drawn off into the air.
The more tenacious the soil the greater will be the extent of the
cracking, especially in the irrigation furrows and in slight depressions
on the surface of which undue water lodgment occurs. Before the
necessary cultivation after each watering can be satisfactorily accom-
plished, it is essential that the soil should have assumed a fairly dry
Plate 169. — Cross-section of Supply Channel showing position
of Outlet Pipe.
Surface
Level
Plate 171.
Fig. 1. — Arrows represent downward percolation of water from furrows.
Fig. 2. — ^Arrows represent moisture being brought to the surface by capillary
attraction.
state, and it is preferable that this condition should accrue from good
drainage rather than from capillary action and evaporation.
A.part from the matter of cultivation at this time it should be
remembered that the feeding roots are most active when there is just
the proper percentage of moisture present, and that they suffer from
excessive water to a degree corresponding with the duration of the soil's
saturation. On the other hand, the healthy growth of the trees is
retarded through lack of the essential solution in dry soil during the
10 June, 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 363
_ — ,
period of vegetation, as long as this condition through want of water
is allowed to continue.
The main objectives of cultivation after watering may be enumerated
thus: — To destroy the surface cracks or capillary ducts, to aerate the
Irrigated portion, to produce a fine soil covering or mulch by means of
which the moisture is conserved. The result is that a moderate amount
of moisture is retained, and the quantity and number of waterings may
be reduced. The disc cultivator and spring-tooth harrow are the best
implements to employ when cultivating at this time.
Plate 170 illustrates the advantage of cultivation after irrigation.
Fig. 1 shows a portion of cultivated land with fine soil mulch; Fig. 2
a portion of surface soil cracked after watering, and requiring cultivation.
Plate 171 is a drawing depicting in cross section a portion of irri-
gated land. Fig. 1 shows the position of the irrigation furrows (a)
and (&), in relation to the tree, and the arrows represent the downward
percolation of the water. Fig. 2 is the same cross section showing the
advantages of cultivation after watering, as compared with the undesir-
able condition created through neglect of same. The portion of surface
on the left of the tree and marked (a), having been reduced to fine
earth, prevents the escape of the water. The arrows under this portion
represent the capillary ascent of the moisture, which, being conserved
by the earth mulch, is made available to the roots. The uncultivated
portion (&), on the right of the tree, shows the capillary ducts, which
are usually most numerous in the furrows and other surface depres-
sions. The arrows in this case also represent the moisture which, for
want of a mulch, passes through the ducts into the air.
(To he continued.)
BEES AND FRUIT.
An Agricultural Society of Florence, Italy, has recently carried out a
thorough investigation of the alleged injury of fruit by bees, and has
completely c?;onerared the latter. Bees are unable to perforate the skin
of fruit, and it is only incidentally that they suck the juices of fruits
injured by other natural causes. The damage sometimes attributed to
these insects is due to poultry, wild birds, wind, and hail, and even more
frequently to hornets, wasps, vine moths, and other insects.
Instead of being harmful to orchards and vineyards, bees perform the
useful service of effecting the cross-pollination of flowers and hence the
setting of fruit, as well as the desiccation of damaged fruits (especially
grapes) by sucking the juice and pulp, and thus preventing fermentation
and rot extending to sound individuals. The orchards and vineyards
frequented by bees give the most constant crops. — Scientific American.
364 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
REVIEW OF THE BUTTER EXPORT SEASON.
The Annual Conference of the Australian Butter and Cheese Fac-
tories Managers' Association concluded a four-days' session at Mel-
bourne on the 17th May.
At the meeting on the 14th May tlip following review of the hutter
export season was made by Mr. E. Crowe, Exports Superintendent: —
Although great hopes were entertained at this time last year, the
past season has been disappointing. The exports totalled 11,042 tons,
having a c.i.f. value of £2,009,644, against 14,099 tons, worth £2,763,598,
for 1916-17.
The total exports of butter from Victoria since the inception of
the trade in 1889 has now aggregated 338,726 tons, having a value of
£37,940,079.
Various causes may be assigned for the recent season's disappoint-
ing results. The climatic conditions were such as to make the season
later than was expected, whilst in one of the principal dairying dis-
tricts a pronounced shortage in production has recently taken place,
following on the dry weather experienced.
Although the Department of Agriculture has consistently urged the
conservation of fodder, we find that most of the silos in the country
are at the present time empty, whilst some of the structures have
actually been dismantled. Upon looking for a reason, it is discovered
that dairying in the winter-time does not pay as compared with the
spring and summer months. It is well known that the production
of butter on a large scale in the winter-time involves the cultivation
of the land, the purchase of seed, the harvesting and saving of crops,
as well as labour in feeding the stock. In addition, in many instances
the purchase of fodder (such as bran, <Scc.) has been necessary.
It is estimated that it costs at least 50 per cent, more to produce
a pound of butter in the winter-time than during the spring and summer
months. Manufacturing costs are also higher. It is obvious that
when a factory is turning out two tons of butter per week, the cost
of manufacturing each pound is higher than if the factory output be
ten tons per week. The manager, secretary, and engine-driver receive
the same rate of pay per week in the winter as during the summer,
whilst the cost of fuel and cartage cannot be correspondingly reduced
with the smaller output. Thus, it will be seen that, if the same price
rules during the slack period of the year as in the summer and spring,
there is a smaller amount available for distribution amongst producers
after manufacturing costs have been provided for.
The slight increase recently fixed for the winter months, as compared
with the rest of the year, has had little effect in remedying the existing
artificial state of affairs.
For the four years 1911-14 the arrivals of butter in Melbourne for
the months of May, June and July averaged 2,828 tons; whilst for
the last two years, 1916-17, the average arrivals for the corresponding
period were 1,595 tons. I have purposely left out the drought year
of 1915 in this comparison. For the four years 1911-14 there was an
average of 655,523 dairy cows in Victoria, whilst for 1916 there were
10 JrxE. 1918.] Review of the Butter Export Seaso)}. 365
488,016. It is estimated tliat for 1917 the numbers were about 512,000,*
makiug an average of 500,000 for the last two years. On this basis, the
average production for the last two seasons during the winter months
of May, June and July should have been 2,157 tons instead of 1,595
tons, so that it will be seen that the winter production of butter per
dairy cow in the State has fallen off by about 25 per cent. The con-
ditions of the last two winters compare favorably with the four winters
used as the basis for comparison. I repeat that " the figures for the
drought year, 1915, have been omitted," and the figures for the present
year, which has been abnormal, are, of course, not yet available.
Grading and Grade Stamping.
The basis upon which butter was sold to the Imperial Government
and dealt with by the Commonwealth Government during the past
season was an inducement to manufacturers to improve the quality of
their butter. A price was fixed for 90 points butter, with Is. ^er cwt.
per point lower for every point below 90 points, and Is. per cwt. more
for every point higher than 90 points; in other words, butter which
scored 94 points was paid for at the rate of 6s. per cwt. more than for
butter scoring 88 points. Butter factory managers, directors, and dairy-
men should, in consequence, have been galvanized into action in order
to improve the quality of their output. Those who have not done so
have had to suffer the consequences, whilst those who made the effort
have been amply repaid. All the butter dealt with during the past
season has been grade stamped.
The work of grading dairy produce under the Commerce Act and
Kegulations was carried on for the Commonwealth since the coming into
operation of the Act in 1906 until January last by officers of the State
Department of Agriculture. On the 1st February last, how^ever, this
work was taken over by the Commonwealth, and the whole of the grading
staff transferred to the Commonwealth service. Consequently, I have
been left without any grading or instructional staff. The Common-
Avealth authorities promised to give the State copies of all grade
certificates, as has been done in New South Wales, to enable instruc-
tional work arising out of the grading to be carried on. So far, not
one certificate has been received, although rej^eated requests for them
have been made.f The reason given for the omission is that copies of
certificates may not be given without the approval of the factories con-
cerned. This might be considered a sufficient reason where outside
firms or factories are involved, as none of them have a right to such,
information. It is different, however, in the case of a State where the
information is required officially for instructional purposes.
By the State authorities it is considered that it is not the function
of the Commonwealth Customs Department to undertake the work of
instruction in dairying of the manufacture of dairy products. These
* Since these estimated figures were used " the return of live stock in Victoria " by the Government
Statist has been made available, showing that there were 534,388 dairy cows in the State. This number
gives an average of 511,237 for the two years instead of 500,000. The average production should therefore
be stated as 2,205 tons instead of 2,157, and consequently the falling off is nearly 30 per cent, in place of
the 25 per cent, taken as the basis of my estimate.
t By letter dated 29th May. 1918, received by the Director of Agriculture from the Acting Comp-
troller-General, Department of Trade and Customs, it is stated " that as the approval of the Victorian
Factory Proprietors to the furnishing of the certificates in question has now been unanimously obtained,
arrangements have been made for copies of the grade certificates to be supplied to you as from the 1st.
proximo."
366 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
duties are clearly within the scope of the State Department of Agri-
<;ulture.
At the suggestion of the Conference of Ministers of Agriculture
last week, the Premiers' Conference now sitting decided that similar
legislation should be introduced in each State in order to meet the
circumstances arising out of the recent Commonwealth action. In New
South "Wales and Queensland legislation relating to the dairying in-
dustry provides for the necessary organization and staff for the giving
of instruction arising out of the grading. In Victoria all the staff
was taken over; hence a blank was created which it is intended to fill
at the earliest possible moment.
Discussion by Members.
In the discussion which followed, a member, referring to the failure
of the Commonwealth authorities to supply the State with certificates,
said that two months ago his factory had written stating that they
were agreeable to the Commonwealth handing over these documents,
seeing that they were necessary for the purposes of instructional work,
and in their absence the State would be hampered.
Another member stated that the majority of the factories had ex-
pressed a wish that these certificates be given to the State authorities,
and asked what action was contemplated in the matter. New South
"Wales and Queensland, he said, seemed to be moving in the direction
of giving instruction.
Mr. Ckowe. — The States affected now propose taking steps to pass
a Bill providing for the carrying out of instructional work generally,
and particularly instructional work arising out of the grade certificates.
That did not insure the handing over of grade certificates by the Com-
monwealth to the State. As far as could be gathered, no approval was
asked by the Commonwealth authorities in New South Wales to hand
these certificates over.
A Delegate. — Has the State Department no knowledge of how
things are going with the Commonwealth Department regarding tbe
grades ?
Mr. Crowe. — No knowledge whatever. I consider a request by the
Conference to hand over copies of the grade certificates would have
some effect.
A Delegate. — -Yes; if followed up by a deputation to the Minister,
otherwise the matter might be shelved.
The Secretary. — Since the Federal control, the issue of weights of
butter had been discontinued. If factories supplied the correct weight
they were all right, but in the event of the weight being in excess, they
got no enlightenment.
A Delegate. — The Conference should make a move in some way
if it is likely to bear fruit. It has been a general thing for application
to be made to the Federal expert to give the required returns to the
State Deparljment, but apparently all of the individual requests have
been shelved. In his own case application had been made to have the
information given to the State.
Mr. P. J. Carroll. — "Without taking any responsibility as a Federal
servant, I might state that the whole of the factories have not replied
to the Federal circular — not more than 50 per cent, having done so —
on the subject. Eegarding the secretary's remarks re weights, as far
10 June. 1918.] Beviexv of the Butter Export Season. 367
as I am aware, the practice has not been altered, and the same informa-
tion has been conveyed to the factories as hitherto.
The Secretary. — In my company's case, there is no indication as to
whether the weights are right or wrong. In the past this was shown.
Mr. P. J. Carroll. — If that be so, it was unintentionah
A Delegate. — Can Mr, Crowe give the amount of butter of various
grades until the Commonwealth took the matter over?
Mr. Crowe. — N'o. When the Commonwealth Government took the
business over all books and papers in connexion with the subject were
handed to them. ■
A Delegate. — It lies with the factories themselves in not replying
to the Federal circular on the subject of permission to hand over the
certificates, seeing that only 50 per cent, have not furnished a reply.
Under the circumstances, the Federal people might refer the matter
back, with an intimation that they were awaiting replies to their
circular from the other 50 per cent. We consider the State has been
just in its action, which has been an education to us, and we consider
that the rights of the State in the matter have been unduly interfered
with.
The Chairman. — I understand that in Mr. Crowe's opinion, power
exists without referring it back to the factories at all.
A Delegate. — In New South Wales they a^e doing it without con-
sulting the factories.
Motion of Protest.
On the motion of Messrs. Martin (Apollo Bay) and Adamson
(Moe), it was decided to protest to the Commonwealth authorities re-
garding the State Dairy Departments not being furnished with copies
of the grade certificates.
Winter Dairying and Price Fixing.
A Delegate. — Eegarding Mr. Crowe's statement as to the increased
cost of manufacture of butter in winter as against summer production,
I sent figures to the Food Prices Board. In connexion with Mr. Crowe's
investigations some three or four years ago in the Camperdown dis-
trict, many thought his conclusions were scarcely correct, but upon
going into them, I found that was not so. I discovered that the
average farmer, renting land and taking his family and all in, was
undoubtedly the lowest-paid wage-earner in the State. Although during
the past year or two the prices have been a little better, there must
of necessity be a change in the matter of production, otherwise more
dairymen will go out of the industry. This is the tendency in my dis-
trict, and, I believe, also applies elsewhere.
A Delegate. — -I can bear out Mr. Crowe's statement as to the fall-
ing off in butter production in the winter. In my district at one time
several sujDpliers tried to extend dairying during winter, but owing to-
the disappointing returns covering the last two or three seasons, in
several instances I have been informed they intend going out of dairy-
ing in the winter and confining their operations to the spring and
summer time, when the production is better and the cost less to them.
Unless soBcnething be done to encourage winter production, the shortage
will become greater as the years go on.
368 Journal of Agriculture , Victoria. \ 10 June, 1918.
Mr. Crowe. — Following up this particular subject, I may uieution
tliat dairymen in Victoria have never received a price in winter-time
that paid them as well as the prices ruling in the spring and summer
time. This is due to the supplies obtainable from other parts of the
Commonwealth, particularly Queensland. Under these natural con-
ditions dairymen were content to produce as much as possible in the
winter-time. Since the regulation of prices, however, whereby they
get no more for what they produce in the winter than in s])ring and
summer time, their attention has been focussed on the subject; they
feel unjustly ti-eated, and this is how the most harm is done. If the
outcome be that indicated by the previous speakers, it would appear that
if the winter production grows less, each State should, in the oi)inion
of some, provide from the season of jilenty sufficient butter to carry its
people through the slack period. Should this course be taken, we
will have factory butter going into store in December and January in
order to be available for consumers during the months of May, June,
and July. In May, June, and July the storage and interest on capital
would require to be paid, and if consumers require to be protected in
that way, they should buy the butter, pay for it, and bear the risk of
the transaction; it should not be the producer's risk. (Hear, hear.)
In South Australia, each year a considerable quantity of butter is
exported, and when the export season is over they draw their supplies
from Victoria, and the consumers in South Australia have the privilege
of eating fresh instead of stored butter. (Hear, hear.) If it be com-
petent for South Australian consumers to have the privilege of obtain-
ing fresh instead of stored butter, it is legitimate for Victorian con-
sumers to draw supplies of fresh butter from Queensland. At the
present time there is sufficient butter being produced in the Common-
wealth to cover all requirements, and, further, if price fixing were left
alone, the price at present would not be very difl^erent from what it
actually is. The people in Queensland naturally were glad to dispose
of their butter, but since the price has been fixed, they cannot be
blamed for not selling below that price. (Hear, hear.) This would
not help winter dairying in Victoria, but dairymen would be more
happy if the irritating artificial restriction were removed.
A Delegate. — I find from inquiry that in my district during the
past season 860 cows have actually been withdrawn from production,
having been disposed of in the saleyards, &c. This represents a big
loss to the dairying industry. My investigations show that many have
gone out of the dairying business, hecause they say that hy grazing
and fattening sheep they can get equal results. Jr'rice fixing is their
grievance, with the result that they have taken on something else with
an attendant, easier life. The other night I attended a political meet-
ing, and one of the speakers stated then that he believed in equal pay
for both men working long and short hours, and gave out the state-
ment that the average pay of the workman in Melbourne to be £2 15s.
per week. I inquired of him if a dairyman working sixteen hours per
day should be paid according to his work, to which he replied in the
affirmative. Whereupon I asked why, with Mr. Tudor, he advocated
price fixing, so that the dairyman could not earn half the pay of the
people whom he was representing. (Laughter.)
The Secretary. — We are interested to know what work is about to
be undertaken by the State Department towards imparting instruction
10 June, 1918.] Review of the Butter Export Season. 369
amongst the farmers of the State to maintain a good supply of cream
to the factories, also for information and instruction regarding the
treatment of dairy produce. It has frequently been pointed out at
previous conferences that the amount of instruction offered is infinite-
simal, and the country is looking forward to an awakening of the
Department of Agriculture, and its starting on active propaganda for
the purpose of putting the dairying industry on a better footing, and
imparting information bearing on dairy produce generally. It is
necessary that the factories receive the best raw material. Perhaps
Mr. Crowe might have something to say on the subject.
Mr. Crowe. — It may be mentioned that only 34 per cent, of the
butter produced in Victoria during the last number of years has been
exported, so that only that percentage of the total output was likely
to come within Commonwealth control. The Commonwealth Govern-
ment, under its Commerce Act and Kegulations, undertakes to deal
with exports, and its control commences when dairy produce is entered
for export. Sixty-six per cent, of the production is consumed locally.
Over a number of years only 6.3 per cent, of the cheese manufactured
in the State has been exported, the other 93 per cent, having been
consumied locally, so that but a small proportion of what is produced
is likely to come under the control of the Commonwealth authorities.
All of the milk produced for local consumption requires supervision
under State authority. In Queensland there is in force a Dairy Pro-
ducts Act, which came into operation about 1905. For the last two
or three years in New South Wales they have had in operation a Dairy
Industry Act, which was passed as the result of a conference of Min-
isters of Agriculture held in Brisbane about four years ago. At that
conference the Victorian Minister also promised to endeavour to get
a Bill passed in Victoria, so that all of the States would be working
on uniform lines. I can assure you he endeavoured to introduce this
Bill, but for some reason or other (I think you all know the history
of it, the Cream Grading Bill), it was side-tracked from time to time.
The measure now contemplated will be similar to the Cream Grading
Bill, but what its title will be remains to be seen. At the Conference
of Ministers last week, the Directors of Agriculture from most of the
States were present, whilst the officers of the Department connected
with dairying were all represented. A meeting was held, and the good
and weak points of the Queensland and New South Wales Acts were
fully considered. It was agreed that from those Acts, which had been
in operation for many years, and the material contained in the Vic-
torian Cream Grading Bill, there would be no difiiculty in framing
a Bill right up to date, which could in no way be regarded as experi-
mental. (Applause.)
A Delegate. — Kegarding the 34 per cent, of the Victorian butter
exported, drc, is all butter on the local market controlled by the Federal
graders ?
Mr. Crowe. — -At present, they have control under the War Precau-
tions Act. After the war, it is considered they will be unable to exercise
that power.
A Delegate. — How does the output per cow per year for the last
year compare with years before the drought?
Mr. Crowe. — I have not any figures for the last year, but may
mention that, according to the Commonwealth Year-Book (No. 9, 1916,
370 ■ Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
p. 371), the average butter per cow in Victoria and the Commonwealth
was as follows : —
Year.
1910
1911
1912
1913
1914
1915
Average for —
Victoria. Commonwealth.
126
146
130
142
136
135
119
120
114
121
121
111
These are the latest figures available on the subject.
In replying to a vote of thanks, Mr. Crowe said that in mentioning
the question of price fixing, it must be clearly understood that he had
no desire to enter into subjects which might be regarded as of a political
nature. He had drawn attention to these matters because he considered
it to be his duty to point out anything happening from time to time
which affected the dairy industry.
FALLOW COMPETITIONS.
Report of Mr. H. A. MuUett, B. Ag. Sc, Judge of the Fallow
Competitions Conducted by the Qoroke Agricultural and
Pastoral Society.
Herewith I am forwarding my report on the judging of the recent
Fallow Competition held under the auspices of your Society at Goroke.
An examination of the soils of the Goroke district showed that
widely differing types exist; more often than not, two or three types
were found in the same paddock. This rendered the judging a matter
of considerable difficulty, since there were only two sections in which
competitors' fallows could be placed. The rule adopted was to place
the exhibit in the class to which the larger portion of the soil belonged.
The following were the main classes of soil met with : —
(1) Friafcle black clay loams (as at Pleasant Banks).
(2) Friable sandy loams (as at The Hummocks, Mr. Lees).
(3) Stiff clay loams, frequently crabholey (as at Mr. Studholtz).
(4) Fine sandy soils containing a proportion of silt, with a
tendency to set down badly, and frequently with a cementy
subsoil (as at Mr. Cameron's).
The correct method of working several of these soils is totally
different; the first two can scarcely be overworked, but the fourth must
be treated with extreme care to avoid puddling; and, while the third
will stand a fair amount of work, some judgment is necessary to find
the right time for dealing with it. Generally speaking, the crabholes
are either full of water or as hard as blue metal.
In considering the merits of each fallow, the amount of work
advisable to meet the peculiarities of the class of soil was taken into
account. A natural tendency on the part of competitors on the various
classes of land to advocate the general extension of their own particular
methods to all types of soil, was noticeable. Thus, those with friable
10 June, 1918.] Fallow Competitions at Goroke. 371
loams are staunch advocates of plenty of work, while many of those with
cementy sands aver that no working other than ploughing is necessary
on the fallows, and that anything more is positively harmful. The
chances are that, in certain cases, both opinions are right, but in others
both are wrong; each piece of fallow must be worked according to its
needs, and not by any rule of thumb.
Advantages of Conserving Moistures ; Early Sowing Advocated.
There is a general agreement locally that the conservation of moisture
at Goroke is unnecessary, owing to the heavy winter rainfall there, and
that moisture so conserved — especially in sandy soils — will add to the
waterlogging and puddling effect. But it can be shown that there are
tremendous advantages in favour of retaining moisture in the fallow,
and, further, that this extra moisture does not necessarily increase the
puddling. The following is the justification.
Careful analyzes made from representative samples taken in the
field at Goroke during the visit, has demonstrated that those soils (sands
or clays) which were merely ploughed and left in the rough, or allowed
to become hard and packed, whether after working or not, were prac-
tically bone dry. It follows, therefore, that there could have been no
bacterial activity, so vitally necessary in producing available food
for the plants. That this bacterial activity was lacking, is furthei
evidenced by the fact that often the grass turned under at fallowing
showed no signs of decay.
Again, it is of paramount importance at Goroke, where 13.47 inches
of rain, out of a total 19.76, falls in the growing period of wheat (May-
October), to sow early. The rainfall records for the past twenty years
show that only every other year, on the average, does an inch of rain
fall in April; while in June the average fall is 3 inches; and further
heavy falls are experienced in July, August, and September. Thus, if
there be no moisture conserved in the fallow, the light rains of April
and May may not be sufficient for the working and the safe seeding of
the soil; consequently, the farmer has to wait till June, when there is a
grave risk of total loss of the seed or damage to the seedling crop. But,
if the fallow be moist, advantage may be taken of light rains, which
would otherwise be insufficient to start germination. An early-sown
crop will make forward growth while the soil is still warm, and gets
its roots well down into the warm soil beneath, and can defy frosts and
excess moisture. A vigorous growth will not only draw water out of
the soil, but will shelter it from the packing action of the rain, which
is the real cause of the setting down of these sandy soils. The greatest
quantity of moisture that could possibly be carried over under Goroke
conditions would be equivalent, at the most, to 2^ to 3 inches of rain,
and the greater part of it would be located in the subsoil, available to
the plant, but out of harm's way. The whole of this moisture being
already in the soil will not assist in packing, which, as already stated,
is caused by the beating of the rain.
Throughout the judging, I have constantly borne in mind the
necessity of conserving moisture, and have awarded points for moisture
and for mulch ; but I have been careful to remember that very little
372
JournaJ of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Ji'ne, 1918.
working can be given to some soils. Conso(iuently, where the ninl(;h
was entirely absent, points were heavily deducted; but if the mulch
were too fine, and likely to set, or of too recent occurrence, similar loss
of points followed.
I regret that, owing to the absence of several of the competitors at
the judging, it was not always possible to obtain exact particulars as
to the location of the area exhibited, or of the cultural operations given ;
and trust that any inaccuracies in this respect will be condoned.
The Results.
Light Class.
Xanu'.
Moisture.
Character of
Mulch.
Tillage.
Freedom
from
Weeds.
Totals.
Possible Points . .
50
50
50
50
200
G. Patching
J. Burton
A. Richards
J. Cameron
C. D. Block . .
T. Ough
M. Kiely
20
17
17
22
5
45
40
30
30
25
45
40
40
30
40
25
20
40
40
40
45
45
45
45
150
137
127
127
115
70
65
Mr. J. Patching, in this class, heads the list with 150 points. This
competitor showed sound judgment in working his land, and in the
character of the mulch that had been placed on the surface. The land
was ploughed in July and August, 4 inches dee]), with a Kubale stump-
jump plough. After the spring rains at the end of October, it was
worked with a spring-tooth, and again after rain at the end of February.
The roughest section (a low-lying portion) has been disced recently,
and plans have been made to plough a drain through the low-lying patch
after seeding to carry off excess water. The moisture conserved was
not as high as that in the land of Mr. Cameron, where Dortion of the
soil is, however, heavier, and therefore capable of retaining more
moisture.
Mr. Burton's falloAv was on new ground, and was stated to have
been broken up before the Avinter — in Alay — and then skim-ploughed in
October with a Shearer cultivating plough. Mr. Burton's fallow did not
show quite so much moisture, and there was a skin on the mulch.
Mr. Richards ploughed in September; he harrowed twice in October,
and spring-toothed in 1^'ebruary. The mulch was deep, but appeared
to be rather finer than advisable.
Mr. J. Cameron showed a very interesting piece of fallow, the rain
having interfered with the intended programme of work. The soil was
light sandy, but there were patches of heavier clay loam. About half
the paddock had been ploughed in August, and the remainder in Sep-
tember. Samples taken from adjacent parts disclosed the fact that
10 June. 1918.] Fallow Competitions at Gorohe.
373
the earlier fallow had the more moisture. This portion received no
subsequent working, and was comparatively dry; but a calculation from
the analysis of the part of the fallow that had been mulched proved it
to contain the most moisture of any exhibited in_ both sections. The
mulch was satisfactory. Mr. Cameron lost points through not com-
pleting his working.
Messrs. M. Kiely and T. Ough had not worked their soil subsequent
to ploughing. Mr. Ough's was very well ploughed, but both paddocks
were very hollow, and practically contained no water of use to the
plants.
Heavy Class.
Name.
Moisture.
Ciiaracter of
Mulcii.
Tillage.
Freedom
from
Weeds.
Totals.
Possible Points . .
50
50
50
50
200
.J. Delaney
J. Lees
F. 0. Robertson
C. 0. Block
J. MoUoy
N. Tully
J. Studholtz
41
43
46
11
11
8
45
45
40
20
2.5
10
40
45
35
35
20
25
22
45
30
40
45
35
35
35
171
163
161
111
66
93
67
The first three competitors had a decided advantage over the
remainder, in that the class of land they showed was easier worked.
The entries of Messrs. Robertson and Delaney were in the same paddock,
and, in the absence of either, it was not known to whom each portion
should be credited. The whole was classed as strong ground, and the
northern half was credited to F. O. Robertson, and the southern half
to J. Delaney.
Mr. Delaney's exhibit, a good friable black-clay loam, was stated to
have been ploughed in August and September; then harrowed and
cultivated before harvest ; and spring-toothed in February. There was
a good mulch, and calculations from the moisture analysis showed that
it contained a considerable amount of moisture, but not so much as Mr.
Robertson's fallow; there was, however, a comparative freedom from
weeds.
The fallow shown by Mr. Lees was portion of a rich black sand
hummock. There were high moisture and a good mulch, but padd)
melons were present, although, judging by appearances, attempts had
been made to remove them. It was stated that this area had received
several ploughings with the object of getting rid of horehound and
paddy melons.
The remaining fields were considerably lower in available moisture,
and the problem of their preparation and working is considerably more
complex than that of the first three.
374
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. 1 10 June, 1918.
Mr. Block had worked his land once after ploughing in Xovember
and December, and had not touched it again; there was very little
effective mulch.
Mr. J. Molloy, with some stiff crabholey clay, had not worked it
since ploughing ; and Messrs. Tully and Studholtz had merely harrowed
the land once, without creating a satisfactoi'y mulch.
Typical Goroke Country.
Summing Up.
Suggestions.
It would seem that the last milepost on the way towards the most
effective working of Goroke fallows has not been reached. The best
methods will only develop as the result of intelligent inquiry, in which
the present movement should assist. Having regard to the economic
conditions of your district, I would say to those who have friable free
soils, that increased working of the fallows, with the storage of water,
10 June, 1918.] Fallow Competitions at Goroke. 375
and the stimulation of the necessary bacterial flora as the object, would
prove payable. To those who huve strong, crabholey country, it is
suggested that it would become more manageable if the gradual filling
in of the crabholes were aimed at by substituting some sort of land
grader for the harrows at one working each year. To those with the light
sandy cements, perhaps the best advice is, " "Work Ihe soil, but not too
much. Give it at least two workings — one after the spring rains, and
one after the summer rains — with an implement such as the spring-
tooth or the cultivating scarifier, i.e., one that will tend to leave the
lumps on top and preserve a nubby mulch." This class of soil sets
very quickly after the rain, and judgment is required to select the right
time for working it. If settled wheat growing, and not just grass
improvement, be aimed at, it may ultimately prove payable to grow
field pease as a catch crop on these " cementy " fallows, and allow
sheep to pick them up when ripe. The fallow would certainly be no
drier after having groAvn the pease than it becomes under present condi-
tions. The residue of the pease cro]5, together with the sheep droppings,
would rapidly improve the texture and water-holding capacity of the
land. Another legume which could be substituted for pease would be
the King Island Melilot. The sowing of a few pounds with the. wheat
might possibly provide a fair quantity of feed in the stubbles, and,
when ploughed in, would improve the texture of the soil.
To all, I would suggest that greater attention be paid to the seed.
The varieties used should be select-bred, and of proved prolific strains.
For early sowing, later-maturing types — such as Yandilla King, Major,
Penny, or Currawa — should prove best; while, for late-sowing, early-
maturing varieties, like Gluyas, are worthy of a trial.
The quantity of superphosphate used, viz., 90 to 100 lbs., seems to
be on the right lines.
In conclusion, I have to thank those gentlemen who kindly lent
their Cars so that judging might be expedited ; also those farmers, whose
homesteads were visited, for their generous hospitality.
At the Peshawar Agricultural Station in the north-west frontier
province of India, Federation wheat has, according to the Agricultural
Journal of India, been grovsra during the past two years. It has
demonstrated its capacity to outclass local varieties in yield, even under
the special climatic conditions that obtain at Peshawar. For the past
two years it has beaten all other varieties.
The province is noted for its low .rainfall, which it is generally
necessary to supplement with irrigation. In 1916 the rainfall during
the growing period of wheat was 5 inches, and it was necessary to give
the wheat three irrigations.
Federation is especially commended by the station authorities for
its remarkable upstanding qualities, and, strange to say, its resistance
to smut and rust as compared with local wheats.
376
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
STANDARD COWS.
REPORT FOR QUARTER ENDING 31st MARCH, 1918.
Eighty-eight cows in all completed their milking term during the
quarter. Four failed to yield the requisite amount of hutter fat. The
names of the remaining 84 standard cows, with their records, ap])ear
below.
J. BAKER, Gheringhap. (Red Poll.)
Completed since last report, 2. Certificated, 2.
O
O
^5
>*
p ■
= ^l
■s
y-6
t-o
Name of Cow.
a o
W?5
Date of
Calving
cs c £
•IS-
60
.5 .■§■2
ill
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Elcho Lady
Not yet
allotted
30-417
7-517
273
•2U
7,028
4-84
340-11
250
387|
Elcho Maid
"
25.6.17
2.7.17
273
9
5,510
5-13
282-51
250
322
Mrs. AGNES BLACK.
Completed since last report, 9.
(Jersey.)
Certificated, 9.
Name of Cow.
o
o
p
o a
o
o S
ight of
klast
y of Test.
o
x:
03
.2 .
1^
5 =
S o
kI
a a o
^.S
^ifl
^i
> s
5e
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Grey Girl
2064
4.4.17
11.4.17
273
8i
4,859
5-63
272-25
250
310i
Marguerite
3576
8.4.17
15.4.17
255
4
6,292
4-87
306-39
250
349i
Beauty of Candelo II.
3739
10.4.17
17.4.17
273
11
6,585
4-46
294-15
250
335i
Flashlight
1972
19.4.17
26.4.17
253
4
6,221
4-77
296-95
250
338J
Heatherbell
3574
21.4.17
28.4.17
2V3
VZi
7,029
4-42
310-61
250
354
Sheila V.
3580
26.4.17
3.5.17
273
U
4,686
5-40
253-06
250
288i
Carnation V.
3572
26.4.17
3.5.17
246
4
4,767
5-62
268-08
250
305^
Mona's Pearl
3577
7.5.17
14.5.17
273
6
6,611
5-07
335-57
250
382*
Madge ; . .
3575
19.5.17
26.5.17
251
4
5,903
5-45
321-75
250
3661
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Werribee. (Red Poll.)
Completed since last report, 16. Certificated, 1.5.
Name of Cow.
o
n
■n
o a
o
o 2
O *i:2
.2P.M
■o.i:
S o
ID d
sis
c3 C S
^.S
^ga
^"g
<H
^r
^^1
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Baltica . .
Not vet
allotted
4.4.17
11.4.17
273
m
8,512
4-31
366-95
250
418i
Anglia
20.4.17
27.4.17
273
20
6,790
3-79
267-66
175
305J
Lily
24.4.17
1.5.17
273
19i
7,651
4-10
313-46
250
357i
Kubanka
3.5.17
10.5.17
273
23
7,223
4-27
308-65
175
351J
Avesia
6.5.17
13.5.17
273
26i
8,231
4-06
334-51
200
381i
Laranga
16.4.17
♦14.5.17
257
16
4,780
4-15
198-63
175
2264
Africana . .
8.5.17
15.5.17
273
lU
5,622
4-74
266-76
250
304
Soudana . .
16.5.17
23.5.17
273
18
7,113
4-16
296-39
250
338
Orinoco . .
22.5.17
29.5.17
273
10
5.823
4-26
248-20
175
283
Nictitana
t24.5.17
1.6.17
221
4
3,587
5 04
181-31
175
206|
Nickahoe
26.5.17
3.6.17
273
14
5,807
4-32
250-79
175
286
Muria
6.5.17
tl3.6.17
266
4
7,293
5-57
406-10
250
463
Morocco . .
7.6.17
14.6.17
273
22 i
8,421
3-65
307-35
175
350i
Latakia . .
11.6.17
18.6.17
273
26
7,421
4-72
350-56
200
399J
Hollandia
16.6.17
23.6.17
273
14i
5,447
4-53
247-04
200
28U
* Lost first 16 days on account of sickness.
t Calved 3 months premat\irt'ly.
X Entry deferred 3 weeks owing to milk fever.
10 June, 1918.]
Standard Test Cows.
377
C. FALKENBERG, Elliminyt. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 1. Certificated, 1.
>> m
o
o
o
a
O-gH
o
t)
V.-^:
5 =
Name of Cow.
W
■s .
(U o
9 a
ce a "
S.2-S
OS
■2
"Sta
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Annie of Taringa . .
4023
29.5.17
5.6.17
273
8^
4,803
5-65
271-18
250
309J
GEELONG HARBOR TRUST, Marshalltown. (Ayrshire.)
Completed since last report, 2. Certificated, 0.
Mrs. A. C. GIBBS, Bamawn. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 3. Certificated, 3.
Name of Cow.
Herd Book
No.
Date ol
Calving.
o
^ fl OJ
tS
o o
"o
^1
$ ■
> »
"S'S
II
Estimated
Weight of
Butter.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Boronia of Spring-
4377
23.5.17
30.5.17
253
4
4,558
5-54
252-56
250
288
liurst
Musk of Springhurst
4388
29.5.17
5.6.17
273
10
4,482
5-77
258-61
250
294J
Hyacinth of Spring-
3705
30.5.17
6.6.17
273
10
4.974
6-30
313-17
250
357
hurst
W. C. GREAVES, Monomeith. (Ayrshire.)
Completed since last report, 2. Certificated, 2.
Name of Cow.
§
teof
ving.
o
>>
O «
ight of
k.
2«
_2 o
o o
cJls
c« a S
O^
^3 =s
3"S
M.-" a
w^
a8
fil^H
^.S
^Sq
isS
■<H
P5fi<
M^i
wtspc
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Grace II. of Warrook
2908
i 3.4.17
10.4.17
273
15
6.669
4-93
328-87
250
375
Future of Warrook
2244
25.4.17
2.5.17
273
201
8,885
4-02
357-18
250
407i
T. HARVEY, Boisdale. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 3. Certificated, 3.
Name of Cow.
o
o
«
T3
teof
ving.
teof
try to
t.
>>
o
6C
B .
ft
» o
£$2
(D O
c4 a £
^.s
^§a
H
> a
a"§
S2
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lady Marge V.
Not vet
allotted
4100
3.4.17
10.4.17
273
14
4,868
5-80
282-64
175
322i
Kirstv V.
17.6.17
24.6.17
273
18i
6,211
5-58
346-40
200
395
Sparkle . .
2978
21.6.17
28.6.17
273
17i
5,875
5-35
314-18
250
358J
378 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
A. W. JONES, Geelong. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 2. Certificated, 2.
iA
§• i K
O
o
P - °1^H
o o
Name of Cow.
- n
■3^
°>. .
-e
bC
Ut
.^2
Is-
^'>
°^' ■S:S>>
.'^M
S'5
c ec^
w^
a C5 £
!2i.5| ^S«
P s
<1H
3"S
t
' lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lady Grey I. of St.
418C
20.4.17
27.4.17
273 14
5,899
6-85
404-05
250
460i
Albans
Lady Grey VIII. ..
4187
5.6.17
12.6.17
273 26
9,430
4-87
459-31
250
523i
C. G. KNIGHT, Cobram. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, .3. Certificated, 3.
o
°1^H
o
■^-h"
"So
Name of Cow.
-2 .
te of
ving
^h
°l
-Id.
=3 a
a o
Oo
=5 C S
g.s
^ia
^a
> «
sis
222
^^«
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
My Queen of Tarn-
4209
27.4.17
4.5.17
273 17J
5,775
5-82
335-94
200
383
pirr
Mistletoe of Tarapirr
2984
6.5.17
13.5.17
273 25i
7,630
5-13
391-49
250
446J
Komany Lass
2563
15.6.17
22.6.17
273
22
6,543
5-54
362 - 72
250
413i
C. G. LYON, Heidelberg. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 10. Certificated, 10.
M
>,
-s
■O-M
Name of Cow.
o
■ «
Date of
Calving.
Date of
Entry to
Test.
o S
o
IS
03
<1H
£ •
-2° .
III
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Chorus
2823
31.3.17
7.4.17
273
17
7,.309
5-62
411-35
250
469
Hawthorn V. of Ban-
Not yet
6.4.17
13.4.17
273
14J
5,247
5-46
286-37
175
326J
yule
allotted
Hawthorn of Banvule
1064
8.4.17
15.4.17
273
13
6,920
5-21
360-66
250
411i
Noble's Pet
4-247
14.4.17
21.4.17
273
16
5,847
5-36
313-61
175
357i
Soprano . .
1395
28.4.17
5.5.17
273
17
7,874
5-88
463-86
250
528i
Pretty May (imp.) . .
3103
3.5.17
10.5.17
273
12i
6,024
5-38
323-97
250
369i
Milkmaid 37th
1222
14.6.17
21.6.17
273
2U
8,639
4-77
412-55
250
470i
Velveteen II.
2927
15.6.17
22.6.17
273
27
10,434
4-67
487-73
250
556
May IX. of Banyule
Not yet
allotted
22.6.17
29.6.17
273
16J
5,251
5-00
262-81
175
299i
May X. of Banyule
"
22.6.17
29.6.17
273
13J
4,527
4-94
223-57
175
2545
T. MESLEY, Dalyston. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 3. Certificated, 3.
O
o
o
>>
3 .
°^H
■o
T^^
Name of Cow.
73
.s
11
Date ol
Entry t
Test.
"o a
1st
IS ■
> s
So
'Oi:
C 3
I'll
lbs. '
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Daisy of Springhurst
1788
19.4.17
26.4.17
273
12 1
6,300
5-54
348-08
250
3961
Euroa of Springhurst
1918
12.5.17
19.5.17
258
4
4,920
5-52
271-41
250
309i
La Charme
Not yet
allotted
9.6.17
16.6.17
273
20i
5,577
5 01
279-52
200
318J
10 June, 1918.]
Standard Test Cows.
379
J. D. READ, Springhurst. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 15. Certificated, 15.
Xame of Cow.
O
V 6
Bate of
Entry to
Test.
>>
a
a J
o o
.H
"o
^1
1 ■
fqpH
1|
CO £
1°
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Bauksia of Spring-
Not yet
31.3.17
7.4.17
273
9i
5,115
5-59
308
32
175
351i
hurst
allotted
Infanta of Spring-
,,
21.4.17
28.4.17
273
9
4,946
5-69
281
24
175
320J
hurst ,
Trefoil of Springhurst
4395
22.4.17
29.4.17
'273
16
7,139
5-97
426
48
200
486J
Princess Defiance of
4392
23.4.17
30.4.17
273
20 2^
7,223
5-75
415
17
250
473J
Springhurst
Buttercup of Spring-
3702
28.4.17
5.5.17
273
14i
6,442
616
397
14
250
452f
hurst
Princess of Spring-
2521
29.4.17 '
6.5.17
273
16i
7,010
5-63
394
99
250
4501
hurst
Verbena of Spring-
Not yet
2.5.17
9.5.17
273
13
5,545
5-40
299
31
175
341J
hurst
allotted
Crocus of Springhurst
,^
10.5.17
17.5.17
273
15
6,295
5-56
349
92
175
399
Tulip of Springhurst
2730
11.5.17
18.5.17
273
12i
6,426
5-42
348
47
250
397i
Wattle of Spring-
Not yet
13.5.17
20.5.17
273
16
5,768
4-98
287
37
175
327i
hurst
allotted
Holly of Springhurst
,,
24.5.17
31.5.17
273
14^
5,061
5-48
277
27
175
316
Solanum of Spring-
4394
29.5.17
5.6.17
273
8^
7,465
4-89
364
89
200
416
hurst
Cobea of Springhurst
4379
13.6.17
20.6.17
273
7
5,512
5-60
308
56
200
351|
Lobelia of Spring-
4386
15.6.17
22.6.17
273
6
4,940
5.- 78
285
80
200.
325J
hurst
Freezia of Spring-
4382
18.6.17
25.6.17
273
12
6,797
5-51
374
25
200
426i
hurst
W. WOODMASON, Malvern. (Jersey.)
Completed since last report, 14. Certificated, 14.
■g
>>
-g
Name of Cow.
o
n
■2 .
■2>
o
-Sit!
.2P.M
(D
60
2^
s .
a 3
a o
es-g
d So
o _
.l'^ C3
^^
WK
Po
PHH
^±:
^Sfl
^a
<(rt
WN
CO a
H^«
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Graceful Duchess
Not yet
31.3.17
7.4.17
273
13J
4,473
6-26
280-12
175
319i
XIV. of Melrose
allotted
.Jessie IX. of Melrose
3654
5.4.17
12.4.17
273
19
7,159
5-50
393-91
250
449
Empire VI. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
6.4.17
13.4.17
273
20
7,058
6-25
440-80
200
502J
Blossom IV. of Mel-
16.4.17
23.4.17
273
14
6,506
5-38
350-05
200
399
Mermaid III. of Mel-
4525
4.5.17
11.5.17
273
14
6,683
4-83
323 07
250
368i
Vanilla IX. of Mel
Not yet
14.5.17
21.5.17
273
15
4,532
5-39
244-28
175
278i
rose
allotted
Laura VI. of Melrose
3658
20.5.17
27.5.17
273
9^
5,527
5-30
292-69
250
333|
Snowy III. of Melrose
3676
22.5.17
29.5.17
273
22
8,512
4-52
'385-04
250
439
Mates VI. of Melrose
Not vet
allotted
29.5.17
5.6.17
273
20J
7,190
5-43
390-32
175
445
Mystery VIII. of
3664
31.5.17
7.6.17
273
13
6,036
5-90
355-98
250
405J
Melrose
Pearl III. of Melrose
4526
4.6.17
11.6.17
273
14^
6.434
6-65
427-78
250
487}
Fuchsia XI. of Mel-
Not yet
12.6.17
19.6.17
273
16
5,869
5-45
319-68
200
364*
rose
allotted
Mayflower VI. of
_,
16.6.17
23.6.17
273
13i
5,259
601
316-30
200
360i
Melrose-
Empire IV. of Mel-
3639
20.6.17
27.6.17
273
18i
7,731
5-22
403-53
250
460
rose
*. The three previous records of this cow were published under name of " Mermaid II. of Melrose.
380
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
A. H. SCHIER, Caldermeade. (Ayrshire.)
Completed since last report, .3. Oertificated, 2.
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Pomologist.
The Orchard.
Planting.
The time has now arrived for the general planting of deciduous
fruit trees. The soil should have previously been well ploughed and
subsoiled, and, as far as possible, drained. To ensure satisfactory
results, it is essential that the orchard be subsoiled. Where expense
is a consideration, drainage may be left for subsequent years, but once
the orchard has been planted, it will be impossible to subsoil.
When planting out, the distance between the trees will be determined
by the kinds to be planted. For ordinary deciduous fruiting trees it is
the custom in this State to plant them 20 feet apart in the rows, the
rows also being 20 feet apart. Results have proved this to be a satisfac-
tory practice. Almond trees may be planted 15 or 16 feet apart each
way, while walnuts, owing to their spreading habit, require a distance of
30 feet.
Deep planting is not advocated, the general practice being that the
depth of planting in the nursery should be followed. If holes be dug,
they should be shallow, the bortom being merely loosened to allow a
comfortable friable bed for the tree roots. A good practice is to dig the
whole strip along which the trees are to be planted, merely removing
sufficient soil afterwards when planting. Another satisfactory custom
is to plough furrows 20 feet apart, and to plant the trees in the furrows,
filling in the soil over the roots and trampling well down.
Before planting, the roots of the young trees should be well trimmed,
shaped to an even form, and cleanly cut. As the result of their removal
from the nursery beds, the roots are generally more or less damaged,
10 June, 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 381
and numbers of the fibrous roots, becoming; dry, shrivel and die. These
all require a clean trimming. Then it is often desirable to remove some
of the roots so as to balance the root system. The trimming of the roots
gives the young tree a clean root system, and it is enabled to establish
itself with young, vigorous roots.
After planting, the top should be well cut back, so as to leave three
or four arms, with three or four buds on each. Where it is not possible
to have this number of arms or limbs it is frequently advisable to cut back
to one stem, allowing the buds to break out strongly and frame the tree
after planting. In some countries, the custom of not cutting back the
trees the first year is favoured. Local experience has not resulted in
favour of this practice, as it is found to be inadvisable to unduly strain
the young tree by leaving a heavy top to be supported by the weak-
growing root system.
A number of good commercial fruits have been found to be either
wholly or partially self-sterile, requiring other varieties near them to
enable them to set their fruit. For this purpose it is necessary that
the bloom periods should be somewhat coincident.
Spraying.
The time has now arrived when it is necessary to spray for the fol-
lowing pests — scale insects, woolly aphis, and the bryobia mite. The use
of red oil has been advocated for these pests, and, as well, crude j)etro-
leum, kerosene and other oil emulsions have proved satisfactory. Some
years ago the use of lime, sulphur and salt spray was much in vogue as a
winter spray. Owing, however, to the difficulty of preparing the spray,
and to its caustic effect on the skin, it was practically abandoned as an
insecticide. Even then it was claimed, and rightly so, that the spray
was, to a certain extent, a very good fungicide. The use of this mixture
as a winter wash, with the omission of the salt, which has been found to
be an unnecessary ingredient, is now general; and, as it is obtainable in a
ready-made form, it is to be strongly recommended as a good all round
winter spray.
Generat. Work.
All ploughing should now be completed ; if not, it should be finished
before spraying and pruning operations are proceeded with.
Any autumn manuring or liming should also be now carried out.
This, too, should be finished before spraying or pruning. Before spray-
ing with oils or with lime sulphur wash, all rough bark on apple and
pear trees should be scraped off. This will mean the certain destruction
of any codlin moth larvae hiding underneath.
The Vegetable Garden.
If not previously done, asparagus beds should be well cleaned out,
and a top dressing of manure given. To insure good drainage, the soil
from the paths, or between the beds, may be thrown up on the beds, so
382 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
as to deepen the surface drainage, and to consequently warm the beds.
This will mean earlier growths. A heavy dressing of manure should be
given, and the beds well and roughly dug over.
Plant out seeds of tomatoes and the pumpkin family in the frames;
and sow in the open, seeds of peas, lettuce, spinach, broad beans, radish,
onions, carrot and leek. Asparagus crowns, rhubarb roots, tubers of
Jerusalem artichokes, shallots and onions may now be planted out.
Celery should still be earthed up, taking care not to have the beds too
wet.
The Flower Garden.
General cleaning up and digging will be the work for this month in
flower section and shubbery. Where the soil is heavy or sour, or where
sorrel is plentiful, the garden should be given a heavy dressing of fresh
lime, a fair dusting being applied all over the surface. Lime should
not be used in conjunction with leaves, garden debris, leaf-mould, stable
manure, or any other organic matter used for humus. These should be
first disposed of by digging well into the soil ; then shortly afterwards a
top dressing of lime may be given. Should no humic material be used,
the lime may be dug in with the autumn digging.
In cleaning up gardens, all light litter and foliage should be either
dug in, or, better still, it should be placed in an out-of-the-way corner
to form a compost heap. Leaf-mould, well rotted, is especially useful in
any garden, particularly where such plants as Azaleas, Khododendrons,
Liliums, &c., are grown, or for pot plant work it is exceedingly valuable.
In forming the compost heap, no medium whatever should be added to
help the rotting down of the leaves unless it be a little sand. Any
chemical added will render the" mould unsuitable for its special objects.
Any hardy annuals may be planted out, such as stocks, pansies, wall-
flowers, &c., and cuttings of roses and hardwood shrubs may also be
planted. In planting out cuttings it is very important that all the eyes
should be removed from the part of the cutting which is to be below the
ground. If this be not done, there will always be the subsequent danger
of the plant suckering.
Roses and any summer and autumn flowering shrubs that have finished
flowering may be pruned. If the spring flowering shrubs have not pre-
viously been pruned, they should be allowed to remain until after the
next flowering season. This especially applies to such plants as Spireas,
Philadelphus (Mock Orange), Deutzia, Prunus Mume, and other early
flowering shrubs. To prune these now would mean the certain loss of a
great proportion of their flowers.
In pruning, the shrubs may be well thinned out, especially removing
any weak upright or old flowering growths; keep the shrub always at an
outward growth, inclining to a broad bushy type, instead of to an upright
habit. By this means, the lower regions will always be furnished with
good growth. Shrubs and trees of all descriptions should never be
allowed to become too crowded; they require to be opened, so as to allow
sunlight and air into the interior, where it is most needed. This is one
10 June, 1918.] Reminders. 383
means by which this class of plants may be kept healthy and free from
disease. Very few shrubs resent pruning, and the majority of them,
including Australian shrubs, such as Acacias, are very amenable to the
pruning knife.
In rose pruning, the rule is that strong growing plants require less
severe cutting than the weak growing ones. As roses always flower on
T1PW wood, it is essential that the bushes be pruned regularly if good
blooms are desired. All weak growths, exhausted and worn out wood
must be removed, retaining only vigorous growths. It is generally
advisable to always prune to four or five eyes or buds, so as to have
subsequent strong growths, always pruning into the previous season's
• wood. Spindly growths, especially in the centres of the bushes, should
be removed, the plants being trained with an open and angular habit.
To prevent loss by decay, it will be advisable to lift and store such
herbaceous plants as delphiniums, perennial phlox, rudbeckias, &c., also
dahlias, tubers, chrysanthemums, cannas, and perennial sunflowers and
asters. Failing the possibility of doing this, they should be lifted gently
with a fork, so as to allow of a slight air space under the crown.
HEIVIINDEHS FOH JUliY.
LIVE STOCK,
Horses. — Those stabled and worked regularly should be fed liberally. Those
doing fast or heavy work should be clipped; if not Avholly, then trace high.
Those not rugged on coming into the stable at night should be wiped down and in
half-an-hour's time rugged or covered with bags until the coat is dry. Old horses
and weaned foals should be given crushed oats. Horses at grass will greatly
benefit by the addition of either hay or chaff, oats and bran. A lick, previously
reconunended, should be available for all horses at grass. Old and badly-
conditioned horses should be given some boiled barley or linseed. Mares now
approaching foaling will require careful attention, and should be kept under
constant observation. It is not advisable to have mares fat at foaling time, nor
is it wise to have them poor ; they should, however, be kept in good working
condition. The practice of working mares in shafts until they are about to
foal is strongly condemned, as such a course may give rise to many foaling
ailments, with consequent loss of foals, and, at times, that of mares also.
Commence preparing stallion for season, especially if worked.
Cattle.^ — Cows, if not housed, should be rugged. Rugs should be removed
and aired in the daytime when the shade temperature reaches 60 degrees. Give
a ration of hay or straw, whole or chaffed, to counteract the purging eifects of
the young grass. Cows about to calve, if over fat, should be put into a paddock
in which the feed is not too abundant. Newly-calved cows should be fed liberally
to stimulate milk flow. Calves should be kept in warm, dry shed.
Pigs. — Supply plenty of bedding in warm, well-ventilated styes. Keep styes
clean and dry Store pigs should be placed in fattening styes. Sows in fine
weather should be given a grass run. Young pigs over two months old should be
removed from lucerne run.
384 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1918.
Sheep. — Go carefully through all breeding flocks on conclusion of lambing.
Eeserve all best-framed and profitable-fleeced ewes. Ear mark all found unde-
sirable to breed from, and dispose of any that may be fat before prices recede
in the spring. Use a neat mark for ear-marking, not the " slash," " top off,"
and other oversized unsightly marks. Discard all undersized, narrow-framed
ewes, any with short yellow fleeces, those with thin locky staple, any with
very fine, light, and wasty fleeces, ewes with " bottle " udders, single teats,
undershot, overshot, or otherwise deformed mouths, ewes six years old and
over. Draw teeth of aged ewes altogether, if showing open and signs of feed
slipping through. Consider well before selling any early born, good-fleeced ewe
lambs this coming season. Select best rams for future service; remember, wide,
thick sheep are best thrivers, but they must carry good fleeces as well. Keep
all ewes well crutched and the udders and eyes well cleared of wool previous to
lambing. Give lambing flocks good attention.
Poultry. — Mating of birds intended for breeding purposes should receive im-
mediate attention. Eight second-season Leghorns or any other light breeds, or six
of the heavier birds, such as Orpingtons, Plymouth Rocks, and Wyandottes (pre-
ferably in their second year), with a vigorous unrelated cockerel will be found
satisfactory. Table bird's bred in March or April will pay handsomely prior to
the Cup Carnival. A tonic in drinking water as a preventive against chicken pox
and other ailments is advantageous.
Vineyard.— Proceed with pruning, burning off, and ploughing. Where
Anthracnose (black spot) has been prcA'alent special care must be taken in
burning off to leave no afl'ected twigs on the ground. A double application of the
pcid iron sulphate swab (or spray) is advisalile on vines which were badly affected;
the first should be given at end of July or first week in August; the second, just
before the buds burst. Complete, as early as possible, the application of manures
if not already done. Mark out land for new plantations. If ground is in good
order and not too wet, proceed with plantation of young vines (unpruncd).
Remove cuttings or scions from vines previously jnarked, and keep fresli by
bur.ying horizontally in almost dry sand in cool, sheltered place. Permanently
stake or trellis last year's plantations.
Cellars. — Rack all young wines, whether previously racked or not. Rack
older wines also. For this work choose, as much as possible, fine weather and
high liarometer. Fill up regularly all unfortified wines. This is a good time for
bottlins" wine.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Finish sowing barley, peas and beans, and late white oats in backward
districts. Trim hedges. Fallow for potatoes, maize, and other summer crops;
in early districts, plant potatoes. Graze off early crops where possible.
Orchard. — Continue to plant deciduous fruit trees, bush fruits, and straw-
berries. Continue cultivating and pruning. Spray for mites, aphides, and scales.
Flower Garden. — Plant shrubs, climbers, and permanent plants, including
roses; also annuals and herbaceous perennials, early Gladioli, Liliums, Iris, and
similar plants. Continue digging, manuring, trenching, and liming.
Vegetable Garden. — Plant out seedlings. Sow seeds of carrots, parsnips,
cauliflowers, onions, peas, broad beans, and tomatoes. Dig all vacant plots.
10 Ji
1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
ACCLIMATIZED LEMON TREE grown in oar Narseries
(^from a photograph)
Grow Your Own
Oranges & Lemons
We have a splendid stock of good, strong,
clean, and healthy Orange and Lemon Trees
(acclimatized), which have been grown in
our Nursery for the past twelve months.
Prices— Balled - - S/6. 7/6. lO/-
Unballed - - 3/- and 3/6
Qet yours in now before the ground gets loo cold.
each
each
HARBAS RED OIL LIME SULPHUR
Undoubtedly the best spray for controlling the various
scale pests that affect fruit and other trees. Certain'
destruction to San Jose Scale, American Blight, and
Red Spider. ILasy to Mix, Easy to Apply. Pricei,
I pint tin, 1/9; 1 quart, 2/6: i-gallon, 3/9;
1 gallon, 5/9; 2 gallons. 11/-; 4 gallons. 19/-.
Barrels, containing 43 gallons, 4/3 per gallon.
Send for pamphlet with full instructions for use.
SPRAYING SOLUTION " HAROLA "
Brand. The best fungicide for all fungus diseases.
" HAROLA" is a highly concentrated solution,
and if directions are followed, only the best results
can be obtained. Barrels, containing about 42
gallons, 1/6 per gallon. 4 gallon tins, 1/10 per
gallon. 1 gallon tins, 2/9 per gallon. 1 pint
tins, I/-. Nett F.O.B. Rail or Boat. Melbourne.
LAW, SOMNER Pty. Ltd
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston St., MELBOURNE
Established 18SO Telephone— Central 729
Nurseries — Orrong Road, ARMADALE, adjoining Toorak Railway Station
M4fi*».a«, «V4.1iC»4*t<
Xviii Joi/rnal of Agriculture, Victoria. [lO June, 15lS.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
POULTRY FOR SETTLERS
Cockerels and Pullets
Bred from the following matings
WYUNA WHITE LEGHORNS DISTINCT STRAINS
each
Wyuna Special Mating - - - - - £l 1 0
Cosh No. 1 Special 110
Subiaco No. 1 Special - - - - - 1 1 0
Cosh-Swift X Moritz 110
Cosh-Swift X Fulham Park - - - - - 1 I 0
A limited number of Cockerels from Trap-nested Hens
(250 upwards) x Moritz Cocks - - 2 2 0
The Moritz Cocks are full brothers to the sire of pullet which laid 315 eggs at
Bendigo Single Pen Competition, 1916-17— World's Record.
Orders may now be booked from the Poultry Pens
at the Wyuna Farm for delivery from March, 1918
RHODE ISLAND RED COCKERELS
£1 : 1 : O £2 : 2 : O
Note.-W. N. O'MuUane's Champion Burnley Pen (19I4-I9I5). which
established the still unbeaten world's record of 1 ,699 eggs, was the progeny of a
hen hatched from a Wyuna sitting. This pen recently realized £75
10 June, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
A Rain-resislin^
Spray
GARGOYLE Prepared Ped
Spraying Oil is the only spray
that WILL withstand severe
climatic conditions. The heaviest
rains will not wash it off your trees.
To make sure ihat Black Spot or
other fungus dis ases wiU not appear,
spray Gargoyle Prepared Red Spray-
ing Oil over your fungicidal solution.
It wi.l hold it in place during the
critical time when fungus spores
sprout.
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying Oil
is everywhere recognised as the most
reliable spray for destroying Aphis,
Scale, Red Spider, and all insect pes s.
If your Storekeeper does not sell it,
write direct to the
Vacuum Oil Company Pty. Ltd.
Brunches thnughoui Australasia
0i^^\.
cJf^^&i'
SR 3
PREPARED RED
SPRAYING OIL
Journal of Aqnciuture, Victoria.
[10 June, 1918.
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Frefe on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS; T. A. J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Carmody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knight.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Kenyon, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. 0. H. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CiOSER
SETTLEMENT. H. T. Eaaterby.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Caimron, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. Baxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T.A.J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
Dr. S. S. Cameron aiid others.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Meeking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1912-13. W. A.N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. 0. Turiier.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1913-14. W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S.A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. R. Beuhne.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1914 - 15. W.A.N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring
Bees, Feeding Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
Ing, Some Vintage Considerations, Spring Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato.
21 Valuable
Improvements in
the New Mitchell
Finding it impossible to improve the
design of our Drill, we have turned our
efforts to making it
STILL MORE DURABLE
STILL LIGHTER IN DRAFT
STILL EASIER TO WORK
The new Drill altogether outclasses all
others, specially in durability, attained by
usina UNBREAKABLE STAMPED
STEEL PARTS where possible, instead
of breakable castings, so buyers reap the
benefit in reduced cost of upkeep.
This feature alone makes the "Mitchell"
worth pounds more than others-
A USER'S EXPERIENCE
Mr. W. A. CAPRON. Table Top, Lia Albury.
says : — " Regarding the 16 Disc Drill I got from
you 10 years ago. I have drilled 7,000 acres and
have had no trouble whatever. Your drill is light,
strong, and durable. I cannot recommend it too
highly to anyone wanting a good, reliable, up-to-date
machine."
Inspect one before you buy
Ask for prices.
lease say you saw
thU.
MITCHELL & CO. l™:
West Footscray & 596 Bourke St., Melb.
Bay St., Sydney. Agenciet everywhere.
]0 June, 1918.] Journal of AgriculUire, Victoria. xxi
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
FsicilitieS are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers m an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Telephones :
Office: 10383 Central. Superintendent and Engineer-in-Clurge : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture.
Produce offices, 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telephone 9380 Central.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 June, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
Red Poll Dairy Herd
This Herd contains the first cow in order of merit amongst all breeds under
the Government Herd Test for 1914-15, and the third for 1915-16; also the
Winner of the Weekly Times Butter Test at the Melbourne Royal Show, 1916
Proof of DUAL PURPOSE CHARACTER \% given by the Price, for Culled Cow» in
the Fat Stock Market reaching to £27 10s. and £29 lOs.; by a cow yielding 1,000 gallons of
milk containing 448 lbs. butter in a year and selling at butcher's auction for £22 7s. 6d.;
and by cows in milk weighing upwards of 1,500 lbs. live weight.
The Bulls in Use include-
LONGFORD MAJOR (Imported)
Dam's Record 14713 lbs. milk
G. Dam's ., 10548 ,,
6 years average 10548 lbs- milk
4 ,. ,, 9155 „
BELLIGERENT (Imported)
Dam
Dam's Dam
Sire's Dam
Sire's D. Dam
G- Sire's D. Dam
G-G- Sire's D- Dam
G'G-G. Sire's D- Dam
s Record (1st milking) 7144 lbs- milk-
14533 lbs. milk ... 4 years average 12871 lbs. milk
. . 7 ,. ,, 9354
10370
9510
10215
12565
10088
12
7
10
2
8033
9386
8853
9754
BLJLL CALVES are sold at prices based approximately on the actual milk and butter
fat record of the dam at the rate of Is. per lb. of butter fat yielded.
(NOTE. — All the bull calves of 1917 drop have been sold, and choices from cows to calve
this season have been booked ahead of calving. The demand for bull calves is so strong
that farmers contemplating purchase are advised to study the records of the herd published
in the March (1918) Journal of Agriculture and book their orders ahead, indicating a choice
by mentioning approximate value.)
Inspection of the Herd is invited.
Visitors will be met at the Station on notification to: —
Mr. R. R. KERR, Dairy Supervisor 1
— or — V State Research Farm, Werribee
Mr. ED. STEER, Herdsman J
Application for purchase to DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE.
10 J
UNE,
1918.]
Journal of Agnculture, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kingdom and foreign
countries. Single copy. 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7, 8, and 9 (July. August, and September) out of print; V. (1907), and VI.
(1908), 12 parts each: VII. (1909). 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print ; and Vlll. (1910), 12 parts, are at present in stock, and
will be supplied at the foregoing rates. The parts forming the current volume may also
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exclusive of February, X. (1912), 6 parts, exclusive of January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), II parts, exclusive of June, are at
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YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp.. 200 illustrations, 2
coloured plates. Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2$. 6d. Postage: C, cloth 2id. , paper
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d., paper 8d. ; B. & F., cloth Is. 6d., paper Is. 4d.
AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. By Dr. Cooke. £1
B. & F., Is. 8d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2«. 6d.
Postage, Id.
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet. 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly ** or " Weekly."
By ProfesiOT A. J. Ewart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS, AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C, l^d.; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F.. lOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II.. lOs
N.Z.,8d.; B. &F., Is. 4d.
Postage: C. 5d.: N.Z. lOd.
Postage ; C. 2d.
By C. French, F.E.S., Government Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts I.,
each. Postage: Parts I. and III., C. Id.; N.Z., 3d.;
II. and IV., C, lid.: N.Z.. 4d.: B. & F.. 8d. each.
4d.: B. &F.. 7d.
II., III., IV.. v., 2s. 6d.
B. & F., 6d. each. Parts
Part v., C. Id.; N.Z..
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
xxiv Jmirnal oj Agriculture, Victoria. [10 June, 1^18.
DEPARTMENT of AGRICULTURE
Graded Seed Wheat
1918 DISTRIBUTION
Select Bred
— Graded —
Currawa Seed
Early application is necessary ; Orders will be booked
according to priority of application
Price, 6/- per bushel
The whole of the seed previously advertised, other than
Currawa, has now been allotted.
For further particulars apply to the Director of Agriculture,
i; Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
By Authority : Albeet J. Mtjllett, Government Printer, Melbourjie.
r
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Vinegrowers !
Phylloxera
Resistant ::
Stocks
Limited numbers of Resistant Vines are obta'nable from the
Department of Agr;ciilture at the following prices for each
description of plant
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Grafted), per l.OOO (packing extra)
Supplied from July to September, 1919
£6
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Ungrafted), per l.OOO (packing extra) £1 10/
Supplied from July to September, 1918
RESISTANT CUTTINGS, per 1,000 (packing extra)
15/-
Supplied in July and August, 1918
Applications must be made on the official order forms which may be obtained from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Principal, Viticultural College, Rutherglen
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be
complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Citrus Growers !
LIMITED NUMBERS OF
CITRUS TREES
Are Obtainable from the Department of Agriculture
THE VARIETIES ARE—
Washington Navels, Valencia Late, Eureka & Lisbon
Price, £6 per Hundred
f.o.r. at WAHGUNYAH
An amount of 10s. (or each hundred ordered is to accompany applications,
and the balance, £5 10s. for each hundred, is to be paid when consignees
give directions to have consignments forwarded. A charge of 2/6 per hundred
will be made for packing unless the casings be returned.
Applications must be made on the official order forms, which may be obtained
from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Citrus Nursery, Wahgunyah,
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must
be complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
HOW TO USE THE BABCOOK
Vol. XVI. TESTER. Part 7.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 5/-.)
FARMERS!
sow
BRUNNING'S
SWEET
CLOVER
Brunning's Sweet Clover has been thoroughly tried,
and proved to be a remarkable success in this country.
Recognised as one of the most valuable Fodders in America.
EXCELS EVERY OTHER CROP
(a) As a Milk Producer
(b) As a Honey Producer
(c) As a Soil Improver
(d) As a Green Manure
Horses are specially fond of Brunning's Sweet Clover as
pasture, or hay. Hogs and cattle thrive on it. Chickens like it
better than Lucerne. Milch Cows kept on Sweet Clover in two
weeks have gained an average of 5 gals, of milk a head. Bees
swarm upon the flowers. The N.S.W. Dept. of Agriculture
has pronounced the Honey to be of a very superior quality.
WRITE FOR FURTHER PARTICULARS AND QUOTATION
BRUNNING'S SERVICE includes advice as to How, AVhen, and
Where to Sow. Our Sales force is made up of practical
people, Mrho are pleased to give practical advice.
F. H. BRUNNING Pty. Ltd.
"VICTORIA SEED HOUSE" 64 ELIZABETH ST., MELBOURNE
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
CONTENTS.— JULY, 1918.
rASB
Agriculture in America — Letter from Mr. A. E. V. Bichardson,
3I.A., B.Sc, to the Director of Agriculture ... ... ... ■• 385
The Babcock Tester on the Farm . ... ... ... R. T. Archer 396
Diseases of Sheep ... ... ... W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc 410
Beet &\igsir—Repjrt by W. L. Williams, Manager, Sugar Factory,
Maffra, of his visit to America ... ... ... ... ... ... 416
Notes on Vine Black Spot or Anthracnose ... F. de CasttUa and C. C. RrittlebanJc 420
A Contribution to the Study of Hereditary Unsoundness in
Horses ... ... ... W. A. N. Robertson, B.V-Sc. 426
Report of Pomological Committee of Australia for 1918 E. E. Pe.icott, F.L.S. 434
List of Plants proclaimed under the Thistle Act for the State
of Victoria ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 44.5
List of Plants proclaimed under the Thistle Act for certain
Municipalities in Victoria ... ... ... ••. ... ••• 446
Hints on Flax Cultivation when grown for both Seed and Fibre ... ... 447
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles iu the Journal of the Department ot Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republish any matter are at liberty to do so. provided the Journal and author are
both aclmoiiiedged.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per aiinum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
56. for the United Kingdom and Foreifrn Countries. Single copy. Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
Jountal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 July, 191S.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Inclading Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES,
St. Albans Elstate Stud Fau-m.
GEELONG.
Inspe<ftion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Result*.
YOUNG BULLS. FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Sprinshurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls.
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture.
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON,"Banyule," Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of all
kinds. Dairy Farmers, and Others
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
n u Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock :: u
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather.
Price, 10/6 7o
A limited number available
stage
-Victoria and other States 1/6. New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
AppBcatioiu accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, coverine Price and Postase, to
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
10 JcLY, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
WE BUY LEMONS
Any quality and quantity from a
quarter ton upwards, in bags or c£ises
HIGHEST PRICES GIVEN
Send us full particulars of what you have to offer
C. M. BROOKE & SONS,
SOUTH
MELBOURNE
The Largest Lemon Squash Manufacturers in the world
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 190S
448 Pages 200 Illustrations 2 Coloured Plates
riAfk 1m R.A . nooAV- ?• tiA Poataje ; C. clolh 2^d., paper 2d. ; N.Z.. cloth 9d..
tlotn, 6%. od. ; paper, Zs. bd. p,p„*8d. : b. and f.. doth i.. 6d.. paper, i,. 4d.
LESLIE SALT LICKS
A NEW FOOD FOR SHEEP, COWS, AND HORSES
Leslie Salt Licks which supersede rock salt are composed of pure sterilized
salt, together with lime, a small proportion of Kpsom salts, and other
scientifically blended ingredients. They are the finest conditioner and
animal medicine known, and will do more to prevent disease than any
medical treatment. 2/- per block ; or 22/6 per case of 12 blocks (plus
freiifht to country centres). Order from saddler, produce merchant, black-
smith, butter factory, general store, or any of the following agents : —
Oippsland and Northern Selling and Ins. Co. Ltd., Melb. ; James McKwan
and Co. Pty. Ltd., Melb. ; Price, Griffiths & Co., Melb. ; J. Bartram & Son
Pty.Ltd., Melb. ; Lyall&Son, Nth. Melb. &Geelong; New Zealand Loan and
Mercantile Co. Ltd., Collins i King-sts., Melb. ; or Alex. Mair & Co., Meli).
The Electrolytic Refining and Smelting Company of Australia Limited
COPPER
OUR prodact i> equal to the belt
imported brands on the market and
we GUARANTEE THE PURITY
ORDERS are beiog booked for the
.— ^-^ cominK leaton.
(Bluestone)
We are Manafactnreri of E.S.A. HIGH
GRADE COPPER SULPHATE (Blaeilone)
for SPRAYING and PICKLING PURPOSES
and alio for ELECTRICAL PURPOSES
SULPHATE
The
Manafcr
FULL INFORMATION at to PRICE and DELIVERIES will be .upplied ON APPLICATION to -
The Electrolytic Refining & Smelting Company of Australia Ltd.
^^.^^_^^ PORT KEMBLA, N.S.W. ^^^i^^^_.^«.
{y' Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. MCALPINE,
GOVERNMENT VEGETABLE PATHOLOGIST.
With Appendicet by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologitt),
on Eel Worms;
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTernraesI
Entoraolozist), on
Insect Pests of tlie
Potato.
235 Page* (Cloth). 58 Full Plalet. Prirp ^ /- Po»t««e: Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealand, Bd.;
176 Illustrations. 11 ICC, «-»/ British and Foreign. 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director •!
AiSrlCUlture, Melbourne, Victoria, Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and W. Percy Wilkinson.)
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, U.
Postage : C, l^d. ; N.Z,, 5d. ; B, & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPEIiOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id.; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEW METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION WITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES: THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, l^d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON W^INE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, Jd. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage :
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
Bu D. Mc Alpine, Government Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5i. Postage: C, 2d.; N.Z.. 8d.; B. & F., Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C. 2id.: N.Z., 9d. ; B. & F., Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2«. Postage: C. Id. j N.Z..
3d. ; B. 6c F.. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C. I»d.:
N.Z., 5d. : B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage: C, 2d.; N.Z,.
8d. : B. & F.. Is. 4d.
ApplieatioTit accompanitd by Pottal Note or Chequ* covering prict and postage to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from bej/ond the Commonwealth to be made by Poet Office Order.
10 July, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
The Painter s Paint
BERGER'S Prepared
Practical painters use Berger's Paint (prepared) for all exposed work,
because they know it will wear longer ; that it is GUARANTEED to
do so. It contains Berger's genuine Stack-made White Lead, Zinc
Oxide, Refined Linseed Oil and Turpentine — all perfectly ground and
thoroughly amalgamated by the perfect Berger process at the great River-
side Factories at Rhodes, near Sydney. British for 157 years — now wholly
Australian. The covering capacity, dense colour, and remarkable wearing
quality of BERGER'S PAINT make it pre-eminent as "the
practiced paint for every purpose." Every tin bears a signed guarantee.
PRICE LIST POST FREE
_, mj^ WW /^mmiififii™«
'iSONl
391-403 BOURKE ST., MELBOURNE
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
Propy. Ltd.
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and'CORNINA" MANUFACTURERS
ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE
GRAirfcTO
*!l7^'bt:a»YofS[^uiAa l
Journal of Agriculture, Victorm.
[10 July, 1918.
Balance — ^pay as you earn. Expert will
erect, start, and jrive week's trial. These
are the conditions on which you purchase a
"Tangye" British Built
Oil Engine
It combines simplicity with the utmost
efficiency. Every part is simple, strong,
durable, and easily accessible. Because of
its low cost of operating:, the ease of starting-
and running- it, its strength and durability,
it is the engine that every progressive farmer
should buy. Starts on petrol, and switches
instantly on kerosene. Lampless type, mag-
neto ignition. Works all day without atten-
tion. 60 purchased by N.S.W. Government.
Stationary and portable 2 to 28 H.P. in stock.
Get large Catalog " T."
Over
4,000
Australian
Farmers
S^vear by
The " Lister" British Built
Petrol Engine
as the most compact, simple, durable, stronp,
efficient and reliable power for all farm work.
Every Lister is fitted with
High Tension Magneto and
Special Carburetter
and is so simple in construction that you can start
and run one without previous experience. No other
farm machine pays for itself in such a short time.
Immediate deliveries can be had from stocks.
Runs easily and smoothly. Expert will erect, start.
and give week's trial. £10 down. Balance easy.
Write for Catalog,
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
Agents (or Doncaster Hand and Motor Spray Pnmp, Vineyard and Potato Sprayers.
"Harbas" Spraying Oil, "Harola" Lime Sulphur Solution.
116 Sturt Street
South Melbourne
USE
FOR
BRANDING
YOUR
SHEEP
KEMP'S ^"^p''^^^^
Sheep-Branding
^
LIQUID
It has been proved by hundreds of Wool growers, 'amongst
them some of ihe largest squatters in Australia, to be an un-
qualified success, and to do everything that is claimed for it.
BLACK AND BLUE (in Cases)
Containing Two
4-gal. tins -
GIG
per
gal.
Or Eight 1-gal. tins
- 7/6 per gal. -
AGENTS
DALGETY & Co. Ltd.
MELBOURNE
& GEELONG
3 0 July, 191S.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
A New Farm Tool
AN AUSTRALIAN INVENTION
The E. T. K.
PORTABLE
DRILLING MACHINE
Can be fixed to a post, tree, bench, or anywhere
convenient in a minute, or taken into the field or
anywhere to the work.
Can be changed in one minute into a
CHAIN DRILL. LIFTING JACK FLOOR DOG
AVOOD BORER CRAMP of any length
ORDINARY VYCE PIPE VYCE
SAW VYCE or LATHE
The Price is ^< ^^ /" Illustrated E.T.K. Book Free
AJ^PIiefsonS;
9^""^ Proprietary Limited
TOOL MERCHANTS
554-66 & 582-88 Collins St., MELBOURNE
CREDIT FONCIER
Loans on Farms
UP TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATION
In sums from £50 to £2,000
At 6 per cent. Interest
and from 1^ per cent, in reduction of principal, which payt off the loan
IB 27i years.
Loans granted on Freeholds, or Crown Leaseholds which could be
made freehold at any time on payment of the balance of Crown Rents.
No Charge for Mortgage Deed
Loans may be paid off on any half-yearly pay day, subject to a small
charge if paid off within the first five years, but no penalty after five years.
Forms may be obtained at any Branch of the State Savings Bank, or
by writing to —
The Inspector-General, The State Savings Bank,
ELIZABETH STREET. MELBOURNE.
Vlll
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 July, 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable AKricuIturisU say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE YEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAY BE ENROLLED AT ANY TIME
Alternative Courses —
(a) Diploma Course
(b) One Year's Course.
Three Years.
Total Fees —
£25/-/- per annum.
Tie college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5.913 acres of farm land at Dsokie, 1 ,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champioB
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS. — Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Farmers.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM, 2,336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raising, Dauring,
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit, &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS, Esq., Secretary, Council of Agricultural Education,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insuranee
Society Ui
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Goaraatee, Plate
Glass, Personal Accideat and Sickness,
Eaplojers' Liability, Workmen's Compen-
satian. Pnblic Risk, Motor Car, and Burglary.
INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR MHBOURS
33 oiBiB -oO-ioJooqanl uni
pmn
10 July, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Carron
Boxes & Oil Oapi.
The only Ste«l
Wheel that has
stood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wbeels Guaranteed (or 3 years against Breakage, Ac.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. 1^ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36* and 32' dia. 4' Tyres. Table, 9J x 5i feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 owt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 cwl.
Theit Wheelt art guaranteed and will last for all time.
Highsr Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to tO ton».
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP— Truck body, imcl all classes of little Waeons for Farm and Station work.
WaKOU Shipped to all PorU in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY,
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: :: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
CtjcIqiic :::;
^^ -^^""^^ GET OUR
^^^^^^^^^^ CATALOGUE
Fig. 233. Ornsmenul
Handjate. 4 ft high
Fig. 211 Ornamental
Uandgate 4 ft. high
Fig. 188b Ornamental
Haadgrate 4 ft. high
CYCLONE Pty. Ltd. '-^''ZVLllVS,M*r^
.sniuodIsM .siuiluoiisA )o Insmt-rfiqsCI .io}ib3 o\3
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
I 10 JvhY, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MELBOURNE, VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA
NOIV AVAILABLE
BULLETIN 31
BEE-KEEPING IN VICTORIA
^}) F. R. BEUHNE,
— W Government Apiculturist. H^
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated)
dealing with various phases of Bee-keeping, and specially
adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING
Postage : Commonweallh, Id.; New Zealand, 2^d.; British & Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
This Journal
offers exceptional
: : advantages : :
To Stock Owners,
Produce Agents
and Stock Sales-
men, Implement
Makers, Sellers
of Milking Ma-
chines and Dairy
Utensils, Orchard
Appliances and
Materials, and all
Farmers' Supplies
for Advertising
7,500 copies per month Guaranteed
Circulation throughout the Country
Districts of Victoria and amongst
Farmers of the Commonwealth, reach
ing also country professional men
tradesmen, schoolmasters, teacheirs
and the like. Exceptionally satisfac
tory results have followed the adver
tising of Stud Stock in this Journal
o^offi^iT^ntTsJ:^ Mr. J. J. WRIGHT and Mrs. HEMMING
c/o Editor. Department of Agriculture. Melbourne.
10 JiLY, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If YOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
xu
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 July, 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Elxecutors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Manacing Director.
EDWARD HTZGERALD. Esq.. LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE. E.q.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN. Esq. DAVID HUNTER. Emi.
Thia Company Acta aa Executor or Joint Executor of Willa, Adnnlnlatrator, Truatae af
Settlomantai and Aeent for Abaonteea under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices— 1 13 Queen St. (Coraer of Little Collins-st.), Melbourne
"1000 TREES & STUMPS
GRUBBED OUT"
Thus writes Mr, J. Sutherlandi Parwan,
" I am very well pleased with the Grubbers, as they are doiriK very good work. With mine I have
close on 1,000 trees and stumps grubbed out. I have done ai! tliis work myself without any assistance.
So I consider the Grubber has more than doubly paid for itself."
Full The "MONKEY WINCH" will save time, labour and money on
particulars your land clearing, is always ready, and can be worked in
/rum — the very roughest country and in any class of timber.
TREWHELLA BROS. pty. ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
from a Vi<ftorian Deposit.
cXbP OttOWN AT BRIDGEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orders can now be supplied and full information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy, Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLUNS STREET WEST. MEt BOURNE
10 July, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
xm
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHTS
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
BURNT LILYDALE LIME
FOR THE LAND
Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should try it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Immediate. The demand (or Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Lilydale Lime.
ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide.
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, p„S„. OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works— Cave Hill. Lilydale, Tel. Lilydale 4. Tel. Central 5726.
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Office
LONDON
Melbourne Offic«
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Batter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Account
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Ckiti Aceat* ia Vict*ri> Ur tiM PAUTINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
Journal of A gri cult lire. Victoria. | 10 Jri-Y. 191)^.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
The New Stores at Victoria Dock
have a capacity of 600,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 300,000 boxes
of butter, or 200,000 cases of fruit, or
270,000 carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chambers
direct into the ship's hold. Electric motor power totals 880 H.P.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected with the Cool Stores by direct lines; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable products are provided.
Expert Officers are connected with every Branch, so that
any one requiring information regarding the production, preparation, and
shipment of produce can rely upon being promptly supplied with up-to-
date information upon all matters.
10 July. 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
Aad Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
Jg^f^i^l^T^ll f Bonedust s
• V^V/V^£V.^1.1^J^9 Manufacturer
OFFICE; 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. TeUphoa* 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES.
STABUES, SHEDS, ftc.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL OUTSIDE FAINTING
IVholetalt
Agtnti : —
IN ALL CALCI
FOR INSIDE PLA8
IMO COLOURS
ObtainabU 1
from all 1
Storek*ep€rM ■
BROO
KS, ROBINSON & C<
3. Ltd.
J
■ ■ ARE YOU SATISFIED ■
WITH YOUR EYES ?
Your eyes «re under a constant strain all day; they are your
most valuable possession, and neglect in the early stages
may lead to eye strain. — — EYESIGHT TESTED.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.O..
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
'PHONE 6778
for an appointment.
Estab.
32 Years
DAIRY & INCUBATOR THERMOMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
E.WOOD
EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
95 Elizabeth St., Meib.
LIVERPOOL. SYDNEY.
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted In all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are eligible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointments in the
Commonwealth and Stale Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full pau'ticulars apply —
The DIRECTOR, Veterinary School, PARKVILLE, VICTORIA
XVI
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 July, 1918.
SEED POTATOES
FOR SALE
Selected, Immature Seed Potatoes
of the following varieties, ex Depart-
mental Plots at Leongatha : —
Up-to-Date - - \
Carman No. 1
8/-
Coronation
Clark's Main Crop
per cwt
Peach Bloom
f.o.r.,
Manistee -
Leongatha
N.Z. Pink Eye
Application to be made to the
Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
THe JOURNAL
OF
^fie department oj Mgriculture
OF
VICTORIA
Vol. XVI. Part 7. lOth July, 1918.
AGRICULTURE IN AMERICA.
Letter from Mr. A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc, to the
Director of Agriculture.
[This letter contains information of a character so interesting and
valuable to Victorian agriculturists that, although it is unofficial, I am
taking the liberty of publishing it. — S.S.C.]
I am forwarding herewith a few notes on the progress of my investi-
gations for the month of March. During March, I visited the States
of Utah, Colorado, Kansas, and Iowa, and made a careful investigation
of the work done by the Agricultural Colleges in these four States.
These States are as unlike in physical and agricultural features as
four adjoining territories could well be. Utah is an arid State, with a
large proportion of desert land, and a small area of intensely cultivated
irrigable land.
Colorado is very mountainous, ranging from 4,000 to 14,000 feet
high, and is devoted to specialized industries, such as sugar-beets, potatoes,
alfalfa, tomatoes, beans, and, in addition, sheep feeding in conjunction
with alfalfa raising. The climate is dry and cool.
Kansas has an elevation varying from 700 feet along the Missouri
River to 4,000 feet on the boundary of Colorado. It is one of the great
winter wheat States, and the centre of enormous milling and meat-
packing interests. Kansas City is one of the great primary meat
markets of the world. It also produces an immense quantity of maize
(corn in America), and the natui'al concomitant of maize — hogs and
beef cattle.
Iowa is the great corn State of America, and contains within its
boundaries 35,500,000 acres of the richest agricultural land on the
globe. JSTinety-seven per cent, of the State consists of arable land,
and the average value of the whole of the land of the State is probably
225-250 dollars. The soil is mostly black sandy loam, 12-18 inches in
9307.
386 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
depth, resting on a clayish subsoil. The land is gently undulating.
Iowa is one of the greatest agricultural States, and is the home of com,
hogs, beef cattle, and dairying. The population is almost exclusively
agricultural, and Des Moines, the capital, is the only town over 100,000
inhabitants in a population of 2,250,000. There are no " Back to the
Land " problems for Iowa. Probably no other State feeds such a large
proportion of its grain to hogs and cattle as Iowa. It Avould be a
lesson for any Victorian pig or cattle breeder to come to Iowa to see
how stock are fed, and he would also learn much from the way the pig
and cattle breeders of Omaha send their stock to market.
Cattle and hogs are largely " self fed," i.e., allowed to help themselves
to corn, hay, and protein foods, such a tankage (a product of the packing
industry), and cottonseed meal. Farmers realize that stock, if fed on
balanced rations, may be fattened both quickly and economically. They
know exactly how much corn, alfalfa, cottonseed meal, and tankage
are required to produce 100 lbs. of pork or beef, and their stock are
always sold at Chicago, Omaha, and Kansas City by live weight. At
present, 100 lbs. of pork is selling for the same price as 14 bushels of
corn, so there is a handsome profit in feeding hogs. But I must return
to my subject.
Each of these four States supports an Agricultural College of
academic rank, and all support them liberally with men, equipment,
and money. The two eastern Colleges are bigger, better equipped, more
liberally staffed, do more experimental and research work, and have
much larger attendance of students than either of the western Colleges,
Utah and Colorado.
Irrigation and specialized farming is the main type of agriculture
in Colorado and Utah ; wheat and live stock, and corn and live stock,
are the dominant features of Kansas and Iowa respectively. The
Colleges reflect the character of their States agriculture in the stress
they give to these features in the curricula of studies.
In each State, no other agricultural institutions exist save a so-called
State Board of Agriculture, the sole duty of which appears to be the
holding of the annual show at the capital, and the collection of certain
statistics.
The Colleges at Utah and Colorado spend, roughly, $600,000, whilst
the annual appropriation of Kansas is $1,000,000, and Iowa $1,300,000.
Kansas and Iowa have important courses on Animal Husbandry, and
approximately half the agricultural students take the Animal Husbandry
course. In all four cases, vo farm work, such as we have at Dookie,
is given. The Americans unreservedly and unhesitatingly say it is an
absolute waste of time to teach a lad to plough, drill, harvest, &c. Their
courses are intensely technical and practical, but the practical work
consists of laboratory exercise, stock judging, stock feeding, &c. At
Iowa, I saw a class of twenty-four students judging a group of four
steers. After '' scoring " them with score cards, and studying confor-
mation, type, &c., they slaughtered them, dressed the cattle, weighed
them alive and dressed, and then studied the various cuts of beef. Later,
the carcasses were cut up into " round," " loin," " flank," " rib," " brisket
and navel," " chunk," and " foreshank." This is the kind of practical
work done by the classes in Animal Husbandry on '* Beef production."
10 July, 1018.] Agriculture in America. 387
Two striking features are noticeable as compared with the work
of the College of Agriculture at Berkeley —
(1) Each of the four Colleges has an important Home Economics
Course of four years, leading to the degree of B.Sc, and attended by from
600 to 1,000 young women.
(2) Three of the four Agricultural Colleges have associated with it
a Secondary School of Agriculture, or a non-collegiate course of three
years for students who have not been able to reach the High School
leaving certificate before coming to College. This " School of Agricul-
ture," as it is termed, is really an Agricultural High School, on the
same campus as the College, but controlled by an entirely separate
teaching staff, though the same equipment is used. At Colorado there
are over 300 in this High School, in addition to the 600 taking the
four years' collegiate course. The grade of teaching in these secondary
schools is about equal to that of Dookie, perhaps a little better; but if a
student wishes to go on for the degree, he has to spend four years in
the secondary school and four years in the collegiate school. At Kansas
there are 407 in the secondary school, and 598 in the four-year collegiate
course.
At Iowa, there are 965 students taking a four-year course in Agri-
culture for the degree of B.Sc, and only 213 in the secondary school.
At Colorado, I spent several days investigating sugar-beet culture,
and the beet-seed industry. I had a letter of introduction to the
manager of the Great Western Sugar Company, and this enabled me to
see over two of the. biggest factories in America, and get first-hand
information regarding the raising of seed and the culture of the beets.
This company operates twelve beet factories, has a capital of
$30,000,000, grows 3,000 acres of beet seed every year for its own clients,
and produces 500,000,000 lbs. of granulated sugar annually. I took
elaborate and detailed notes of many points of interest to the industry,
and spent a day in the Longmont factory, which treated 275,000 tons of
topped beet last year, and handled 3,500,000 lbs. of sugar-beet seed
produced on the company's farm adjoining the factory. One of the
most interesting features was a Stephan's plant, which recovers sugar
from molasses. The molasses is treated with lime and water, and
sugar is precipitated as saccharate of lime. This is then heated, and
the saccharate breaks up into sugar and lime. This lime is used for
the clarification of the juice, and the sugar is recovered in crystalline
form. The company was buying molasses from other factories at $30
per ton this year, and recovering 80 per cent, of the sugar in the
molasses, i.e., about 40 per cent, of the total weight of molasses as sugar.
The problem of making a mechanical beet topper appears to be
Hearing solution. The company offered $10,000 dollars for a machine
that would successfully top beets, and it has obtained many machines,
which, according to the manager, promise to do the topping effectively.
The company feeds 10,000 head of cattle every year. It is interesting
to note that they have found that —
7,500 lbs. Avet pulp, or 750 lbs. dry pulp,
700 lbs. alfalfa hay,
100 lbs. cotton-seed meal,
250 lbs. molasses,
produce 100 lbs. of beef. Beef is worth $16 a ton at present.
1 i
388 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. \ 10 July, 1918.
You might be interested to know that, at the Longmont factory, the
average output of products per ton of topped beets (2,000 lbs.) was
as follows : —
260 lbs. granulated sugar.
100 lbs. dried pulp.
35 lbs. molasses (dry matter).
395 lbs.
The beet has 22 per cent, of dry matter, or 440 lbs. per short ton.
They now propose to recover potash from the balance. The company
has been extremely successful in producing sugar-beet seed, and now
has a two years' supply on hand. It not only has produced seed as
good as the best German " K.W. " seed, but actually has strains which
give a yield, compared with standard German seed, of 114.9 (German
100), and a sugar yield of 113 per cent. I was fortunate enough to
secure minute details of the processes of selection involved, as well as
numerous photographs of the laboratories and apparatus used in selec-
tion of the seed.
I made some inquiries into the methods of handling stock at Kansas
City and Chicago. Through a letter of introduction to Mr. Harold
Swift, of Swift and Company, the great Chicago meat packers, I was
able to spend two days in looking over their 20-acre plant at Chicago.
1 saw the hog, cattle, and sheep plant, and witnessed every operation,
from the time the animals are slaughtered until the carcasses are
shipped. The plant is immense. The day I visited the works, 7,000
sheep, 2,500 cattle, and 6,000 hogs were slaughtered and packed in nine
hours. The stock is sold by live weight, and immediately the sales are
made the animals are run over the weighbridge. !No auctions are held,
as in Australia. Commission agents, and the buyers from the packing
houses, ride around the pens and haggle until a sale is made.
Swift and Company had a turnover of $875,000,000 last year.
According to the chairman's report, the expenses of operating may be
thus summarized : —
Average price paid for cattle . . . . . . $84.45
Packing house and selling expenses . . . . . . 7.32
Net profit . . . . . . . . . . 1.29
Average total proceeds from carcasses and by-
products . . . . . . . . $93.06
These proceeds were divided as follows : —
Average amount per head received for beef carcasses . . $68.97
Average amount per head received for by-products . . 24.09
$93.06
Thus, it will be seen that the company sold beef carcasses for less than
it paid for the live animals, and that the total net profit was $1.29
per head.
10 July, 191S.] Agriculture in America. 38Sf
The Chicago Corn and Oat Pit is an interesting place. The " pit "
is about 30 feet in diameter, and during the sales is crowded with
brokers standing on tiers of steps yelling and signalling to one anotlier.
You would imagine you were at the finish of an exciting Cup Race at
Flemington, only the noise is sustained from 9.30 to 1.30 each day.
Through the courtesy of the President of the Board of Trade, I was
admitted to the "floor" of the" room, and became one of the surging
mass of humanity in the pit. The unit of trading is 5,000 bushels,
and hundreds of thousands of bushels change hands with a nod or a
sign. It is a fascinating sight, but not as exciting as the scenes formerly
witnessed in the " Wheat Pit." This latter has been closed since the
Government fixed the price of wheat. Each broker is his own auctioneer
— he merely stands in the centre of the pit and intimates he wishes to
buy or sell, say, 200,000 bushels, at a price, and he is bombarded with
quotations and quantities by his colleagues, and in a few seconds the
corn changes hands. An officer standing on an elevated platform sends
out the changes of the market every minute by means of an electrical
apparatus which records the prices of corn, oats, lard, &c., in a dozen
different parts of the building. Any one with a speculative spirit could
satisfy his desires in a Pit at Chicago.
While at Chicago, I called at the International Harvester Company's
offices, and got in touch with Professor Holden, who is in charge of the
extension work of the International Harvester Company. This Exten-
sion Department does fine campaign work in the United States, and
sends lecturers and agents out all over America to do what a State
Department of Agriculture does in Australia. Dr. Holden is a live
wire, and has an army of specialists and lecturers to help in improving
agricultural practice by means of bulletins, lectures, farmers' institutes,
experimental plots, the whole cost of which is borne by the Harvester
Company.
I append a few notes regarding the Colleges at Kansas and Iowa.
Both of these Colleges have been very successful, and are remarkably
well supported by the farmers and by the State. They have made
remarkable progress during the past ten years. The development has
arisen from the necessity for more intensive direction of the agricultural
industries. There has come to the community a recognition that the
land must be better worked and live stock more efficiently handled in
order to secure the highest returns from the rich soil of the middle west.
Land values increased considerably, and, with the rise in land values, a
system of live-stock farming and feeding, which had to adjust itself to
the newer range of values, became imperative. The Kansas and Iowa
Colleges seem to be regarded by the farmers as a kind of Mecca to which
they may go to have their problems solved. When farmers' courses are
advertised, the farmers attend in thousands. Most of the young men
at these Colleges come from the land. Approximately, half the graduates:
go back to the land after graduation.
At both Colleges, the Animal Husbandry courses are particularly
strong. A fortnight ago, several hundred cattle breeders spent a week
at Iowa investigating the experimental feeding results of the Animal
Husbandry Department.
890 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
Kansas Agricultural College.
Organization. — The organization comprises: —
(1) A Board of Control. — Three members, appointed by the
Governor, with the Governor ex officio Chairman. This Board
elects a business manager, who controls all purchases. The
Board chooses —
(2) A President, and appoinis, on the recommendation of the
President, all employees, and fixes the stipends. The President
has absolute control of the internal administration of the College,
but the Board exercises a financial control, and can, to a large
measure, determine the policy of the institution.
(3) The College is organized in three divisions —
(1) College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts.
(2) Agricultural Experiment Station.
(3) Division of Extension.
The College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts is divided into five
Departments: — (1) Agriculture; (2) Mechanic Arts; (3) General
Science; (4) Veterinary Science; (5) Home Economics. Four-
year courses are given in each of these, leading to the degree of B.Sc.
In addition, there is a School of Agriculture of secondary grade,
with a three-years' course, which is a preparatory school for the
four-year College course.
Tlie Extension Division consists of eight departments: —
(1) County Agents; (2) Institutes and Extension Si3hools;
(3) Boys' and Girls' Clubs; (4) Home Economics Agents;
(5) Ilural Engineering; (6) Home Demonstration Agent Work;
(7) Rural Organization; (8) Home Study and Service Depart-
ment (Correspondence).
The Experiment Station is divided into : — Agronomy, Animal
Husbandry, Dairy Husbandry, Horticulture, Milling Industry,
Poultry Husbandry, Veterinary Medicine, and Engineering Depart-
ments, each with a chief and a staff of investigators.
(4) Equipment. — The equipment and buildings of Kansas Agri-
cultural College are most elaborate. The value of the equipment at
Kansas was estimated at $2,000,000, made up principally of: —
Buildings
Apparatus, equipment, &c.
Value of campus and farm
Endowment funds
$972,324
$707,452
$261,500
$491,746
Staff. — The Staff of the College consists of a total of 414, viz. : — A
President; 5 Deans; 31 Professors; 51 Associate Professors; 185 in-
structors. In addition, there is an Extension Staff of 135 graduates, of
which 8 are heads of departments; 56 county agents; 27 specialists in
Agriculture; 15 assistant county agents; 7 club-work agents; and 18 are
women demonstrators.
10 July, 1918.] Agriculture in America. 391
Students. — The students enrolled in 1916-17 were: —
Agriculture (for four years' course B.Sc.) . . 598
Agriculture (Secondary School, three years' course) 422
Home Economics (women) . . . . . . 643
General Science . . . - . . . . 311
Mechanic Arts . . . . . . . . 171
Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering . . 146
Veterinary Science . . . . . . . . 91
Others . . . . . . . . . . 104
2,466
Farmers' Short Courses, Traction Engine Courses,
and Summer School . . . . . . 873
Total . . . . . . 3,339
N'ow, these attendance figures should be compared with Dookie, Longere-
nong, and the University, to obtain a contrast between the success
obtained in teaching Agriculture in Kansas with that obtained in
Victoria. It is interesting to note that the area of Kansas is almost
exactly equal to that of Victoria, and the population almost the same,
1,650,000 (1915 figures). The area of Kansas is 53,000,000 acres.
The total agricultural and live stock production for Kansas was, how-
ever, $371,000,000 last year, as compared with $190,000,000 for Victoria
in 1917.
I cannot hope to describe the details of the courses and work done
at these institutions. The catalogue and literature forwarded last mail
will enable you to get an idea of the work carried on by the institution.
You may be interested to know that, at the time of my visit, there were
40 horses, 230 cattle, 320 pigs, and 350 sheep on the farm. A large
number of investigations in feeding steers, cattle, dairy cows, and hogs
were in progress. Among the milking cattle were the following cows : —
Melrose Canary Bell (Ayrshire). — 13,000 lbs. milk, 505 lbs. of
butter-fat, at two years old.
The Owl's Design (Jersey).— 14,600 lbs. milk, 650 lbs. fat.
Maid Henri/ Pontroy (Holstein). — 14,000 lbs. milk, and 519 lbs.
fat. 28 lbs. butter in seven days, official test.
Eighty-three cows were being milked. The average production of
the herd was over 900 gallons (9,000 lbs. milk), and the average of
butter-fat just exceeded 400 lbs. The standard ration is alfalfa, hay,
and corn silage. For concentrates, 4 parts corn, 2 parts bran, 1 part
cotton-seed meal, was mixed, and 1 lb. of mixture given for every 4 lbs.
of milk given by Guernseys and Holsteins, and for every 3 lbs. of milk
given by Jerseys and Ayrshires.
i392 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
lotv^A State College of Agriculture.
The State of Iowa is even smaller than Kansas, but it is far more
fertile and productive. Of the 35,000,000 acres in the State, 97 per
cent, is arable, and over 10,000,000 acres is sown to corn. The annual
production of maize exceeds 300,000,000 bushels. The best farmers
practise a rotation of corn, oats, clover or corn ; corn, oats, clover.
Iowa is about two-thirds the size of Victoria. It spends $1,350,000
on the Agricultural College.
The College is at Ames, some 35 miles from Des Moines, the capital.
Like Kansas, the College is controlled by a Board of eleven, with
President, Secretary, and nine members, three of whom are appointed
annually. The College has the same general plan of organization as
Kansas: — President, with the (1) College of Agriculture and Mechanic
Arts; (2) Agricultural Experiment Station ; (3) Division of Extension.
(1) The College of Agriculture is divided into the following divi-
sions:— (1) Division of Agriculture; (2) Engineering; (3) "Veterinary
Science; (4) Industrial Science; (5) Home Economics. Each division
is in charge of a Dean.
(2) The Experiment Station consists of the following departments:
— (a) Agronomy; (&) Agricultural Engineering; (c) Animal Hus-
bandry; {d) Bacteriology; (e) Botany; (/) Chemistry; {g) Dairy;
(li) Entomology; {%) Farm Management; and (;/') Horticulture.
(3) The Extension Division is growing rapidly. It has the same
general organization as Kansas and Iowa, and now has a county agent
in each county of the State — 98 in all. The extension work is inspiring.
Expenditure. —
I. (1) College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts . . $675,000
(2) Secondary School of Agriculture . . 55,000
II. Extension Department . . . . . . 350,000
III. Experiment Station . . . . . . 150,000
$1,230,000
Staff. — 57 Professors; 57 Associate Professors; 196 assistants and
instructors.
Students. —
Collegiate . . . . . . .. 2,562
Non-Collegiate (Secondary School) ... 353
2,915
Summer School . . . . . . . . 683
3,598
Winter Short Courses . . . . . . 3,871
Total . . . . . . . . 7,469
10 July, 1918.]
Agriculture in America.
393
Summary of Students. -
Collegiate Grade —
1. Agriculture (Collegiate) —
Graduate (for M.S.A.)
Fourth year B.S.A.
Third year B.S.A.
Second year B.S.A.
First year B.S.A.
2. Engineering (Collegiate)
3. Home Economics (Collegiate)
4. Industrial Science (Collegiate)
5. Veterinary Medicine (Collegiate)
Less duplicates
Non-Collegiate —
Agriculture
Engineering
Home Economics
Music
Less duplicates . .
Summer School
Winter School — Short Course —
Agriculture
Engineering
Home Economics
Veterinary
Less duplicates
115
175
192
220
378
1,080
746
552
118
133
2,629
67
213
61
52
96
422
69
2,469
1,026
383
184
4,062
191
Grand Total of all Students
2,562
353
683
3,871
7,469
Experimental Work. — The experimental and research work at this
station is particularly fine. My notes on them extend to over 60 pages.
I must now content myself with a brief summary of some of the practical'
results achieved.
1. Two new oats, Iowa 103, and Iowa 105, were distributed among
Iowa farmers. It is estimated that the increased production resulting
from these varieties has increased lowan production by 5 bushels per
acre.
2. A new Machine. — The Ames scarifying machine, for scarifying
the hard coat of sweet clover seed, was developed at the College. It is
394 * Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
now in use in forty commercial clover seed houses, and by its use farmers
have secured better stands from 5 lbs. scarified clover seed than 20 lbs.
of unscarified seed per acre.
3. A new winter wheat has been originated which has increased
production considerably. Its chief quality is that it does not winter
Jiill like most of the winter wheats of the northern corn belt.
4. The thorough soil surveys of the State have been extremely useful
to farmers, and there is now a soil map, which shows the location and
extent of each soil type in the county, which is the real basis of all
work dealing with the soil-management problems of the county.
5. Two-year old steers will make a maximum profit on heavy feed
of cheaply-produced silage, with about one-fourth to one-half of a
regular full ration of high-priced corn.
6. It has been demonstrated that self-fed fattening swine should
return as high as a dollar a head more profit than when handled in
the ordinary hand-fed manner. With the 10,000,000 hogs that are
annually marketed from Iowa, this means an increased earning of
millions of dollars.
7. The free-choice system of swine feeding, Avherein the pig h'^lps
himself to such feeds as corn, tankage, alfalfa, pasture, &c., has proved
so successful that the hog industry is being revolutionized. The scheme
saves labour, and economizes feeding. This free-choice system originated
at the Iowa Station, and is now practised in every State in the Union.
8. Bulletin No. 165, copy of which has been forwarded, shows the
results of eight years' work in determining the influence of environment
and breeding in increasing dairy production. This is the first data
published showing the influence of the pure-bred sire, independent of
improved methods of feeding and management. In increasing the
production from scrub or common cows, the value of the pure-bred*
sire as a factor in increasing the production of farm herds is closely
demonstrated, as many of the heifers by a high-grade, pure-bred dairy
sire have produced 50 per cent, more butter-fat, and 75 per cent, more
milk than their scrub dams.
9. Experiments in Capon production, show that the larger breeds of
poultry can be profitably caponized. Capons, compared with cockerels
of the same age and breeding, and reared under the same conditions,
produce a net increase of 25 per cent, to 40 per cent, above that received
for cockerels.
10. Ear corn, preferably broken, for fattening lambs is the most
practical single form in which this grain can be fed. For profitable
fattening, corn need be neither shelled nor ground, unless it be towards
the end of a prolonged fattening period.
11. The allelomorphism of horned and polled characters in cattle
has been demonstrated, and tests conducted over a period of ten years
show that breeders of polled cattle may introduce superior horned
animals into breeding herds without danger of seriously losing ground.
12. Comprehensive tests have been made to show the efficiency of
corn, alfalfa hay, barley, oats, gluten feed, tankage, cotton-seed meal,
linseed meal, singly, and in various combinations with roughages found
on the average Iowa farm, when fed to dairy cattle, beef cattle, and
hogs. The results have been published in various bulletins issued by
the Station.
10 July, 1918.] Agriculture in America. 395
13. In addition, studies have been made of farm management
problems in Iowa, marketing problems, pruning and spraying of fruit
trees, production of red clover and alfalfa seed, organisms responsible-
for the preservation and fermentation of silage, crown gall of apples,,
fusarium in corn, canker in apples. The results are summarized in
bulletins.
14. Experiments are in progress for the wintering of pregnant sows
and ewes, dry-lot rations for swine, feeding of sows with litters, heredity
experiments with swine. I have secured progress reports of these.
15. Investigations are being made of the effect of calcium, protein,
and phosphorus fed pregnant swine, and sheep on the size, vigour, bone,
and condition of the offspring, and the maintenance requirements of
lean and fat cows.
The State College of Iowa has reason to be proud of its achievements
and its work. It has done much to raise the standard of agriculture
in the corn belt, and the farmers and politicians of Iowa liberally
support the institution. 965 students, the majority farm lads, are
taking a four-year course in Agriculture for the degree. 115 graduates
are securing a two-years' extra training for higher degrees. 213 lads"
are taking the non-collegiate course in Agriculture because they could
not reach the standard for entrance to the College. 2,469, mostly
farmers, availed themselves of short courses of one to two months
during the winter. 683 took the summer school courses in Agriculture.
So you will see that a total of 4,232 received instruction in Agriculture
at the College last year. This for a population of 2,250,000 people.
The Extension Staff, with the aid of 98 county agents, are now being
employed to carry the teaching and message of the College to the
farmer's back door. Do you remember, three years ago, Mr. Ilughes
speaking at the University, and stating that he intended to create an
organization, the object of which would be to carry a steady flow of
scientific knowledge past every citizen's house, so that any one thirsting
for knowledge might be able to dip his pannikin in the stream as it
flowed by his back door? Well, Iowa has an organization like that.
It first, through its Experiment Station, delved for the truth, studied
the relation between cause and effect in agricultural phenomena in
the corn belt, and gradually accumulated a mass of information of the
highest potential value for the producers. Simultaneously, it began to
teach what truths it had found, together with the knowledge accumu-
lated at other centres. After several decades of waiting for recognition
and appreciation, the College has now come into its own. It is crowded
with students, and finds itself compelled to create an organization — the
Extension Department — to carry the truths and the lessons to every
farmer's back door. It is a vitalizing, Hfe-giving stream of knowledge
that flows from Iowa, because it arises from the fount of experience
and systematic experimentation. It is definite, systematic knowledge^
technical, scientific, bearing on every-day problems, and the farmers
appreciate it, for every county has its county agent, and no county
agent is appointed unless the local authorities pay his expenses, includ-
ing travelling, automobile, stenographer's, and office expenses. More-
over, the farmers are required to pay regular dues towards the expenses,
of operating the Farm Bureaux.
396 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. ■ [10 Jult, 1918.
I had the good fortune to meet Mr. Wallace, of the Wallace Farmer
—one of the leading papers of the Corn Belt — Mr. Sanders, editor
and proprietor of the Breeders' Gazette; Mr. Chrissy, of the Country
OenUcman and Saturday Evening Post. All these authorities speak
in most flattering terms of the men and of the work done by the Uni-
versities and Colleges in the Middle West.
There is no doubt that the Schools of Agriculture, the Universities,
and the Agricultural Colleges stand high in the opinion of business
men, commercial men, breeders of stock, farmers, and the press.
" Forty years of comparative failure and twelve years of dazzling
success," is Dr. True's epitome of the history of the American Colleges.
Are we condemned to spend forty years of travail in Victoria before
we may expect a like success? ISTot if our legislators and people will
have faith in the ultimate triumph of scientific agricultural education
and provide the men, money, and equipment necessary to put agricul-
tural education on a sound basis.
THE BABCOCK TESTER ON THE FARM.*
By B. T. Archer, Senior Dairy Inspector.
According to the evidence given before the Inter-State Commission,
our dairy farmers are in a parlous plight. The average return per cow
was stated to be about 140 lbs. of butter fat. Valuing this at Is. per lb.
a return of £7 per cow is arrived at. This amount of butter fat would
be obtained from 350 gallons of milk, so there would be about 315
gallons of skim milk; at Id. per gallon this would give the cow an addi-
tional credit of 26s., making a total of £8 6s.
The cost of keeping such a cow for a year is about £9. This covers
all expenses ; so that on an average there is a loss of about 14s. per cow.
On the other hand, we know of very many dairy farmers who are making
handsome profits, consequently there must be many Avho are losing more
than 14s. per cow. That is where the drudgery and hardship come in.
We know that the dairying industry saved this country from bankruptcy.
We also know that it is the surest Avay for a farmer with limited capital
to make a living.
Those farmers who are producing an average of 300 lbs. of butter
fat per cow are doing so at very little more expenditure than those who
are keeping inferior herds, the additional cost consisting of interest on
increased value of cows and cost of concentrates {i.e., bran, oats, &c.)
fed. This additional cost does not amount to more than £5 per cow and,
in many instances, not half that. A 300-lb. of fat cow would yield about
£3 worth of skim milk, leaving the cost of production about £11.
What is the remedy for the above poor results?
FEED— TEST— CULL.
Use a pure-bred bull from a cow proved by scales and test to be a
producer of a large quantity of milk and butter fat.
* Reprinted with additions from the Journal of the Department of Agriculture far July, 1911.
10 July, 1918.] The Babcoch Tester on the Farm.
397
Feed is placed first, because many cows, now unprofitable, would
give good results if provided with a sufficiency of suitable food. Cows
that have not inherited a capacity for converting food into milk contain-
ing a large quantity of butter fat can never be made profitable dairy
cows. These will be discovered by the Babcock Test and can be fattened
for the butcher.
To test all the cows in the principal dairying districts in Victoria
would cost about £40,000 a year, but it would be the means of increasing
the average return per cow in a very short time by 40 lbs. of butter fat
per head. This alone would increase the receipts of the dairymen by
£1,200,000 per year. During the last drought about 200,000 cows were
lost — died of starvation. At £10 per head, this meant a loss to the State
of £2,000,000. One acre, per cow, of grass mown and made into hay or
ensilage each year would be an insurance against drought.
Below will be seen the result of using a pure-bred bull with the
capacity to produce heifers capable of giving large returns of milk and
butter fat. JSIote the consistently high percentage.
It would be well for dairy farmers if it were made compulsory that
only pure-bred bulls from tested cows should be used in daiiy herds.
Results of the Herd Test.
The folloAving are some of the results of the operations of the
Standard Herd Test conducted by the Department of Agriculture. In-
cluded are heifers on their first calf which, of course, pull down the
average. In some it will be seen that there has been an increase of
50 lbs. per cow, and over 100 gallons of milk in three years. This is
partly due to culling out inferior cows, but more particularly to more
rational methods of feeding. It is proved beyond doubt that if cows
are properly fed they will give a greater net profit : —
No. 1
Herd.
No. 2
Herd.
Na. 3
Herd.
No. 4
Herd.
No. 5 Herd.
Average Yield.
Average Yield.
Average Yield.
Average Yield.
Average Yield.
Year.
Butter
Eat.
MUk.
Butter
Eat.
Milk.
Butter
Fat.
Milk.
B tter
Fat.
Milk.
Butter
Fat.
MUk.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
1913
309
6347
264
4982
1914
3.32
6671
288
5281
341
6148
1915
360
7211
261
4771
337
6021
337
5854
251
4706
1916
355
7415
261
5137
348
6345
382
6733
272
5254
1917
355
7139
297
5484
339
6152
402
7527
303
5720
There are about 600,000 dairy cows in Victoria. If the average
butter fat yield were raised only 20 lbs. per head, it would increase the
returns to the Victorian farmers by £600,000.
If 140 lbs. fat costs £8 6s. to produce, that is Is. 2d. per lb.
If 300 lbs. fat costs £11 to produce, that is 8jd. per lb.
One herd in Gippsland averaged £27 per cow last year for cream
sent to a butter factory, leaving a clear profit of £16 per cow. This was
the result of well-bred cows properly fed.
398
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
The benefit of using a good bull is shown in the following table of-
Pretty Noble's Daughtees.
Name.
Milk.
Test.
Butter
Fat.
Woicht
of Milk On
273rd day
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lassie Fowler
. . 1st calf
5,977
5-69
340
15|
2nd „
7,843
5-43
425
22
Empire V. of Melrose
.. 1st ,,
5,661
5-42
307
15
2nd ,,
6,696
5-22
353
14|
Chevy VIII. of Melrose
.. 1st „
6,011
5-63
338
19
2nd „
5,686
6-05
344
20
Jessie XIII.
.. 1st ,,
5,261
6-21
327
13i
2nd „
6,299
6-38
401
13^
Creambread
.. 1st „
5,203
5 -97
310
15
2rd „
5,700
6-17
351
13
Jessie XII. of Melrose
. . 1st ,,
5,063
5-99
303
18
2nd „
6,396
5-95
374
13
Graceful Duchess XL of Melr
ose . . 1st ,,
4,470
6-02
269
14i
2nd „
6,798
6-07
412
17
Jennie Lind
.. 1st ,,
5,714
6-07
347
13
Laura, 16 . .
.. 1st ,,
5,394
6-37
343
14
Jessie, 485
.. 1st „
5,692
5-98
310
14
Blossom IV. of Melrose
.. 1st „
5,678
5-79
328
16
Vai.illa VII.
.. 1st ,,
5,315
5-9
313
Hardsome Girl VIII. of Meln
)se . . 1st ,,
4,971
6-13
304
15
and manv more.
The following figures, which were obtained by actual daily weighing
and monthly tests, will serve to illustrate the results of management and
the value of keeping exact records :—
No. 1 Herd.
Milk
Value
Cow No.
Milk.
Average Test.
Butter Fat.
last day
of test.
of Butt«r Fat
at Is. per lb.
j lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
£ s. d.
1
5,635iSr
4-85
273-68
10
13 13 8^
2
6,148
4-09
253-05
5
12 13 0^
3
4,473i
4-98
222-99
4
11 2 ll.|
4
.•i,790i
4-93
186-82
24 *
9 6 9f
5
3,228|
5-26
169-92
16i
8 9 11
6
3,(i83i
4-58
168-70
18^
8 8 8
7
3,421
4-58
156-75
H
7 16 9
8
2.613^
5-90
1.54-11
4
7 14 1
9
3,28U
4-30
141-07
23
7 1 0}
10
3,776i
3-20
124-38
6 4 4i
11
l,808i
5 -CO
90-52
4
4 10 6
12
l,464i
5-90
86-74
H
4 6 9
13
1,8631
4-30
80-10
4
4 0 0
14
1,254*
5-68
71 -.32
4i
3 11 4
15
1.162i
0-02
70-05
4
3 10 0
Average per
cow
.3,1 73^
150-00
7 10 0
Plus skim n
lilk, 285 gals.
at Id. . .
1 3 9
8 13 0
10 July, 1918.] The Babcoch Tester on the Farm.
399
Had these cows calved mostly in the autumn and been better fed the
results would have been better, but curiously enough they really approxi-
mate to the average result for the whole of Victoria. The average test
of this herd was higher, but the butter fat and money returns were
about the same. The first cow, allowing £2 2s, as the value of her skim
milk, would have given a net profit of £6 15s. Her 273 lbs. of butter fat
cost under 8d. per lb. to produce. ISTo. 15 cow, allowing 8s. 8d. for her
skim milk, showed a loss of £5 Is. 4d. ; her 71 lbs. of butter fat cost
2s. 6d. per lb. to produce.
ISTo. 2 Herd.
Milk
Value
Cow No.
Milk.
Average Test.
Butter Fat.
last day
Of test.
of Butter Fat
at Is. per lb.
lbs.
llji.
Iba.
£ .«. d.
1
11,427
4-58
523-60
24i
26 3 7
2
9,385
4-79
450 -45
28. V
22 10 5
3
8,266
5-16
426-31
26|
21 6 3
4
9,813
4-34
426-17
28|
21 6 2
5
7,586
5-39
409-18
21i
20 9 2
6
8,043
5-03
404-31
15
20 4 3
7
7,364
5-37
395-43
18
19 15 5
8
7,491
5-24
392-85
13 J
19 12 10
9
7,598
5-14
390-59
18
19 10 7
10
7,902
4-98
394-08
20
19 14 1
11
6,835
5-57
380-82
f.l8
19 0 9
12
7,161
5-26
377-04
10
18 17 0
13
6,680
5-56
372-09
14
18 12 1
14
7.808
4-55
355-73
19^
17 15 9
15
5,786
6-07
351 -06
20
17 11 0
16
7,347
4-67
343-29
17
17 3 3
17
7,400
4-62
341 -68
16
17 1 8
18
6,959
4-86
338-27
16*
16 18 3
19
7,823
4-31
337 -03
15
16 17 0
20
7,1.55
4-43
317-11
15
15 17 1
21
5,766
6-05
349-19
15^
17 9 2
22
5,909
5-31
313-78
14
15 13 9
23
4,760
6-56
312-20
lU
15 12 2
24
5,636
5-4
305-18
15
15 5 2
25
5,342
5-63
300 -95
13i
15 0 11
26
6,087
4-95
300-14
2U
15 0 1
27
5,086
5-81
298-56
14f
14 18 6
28
6,097
4-70
286-53
m
14 6 6
29
5,515
5-12
282-40
18i
14 2 4
30
5,717
4-89
279-56
12
13 19 6
31
5,281
4-99
5-03
263-78
8*
13 3 9
217,005
10919-36
550 18 6
Average . .
7,000
352-23
17 12 3
jSTow look at No. 2 herd. This consisted of 31 pedigree Jersey
cows, including first-calf heifers. Its average was 7,000 lbs. of milk,
containing 352ir lbs. butter fat which, at Is. per lb., equals £17 12s. 3d.;
630 gallons skim milk, which at Id. per gallon, equals £2 12s. 6d.
Allowing £11 per cow the butter fat from this herd cost 7|d. per lb. to
produce.
400 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
As 3 gallons of skim milk will produce 1 lb. of pork, worth, say,
6d. per lb., the value 6f the skim milk from each cow may be set down
at £5 5s. Consequently, there would have been a net profit of £11 17s. 3d.,
to say nothing of the increased value of the calves from such a herd.
As a matter of fact, the milk from No. 2 herd was sold wholesale at
Is. per gallon, and thus the return from each cow amounted to £35.
A remarkable fact of this herd is the quantity of milk which it
yielded on the 273rd day of the test, for the majority of the cows were
due to calve again within twelve months of their previous calvmg.
No. 1 cow of the herd was, at the time of the test, in her eighteenth
year, and is now (March, 1918) twenty years old, and still "going
strong."
How TO Use the Babcock Tester.
Suificient has been written to prove the necessity for the farmer being
able to use the Babcock tester, as well as to test cream and separator milk,
so that he may be able to ascertain whether or not it pays to feed and
milk the individual cows in his herd. The object of this article is to
explain the correct method of working this invaluable appliance.
To insure satisfactory results it is necessary that a correct sample be
obtained — a sample that represents correctly the composition of the bulk.
The method of sampling milk generally adopted in butter or cheese fac-
tories is what is known as the drip system, in which the milk runs along a
chute from the weighing tank to the vat. A hole is punched in the
bottom of the chute through which the milk drips while it is running
along the chute. A vessel is placed to catch the drip and a small quantity
is put into a bottle. This is repeated with each delivery. A little
formalin is dropped in with the first lot to preserve the sample until the
end of the week when it is tested.
Testing Cows.
Talcing the sample. — Strip the cow thoroughly dry. Weigh the milk
on the scales (Fig. 2), which should be hanging in a convenient place,
and note the weight on the ruled sheet* (Fig. 3). Pour the milk from
one bucket to another three times, and immediately take 1 c.c. (cubic
centimetre) for every pound of milk, and place it in the sample bottle;
i.e., if there are 25 lbs. of milk, take 25 c.c. into the sample bottle. Put
into this three drops of formalin (40 per cent, solution) and mix by
giving a gentle rotary shake. Repeat this for six consecutive milkings,
except that no further formalin is required, the three drops added on the
first occasion being sufficient to keep the sample sweet until it is con-
venient to make the test. As each fresh lot of milk is added, the quantity
in the bottle should be mixed by shaking with a gentle rotary motion.
The sample, which should be kept tightly corked, should not be shaken
violently at any time or the cream may be churned, and this would
make the testing difficult.
Making the test. — "When the milk has stood for a few days, the cream
will have risen to the surface and become tough and leathery, and will
• Record sheets may be obtained from the D'-pirtm^nt of A?ric\ilture, Melbourne. When ordering,
applicants should state whether the weekly or monthly sheets are required, and whether for cabinet or
not. Ordinary slieets are on sale at Is. per dozen (post free) ; those for cabinet at 2s.
10 July. 1918.] The Bahcork Tester on the Farm.
401
not mix thoroughly by shaking, until it is heated. Stand the sample
bottle in water, of a temperature from 100 to 110 degrees Fah., until
the cream is softened; then agitate gently until it is thoroughly mixed
with the milk, no small lumps remaining. The milk must then be
cooled to between 60 and 70 degrees Fah., which is the correct tempera-
ture at which to mix the milk and acid in the flask, both being as nearly
as possible at the same temperature.
1.- — Six-bottle Babcock Tester.
2. — Milk Scales.
ISTow take 17.6 c.c. milk, giving the sample a shake first, and run
this into the flask ; to this add 17.5 c.c. sulphuric acid. When running
in the milk and acid, hold the flask in a slanting position and allow the
liquid to run gently down the inside of the neck. Shake the flask with
a rotary motion until all the curd (casein) is dissolved. Place the flasks
in the machine so that they balance and rotate for five minutes at the
speed indicated on the machine. Fill up to the bottom of the neck with
boiling water, run for two minutes more, fill to within 5 inch of the top
of the neck with more boiling water, run for one minute, take the flasks
■but of the machine and stand in a water bath (Fig. 4 K) at 140 degrees
Fah. for a few minutes. Then read off the tests. The butter fat should
now be separated and collected in a clear compact column, like olive oil,
in the neck of the flask on top of the water.
Reading the test. — By the illustration (Fig. 5) it will be clearly seen
how the flasks are graduated. Each division marked by long lines and
numbered, represents one per cent., and each division between marked by
402
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jily, 1918.
short lines equals .2 or two-tenths of one per cent. It will be easy to
measure to one-tenth of one per cent., or half one of the small divisions.
MONTHLY CHART. i
For rhe guidance of Dairymen in recording each Cow's Milk. |
o
o
I
i
1
1
1
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
II
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
LBS
DATt
LBS
IBS
LBS
LBS
LBS
LBS
LBS
LBS
LfiS
185
les
LBS
LBS
LBS
IBS
LBS
IBS
LBS
LBS
LSS
LBS
Miin
MILK
MIIH
Mim
MUM
MILK
(.^IlK
Hilh
MIIK
MILK
MtLK
Man
M'LH
MILK
MH.K
MILN
MH.H
MILK
MILK
m:lk
MILK
1
2
3
■
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1 1
1
.
12
1
13
1
1
14
'
1
15
—
16
17
1
18
1
19
!
20
1
1
21
1
22
23
24
25
26
]
1
1
27
1 1
28
■
29
50
1
31
TOTAL
. |S' WttK
m 2-0 ..
7 3»» ■•
;:', 4" ••
»- \VERACC
1
1
!
1
1
1
1
J
3. — Ruled Sheet for Milk Records.
With the compass (Fig. 4 E) the full length of the fat column is taken
where the fat comes in contact with the glass (Fig. 8).
10 July, 1918.] The Bdbcoch Tester on the Farm.
403
It will be noticed that while the bottom of the fat column is straight
and distinct the top shows a meniscus or hollow, and one may be in doubt
how to take the measure. This should be the full length of the column
where the fat is in contact with the glass, or, as is shown in the illustra-
tion, measure from a to h — not to c or d. Measure the fat column with
3a. — Cabinet for Chart.
the compass ; place one point on the zero and see how far the other point
reaches. This will show how many spaces the fat fills, and the reading
gives the correct percentage of fat in the milk.
Calculating the result. — The weight of the milk given by the cow,
multiplied by the test and divided by one hundred, gives the amount of
'404 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jult, 1918.
butter fat in ])ounds. To convert this approximately into commercial
butter, one-sixth is added to the fat result.
c \y,
t •-=
s
2
a>
o
«
til
C^
o-
bn
a
f^
o
-4J
.^
o
» - ^
X '"1
m r^
i;
1)
01
^
id
03
c
m
\^
<
^
a
fe o
Example. — 35 lbs. of milk at 4.2 test = ;55 x 4.2 ^ 100 = 1.47 lb.
butter f at + ^ = 1.715 lbs. (practically If lbs.) commercial butter.
10' JuLT, 1918.] The Bdhcoch Tester on the Farm.
405
Sulphuric acid. — The sulplmric acid should be of a definite strength.
i.e., 1.827 specific gravity, and it is usually supplied by the agents at this
strength. Care must be taken in handling it as it is very corrosive. The
appearance of the fat, when the test is completed, will indicate if the acid
is of the correct strength. Instead of being a clear amber-coloured
column it may have black or white specks mixed through it. Black
specks may be caused by the temperature of the milk or the acid being
too high when mixed, or by the use of too much acid, or an acid of too
high a strength.
It will be easy to discover in this way if the acid is too strong.
If so, use one or two c.c. less; if the fat comes out clearly, the
result will be correct. On the other hand there may be white specks
of undissolved curd in the fat column. This may be due to temperature
5.— Milk Test Bottle.
6. — Cream Test Bottle.
7.— Skim Milk Bottle.
of the milk or the acid being too low when mixed, too little acid being
used, or to the sample not having been shaken sufficiently at time of
mixing to dissolve all the casein. The specks will be parti-
cularly noticeable- if too much formalin has been used in the
sample, or if the acid is too weak. If not much too weak,
one or two c.c. more acid may bring the test out clearly, when
the results should be correct. If the stopper is left out of the bottle
the acid will absorb moisture from the air and so become weaker. The
acid should be water white, but sometimes, through dust getting in or
through other reasons, it turns dark; if a clear reading of the fat is
obtained, it is evident that the acid is of the right strength. Do not
dilute by adding water. Very serious accidents have frequently occurred
by this being done.
Specimen forms for keeping a record of both individual cows and
that of the whole herd are shown on jjages 408-9.
406
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
Testing Cream.
Sampling. — If the cream is fresh and liquid enough to pour freely
the sample may be taken by pouring from one vessel to another three
times and immediately dipping a small quantity into a bottle; add three
drops of formalin, and cork tightly to prevent evaporation of moisture.
If left in an open jar, especially in hot weather, evaporation takes place
rapidly and this would increase the test, causing inaccurate results.
If the cream has set, as it does when it is thick and ripe, the sample
must be taken with a Wheal sampler (Fig. 10). This cuts a complete
core from top to bottom of the can giving an accurate sample and an
aliquot part of the cream. The whole syringeful is taken into the
bottle. The cream should be separated so as to contain betAveen 40 and
cu-
-d
8. — Reading Milk Test. 9. — Reading Cream Test.
10. — Cream Sampler.
50 per cent, fat; then there should be no difficulty in getting a correct
sample. When liquid enough the cream may be mixed by means of a
plunger, consisting of a saucer-shaped disc attached to a rod.
The Wheal sampler is like a syringe, and the piston must be kept
tightly packed so that, when the thumb is placed on the open end of the
tube and the rod drawn out to its full length, a complete vacuum is
created; on releasing the rod it runs right back to the thumb.
Making the test. — The Babcock test is based on the assumption that
18 grammes weight of the material to be tested is delivered into the flask.
A 17.6 c.c. pipette will deliver 18 grammes of milk into the flask; but,
with cream testing 40 to 50 per cent, fat, 17.6 c.c. would only weigh
15 to 16 grammes owing to the difference in the specific gravity. It is
10 July, 1918.] The Bahcock Tester on the Farm. 407
therefore provided by law that cream shall be weighed directly into the
flask.
For this purpose sensitive scales are used (Fig. 4&). These are
obtainable for about 25s. The sample bottles should be placed in water, of
from 90 to 100 degrees, until the contents are fluid enough to run freely.
The flask is then balanced on the scales; approximately by the counter-
poise on the beam, then by small shot or pellets of paper on the tray.
The weight is moved along the beam to the 9 gramme mark, and the
cream (being thoroughly mixed) is run in with a pipette until the weight
is balanced. If a drop too much is run in it may be removed by a fine
tube which can be inserted to the bottom of the flask. Nine grammes
of cream, instead of 18, are taken because the flasks in use in this
country (Fig. 6) are graduated to 30 per cent., and all the fat of 40 per
cent, cream would not go into the graduated neck. Nine c.c. of water
is then run in. After adding 17.5 c.c. sulphuric acid, shake until the
casein is all dissolved. There is a frosted spot on the flask on which a
number should be marked with an ink pencil to correspond with the
number of the sample. The procedure now is the same as with milk.
In reading the cream test, the fat is measured from a to c, not to
d or b (Fig. 9). The cream flasks are graduated for 18 grammes and as
9 grammes have been taken, tbe reading has to be doubled.
To calculate the result. — The weight of cream is multiplied by the
test and divided by 100. This gives the amount of butter fat that the
factory should pay for.
Exarnple. — A can of cream contains 95 lbs. net. The test reads 22.
Then 22 v 2 = 44, gives the correct percentage of fat in the cream.
95 X 44 -4- 100 = 41.8 lbs. butter fat in that can of cream.
Skim Milk.
It is quite as important to test the separator milk as to test the cows.
Frequently, very heavy loss is experienced owing to the separator getting
out of order or as a consequence of its not being properly worked. A
check should therefore be kept by regularly testing the skim milk.
Special double necked flasks (Fig. 7) are used for testing skim milk.
They have a wide tube, reaching nearly to the bottom of the flask, through
which the milk and the acid are run in. As the graduated neck is of
small bore, it is possible to estimate the loss of fat clearly.
Take 17.6 c.c. of skim milk into the flask, as in new milk, and 17.5
c.c. or a little more acid may be used — up to 20 c.c. It is better to add
half the acid first and mix it with the milk, then add the remainder and
shake the contents of the flask until all the casein is dissolved. The
mixing must be done carefully, so that none of the liquid may be forced
into the graduated neck and thus lost. The flask must be placed in the
machine with the graduated neck towards the outside, so that, while the
machine is running, the graduated neck will be uppermost; otherwise,
some of the fat may lodge behind the tube and not rise into the neck.
The procedure then is the same as with new milk. The loss of fat, as
indicated by this test, should be kept below .1 per cent, or one-tenth of
one per cent.
It is best to use rain water for testing where possible. If spring
water containing lime, &c., is used, it may cause froth to appear on top
of the fat column. This should be avoided.
408
Journal of AgricuUure, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
COMPARATIVE RECORD OF COWS FOR SEASON 19
Name of Cow.
Date
of
Birth.
Date
Days
of last
in
Milk.
C.ilving.
Milk.
Test.
! I lbs.
Aduit Cows.
Butter
Fat.
Price.
lbs.
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410 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
DISEASES OF SHEEP.*
By W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc, Chief Veterinary Officer.
The subject that I have been asked to address the farmers in con-
vention upon — Diseases of Sheep — is of very great importance, yet I
fear, vpith the limited time at my disposal, it is one which can be no
more than touched upon, and only a few of the complaints common
to sheep can be dealt with. Recognising this difficulty, and still further
recognising the confusion that would arise in the minds of most sheep-
owners if I were to attempt to describe too many diseases in a short
or scrappy manner, it is my intention to deal mainly with some of
the causes of disease in general; for, if these are known, more than
half the battle is won. It is an old axiom in medicine that if you
remove the cause the effect will cease, the effect being that series of
symptoms of ill-health which we term disease. This aspect requires to
be deeply engraven in the minds of all interested, not only in sheep,
but in all live stock. Therefore, we should endeavour, firstly, at pre-
venting a cause from operating; and, secondly, if some cause does
operate, we should try to remove it.
In no class of live stock should preventive measures against disease
be taken more than in the case of sheep, for it is an animal which
does not show many very characteristic symptoms when ill, and which
does not respond readily to medicinal treatment.
The animal body must always be considered as a very delicate
and complicated machine, and one which is easily thrown out of
efficient running. Most farmers take some care of their engines on
(he farm by providing proper fuel, lubricant, and shelter; yet it is
far easier to repair or replace a worn-out part of such a mechanical
contrivance than it is to effect recovery in the living tissue. The
animal frame is composed of a very large variety of substances, which
require to be present in certain definite proportions for the efficient
working of the whole. These substances can, under natural conditions,
be obtained only from the food. When present, all the tissues are
first — in the growing animal — built up in a healthy manner, and
then maintained in this condition; but it is not only necessary that
these substaces should be given to the animal; they must be present
in such a form as to be readily assimilated or taken into the system.
There are juices or fluids present in the system, which have the power
of digesting or making the component parts of a food suitable for
absorption. If these juices are not present in sufficient quantity or
quality, or if there is any derangement of their proportion, then the
full benefits cannot be derived. This is indicated by indigestion,
failing health, poverty, &c., and a general lowering of vitality, which
open the way for harmful products, whether they be derived from
external or internal sources, to exert an influence and produce serious
effects.
Under normal conditions and as a result of digestion of food in the
animal body some very powerful poisons are formed. The body, how-
ever, is prepared for such happenings, and when they occur, the poisons
♦ Paper read at the Annual Conference of the Chamber of Agriculture, Colac, July, 1918.
10 July, 1918.] Diseases of Sheep. 411
are converted into harmless substances by other juices formed by the
body. Think for a moment of the effect of stopping the formation
of such antidotal substances. The poison would have full power to
exert its influence, and if death itself did not actually result, ill-health
or disease would certainly follow. In much the same way nature pro-
vides that poisons, in the shape of disease-producing germs, introduced
from without, shall be fought against by the system up to what might
be termed the breaking point. If the poison is in too large a quantity,
or the fighting agency is reduced in power, then the breaking point
is reached, disease develops, and symptoms become manifest. The
agents in the body engaged in this fight are the white blood corpuscles.
It is, therefore, evident that these must be kept up to full fighting
strength if success is to be looked for. Now, these corpuscles are
formed in the body from substances taken into the system by means
of the food, or, at least, their vitality is maintained by the supply of
proper nourishment to them. We, therefore, see that if the whole
body is to attain its greatest efficiency, it is necessary to supply proper
food.
"We know from experience that some parts of the State are more
suitable for stock than others; that certain classes of stock will thrive
in parts where other classes fail. Along the coast bone diseases are
common. Some districts show heavy mortality annually (in cattle par-
ticularly) from impaction and so on. It is not merely a question of
quantity of feed, but it is essentially one of quality. Provided the
quality be maintained, the living machine is kept working at full
efficiency, and it requires a considerable amount of disturbing influence
to seriously upset the equilibrium. If you are using bad oil in your
engine you know that you cannot obtain full power, and very little
extra friction or work will stop the machine. If you are using bad
fuel in the living machine it too will perform its functions badly.
The reserve force or vitality of the animal is impaired, and the system
is exposed to the influence of any of the injurious substances — of
which there are so many — ever ready to operate to the detriment of
health.
It is, therefore, evident that the vitality of the animal must be
maintained at its highest pitch. Now, unfortunately, vitality cannot
be measured; indeed, it is hard to describe. Many are under the
impression that provided an animal is fat it is healthy. This, how-
ever, is not necessarily so. Many an animal in good condition has a
very low vitality. There are some ailments^and fluke in sheep may
be taken as an example — in which the earliest) effect of invasion is
to cause the animal to lay on fat, yet its vitality is lowered. Another
condition is seen in ewes, particularly crossbred ones, carrying twin
lambs.. They are fat, yet death is common, mainly because the vitality
is lowered, and they are ready victims to the influence of poisons
produced within the body.
The soils of Victoria generally are deficient in salts of various
forms, and manures are necessary to attain maximum yields of crops.
We know that stock in certain districts are fond of chewing bones,
eating bark, licking paint; if they are taken to the sea from inland
they lick the sand or drink sea water. All this indicates that the
412 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
animal economy is trying to obtain something for which there is a
craving. Whilst this condition exists, the vitality is not at its highest,
and the body is easily reacted upon by harmful influences. A large
number of owners provide salt as a lick for their sheep. Experience
has taught them that their stock " do " better. What has actually
occurred is that vitality has' been increased, the functions of the body
are carried out more faithfullv, digestioTi is strongci, and the animals
are able to obtain more nourishment from their food, and consequently
are less subject to disease than others not supplied with salt.
Unfortunately there arc many sheep-owners who, though they see
good results — maybe — on their neigbour's property, are satisfied to turn
their flock into a paddock in which there is plenty of grass of a kind,
and to rest on the policy, referred to in my last address, of " That'll
do," until sickness occurs, and then to jump to the conclusion that
some mysterious disease has broken out, and wire to the Department for
help.
While salt has shown itself to be very beneficial, it will be found
much more advantageous to supply a compound lick. One which has
proved its value is composed of 20 parts of lime, 20 parts of salt,
10 parts of superphosphate, and 5 parts of sulphate of iron. By
supplying such a lick an even balance is maintained in the digestive
juices of the system, and those necessary for the preservation of health
are maintained at their maximum supply, and all the functions of the
body are carried out in the manner provided for by nature. In other
words, vitality is high, and the sheep are enabled to resist to their
maximum the ill-effects of poisonous substances, whether they be pro-
duced within the frame or introduced from without.
Let us turn now to a consideration of some of the more common
diseases of sheep. They may be divided into two groups — contagious
and non-contagious. Fortunately, we are in a country very free from
the former. Anthrax occurs occasionally in isolated instances. I do
not propose to say more of this disease than that it kills very suddenly,
and the carcass quickly decomposes, and shows a bloody discharge
from the natural openings. When such deaths occur on a fa-i-m, the
owner should regard them as highly suspicious, and treat them as if
they were anthrax. An ear of the animal should be removed close to
the head. This should be wrapped in cottonwool and posted addressed
to the Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne.
Upon this ear, provided sufficient blood is present, a diagnosis can be
made, and much valuable time thereby saved. At the same time a
piece of clean flat glass should be obtained, and a few drops of
blood placed thereon. The glass should then be left exposed to the
air until the blood has dried. In no circumstances should it be dried
by artificial heat, nor should another piece of glass be put on top of
it, as this will spoil the smear for the purposes of a diagnosis. The
carcass should next be burned on the spot whereon it lies, as to drag
it to a more convenient spot will probably spread the disease. Anthrax
is a disease which is communicable to man, and care is necessary in
handling it. While it is such a fatal disease, it is fortunately one
from the ravages of which stock may be saved by inoculating them with
vaccine which gives them immunity from attack.
10 July. 1918.] Diseases of Sheep. 413
Another disease wliieli causes a fairly high mortality is. one which
has been described, for want of a better term, as a Braxy-like disease.
True, Braxy does not exist in Australia, but the disease under con-
sideration resembless it in almost all its characteristics, and differs
from it mainly in that the organism responsible for it is unlike the
Braxy organism in some of its characteristics. The disease is one
which occurs only in the winter months, and then chiefly on low-lying,
damp pasture. Young sheep are more frequently affected than the
mature animals.
The disease is in some respects like anthrax, being acute, and
causing death frequently, without any symptoms being noted.
Generally the onset is sudden. The animal is dull, and cannot be
induced to rise; movement appears to produce pain; the posterior
parts of the body become swollen; and froth may appear at the mouth.
On jjost-mortcm, dark purple areas will be found in the lining mem-
brane of the fourth stomach, the intestines distended with gas, and
decomposition of the body will occur rapidly, and the carcass give
off a most objectionable stench. The blood will be dark in colour,
but clotted; the liver will be light coloured and soft, and the kidneys
in the same condition ; the skin will assume a blue tint, and the wool
will pull out readily. The lesion in the stomach is most characteristic,
and in it the bacillus which causes the disease is found. So far no
method of treatment or system of inoculation has been discovered.
All that can be done is to move the sheep to higher and drier
pasture, and to endeavour to clear the affected areas by allowing a
growth, of grass and burning off at later date. On pasture which is
well drained there is seldom any loss.
Another disease which may be classed as contagious, and Avhich on
occasion is responsible for heavy mortality, is known as malignant
oedema. This is a disease caused by an organism which gains entrance
to the system through cuts, and is usually found only at shearing
time. The soil of the yards and their surroundings becomes infective,
and sheep turned out with cuts on their bodies are thus inoculated
with the germs. As the symptoms develop there is a stiffness of the
body with jerky movements, breathing is fast and painful, unconscious-
ness sets in, and death rapidly follows. Treatment is valueless; there-
fore, we must direct all our energies to prevention. This is done by
burning all carcasses, disinfecting the yards and soil, and cleaning the
shed. Hot soda solutions ai'e advisable for the latter and quicklime
for the soil, with all antiseptic precautions and treatment of wounds.
Tetanus or Lockjaw.
This is another germ disease, and, like malignant oedema, follows
on shearing or the operation of marking and castration ; but differs
in that it does not occur until the wounds have practically healed.
The animal becomes stiff, and the head is held high; the eyes are
withdrawn into the sockets; there is difficulty in mastication, which
may become impossible ; the animal is easily startled, and such starts
induce spasms of the whole body. Treatment is useless, but the same
preventive measures must be adopted as are required for malignant
oedema.
414 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
Non-Contagious Diseases.
Turning now to some of the non-contagious diseases affecting sheep,
we may notice one which, from the number of animals affected, appears
to be contagious. Stomatitis is the technical term for an inflammatory
condition of the mouth. It may be either due to local irritation or
to a specific organism when it becomes contagious. This latter is
unknown in Australia, but the former is somewhat common in sheep,
and particularly lambs. The first symptoms noted are an increased
flow of saliva, which dribbles from the mouth ; there is difficulty in
grasping food ; the mouth is hot to the touch, and deeply injected
with blood ; an eruption of small blisters is next seen, which may turn
to an ulcerated condition, extending outside the mouth, over the lips,
and to the nose. After the pustules break, dark scabs form, or the
whole nose and mouth may present a blistered appearance. The cause
must be looked for in the food. The eating of rough forage containing
prickles or spines, such as nettles, nibbling grass around the base of
thistles, or the eating of plants infested with insects which exert a
blistering action, is the common cause.
It is frequently reported as occurring in sheep fed on rape, and
here it is usually found that the rape is heavily infested with aphis.
It appears that this insect, when bruised, exerts a strongly irritant
action, especially if the rape is wet with dew or rain. In these circum-
stances, the irritant substance can gain easy access to the skin by
virtue of the water present. Therefore, sheep should never be turned
on to rape until the sun has dried off the dew, &c. Then, though
there may be some soreness produced, it will be of a mild form. There
being a common cause, many animals become affected, and this leads
to the conclusion that an infectious disease is present. In all cases the
cause must be searched for and removed. The immediate symptoms
may be relieved by Avasliing the mouth with some mild antiseptic lotion,
such as boric acid, a teaspoonful to a pint, and smearing the nose and
external sore parts with carron oil. Under this line of treatment the
parts quickly heal, and recovery takes place.
Diarrhoea.
This is a common complaint, and causes considerable loss in lambs,
not so much from losses as the result of the disease, but rather from
the subsequent falling off in condition. In the great majority of cases
it is due to infestation of worms of a very small variety — so small as
to escape the eye unless specially looked for. They resemble short,
fine hairs. Treatment should aim at removing the cause, and a drench
of from one to two teaspoonfuls of turpentine in six to eight ounces of
linseed oil will be found useful. Following this, the system must be
built up, and a lick as already suggested will induce a marked im-
provement in the sheep. Indeed, if such a lick is available for sheep
at all times they will seldom become infested by the worm mentioned
or any of the other parasites common to the sheep, of which there is
a large variety. They all produce somewhat similar symptoms — wasting
and ansemia. The influence of vitality is very noticeable in the effect
worms have upon the system. As soon as an animal becomes debilitated
worms increase in numbers enormously, and produce death from
10 July, 1918.] Diseases of Sheep. 415
exhaustion; whereas in an animal of high vitality they have little
effect, and appear not to develop to any great extent.
ISTearly all the worms of sheep are passed in the egg by one animal
and are later taken in with food or water by another, when full develop-
ment occurs. It is not necessary for an intermediate host, as is the
case with tape worms and fluke. Therefore efforts should be made
to destroy the eggs, which require a certain amount of moisture for
existence. The drainage of pasture, or the keeping of sheep on high
lands during winter, will, by preventing development or infestation,
as the case may be, amply repay the farmer. Old stagnant waterhcles
are a source of danger, and an illustration of this was recently reported
in the Journal of Agriculture. A breeder in the western part of the
State had great difficulty in rearing lambs prior to the drought. Since
then sheep have thriven on his property. The reason is, that prior
to the drought sheep drank from a lagoon. This becoming dry, the
owner was forced to sink for a supply of water. A mineral spring
was found, and since then sheep refuse to drink from the lagoon, and
all are thriving. Here the twofold benefit is seen of supplying salts
of various kinds and avoiding infestation from the lagoon.
Worms in sheep probably cause a greater loss to farmers in Victoria
than any other complaint. To fully deal with the subject is outside
the scope of this paper; further, it is a question which has already
received attention, and a leaflet on Worms in Sheep, written by Dr.
S. S. Cameron when occupying the position of Chief Veterinary
Officer, has been issued by the Department of Agriculture, and may be
obtained on application, free of cost.
There is an enemy of the sheep of only recent arrival in Victoria,
upon which, in conclusion, a few words may be said, viz., sheep bot
fly. This fly deposits its eggs in or around the nostril of the sheep.
The larvae crawl thence up the nostril into the cavities of the face
and head, and there develop. They remain in these positions for nine
or ten months, and when fully matured are dropped or sneezed out.
The pupae lie on the ground for a short time, and then hatch out to
the perfect fly, and the life cycle is once more commenced. The
infestation does practically no harm. A sneezing and discharge from
the nose may follow, but only when the infestatibn is very heavy is
there sufficient irritation to produce giddiness and staggering gait,
wasting, and death. Usually there is nothing more noticed than a
dullness in the sheep, and maybe disinclination to feed..
Treatment is valueless. "When the larvae are lodged in the sinuses
of the head the injection of drugs, &c., seldom reaches them, and is
liable to do more harm than the parasite itself. Inhalations of sulphur
fumes by stimulating coughing and sneezing may remove those directly
in the passages, but, seeing that ill-effects are so seldom seen, this is
hardly worth the trouble of carrying out. An endeavour may be made
to prevent the fly from attacking the sheep, and this is best carried
out by providing battens, placed about two inches apart, over a trough
of food or over the lick. These battens should be smeared with tar,
and in an endeavour to get to the food or lick, the sheep smears its
nostrils with tar. This system requires for its success, first a small
flock, and second frequent applications of tar.
416 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
BEET SUGAR.
Report by W. L. Williams, Manager, Sugar Factory, Maffra, of
his Visit to America to Investigate tlie Beet Sugar Industry.
I left Melbourne on 25tli September, 1917, and returned thereto
on 1st February, 1918.
JSTumerous firms and individuals were visited and consulted, and
tbeir assistance and courtesy was much appreciated. All the most
important American beet areas were visited, as well as the following
representative Beet Sugar Factories : —
Spreckles' Sugar Mill, California,
Tracy Sugar Mill, California.
Mantecka Sugar Mill, California.
Oxnard Sugar Mill, California.
Santa Anna Mill, California.
West Jordan Mill, Utah Idaho Sugar Company.
Great Western Sugar Company, Denver.
Greeley Sugar Mill, Colorado.
Eaton Sugar Mill, Colorado.
Fort Collins Sugar Mill, Colorado.
Windsor Sugar Mill, Colorado.
Brighton Sugar Mill, Colorado.
Mason City Sugar Mill, Iowa.
Columbia Sugar Mill, Bay City, Michigan.
Also the Ewa Can Sugar Factory, Honolulu, as well as sundry Construc-
tion and Equipment firms.
Without going into statistical details, it should be sufficient here
to state that, for the year 1917, ninety-three beet sugar factories were
in operation throughout the United States, and it is estimated that their
total output should be about 875,000 tons of sugar, or 86 per cent, of the
total production of the States, the other 14 per cent, being cane sugar.
At the time of my visit, there was a shortage of sugar in America.
Although construction at present is very costly, several new factories
were in course of construction. The Government is using every means
to encourage growers to expand the production of beet sugar, and all
factory plant may be imported free of duty.
The price paid for beets last year ranged from 7 to 8 dollars a ton.
Labour generally was dearer than in Victoria. The price of sugar at
New York and San Francisco was fixed at 7.35 cents per lb., equal to
£34 6s. a ton, as against £29 7s. 6d. a ton in Victoria. The industry
in America is undoubtedly very active, the factory plants efficient, and
profits often reputed to be high ; but some of the natural conditions, due
to climate, do not appear to be as favorable as in our own country.
With the exception of the limited areas in the Eastern States, the
industry depends on irrigation, supplied by open channels or sub-
artesian wells. Frosts sometimes cause trouble in the mid-west. The
beet seed situation, owing to the war, has been, and is, very acute, but
gradually the companies are producing larger and quite satisfactory
supplies of home-grown seed. The enterprise of those associated with
the American beet sugar business is, perhaps, its most prominent
feature.
no July, 191S.] Beet Sugar. 417
After what I have seen, my conclusions regarding beet growing at
Maffra, and in Victoria generally, are as follows: —
Beet Growing Operations.
Considerably larger areas of beet must be sown in order to make
the industry a thorough success at Maffra,
Our field work, as far as it goes, compares favorably with American
methods, but the economic importance of crop rotation and irrigation
cannot be too strongly emphasized. "While on principle opposed to
forcing anything on the grower against his will, I have come to the
conclusion that, in order to demonstrate the value of irrigation to this
and other industries, the Government should proceed with the Boisdale
irrigation scheme, permitting those settlers favorably disposed to use
the water, and allowing the balance a limited time to decide whether
they Avould accept or forego their water rights. Subsequently, the
unallotted water rights might be turned over to outside growers adjacent
to the settlement area. The comparatively small direct loss that might
be involved for a term would, I feel sure, be immensely outweighed by
the direct and indirect advantasres that would eventually accrue to
Central and East Gippsland. The rich States of California, Utah,
Colorado, and others in America, would be comparatively barren with-
out irrigation. The cane sugar-growers of the Hawaiian Islands spend
£15 10s. an acre for irrigation, and the very evident results in such
areas lead me to believe that our rich river flats would handsomely
respond to irrigation.
Two beet harvesting implements likely to save much labour are to
be thoroughly tried in America next season ; but, as practical use will
probably suggest many improvements, it is well to await results..
The beet seed situation is so acute that America has buyers abroad
and growers at home giving the matter keen attention. Some of the
companies are now largely growing their own seed with success; and, if
we can secure a little high-grade standard seed from France each year,
we should endeavour to follow the American example.
I was impressed with the utility of the small caterpillar oil tractors
in use on so many of the beet and general farming areas.
Factory Operations.
Considering our conditions, the Maft'ra Factory accomplished excellent
results last season, but the fact must be stated that the plant is largely
out-of-date, incomplete, and at some points, very weak.
If the quantity of beet warranted it, a good construction firm should
be asked to remodel the factory; but, as suflicient raw material is not
yet assured, I will simply state some of the important improvements
that appear to be necessary, and should be quietly aimed at : —
Larger beet bins, with dirt, weed, and rock catchers.
A clean beet automatic weighing machine.
An auxiliary beet slicer — French type for preference.
Cossette bearing chains in diffusion battery cells.
9307.— 2
418 Journal of Ayriculture, Victoria. [10 July^ 1918.
A series of juice heaters, using vapours from the evaporators or
surpkis exhaust steam.
The need of heaters is most important for speed, capacity, fuel
economy, and improved juices.
Remodelled carbonatation and sulphur tanks.
A set of Kelly or Sweetland presses, for economy and additional
capacity.
A new vacuum pan, with independent copper coils, is desirable
for first sugars; this is very necessary, in order that the
present large pan might become available to boil seconds,
which, under the conditions now obtaining, are not receiving
proper attention.
The preceding alterations, while not affecting the crystallizers, would
probably necessitate the addition of a second granulator.
A sugar st-oreroom, with sugar conveyors, automatic weigher, counter
and bag-sewing machine, is urgently required.
Several of the present juice pumps should be replaced by centrifugal
pumps.
Our steam boiler system is neither satisfactory nor economical, and
should be replaced as soon as convenient by an efficient set of boilers,
probably "W. and B. type. This would necessitate an alteration of a
large part of our present steam-pipe system, but it is fast becoming
essential.
Some American factories are largely electrifying their plants.
Details of manufacturing processes vary in almost every factory. As
far as practicable, changes in this respect will be tried out quietly at
Maffra, while many improved methods cannot be applied at all until the
plant is modernized.
If the factory were remodelled, and could be run at full capacity,
the addition of a pulp-drying plant, the Steffen's process, and evapora-
tors for reducing the waste product to a saleable potash solution, would
be well worth consideration.
The suggested alterations would make for much greater efficiency,
capacity, economy, and safety, but, desirable as they are, I could not
recommend incurring the necessary expense on the present supply of
beet. Consequently, I recommend that for the time being such altera-
tions as are most necessary, urgent, and within our means, be quietly
effected. Because of the great difficulty and cost of securing plant just
now, we must trust to our ingenuity to hold the weak points in action
until such time as conditions make it possible to remodel the plant.
Should a new factory be established in Australia, the constructor's
advice should be sought regarding alterations, &c., at the Maffra Fac-
tory. The two most important and experienced construction firms in
America are the Larrowe Construction Company, Detroit, and the Dyer
Construction Company, Cleveland.
General Matters.
The 'above report is brief and general, but, should any statistics or
special details be required, I shall be pleased, as far as I am able, to
submit whatever is desired.
10 July, 1918.] B^et Sugar. 419
• — — ■ 1 ■
. I believe, with irrigation, tlie Maffra district is capable of producing
enough sugar beet to fully support a remodelled factory, and thereby
promote a most desirable, intense, and valuable rural industry.
American organizations are good, but expensive, and I believe an
Australian staff, given the right opportunity, is quite capable of satis-
torily controlling the technical, mechanical, and all other duties pertain-
ing to the industry. Under the White Australia policy, there is no
doubt room and need for both beet and cane sugar growing in Australia,
as in America.
As a Repatriation Scheme, I believe it is, for very many reasons,
a most desirable industry.
The world's demand for sugar is increasing, and the supply is not
nearly equal to requirements, which means that the present price of
sugar is unlikely to decrease for some time to come. Furthermore, the
cost of labour in all the important cane-growing countries is increasing,
thereby adding to the cost of cane sugar production.
The need of greater production occasioned by the war, and the very
great national importance of quickly populating this vast country,
compels me to express the opinion that the beet sugar industry should
be encouraged in the southern areas of Australia. At the same time,
the industry should not be introduced in any district that has not been
thoroughly tested and proved to have favorable natural conditions.
Experiment alone will show whether dry irrigable areas are pre-
ferable to good natural rainfall areas. The former hold pride of place
in America, and the latter in Europe.
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH IN AUSTRALIA.
The Commonwealth Advisory Council of Science and Industry has
published as Bulletin 7, entitled " Agricultural Research in Australia,"
the papers read at a Conference of Agricultural Scientists from all the
States, held in Melbourne in ISTovember, 1917, together with summaries
of the discussions that took place and the resolutions passed by the
Conference. This Bulletin should be read by all who are interested in
the progress of Australian agriculture, and is obtainable free of charge
from the Secretary of the Council, 314 Albert-street, East Melbourne.
The subjects dealt with by the Conference covered a very wide field,
including the breeding of cereals, the cultivation of native grasses and
fodder-plants, fibre-plants, tobacco, sugar-crops and crops for the pro-
duction of power-alcohol, the acclimatization of plants, immunity of
plants to disease, the utilization of Australian phosphates, and the best
methods of stimulating agricultural research.
22
420 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jri.Y, 191S.
I^OTES ON VINE BLACK SPOT OR ANTHRACXOSE.
By F. de Castella, Government Viticulturist, arid C. C. BrittlehanTc,
Government Pathologist.
The abnormal rainfall of the last two seasons is responsible for a
quite unusual prevalence of fungus pests of all kinds, among which
Vine Black Spot has made itself very conspicuous. Injury of a
disastrous nature has been wrought in many districts where, for over
twenty years previously, the fungus was practically unknown. Con-
sternation has naturally been caused in many quarters, as a result of
which several misleading ideas have gained currency. It has, for
example, been stated that the recent outbreak was caused by a new
fungus, which developed in the soil, whence it found its way into the
sap of the vine, &c. Such fears are quite groundless ; the fungus with
which we have to deal is as old as civilization, having been well known
in ancient Greece and Rome. The disease and its treatment were dealt
with by the present writers at some length in these columns just a year
ago; the notes which follow are intended to be supplementary to that
article, a reprint of which is obtainable on application.
The following paragraph from it may be here quoted : —
As regards the future : Given a return to normal spring weather,
unfavorable to its spread, the disease will no doubt revert to the
unimportant position it has so long occupied. But if we fail to
get a dry spring, and if no preventive steps are taken, grave damage
is not only probable, but certain. A repetition of last year's
weather might easily lead, in the absence of treatment, to a real
disaster to growers of Sultanas and other susceptible varieties,
owing to the abundance of the fungus in its hibernating or resting
stages, in which it awaits the return of spring to renew its activity.
The worst fears then expressed have, unfortunately, been only too
fully realized; not only was the wet weather of 1916-17 rej)eated, but
the 1917-18 season proved very much wetter, so much so, that the fungus
re-appeared with a virulence hitherto unknown in this State. In many
sultana vineyards, especially in those which had suffered to some extent
during the previous season, the visitation was altogether disastrous,
resulting, in many cases, to entire destruction of the 1918 crop, arid
such severe injury to pruning wood, that little fruit can be expected in
1919. Other varieties have suffered in varying degree.
Even in new districts, where it was ditficult, twelve months ago, to
find scars for demonstration purposes, the disease has now obtained a
considerable foothold. Though a slow-spreading fungus as compared
with Downy Mildew or Oidium, it has been steadily disseminated
through the agency of birds, insects, &c., facilitated by the extra-
ordinarily suitable weather conditions, until it is now sufficiently
plentiful to constitute a menace of extreme gravity to growers of all
vine varieties susceptible to the disease.
In view of these facts, very thorough treatment cannot be too
emphatically urged. We may briefly recall that, in order to be
thoroughly reliable, treatment must be twofold; it must consist of —
(a) The winter swah, designed to destroy, in the greatest
measure possible, the hibernating or wintering forms of
the fungus.
10 Ji-LY, 1918. 1 Xofes on Vine Black Spot. , 421
(h) Spring and suinmer sprayings with copper mixtures, to
prevent the spread of the fungus, resulting from the
development of any wintering forms which may have
escaped destruction by swabbing.
The Winter Swab.
The following is the formula now recommended as most generally
satisfactory : —
35 lbs. Iron Sulphate.
8 lbs. Sulphuric Acid.
10 gallons Water.
For convenience in measuring the acid, it may be mentioned that an
ordinary wine bottle (reputed quart size) holds 54 ozs., or nearly 3^ lbs.
of sulphuric acid.
To make the solution, place the iron sulphate crystals in a wooden
tub or barrel, pour the sulphuric acid over them, add the water (pre-
ferably hot), taking care to avoid splashes of the acid; stir occasionally
until dissolved. If the iron sulphate is dissolved first, and the acid
added subseqiiSntly, this should be poured in, in a thin stream, with
constant stirring to avoid splashes.
It will be observed that the solution now recommended contains
somewhat more acid than that suggested a year ago. Several considera-
tions have lead to this alteration, mainly the extreme virulence of the
disease last season, and the great abundance of sclerotia, or wintering
forms, left by it. Though the 3 to 5 per cent, acid previously recom-
mended is capable of destroying the sclerotia, the higher percentage of
acid should necessarily prove even more fatal to them; the extra cost
per acre is trifling, and if an error is made, it is well that it should be
in the direction of extra efficiency.*
Some growers may even prefer to bring the acid strength up to
10 per cent. Though such does not appear to be necessary, there is no
serious objection to doing so. In France, damage, in the shape of
splitting of the wood of the vine, has sometimes been reported after
swabbing with 10 per cent, sulphuric acid (without iron sulphate). In
Mildura last season, some growers who used up to 10 per cent, acid,
with iron sulphate, found that no damage was done to the wood.
Obviously, a couple per cent, of acid more or less will neither make nor
mar the swab.
Thoroughness of application is probably of greater importance than
actual percentage of acid ; any sclerotia missed by the swab will naturally
survive, irrespective of acid strength.
Simplification by discarding the iron sulphate and swabbing with
10 per cent, sulphuric acid 'only, is sometimes suggested; this is not
recommended, the complete formula given above is certainly preferable.
Though the mnnner in which the iron snlphnte acts is not very clear
(see previous article), its value in increasing the efficiency of the swab
seems undeniable; it is corroborated both by French and Australian
• It is worthy of note thit French authorities h v^ for rnvny year^ been content w'th :i sohition
cont ining \--> pr rent, arid, 3 p t rent, beng rar 'ly re onim-rdr-d Qn'te rerentiy, however,
inrr'-a-^od .^tre-inth i- b^ing ^idvi od— the latest formnli p ib ished going as liigh as 8 per cnt.
(Drgrnl'y, Prnnri>s Aijricnlf 1017).
W'd 'ly (lifP.ir nt fo-inulfp I'avc b en bte'y '■e^ommendrd v>rvin<? from 50 per rent, iron sulphate,
with 2 p:r cent, sulphuric acid, to 5 per cent, iron sulph..te w th 10 per cent, sulphuric acid.
422 Journal of AgricvUitre. Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
experience. Possibly it serves to give more " body " to the swab, which,
as it dries, leaves a pasty mass of highly acid crystals in cracks and
scars where the sclerotia lurk.
As regards the application of the swab, there is little to add, except
that the spraying outfit largely used in Mildura last season appears to
have given very general satisfaction; it certainly saves labour, and
enables a considerably larger area to be treated in the same time; in
this, in fact, lies its chief danger. There is a tendency to go too fast,
and to sacrifice efficiency to speed. For this reason, several careful
growers still prefer the old-fashioned swab.
The Double Swab.
French authorities are very generally agreed as to the greater
efficacy of a double swab ; in other words, a repetition of the application
after a lapse of a fortnight or so. The reason for this greater efficiency
is not very clear; possibly the first application may have a preparatory
action, rendering the sclerotium more vulnerable.
On vines which suffered severely last season, the double application
is strongly recommended. The two swabbings should he so timed that
the second, which follows a fortnight or three weeks after the first, shall
be executed just before the buds break in spring.*
A Supplementary Copper Sulphate Spray.
In cases where the vines have suffered most severe damage, such as
would justify extra drastic treatment, this supplementary spray is worth
trying. It should be made with a 5 per cent, copper sulphate solution,
just as the buds are bursting. Even though a certain amount of burn-
ing of the first leaves may occur, fungicide action of considerable value
would probably result, and. this at a critical period for the fungus.
Though copper sulphate has no effect on the wintering stage, such an
application would catch, just as they are sprouting, the tender processes
which will bear the conidia or summer spores, and which arise in
spring from such sclerotia as may have been missed by the swab. This
supplementary spray must not be looked upon as a regular treatment to
be applied to all vineyards ; it is only suggested as an emergency precau-
tion, of a somewhat experimental nature, for vines which have suffered
unusual damage. Being entirely soluble, it would soon be washed off
by rain, and would need to be quickly followed by spraying with
Bordeaux Mixture, which is about to be described.
Spring and Summer Spraying.
Were it possible to completely destroy all wintering forms, no further
treatment would be necessary; unfortunately, such cannot be hoped for.
Some sclerotia will inevitably survive, but it must be remembered the
more thorough the swabbing, the fewer the survivors. f Given weather
conditions suitable for fungus development, fresh infection will thus be
caused, which must be combated by spring and summer treatment.
* A preliminary swabbing has recently been suggested in late autumn or early winter (about May),
such as would catch the recently formed sclerotia, which are then less resistant than in mid-winter. Very
early pruning of vines to be thus treated is, of course, necessary.
t Investigations now being conducted by one of us show "thit on thoroughly swabbed vines a very
limited number of sclerotia are capable of germinating when placed in a moist chamber at suitable tem-
I'urature.
10 July, 1918.] Xules un Vine Black Spot. 423
European authorities are unanimous in considering the winter treat-
ment to be very much more efficacious than any that can be applied
during the growing period of the vine, so far as this particular fungus
is concerned. Until quite recently, in fact, many authorities freely
expressed the view that copper sprays, so valuable against Downy Mildew,
are of little use in combating Black Spot. Mixtures of lime and sulphur
have long been held to be the standard treatment of Black Spot during
the growing period of the vine. At Mildura last season, such dustings
were extensively applied, with most disappointing results, the experience
in this district being quite in accord with more recent views in France,
in which countiy a marked change of opinion is evident within recent
years. Amongst othei- authorities, Professor Ravaz urges the efficacy
of preventive copper sprays to combat Anthracnose during the growing-
period of the vine. The following two quotations will suffice. Refer-
ring to treatment of Anthracnose in Progres Agricolc, of 8th June,.
1913, he says : —
" During summer scientific mixtures of lime and sulphur have
been prescribed, the efficacy of which has always been equal to that
of a blister on a wooden leg The disease is amenable
to copper. Copper sprays are efficacious against it, provided they
are applied frequently during rainy weather, or even if moist condi-
tions should prevail."
Again, replying, in Progres Agricole, of 10th May, 1915, to a vine-
grower, whose military duties had prevented him from swabbing, and
whose wood was shockingly damaged, he writes: —
" Failure to swab does not leave us altogether disarmed against
Anthracnose. It, also, is amenable to copper sprays. But, as it
attacks canes and bunches as well as leaves, treatment must be so
applied that the base of the canes and the young stalks are well
coated with copper. One must not be content with blessing (i.e.,
sprinkling with holy water) the young shoots; they must be hathed,
as the Italians say. Subsequent treatments against Mildew Avill
also control Anthracnose,"
The efficacy of copper sprays against Anthracnose receives striking
confirmation from the fact, very noticeable to any visitor to Europe,
that this disease is much less in evidence nowadays than it was forty
years ago. This is not because climatic conditions do not now suit it,
but because the copper sprays so extensively applied to combat Downy
Mildew have a strong restraining effect on Anthracnose. It is, indeed,
chiefly in connexion with direct producers* that Anthracnose is heard
of nowadays in France.
The greater prevalence of the disease on these vines is not due to
any special liability to it, but to the fact that they are not protected
by the copper sprays which must be applied against Downy Mildew to
pure vinifera varieties.
That copper sprays should protect vines against Black Spot is not
astonishing; their mode of action is absolutely similar to that by Avhich
they, protect the vine against Downy Mildew, viz., on properly sprayed
* By direct producers are understood thfi hybiid vines raised of recent years to atthesume time resist
phylloxera and yield wine of fair quality. Mmy of these po?sess such a high resist in?o to Downy Mildew
tliat spraying can be dispensed with.
424 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
vines, every rain or dew drop dissolves a trace of copper, sufficient to
prevent tlie germination of any fungus spore which may fall into it.
It is scarcely necessary tx) repeat that Black Spot is a fungus which
must be prevented ; it cannot be cured. It is not astonishing that the
same means of prevention, so effective in the case of Downy Mildew,
should also enable us to control Black Spot.
The number of spring or summer sprayings required must be largely
governed by weather conditions. In a very wet spring, several applica-
tions will be necessary, the essential point is that the first spraying
should be early enough. It should be applied as soon as the young
shoots are a couple of inches long, on all vines where the fungus was in
evidence last season. This spray should be repeated a fortnight or so
later, in order to protect all growth which has been made subsequent
to the first application. Further spraying may be necessary in a wet
«pring.
There is a tendency in some quarters to rely entirely on spring and
summer treatment. We must lodge an emphatic protest against such.
It should be needless to point out that the fewer the spores in spring,
the more effective will be the protection of preventive copper sprays;
the prevalence of . such spores is obviously enormously reduced if the
bulk of the wintering forms are destroyed by efficient swabbing at the
close of winter.
The composition of Bordeaux Mixture and Copper Soda, in fact, of
copper fungicides in general, will be dealt with in a subsequent issue;
it will be sufficient to here state that standard Bordeaux Mixture,
containing 2 per cent, of copper sulphate, with enough lime to neutralize,
constitutes the best protection against Anthracnose during the growing
period of the vine.
Cultural Considerations.
Where vines have been severely affected, advantage should be taken
of any modification in cultural methods which may tend to lessen
liability to fugus contamination, during the growing season.
The air in the vicinity of freshly-worked land is always moister than
that overlying land which has not been recently disturbed. The dew
point, and, consequently, the amount of dew deposited, is greater in the
former case, thus increasing the chances of infection. Winter cultiva-
tion should be completed as early as possible, so that the land Avill not
be in recently-M^orked condition in early spring. Such cultural work
as must be carried out among sprouting or actively growing vines in
spring, should be executed as soon after spraying as possille, so as to
profit by the protection thereby afforded whilst at its maximum. The
spray might also follow the plough or cultivator on the same day, though
it must be remembered that the traction of the spray outfit would be
heavier on the newly-Avorked soil.
The presence of weeds, and particularly of cover crops (green
manuring), acts in similar manner to freshly-worked soil. The vine-
yard must be so worked as to insure the absence of either of these at
periods when contamination is to be feared.
Irrigation must be carefully regulated, both as regards quantity of
water applied and time of application. Wherever vines suffered severe
damage last season they should be sparingly watered; a heavy crop
cannot be expected from such vines; the best one can hope is to provide
10 July. 1918.] Notes on Vine Black Spot. 425
healthy wood for future seasons. Withholding of water, in the greatest
measure possible, will greatly promote this object.
The condition of the grooving portion of the vine, as regards succu-
lence, has also considerable bearing on receptivity for infection ; moderate
growth, which is rather dry and hard in its nature, fears infection less;
than rank, sappy growth. Anything tending to insure the former
condition will lessen danger; in this connexion, too little, rather than too
much, water is strongly recommended. Likewise with manuring — phos-
j^hatic and potassic manures give tone to the plant, and tend to increase
resistance to disease. Dressings with lime and gypsum will, by liberat-
ing combined potash, exercise a similar action. Nitrogen, on the other
hand, especially if in excess, tends to promote rank growth ; it should be
cautiously used, though it must be remembered that vines which suffered
severe damage last year are depressed in their vegetation, and require
building up.
Attention to these cultural points is certainly desirable; nevertheless,
too much must not be expected of them. They are only supplementary
to, but in no sense a substitute for, the standard treatment (swabbing
and spraying), which alone can afford reliable protection.
Blackbekry vines are most difficult to eradicate, especially as merely
cutting down occasionally tends to strengthen the root growth, and
ultimately to increase the trouble.
Where the pest is confined to a small area, intended for constant culti-
vation, trenching to a depth of 18 inches to 2 feet, and removing all
growth to that depth, is the surest way, though laborious. Every part
— roots, butts, and vines — should be burnt.
The treatment recommended by the Department is the caustic soda
method. This chemical, of a strength of 1 lb. caustic soda to 2 gallons of
waier, has the advantage of being much less dangerous to animal life
than arsenical solutions. It is best applied as follows: —
On small areas, first cut the vines down close to the ground, and
remove them from the area for burning later. Then, from a watering-
can, with the rose attached, give the surface from which the vines have
been cut a thorough soaking of the above solution. The area is then left
until a new growth springs up, and has grown to 4 or 5 inches high. It
is not necessary to cut this growth doMoi, but it is advisable to give it a
further soaking of the solution, which will soon kill more of the tops and
root, but, perhaps, still will not kill the lot. This process will need to
be repeated, so as to keep the leaf growth in check, for it is only by
keeping the tops down that the roots can be ultimately killed.
On larger areas it will be best to use a mounted spray pump outfit,
using an Edgell release valve to regulate the flow of spray.
.\ soluiion of arsenite of soda acts in a similar way, but owing to its
highly poisonous nature, and the danger from children picking the fruit,
it is not recommended.
A flock of sheep or goats kept on an infected area for a few months
helps greatly in eradicating this pest. It is best to tether the goats, and
to move them about as soon as they have nibbled off all the green shoots.
— Agricultural Gazette of New South Wales, June, 1918.
426 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
A CONTRIBUTION TO THE STUDY OF HEREDITARY
[JNSOUNDNESS IN HORSES.
By W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc, Chief Veterinary Officer. .
(Continued from page 303.)
Family 2.
All the horses in this family are related to one another, being
descended from one progenitor, as shown in the following scheme: —
■ Not examined -Not examined, 2 . 1
Not eSa mined
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined
-Not examined
-Not examined, 2 . 2
-Not examined, 2 . 3
-Not examined, 2 . 4
( Not examined, 2 . 5
[Not examined, 2 . 6
.Not examined — -Not examined -Not examined -SidCbone, 2.7
For convenience, and because of the distant relationship, they are
dealt with separately. Only one of the original members (2.7) was
examined, and he was found to be unsound; none of his progeny has
been seen. His dam was by a stallion which was not examined, 9.5;
but unsoundness has been found in 21.5 per cent, of his progeny. This
probably accounts for the unsoundness present in 2.7.
The members of the family show the following percentage of
unsoundness : —
FAMILY 2.
Table Showing Percentage op Unsoundness.
Sons.
G Sons.
GG Sons.
GGG Sons.
GGGG
Sons.
Tota
.
n-^
.
■d
be
■6
M
6C
TJ
tt
•3
T3
■a
C3
-a
■a
ci
■a
s
1
a
3
y
o
(-1
c
X
5
a
1
3
o
S
K
o
B
X
2
P
W
i^
Ph
w
p
Ph
W
P
Hh
w
|J
fL,
N
;3
W
;=)
Ph
2-1
4
2
50-0
83
17
20-5
ISO
3a
19-4
33
3
9-0
1
301
57
18-9
2-2
1
1
100-0
14
/
50-0
7
22
8
36-3
2-3
2
2
100-0
4
6
2
33-3
2-4
5
14
2
5
40-6
2
24
9
6
1
25-6
11-1
2
'^
100 -0
7
40
12
2
13
1
28-5
2-5
32-5
2-6
1
8-3
2-7
100-0
ynsound
5
Total
8
62-5
122
31
25-4
222
42
18-4
35
5
14-2
1
388
83
21-8
2.1 is a stallion which was not examined. He has the reputation
of being a sound horse, and mares by him were eagerly sought by
breeders; his male descendants, however, show 18.9 per cent, unsound-
ness.
Whilst 16 of his sons are referred to in the tables, only 4 were
examined, and 2 of these were unsound, viz., 2.105 and 2.102. The dam
of the former was by a half-brother of 2.7, which was unsound; and the
dam of the latter was by 3 — the founder of a most unsound line. It is
10 Ji'LY^ 1918.] Hereditary Unsoimdness in Horses. 427
possible, therefore, that this 2.1 family is either sound or one in which
unsoundness is a diminishing factor. A general survey of the family
supports the former possibility, for it will be seen that the unsoundness
noted is scattered through the many sub-families recorded, and most of
the dams that can be traced are from unsound lines. The transmission
of unsoundness through the dams is especially noticed in the next
generation, where we find that 83 grandsons were examined, and 20.5
per cent, found unsound. Though the breeding of many of these
unsound animals cannot be traced through their dams to horses recorded
in the tables, the following records suggest that their unsoundness hasi
come from the dams' side : —
The dam of 2.164 was by 3.18. He was not examined — two of
his progeny were, and both were unsound.
The dam of 2.165 was by 17.2, not examined; he left 77 per
cent, unsound out of 9 examined.
The dam of 2.10301 was by a son of 3, already referred to as
a sire of a most unsound line.
The dam of 2.103008 was by a son of 6. 21 per cent, of the
progeny of 6 were unsound.
The dam of 2.1030007 was by 7.231, and the granddam by 4.13,
which left 38 per cent, unsound descendants.
The dam of 2.10300006 was by 2.1, the granddam by 22, whose
blood appears frequently in unsound pedigrees.
The dam of 2.10300009 was by a son or grandson of 1.
Four of the members of this generation found unsound are by 2.102,
himself unsound, and two of them, viz., 2.1023 and 2.1024, are out of
mares by 1. Thus very strong evidence as to the source of the unsound-
ness can be given in the majority of the sideboned grandsons of 2.1.
Among the great-grandsons, 19 per cent, were unsound; and, again,
evidence of unsoundness being transmitted from the dams is strong.
2.1013 and his descendants are evidently a sound line ; only one son,
2.101303, was sideboned, and this at 3 years old. His dam was by
1.003111, an unsound horse.
2.10414 was from a mare by an unrecorded grandson of 3.1; the
recorded grandsons show 40 per cent, unsoundness.
2.10231 and 2.10234 are by the unsound sire 2.1023, carrying the
blood of 1.
2.1031 is another branch evidently sound. There are 2 unsound
sons. One, viz., 2.10316, was from a mare by 1.19, which was very
unsound; while 2.10315 was from a mare by 9.521, which, though
no unsoundness was discovered in the few of his descendants examined, is
a member of a family showing 21 per cent, of unsoundness.
The next family in this generation worthy of note is that of 2.1032,
himself sound at ten years of age. He left 17 sound and 9 unsound sons ;
20 sound and 3 unsound grandsons ; 2 of the latter are by unsound sires,
whilst the sons which are unsound show the following breeding on their
dam's side.
The pedigree of the dams of 2.10325, 2.1032004, 2.1032007, and
2.1032008 is incomplete, but the remaining unsound horses of this branch
show breeding as under: —
The dam of 2.10326 was by 3.1005, a member of an unsound
family, which left 43 per cent, of unsound progeny.
428 Juurnal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jtly, 1918.
The dam of 2.103205 was by 7.492, wliicli, as already referred to,
appears so frequently in unsound lines.
The dam of 2.103206 was by 7.34, of tainted line.
The dam of 2.103207 was by 6.2, of tainted line.
The dam of 2.1032005 was by 7.492, of tainted line (already
referred to).
A branch of the family which appears an unsound one is 2.1034
and his descendants. He was not examined, but he left 3 unsound
stallions out of 5 examined, and the dams of these three were as
follows : —
2.10342 was out of a mare by 1.13, a very unsound horse.
2.10343 was out of a mare by 1.1, the sire of a very unsound
family.
2.10344 was out of a mare by 7.231, an unsound line.
In the same generation, we find: —
2.1030031 out of a mare by 2.1032, the granddam by a son of 11.
2.1030032 out of a mare probably by 1.211, which was without
doubt unsound.
2.1030037 out of a mare by 22.2, of unsound family.
2.1030039 out of a mare by 9.521, which left 21 per cent, imsound.
2.10300305 out of a mare by 6.15, of tainted family, granddam
by 9.521.
2.1030071 out of a mare by a brother of 1.1, an unsound horse.
2.10300051 out of a mare by 4.127, unsound blood, granddam by
a son of 3.
2.10300052 out of a mare by 6, a tainted line.
Stallion 2.10302 requires more than passing notice. He was by a
son of 22, from whom he, no doubt, inherited the unsoundness detected
when he was an aged horse. However, it must be noted that the
unsoundness was not pronounced. Eight of his progeny were examined,
and it appears strange that no unsoundness was detected in any of them.
It is unfortunate that the full pedigrees of the dams of these horses are
not available; but, from the particulars available, it appears likely that
the tendency to develop sidebones was not pronounced. Unsoundness
will probably be found in some of them at a later date. Two of the sons,
2.103021 and 2.103023, were full brothers, but of blood not recorded,
and of which nothing is known. It is probable that the dam was
particularly sound. 2.103025, only 3 years at examination, is a horse
in which unsoundness might be expected at an early date, as his dam is
by 3.102, an unsound horse.
The number of the remaining members of the family 2.1 is insuffi-
cient upon which to base criticism.
2.2 is badly tainted with unsoundness. One son and seven grandsons
are affected with sidebone; while seven grandsons and seven great-
grandsons are sound.
2.2105, which was over twelve years of age at examination, was sound,
although by an unsound horse. His dam must have been a horse of
good age when he was born, as her sire was by the grandsire of 2.5,
shown in the opening table of this family. Evidently, she Avas particu-
larly soimd, or some trace of sidebone would have appeared in 2.2105.
10 July, 1918. | Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
429
2.5 was probably sound, although in the family of his son 2.51, unsound-
ness predominates. This can be accounted for by the fact that 2.51 was
from a mare by 1.1, a very unsound sire. The other son, 2.52, apparently
carried the sound blood of 2.5, for of his progeny which are sound, 6 are
seven years old or over, and the unsound ones are tainted in nearly all
cases through the dams, as follows.: —
2.525 was not examined, but his progeny is very unsound. He
was from a mare by 9.31, and of the seven sons of this horse
examined, 5 are affected with sidebone, and 2 with bog spavin ; thus
71 per cent, were sideboned.' Of the remainder of the progeny of
2.525 which can be traced through the dams —
2.5253 was from a mare by 1.511, a sire of unsoundness.
2.52511 was from a mare by 7.232, a sire of unsoundness.
2.52512 was from a mare by 7.232, a sire of unsoundness.
Stallion 2.52023 carries the blood of 1 and 9 in his veins.
Thus most of the unsoundness in this line can be attributed to the
influence of the mare.
2.6 appears to be another sound horse, though only twelve of
his progeny have been examined. Only one, 2.61133, is unsound,
and the dam of this horse is by an unrecorded son of 3.1, already
noted as being unsound. The table shows that six of ih.^ remain-
ing members of this line were five years of age or over at examina-
tion, and were found sound.
The complete tables for Family 2 are as follows : —
FAMILY 2.
2-1, not -
—2 11, not ex-
examined
amined—
2-12, sound, 9 ■
2.13, not examined
2 • 14, not examined
2 -15, not examined
—2 111, sound, 3
— 2-121, sound, 4
— 2-131, bog spavin, 3
—2 -141. sound, 3
—2-151, sound, 4
r2-lfil,sound, 3
2-16, not examined
- 2-162. sound, 4— —
2 -163, sound, 5
2 I64,sidebrne, 5
,2-165, sidebone, 5
—2-1621, sound, 3
2-17, not examined
—2-171, sound, 3
f 2 -182. sound, 4
2-18, not examined
\ 2-183, srund D.A.I'. .2
2-184,shiverer,4
— 2 1841. sound, n. A. P.,
4
L2-1M1, sidebone, 3
2-19, not examined
-2-191, sound, 3
2-101, not ex-
'2-1011, sound, 3
—2-10111, srund, 5
amined —
2-1012, sound, 6
—2-10121, sound, 3
[2-10131, sound, 3
2-10132, sound, 5
2 -1013, sound, 5 —
( 2-101321, sound, 4
[2101322, sound.
2-10133, sound, 3
D.A.P., ^
2 -10134, sound, 5
2-10135, srund, 4
2-10136, sound, 5
2-1013S, sound, 3
2 101 39, sound, 3
2 •101301, sound, 3
2-101302, sound, 3
2-10137, sound.
D.A.r.,5
.2 101303, sidebone, 3
2-1014, sound, 3
2 101 5, sound, 3
2-1016, sound, 5
2-1017, sound, 3
2-1018, sound, 3
L 2 -1019, sound. 3
4.30
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 July, 1918.
Family 2 — -continued.
2' 1, not ex-
amined—
contimied.
-2-104, not ex- f 2-1041, not examined
amined — i
2 105, sidebone, 6
2-106, not ex-
amined—
2-107, sound, a
2-102. sidebone,
15—
2-103, not ex-
amined
2-1042. sound, 4
.2-1043, sound, 5
'2-1061, sound, 5
2-1062, sound, 4
2 -1063, sound, 3
2-1064, sound, 9
2-1067, sound, 6
2-1068, sound, 3
2-] 065, sidebone, 4
2-1066, sidebone, a
2-1022, sound, 3
2-1025, sound 3
2-1026, sound, 3
2-1028, sound, 3
2 1020, sound, 3
2-10201, sound, 3
2-10203, sound, 4
2-1021, sidebone, 5 —
2-1023, sidebone, 4
2 1024, sidebone, a
2-1027, sidebone, 3
_ 2 -10202, sidebone, €
-2-1031, sound, 7 —
f 2 -10412, sound, 3
■{ 2-10413, sound, 3
10411, sound,
D.A.P.,6
L2 10414, sidebone, 5
2-1032, sound, 10-
2-102011, sound, 6
I 2-102012, sound, 5
'2-10232, sound, 3
2-10233, sound, 5
2-10231 sidebone, 6
2-10234. sidebone, 3
2 10311, sound, 3
2-10313, sound, 5
2-10314, sound, 4
2-10318, sound, 5
2-10319, sound, 3
2 -103102, sound, 3
2 -103103, sound, 4
2-103104, sound, 5
2-103105, S(.und, 3
2-103106, sound, 5
2-103107, not ex-
amined—
2-103108, sound, 5
2-10312,
st)und,
D.A.P., 5
sound,
D.A.P.,5
sound,
D.A.P.,4
2-10315, sidebone, 5
2-10316, sidebone, 4
2-10321, sound, 3 -
2-10317,
2-103101,
2-10322, sound, 5-
2* 10323, sound, 6
2-10324, sound, 3
2-10327, sound, 5
2-10328, sound, 5
2-10329, sound, 5-
2 -103203, sound, 4
2 -103204, sound, 6
2-103208, sound, 5
2-103209, sound, 6
2 103202, sound, 4 -
2-1032002,sound, 5-
2•1032003, sound, 4
-2-1031071, sound,
-2-103151, sound, 3
2-103211, sound. 3
2-103212, sound,
D.A.P., 3
2 103222, sound, 3
2-103223, sound, 5
2-103226, sound. 5
2-103224, sound,
D.A.P., 4
2-103225, sound,
D.A.P., %
2-103221, sidebone, 4
2-103291, sound, 3
2-103292, sound, 3
2-103293, sound, 5
2-103294, sound, 5
2 -103295, sound, 5
2-103296, sound, 5
2-103297, sound
[D.A.P., *
-2-1032021, sound, 3
-2-10320021, sound
D.A.P.. »
JO
July 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
431
2 ) 2'1, not! 2*103,-
exam'd not
contd.\ exam a
— contd.
2*1032, sound, 10-
eontinued.
Family 2 — continued.
2-1032001, sound, 5
2-1032006, sound, 3
2-103201, sound,
D.A.P., i
2-10325, sidebone, 3
2-10326, Sidebone,
ringbone, 3—
2-103205, sidebone, 5
2-103206, sidebone, 3
2-103207, sidebone, 3
2-1032004, sidebone, 3
2-1032005, sidebone, 6 —
2-1032007, sidebone, 4 —
2-1032008, sidebone, 5
2-1033, not ex-
amined—
2-1034,
not ex-
amined—
2 • 1035, sound, 3
2 • 1036, sound, 3
2-10303, sound, 3
2*10305, sound, 4
2 "10309, sound, 3
2*103005, sound, 5
2*103006. sound, a
2-1037, not ex-
amined—
2-10304, sound, 3 —
2-10306, not ex-
amined—
2-10307, sound, 4 -
2-10308, sound, a —
-103001,
-103002, sound, 5 —
2-103004,
M0331, sound, 3
M0333, sound, 3
2-10332,soundD.A.P.,8
2-10341, sound, 5
2 10342, sidebone, 6
2-10343, sidebone, 5
2-10344, sidebone, ring-
bone, 4
2-10345, shiverer, 4
2-10353, sound, 3
2-10354, sound, 3
2-10356, sound, 5
2-10357, sound, 5
2-10358, sound, 3
2-10359, sound, 4
2-103501, sound, 5
2-103502, sound, 2
2-103503, sound, 3
2-103504, sound, 2
2-103505, sound, 6
2-103506, sound, 4
2 -10355, sound D.A.P.,
2-10351, sidebone, 5
.2-10352, spavin, 2
,—2-10371, sound, 3
— 2-103041,sound,D.A.P. 2
'2-103061, sound, 4
2-103062, sound, 4
2-103063, sound, D.A.P.,
—2-103071, sound, 7
— 2 -103081, sound, D.A.P.,
— 2*1030011, sound, 3
'2-1030021, sound,
D.A.P.
2-1030022, sound,
D.A.P.,4
not ex- f 2-1030041, sound, 3
amined- \ 2-1030042, sound. 5
f2-10391, sound, 4
■I 2 -10392, sound, 5
2 -10393, sound, 3
2-10394, sound, 7
2-10395, sound, 5
'2-10.30033, sound, 3
2-1030034, sound, 7
2-1030035, sound, 5
2-1030038. sound, 4
2-10300302, sound, 4
2-1030036, sound,
D.A.P.,4
2-10300301,
2-103261, sound, D.A.P
-2-10320051, sidebone, 3|
'2-10320081, sound,
D.A.P.,3
2-10320082, sound,
D.A.P.,3
2-10320083, side-
bone, 5 — j--
2-10320084, sound, 4
not ex-
amined-
•1039, not examined
2 • 1 03003, sound, 4 —
2-10300304,
sound,
D.A.P.,3
sound,
D.A.P.,3
2-1030031, sidebone, 3
2 -1030032, sidebone, 3
2-1030037, sidebone, 4
2-1030039, sidebone, 3
2-10300303, sidebone, 2
2-10300305, sidebone, 4
103200831
[sound, 3
/
432
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 July, 1918.
Family 2 —continued.
2-1 not
exami'it'd
— conid.
2-103. not ex-
amined— continued.
-2-103007, sound, 8 — •
2-10300'), sound, 6-
2-10'.onoi, sound, 5
2 -10 5000;, sound, 6
2 1030003, sound, 3 -
2 -1030001, sound, 4 -
2-1030005, not ex-
amined—
2-1030006, sound, 4
2-10300003, sound, 5
2-10300005, sound, a
2-10300007, sound, 4
2-103000001, sound, 3
2-103000002, sound, 3
2-103000003, sound, 3
2-103000004, sound, 4
2 -1030003, not ex-
amined
2-1030003, not ex-
amined—
2-10300001, not ex-
amined—
10300002, not ex-
amine 1-
10300004, not ex-
amine 1—
10300008, not ex-
amined—
10300000.), not ex-
amined—
103000008, not ex-
amined—
1038, sidebone, 4
10301, ringbone, 3
2-10302, sidebone, a
2-103008, sidebone, 3
2 -1030007, sidebone, 5-
2 - 1 0300005, sidebone, 5
2-10300003, sidebone, 5
2-10!0073, sound, 2
2-10;00,'4. sound. 4
2-1030075, sound, 3
2-10 100 .'6. sound, 4
2-10300 71, sidebone, 4
1.2-10 !0072, sidebone, 5
I 2 10i00)2, sound. 3
I 2-10300)1, sidebone, 4
( 2
1 2
10300031,
10;00 132.
lO'.OOOtl,
1 03000 t2,
lO'.OOOtS,
10300014,
10300015,
10 5000 i3,
sound. 4
sound, 3
sound, 5
sound, 5
sound. 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 4 -
103000')'>, .'iound, 6
103010.6, sound, 5
10 '000 ')7, sound, 4
103001 '>3, sound, 5
103000')01,si und, 6
103000.502, sound, 5 -
103000503
lO^OOO'.Ot
103000)0
lOtOOO-,0 7
103001)08
10311X503
10300054,
10301051,
10 1000 ',2,
1030005S,
103000503
sound, 5
, sound, 3
, sound, 3
, sound, 4
. sound, 3
, souni, 4
S"iund,
D.A.P., 3
sidebone, 5
sidebone, 4
curb, 3
, spavin, 3
10300081, sound,
D.A.P.,5
10300031, not ex-
am ix^d
10?01113, sound, 3
10300036, 3ound, 5 —
10300017, sound, 3
10310032, 3 nmd,
D.A.P..4
10300035, souni,
D.A.P.,8
10300034, roarer, 4
—2-103000011, sound, 3
2-103000012, not ex-
amined-
—2 -103000021, sound 3
—2-103000011, sound, 6
—2 -103000081, sidebone, 5
I 2-1030000051, sound, 3
' 2-10.30000052, sidebone,4
—2-1030000061, sidebone,4
f 2-103021, sound, 4
-! 2 -103122, sound, 3
2-1030 23, sound, 5
2-10!024, sound, 4
2-103025. sound 3
2-10'?026, sound, 3
2-103027, sound, 3
,2-103028. sound, 4
'2-10300071, sound,
D.A.P.,3
L2 -10300072, sidebons, 4
-2-103000531, sound
D.A.P.,3
-2 -1030005021, sound
-2-103000811, sound.
D.A.P.,2
-2-103000311, sound.
3
-2-103000361, sound,
5
-2-1030000121,
sound, D.A.P.,4
10 July, 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
433
Family 2 — continued.
2-2 not
examined
2-3, not
pxarnineil
2-4, not
examined
2-5, not
examined
2-6, not
examined
2-7, side
bone
■2-21, Side-
bone, a-
2-31, not ex-
amined
2-32, side-
bone, 9
2-33, side-
bone, a
2-41, not ex-
amined-
■51, not ex-
amined-
2-52, not ex-
amine d-
- 2-211,
sidebone, 3
2-212, sidebone, 3
2 -213, sou-id, 3
2-214, sound, 5
2-215, sound, 3
2-216, s )un,l, 2
2-217, not eximincd— —
2-218, sound, 3
2-210), soun 1, a
2-2103, srund, 4
2-219, sidetoie, 10
2-2101, sideo3ne, 3
2-2102, sidebone, 10 —
2-210!, sidebone, 4
2-2104, sidebone, 4
2-311 sound 4
2-313. sound, 5
2-314, sound, 5
2-312, sound, D.A.P., 3
'2-411, sound, 5
2-412, sound, 6
2-415, sound, 10
2-413, sidebone, 10
2-414, sidebone, ring-
bone, 4
'2-512, sound, a
■{ 2-511, sidebone, 8
2-513, sidebone, 4 — —
•61, not ex-
amined
2-514, sidebone, 7
2 • 521 , sound, a
2-523, sound, 3 —
2-525, not examined
2-526, no examined
2-527, sound, 8
2-528, sound, 5
2-529, sound, a
2-5201, sound, a
2-5202, sound, 7
2-5203, sidebone, 7
2- 5204, Sidebone, a
2-5203, sound, 10 — -
2-5206, not examined
' 2-611, not examined -
J 2-612, sound, a
2-613, not examined
I.
2-2111, sound, D. A. P., 3
2 -2114, sound, D.P.A. 3
2-2112. sound, 3
2 -213, sound, 3
-2-2171, sound, 5
re -21021, sound, 5
(.2-21022, sound, 4
2-4151, sound, D. A. P., 4
. 2-4152, sound, 5
-2-5131.sound,D.A.P..3
1 2-5141, sound, 2
( 2-5142, sound, D.A.P., 3
2-5231, soimd, 5
2-5252, sound, 3
2-5251, sidebone, a
2-5253, sidebone, a
2 -5262, sound, 4
2-526?. sound, 6
2-5261, ringbone, 5
2-5271, sound, 3
2-5272, sound, 5
2-5273, ringbone, 5
2-52012, sound, 7
. 2-52011, sidebone, 5
2-52021, sound, 5
2-52022, sound, 4
2-52024, sound, 5
2-520i6, sound, 3
2-52025, ^ound,D.A.P.,3
2-52027, -ound,l>.A.P., 7
2-52023, sidebone, 9
-52051, sound, 3
-52061, sound, 4
2-52511, ringbone,
sidebone, 3
2-52512, sidebone, 3
U
-6111, sound, a
•6112, sound, 5
6113, not examined • —
— 2-6131, not examined
/■ 2-61111, sound, 5
(.2-61112, sound, 5
2-61131, sound, 5
2-61132, sound, 3
2-61131, sound, 3
2-61135, sound, 3
2-61133. sidebone, 4
I 2-61311, sound, 4
(.2-61312, spavin, 3
434 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. 1 10 July, 1918.
AUSTRALIAN POMOLOGY.
Report of the Pomolo^ical Committee of Australia for 1918.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Secretary, Pomologist, Department of
Agriculture, Victoria.
The fifth meeting of the Poniological Committee of Australia was
held at Adelaide, South Australia, in April, 1918.
The following delegates were present : — Messrs. Geo. Quinn, Chief
Horticultural Officer; G. Laffer, M.P.; H. Wicks, representing South
Australia. Messrs. J. M. Ward, Fruit and Forestry Expert; and L.
M. Shoobridge, representing Tasmania. Messrs. W. J. Allen, Fi-uit and
Irrigation Expert ; J. N^eil, and F. J. Adamson, representing New South
Wales. Messi's. E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Pomologist, Department of
Agriculture (Secretary) ; and James Lang, J. P., representing Victoria.
Amongst the visitors who assisted in the deliberations were : — Messrs.
J. F. Bailey, Director of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens ; G. C. Savage,
Manager of the Berri Experiment Farm, South Australia ; J. Cronin,
Curator of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens; R. E. Boardman, A.F.I. A.,
of the Fruit World; A. F. Thiele, Doncaster, Victoria; and W. Cham-
pion Hackett, South Australia.
In opening the Conference, Professor Perkins, Director of Agricul-
ture for South Australia, heartily welcomed the Committee to Adelaide,
and said that the intricate work on which the Committee was engaged,
and which would possibly take years to disentangle, would be of great
service.
Professor Perkins freely offered the services of the Department to
assist the Committee in its work.
The retiring President, Mr. L. M. Shoobridge, in a short opening
address, referred to the war, which resulted in the stoppage of the oversea
carriage of fruit. Tasmania was now evaporating her apple crop, and,
in doing so, relieved and assisted the other States. The work of the
Committee was not simply for the naming of fruits; the testing of new
kinds and new seedlings was a far more important work. The Com-
mittee should take up other questions, such as woolly aphis, blight-proof
stocks, and the standardization of fruits. Mr. Shoobridge urged that
advantage should be taken of the Commerce Act, so as to have all fruit
shipped under the approved names. He thought that the value of the
meetings of growers and experts was very considerable, and much good
would result from federated action.
Reference was made to the loss by death of two members. Dr. Benja-
field, and Mr. C. C. Tucker. The loss of the former would be especially
felt by the Committee, as he was one of the greatest authorities on
pear nomenclature.
Mr. G. H. Laffer, M.P., of South Australia, was then elected Chair-
man. The following resolution was passed by the fruit-growing members
of the Committee : — " That the importance of the work of the Committee
be placed on record ; and that we also record the forethought that moved
our ex-President, Mr. L. M. Shoobridge, to initiate the movement;
and also to record the whole-hearted assistance he has rendered to the
Committee since its inception; lastly, that we appreciate the interest
10 July, 1918.] Beport of Pomological Committee. 435
taken and the help given by the respective State Governments, and their
officers."
1917 Report.
In the discussion on the report for 1917, regret was expressed that
the States of Queensland and Western Australia were not yet represented.
Mr. Bailey considered that the work of the Committee was of vital
importance to growers in Queensland, especially to those in the south,
where apples were largely grown.
The necessity for a wider scope of work, taking in all kinds and
varieties of fruits, was urged by several members ; and it was decided
that stronger efforts should be made by the State sub-Committees, and
that they should meet frequently in the soft-fruits' season, and forward
reports to the general Committee.
By means of sub-Committee meetings in each State at regular
intervals right through the berry, soft fruit, and citrus fruits seasons,
all faults belonging to these classes could be considered and reported to
the general annual meeting.
Woolly Aphis.
Mr. Allen presented a most exhaustive list of apple varieties, and
their degrees of resistance to Woolly Aphis, The list comprised nearly
300 varieties, which were classified as — (a) Proof or highly resistant;
(&) Slightly affected; and (c) Badly affected.
After considerable discussion, it was decided to request that the
Fruit World should issue a special number dealing with Woolly Aphis,
in which Mr. Allen's list could be published.
Publication of Records.
It was agreed that each report be brought up to date, showing a list
of approved names and changes. The total approved list therefore
appears at the end of the report.
In this list of names so compiled, appear several names of fruit
which the Committee does not recommend for planting generally. The
purpose of the inclusion of these names is that nurserymen have been
distributing the trees for many years, and that the fruits are in general
cultivation. The Committee is of opinion that the growing of such
varieties will gradually cease as more suitable ones become known.
It was further decided that the Committee, having now laid the
foundation of Australian Pomology, should publish illustrations and
analytical details of fruits, on the lines laid down by Hogg and others,
and each State Government officer on the Committee will compile, for
publication in the Journal of Agriculture of his State, details of the
history and analysis of the principal apple and pear seedlings.
American Pomological Society.
A letter was received from Professor E. R. Lake, Pomologist to the
United States Federal Bureau of Agriculture, inviting a delegate to the
Pomological Conference to be held at Washington in 1919-20; and also
suggesting that more simplicity be used in fruit nomenclature, one word
to be used for a name in most cases, and such terms as " Beurre," and
other similar ones, to be dropped.
436 Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. | 10 .Jri.Y, 1918.
After much discussion, it was decided to adhere to existing rules as
far as possible in the naming of Australian-raised fruits, and to avoid
the use of more than one word wherever practicable. It was felt, how-
ever, that to drop such terms as " Beurre," " Pippin," and others, in
certain established cases, would interfere too much with old-established
pomology of other lands. The Committee does not wish to unduly
interfere with names of fruits raised elsewhere, especially seeing that
it is anxious for the adoption of its own nomenclature in other countries.
PEACHES AND PLUMS FOR CANNING.
Mr. Allen introduced this subject, and urged that the Committee
should collect information regarding these fruits. In the course of
discussion, the question of a suitable peach to succeed Elberta was
brought up. Mr. Wicks suggested Tuscan Cling, and also mentioned a
New South Wales peach. Golden Queen, all yellow in colour, and much
like Phillips, and which comes in just before Pullar's Cling. Mr. Savage,
however, said that Golden Queen is very distinct from Phillips. Lewis,
he said, ripened later than- either of these, while Allen's Late Cling is
the latest peach at Blackwood, even hanging on the trees after the
leaves have fallen.
Mr. Wicks reported that, in his opinion, Phillips is the peach for
canning; the fruits hang on the trees for three weeks. Speaking of
other varieties, he said that Sims comes in just after Tuscan (Tuskena),
and is probably not quite suitable. Riverside Late Red, which follows
Thiele's Cling, is much like Pullar's, only Pullar's is rounder, and the
first-named has colour on the stone. Riverside keeps its foliage very
late in the season. McDevitt's is not a good canner. Mr. Wicks
expressed the belief that the Orange Cling fruits much better when the
laterals are left.
It was decided to collect information on canning for report in 1919.
Consideration of Seedlings : Apples.
" Jackson's Seedling ". — Reported as free from woolly aphis, the
tree being twenty years old. The ripening period is in March, about
Jonathan time. The apple is now recorded as a blight-resistant variety,
but is not recommended as a commercial apple on account of its inferior
flavour.
" Ernie's Seedling ".• — An apple of the Granny Smith type, grown
near the Queensland border, where the average rainfall is 32 inches.
It is a seedling from Stone Pippin, a heavy cropper, slightly subject to
bitter pit, much inferior to Granny Smith, but ripens earlier. The
parent tree is nine years old, and has not taken blight up to the present
time. As the fruit shows quality, the variety is being tested at the Glen
Innes orchard, and will be reported upon in three years' time.
•' Hornsby ". — Ripens in April ; a fine, deep-red colour, apparently a
good retail dessert apple, of fair quality; juicy, crisp, and slightly sub-
acid ; evidently a good keeper, of good appearance and even outline.
Subject to woolly aphis. Approved.
" Thompson's Red ". — Ripe in mid-January, and follows Car-
rington; has plenty of fine deep colour, and is well-established in ISTew
South Wales as an early commercial apple. It is of good flavour, and
does not clash with any other in time of ripening. Approved.
10 JuLY^ 1918.] Report of PomoJogical Committee. 437
" Aitken ". — JIas been distributed as " Carrington " in Victoria and
South Australia. Aitken is a conicallj-ribbed and red-streaked apple.
" Goondarin," formerly " Brown's Pippin ". — Ripe in February, of
very good colour and form, similar to Tasman's Pride. Slightly
affected with woolly aphis. It is a good local apple, and has commer-
cial possibilities for early export.
" Cowell," formerly " Cowell's Red Streak ". — A good eating apple,
very early, ripens first or second week in January. Recommended as
an early apple for coastal districts in 'New South "Wales.
'' Tasman's Pride ". — Considered a very good apple, rather free from
black spot, and subject to Avoolly aphis. It is not recommended for
planting in large areas for export.
" Glengyle ". — Was approved in 1914. It is recommended for plant-
ing in place of Rome Beauty in Victoria and South Australia ; is to be
further tested in l^ew South Wales and Tasmania; is possibly a very
suitable apple, and would colour well in West Australia and Tasmania.
" Brown's Red ". — An apple from Goondarin Creek, reported as not
subject to woolly aphis. Might be useful for stock.
'' Teralba Seedling ". — Apple from H. Hansen, Cardiff, reported as
blight-proof, a good keeper, not attractive in appearance, possibly useful
only for stock ; to be called " Teralba."
Reports for 1919.
The following apples and pears are to be considered by the State
sub-Committees, and reported on at the next session in 1919 :
Apples.
" Penang," formerly " Granny Hunter ". — ISTot an attractive apple,
ripens in February, and may be of some value as an eating apple; no
record for disease.
" Mill Park Seedling ". — Grown near Queensland border, where the
average rainfall is 60 inches; of good flavour, but too large for dessert;
ripe at the end of April ; reported free from woolly aphis ; will apparently
succeed in a wet district.
"Harry's Favourite". — Grown at Meadow Fbt, Rydal, annual
rainfall 32 inches, reported free from woolly aphis, but not black spot.
The tree is a heavy cropper, and blossoms in the middle of October.
The parent tree is 30 years old.
" Taylor's Seedling ". — To be further reported on.
" Ebenezer Pippin ". — Worthy of trial for testing in State experi-
mental orchards ; a late fruit.
" Red Seedling ". — From R. D. Best, Tanmangaroo.
Seedling from Mr. Warren, of Cardiff.
"Aitken''. — (See consideration of seedlings.)
Seedling from J. Bulmer, of Lavington, near Albury. — Ripens in
January, the earliest-ripening apple in the New South Wales cool dis-
districts ; highly resistant to woolly aphis.
" Brown's Favourite," formerly " Brown's Seedling ".
Seedling from T. F. Simmon, Upper Colo.
" Finn's Seedling," No. 2.
438 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
" Shepherd's Seedling ". — Ee-submitted from 1917 ; a good, firm
keeping apple belonging to the Stone Pippin tribe. The Committee
was favorably impressed with this in 1917.
" Frampton ". — Grown at the Government Orchard, at Blackwood,
and reported upon as free from woolly aphis ; grown also at Bathurst.
W. E. Kirkness, Gosford — Seedling. — A soft apple, of little flavour
at time of Conference. Possibly an early variety, and of better flavour
when properly ripe.
A. J. Thompson, Pennant Hills, submitted two seedling apples. To
be reported on in 1918.
Red seedling apple, from R. D. Best, of Tanmangaroo. — Mr. Chilton
reports, " It beats all varieties as a long-keeping apple." It is grown
in a cold district; the flavour is fair, and would be possibly much better
later on. It is of good appearance, and has good possibilities.
" Tasmanian Beauty," wrongly shown last year as " Australian
Beauty ".—It has a fine and bright colour, and a small core, keeps well,
flavour good. Is a seedling of Alexander, a mid-season apple, whose
high colour would commend it anywhere. JSTame changed to " Huon."
T. J. Howe, of Cradoc (Huon), submitted a seedling apple of firm
and crisp flesh, very juicy, the stems long, of red colour on sunny side.
J. H. Waldron, of "Wyena, submitted a seedling apple, reported as
" perfectly blight-proof."
Mrs. J. Beal, of Varna, Lome, submitted a seedling apple. It was
very large, and of good appearance and flavour; reported to be a heavy
cropper.
" Lang's Seedling ". — From James Lang, Harcourt. A very good-
coloured apple, of late season.
" Herbert's Red Rome ". — A sport from Rome Beauty, submitted by
Andrew Herbert, of Diamond Creek. Identical with Rome Beauty,
except that the colour is of unifonn dark-crimson, and darker than
Glengyle.
" Clerome ". — Apple raised by A. V. Robin, of l^uriootpa, as a cross
between Rome Beauty and Cleopatra. It blossoms after Cleopatra, is
a regular cropper, and possesses good-keeping qualities; is ready to pick
in early February, and is good for shipping. Its freedom from bitter
pit is marked. Cleopatra, in its season, is the better apple, but the
advantage of Clerome is its earliness for shipping. It is more resistant
to fusicladium than Cleopatra. It was tested at Bathurst — which is
quite a difterent district from ISTuriootpa — -and discarded. jSTuriootpa
is a warm district, with 21 inches of rainfall. The Committee invites
information from the different States before finally recommending it
as an export apple.
" Beauty of Australia ". — A chance seedling which appeared in the
garden of R. Bonython, of Summertown, near Mount Lofty, forty years
ago. It is a good keeper, with a fine colour; takes woolly aphis, but
not very subject to bitter pit. This variety will keep till August, and
has been shipped to England. Is recommended only for local market.
A. B. Robin submitted two apples: — (a) "Jonathan x Cleopatra";
and (&) " Jonathan x London Pippin." Both Avere recommended for
detailed report next year.
F. A. Joyner, Bridgewater, submitted a seedling apple, possibly
from ISTickajack. The specimens were not sufficiently indicative of
10 July, 1918.] Repor-t of Pomological Committee. 439
what the possible quality might be later, but it seemed to be a promising
seedling.
Mr. Peck, of Balhannah, submitted a seedling apple raised by
Peck, of Williamstown, known variously as Barossa Seedling, Barossa
Beauty, and Peck's Seedling. It keeps well in cool storage, and comes
out of the stores in August with a better flavour than Rome Beauty.
Mr. John Wren, of Houghton, submitted an apple seedling of good
possibilities.
Pears.
" Judd's Beurre ".• — A late pear, of good flavour ; the " Beurre " to
be dropped.
" Late Umlauff ". — Sent by A. B. Robin, and raised by Umlauff
from imported seed. Profitable with Mr. Robin on account of its long-
keeping qualities; picked in April, and ripe in August-September after
being kept in fruit house; very resistant to fusicladium; quality only
medium for dessert ; may probably be of use as a good stewing pear.
A. B. Robin submitted two seedling pears: — (a) "Late Umlauff x
Beurre Clairgean " (like Beurre Superfin) ; and (/>) "Josephine x
Forelle," a very handsome pear.
Revision of Names.
'' Dunns ". — Dunn's Favourite to be known in future as Dunns.
"' Esopus ". — Esopus Spitzenberg, conforming to American custom,
to be known as Esopus.
" Wolseley ". — Lord Wolseley to be known as Wolseley.
" Mcintosh ". — Mcintosh Red to be known as Mcintosh.
Additional Reports.
The following reports on previously approved seedlings were
received : —
Apples.
" Trevitt ". — This name is incorrectly spelt as Trevett in the 1917
report.
" Prince Alfred " apples does not thrive in warm climates ; is a very-
good cooker, and, being large, is more used for dressing shop windows
than for export, although it is occasionally shipped to England. Mr.
Shoobridge reported that he had seen twenty apples fill a bushel case. It
is not recommended for extensive planting.
" Statesman " apple. — -It is not favoured in N^ew South "Wales,
where it is reputed to have no flavour; is not grown in South Australia.
It is well and frequently grown in Victoria, where it has a good flavour.
Will keep well. Grown extensively in Tasmania, does well, and is well-
flavoured. Mr. Thiele reported that it never depreciates in value
after being in cool storage, and is quite crisp when it comes out. Does
not colour very well in any of the States.
" Ranelagh " apple. — Considered to have good commercial possi-
bilities ; reported to be free from black spot.
" Tasma " apple. — Some nurserymen are still wrongly calling this
apple Democrat. Keeps well in Tasmania out of cold storage till
October. It is doing well in Adelaide.
440 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jitly, 1918.
'' Crofton " apple is very subject to black spot, and inclined to
deteriorate in size, is a good keeper, and sells well in October.
" Duke of Clarence " apple. — A good early apple for local markets ;
well known in Tasmania; is a heavy cropper. It is too soft for general
commercial purposes, very subject to black spot, and slightly resistant
to woolly aphis. Mr. Shoobridge reports that Worcester Pearmain is
much better for early shipments, as Duke of Clarence is not received
with favour in England, owing to insufficient flavour.
Pears.
" Giblins Nelis ". — To be known as Giblins. Exceptionally well
known on Tasmanian markets. A good pear. Has been grown in
Tasmania for over fifty years,
" Laffer ". — Found by the Chairman, Mr. G., R. Laffer, in the
ISTational Park, South Australia, in 1892 ; blossoms about the same time
as Williams; even, and regular in cropping; ripens at the end of
February, or in March, following Williams; keeps several weeks in
ordinary cellar; generally sought after by purchasers each year; texture
is melting, quality rich, sweet, and aromatic. Mr. Wicks reports, " A
first-quality pear when in good condition." Is of value for local market,
and not for export.
" Corona ." — From A. B. Robin. Late Umlauff ex Beurre Clair-
gean. The tree is twelve years old. Fruit picked at end of March,
and ripens a month later. Mr. Wicks considered it one of the best
seedlings presented. It is smooth, of good colour and quality ; comes
later than Beurre Bosc ; is not good for wet situations, preferring dry
soils ; it may possibly stand dry and hot climatic conditions ; its canning
possibilities are not yet known.
Peach.
Samples of a good late peach were submitted by R. D. Best, of Tan-
mangaroo. They were identified as " Sonter's Late Slip." It is a free
stone, of yellowish flesh, and red near the stone. Mr. Savage reported
it as the best late white slip at Blackwood.
Plum.
Samples were submitted by Mr. Beaumont, of Adelaide, from an
old tree grown at Mile End. A reddish-blue plum, with heavy bloom ;
fine, and late, but rather coarse for jam; stone small; fruit ripe at end
of April. It is possibly a seedling, as the suckers round the tree were
bearing identical fruit with the old tree. The Committee considered
it a good variety, owing to its lateness and good quality, and asked for
a report in 1919.
Rejections.
The following apples were rejected by the Committee, either because
they showed no attributes which would be likely to recommend them
commercially, or because there are many other fruits of better quality
which are marketable at the same period of ripening: — Vicary's Eating
Apple, Vickery's Beauty, J^iggerhead, Goulburn Beauty, Gravenstein
Seedling (W. Woodyatt, Kembla Vale), seedling from Mr. Egginton of
Cardiff; Mountain Pippin, Peck's Seedling, Red Five Crown (R. D.
Best, Tanmangaroo), Scarlet Five Crown Seedling (F. Charles),
10 July, 1918.] Report of Pomological Committee. 441
iSeedling No. 2 (R. D. Best), Seedling (G. A. Jones), Baker's Success,
Wyena Pippin (bliglitproof), Hatlierly Pearniain (J. H. Waldron,
Wyena), Seedling (B. S. Hall, Launceston), Cheltenham Pippin, Gari-
baldi, Alfred Ross (Houghton), Yellow Seedling (Houghton), Seedling
from Dunns (Halliday, Aldgate), Seedling Nos. 1, 3, and 4 (F. A.
Joyner, Bridgewater), Seedling from Dumelow (Jenkins, Forest Range),
Lady Daly.
GENERAL RESOLUTIONS CARRIED.
(A) Tt having been announced that the Government Officer of Tas-
mania (Mr. J. ]Nr. Ward) was being de^ipatched to the Western States
of America to collect information on fruit-growing, the following
motions were passed : — -
(1) " That this Committee records with pleasure the action of
the Tasmanian Minister of Agriculture in deciding to
send to America one of its members, Mr. J. IST. Wai'd, in
order to study and report on the fruit industry in all its
phases. The Committee trusts that Mr. Ward will take
advantage of and visit all the Experiment Stations pos-
sible, so that American and Australian methods may be
compared."
(2) " That a letter of introduction from the Committee be
supplied to Mr. Ward, signed by the President and
Secretary."
(B) " That it be a recommendation to the various State Depart-
ments that the Committee's list, as compiled, be distributed to the'
various nurserymen and growers in all the States, inviting their
co-operation in the standardizing of fruit names."
(C) " That the Committee offers an expression of appreciation of
the welcome afforded by the South Australian Department of Agricul-
ture, and of the very able assistance given by all of its officers."
SUBJECTS FOR DISCUSSION FOR 1919.
(1) The despatch of a delegation from the Committee by the Com-
monwealth, to fully study American methods of growing, and systems
of Pomology.
(2) Peaches and Plums for canning.
(3) Blight-proof Apples and Stocks.
The 1919 meeting will be held at Hobart, in Tasmania, in autumn,
when it is anticipated that a large Inter-State Fruit Show will be held.
LIST OF APPROVED NAMES TO DATE.
Apples.
Adopted and Correct Name. Synonyms and Misnomers.
Synonyms in parentheses.
Adam's Pearmain . . . . Erroneously called Golden Rein-
ette and Dutch Mignonne in
Tasmania.
Aiken . . . . . . Aiken's Seedling.
Alexander . . . . , . Emperor Alexander.
Alfriston.
442
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
Adopted and Correct Name.
Synonyms in parentheses.
(Apple of Snow), see Fameuse.
(Ballarat),see Stewart's.
Beauty of Bath.
Ben Davis.
Bismarck
Champion.
Cleopatra
Clerome.
Cowell
Cox's Orange Pippin
(Croton), see Ranelagh,
(Carpenter), see Gravenstein.
Duke of Clarence.
(Democrat), see Tasma.
Dumelow
Dunn's
Dunolly
Esopus
(Emperor Alexander), see Alexander
Fameuse
(Five Crown), see London Pippin.
French Crab.
Gascoigne's Scarlet.
Glengyle
Goondarin
Gowar
Granny Smith.
Gravenstein
Hornsby.
Huon
Jonathan.
King of Pippins
Lady Daly.
Lady Hopetoun.
Lane's Prince Albert.
Lang's Best.
London Pippin . .
Lord Suffield.
Maiden's Blush.
Mcintosh
Synonyms and Misnomers.
Prince Bismarck.
Ortley, ISTew York Pippin.
Cowal's Red Streak.
Known as Cox's Orange in
America.
Dunielow's Seedling. Wellingt-on.
Dunn's Seedling, Munroe's
Favourite, Dunn's Favourite.
Mellon's Seedling.
Esopus Spitzenberg.
Pomme de l^eige, Apple of Snow,
erroneously, in aSI^ew South
Wales, Snowy, Fanny.
Glengyle Bed.
Brown's Pippin.
Yeate's Xonpareil.
Carpenter, and other names, in
parts of ISTew South Wales.
Tasmanian Beauty.
King of the Pippins, erroneously
known as Golden Reinette and
Adam's Pearmain, and in Tas-
mania as Summer Pearmain.
Five Crown.
Mcintosh Red.
10 July, 1918.] Report of Pomological Committee.
443
Adopted and Correct Name.
Synonyms in parentheses.
(Mmiroe's Favourite), see Dunn's.
(Mellon's Seedling), see Dunolly.
(JSTew York Pippin), see Cleopatra.
Peasgood's JSTonsucli.
Perfection
(Pomme de ISTeige), see Fameuse.
(Prince Bismarck), see Bismarck.
Prince Alfred.
Ranelagii
Keinette de Canada
Rokewood.
Eome Beauty.
Rymer.
Scarlet Xonpareil
Schroeder
Shorland Queen.
Statesman.
Stayman Winesap.
Stewarts
Stone Pippin . .
(Snowy), see Fameuse.
Tasma
Synonyms and Misnomers.
Shepherd's Perfection.
Croton.
Erroneously known in Tasmania
as Blenheim Orange.
Erroneously known as Scarlet
Pearmain in Tasmania.
Schroeder Apfel.
Stewart's Seedling, Ballarat.
Winter Pearmain.
Democrat. The name has been
changed to Tasma because of
the existence of two American
apples under the name of
Democrat.
Trivett's Seedling.
Tasman's Pride.
Trevitt
Twenty Ounce.
Wagener.
Warner's King.
Wealthy.
(Wellington), see Dumelow.
Winter Strawberry.
Wolseley
Worcester Pearmain.
(Winter Pearmain), see Stone Pippin.
Yapeen
Yates.
(Yeate's Nonpareil), see Go war.
The following names have been misused in various parts of Aus-
tralia, but cannot be included in the alphabetical lists of synonyms, as
they are the names of distinct varieties of apples: —
(Dutch Mignonne) see Adam's Pearmain; (Fanny) see Fameuse;
(Golden Reinette) see Adam's Pearmain and King of Pippins;
(Scarlet Pearmain) see Scarlet N'onpareil.
Lord Wolselev.
Yapeen Seedling.
444
Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. \ 10 July, 1918.
Adopted and Correct Name.
Synonyms in parentheses.
Beurre Bosc.
Beurre Capiaumont.
Beurre D'Anjou.
Beurre Diel.
Beurre Superfin.
(Bartlett), see Williams.
Clapp's Favourite.
Conference.
Corona.
Doyenne du Cornice.
(Duchess), see Williams.
Duchess D'Angouleme.
Durondeau.
Elizabeth Cole.
Giblin
Glou Morceau.
Harrington . . , . "
Howell.
Josephine de Malines.
Kieffer
Laffer
Le Lectier.
Mad m-i Cole.
(Naj^oleon), see Vicar of WinkfiekL
Packham's Late.
Packham's Triumph.
Thompson's.
Urbaniste.
Vicar of Winkfield
Williams
Winter Cole.
Winter JNTelis.
Synonyms and Misnomers.
Giblin's Seedling. Giblin's ISTelis.
Formerly Harrington's, Victoria.
Kieffer's Hybrid, Keiffer's Hy-
brid.
Laffer's Nelis, Laffer's Bergamot,
Laffer's Seedling.
Napoleon.
Williams' Bon Chretien, Bartlett,
Duchess.
10 July, 1918.] Plants Proclaimed under Thistle .^ ^f.
445
NOXIOUS WEEDS.
List of Plants Proclaimed under the Thistle Act for the
State of Victoria.
Scioiitific Kamc.
Carduus arvensis
Carduus benedictus . .
Carduus lanceolatus
Carduus Marian us . .
Onopordon acanihium
Xanthium spinosum
Brassica Sinapistrmn
Carduus pycnocephalus
Centaurea calcitrapa
Centaurea melitensis
Centaurea solstitialis
Conium maculatum . .
Convolvulus arvensis
Cuscuta
Cuscuta epithymum
Cyperus rotund is
Datura Stramonium
Erechthites quadridentain
Echium violaceum . .
Gilia squarrosa
Homeria collina
Hypericum androsaemu m
Hypericum perforatum
Inula grav olens
Kentrophyllum lanatum
Loranthus c lastroides
Loranthus pendulus
Lycium horridum
Myaqrum perfoliatum
Opuntia monacantha
Pontederia crassipes
Raphanus Raphanistrum
Romulea cruciata
Rosa rubiqinosa
Rubus fruticosus
Senecio Jacohaea
Solanum sodomaeutn
Ulex europaeus
Common Name.
Dat-p ( f
Pn cl m 1-
tion, &c.
Date
Gazetted.
Perennial Calif ornian Thistle
Sec. 3
Act 2736
Sacred Thistle
Spear Thistle
,^
Spotted Thistle
,,
Scotch Thistle
,,
Bathurst Burr
"
Charlock or Wild Mustard
23.10.06
31.10.06
Shore Thistle
16.2.92
19.2.92
Star Thistle
,,
,,
Malta Thistle
,^
J,
St. Barnaby's Thistle
18.1.08
29.1 .08
Hemlock, Wild Parsnip, or
7.5.07
15.5.07
Wild Carrot
Common Bindweed
10.6.08
17.6.08
Any plant named Dodder
20.10.11
25.10.11
European Dodder . .
10.6.08
17.6.08
Nut Grass
8.9.92
16.9.92
Thorn Apple
18.6.07
26.6.07
Cotton Weed
11.4.10
20.4.10
Paterson's Curse or Purple
3.2.11
15.2.11
Bugloss
Californian Stink
Weed,
(12.3.07
20.3.07
Digger's Weed, or
Sheep's
\ 21.5.07
29.5.07
Weed
Cape Tulip
16.9.02
24.9.02
The Tutsan
26.6.17
4.7.17
St. John's Wort
6.8.03
12.8.03
Stinkwort
5.4.92
8.4.92
Saffron Thistle
16.2.92
19.2.92
J Mistletoes
24.10.04
2.11.04
Box Thorn
9.4.07
17.4.07
Musk Weed
27.2.13
5.3.13
Drooping Prickly Pear
6.2.07
13.2.07
Water Hyacinth
8.10.01
16.10.01
AVild Radish or Jointed Char-
12.11.12
20.11.12
lock
Guildford Grass or Onion Grass
30.7.07
7.8.07
Sweet Briar
J,
,,
Blackberry Bramble
18.1.08
29.1.08
Ragwort . .
7.7.14
15.7.14
Apple of Sodom or Kangaroo
6.2.07
13.2.07
Apple
Furze
18.1.08
29.1.08
446
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
List of Plants Proclaimed under the Thistle Act for Certain
Municipalities in Victoria.
Scientific Name.
Common Name.
Municipality to which
Proclamation Applies.
Date of
Proclamation
Date
Gazetted.
Asphodelus fi^tulosus
Onion Weed
Queensclifi
21.10.95
24.10.95
Bellarine
16.11.96
20.11.96
South Barwon . .
6.9.97
10.9.97
Port Fairy
6.8.03
12.8.03
Swan Hili
8.11.05
15.11.05
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Warrnambool
21.10.13
29.10.13
(Town)
Flinders
30.11.15
8.12.15
Warrnambool . .
23.12.15
29.12.15
(Shire)
Karkarooc
26.2.18
6.3.18
Acacia armata
Acacia Hedge or
Portland
20.10.96
23.10.96
Prickly Acacia
Mornington
12.1.97
15.1.97
Dundas
2.4.97
9.4.97
Frankston and
31.5.98
3.6.98
*
Hastings
Portland (Borough)
6.2.99
10.2.99
Hamilton
25.2.04
2.3.04
(Borough)
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Stawell
14.12.09
22.12.09
Flinders and Kan-
.30.6.13
9.7.13
gerong
Kowree
12.3.18
20.3.18
Anthemis Cotula
Stinking Mayweed
Orbost
26.3.07
5.4.07
or Fetid Chamo-
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
mile
Bairnsdale
21.2.11
1.3.11
Andropogon halepensis
Johnson Grass
Mildura
28.9.14
7.10.14
Cassinia arcuata
Chinese Scrub
Waranga
4.6.94
8.6.94
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Cytisus canariensis . .
Cape Broom
Kyneton
17.4.96
24.4.96
Malmsbury
10.4.99
14.4.99
Kilmore
8.10.00
19.10.00
Creswick
31.7.00
3.8.00
Heidelberg
9.9.01
18.9.01
LUydale
4.11.01
13.11.01
Glenlyon
8.7.02
23.7.02
Lexton
19.8.02
27.8.02
Springfield
25.2.04
2.3.04
Bungaree
21.2.07
27.2.07
Templestowe
30.7.07
7.8.07
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Newham and
26.6.17
4.7.17
Woodend
Oryptostemma calen-
Cape Weed
Poowong and
28.6.01
12.7.01
dulaceum
Jeetho
i
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Cytisus scoparius
English Broom
Glenlyon
8.7.02
23.7.02
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Cncumis myriocarpus
Gooseberry Cucum-
ber
Towong
4.8.08
12.8.08
Erysimum repandum
Treacle Mustard . .
Wimmera
20.12.00
28.12.00
Emex auslralis
Spiny Emex, Three-
Bellarine
13.2.17
21.2.17
cornered Jack, or
South Barwon . .
19.6.17
27.6.17
Cat's Head
10 July, 1918.] Hints on Flax Cultivation.
447
List of Plants Proclaimed under the Thistle Act for Certain MtrNicrPALiTiES
IN Victoria — continued.
Seientific Name.
Common Name.
Municipality in which
Proclamalion Applies.
Date of
Proclamation
Date
Gazetted.
Lepidium Draba
Hoary Cress
Dunmunkle
14.12.15
22.12.16
Marrubium vulgare
Common Horehound
Warrnambool
(Shire)
22.1.06
31.1.06
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Madia sativa
Pitch Weed
Violet Town
9.4.07
17.4.07
Maldon
18.1.08
29.1.08
Phytolacca octandra
Red Ink Plant or
Dye Berry
Melton
Werribee
18.9.17
26.9.17
Reseda Luteola
The Weld or Wild
Mignonette or
Dyer's Weed
Melton . .
Bacchus Marsh . .
20,3.17
28'.'3.17
Rumex conglomeratus
Clustered Dock . .
Heidelberg
23.4.18
1.5.18
Rumex crispus
Curled Dock
,,
,,
,,
Rumex obtusifolius . .
Broad-leaved Dock
»
jj
,,
Rumex pulcher
Fiddle Dock
„
>>
»
Salvia verbenaca
Wild Sage
Warrnambool . .
(Shire)
22.11.09
1.12.09
Wimmera -'|
11.12.17
22.1.18
19.12.17
30.1.18
HINTS ON FLAX CULTIVATION WHEN GROWN FOR
BOTH FIBRE AND SEED.
(Linum Usitatissimum.')
In view of the many inquiries recently received regarding flax culti-
vation, it is considered advisable to give for tlie present a few brief
bints that may serve as a general guide to tbose not having previously
grown the crop, and to deal more fully with the subject at a later date.
If, however, in the meantime, further information is required, it may be
obtained from the Department of Agriculture or through the Secretary
of the Commonwealth Fax Committee.
Soil and Situation.
Flax is a hardy plant, and, given good and clean land, Avill thrive
under varying conditions, but it prefers a well-drained, free, loamy or
chocolate soil, preferably fallowed in a warm situation and a showery
spring. Generally speaking, it may be expected to give satisfactory
returns when grown under conditions that should produce a heavy crop
of oaten hay.
Sowing.
Experience proves the best time for sowing flax in Gippsland to be
from the middle of April to the middle of May, though this may be
varied somewhat according to locality and situation, but early seeding
is advisable, the object being to have the plants well established before
winter. The soil should be worked to a fine tilth. The seed should be
sown at the rate of about 60 lb. per acre, and may be either drilled in
or broadcasted, but preferably the latter, and then lightly harrowed and
rolled.
448 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
Manuee.
Manure should be used rather more freely than for a cereal crop,
either bone or bone and super, being applied in equal proportions.
Weeding.
The land selected should be clean, and if strong-growing weeds, such
as thistle, dock, wild turnip, radish or fern, &c., appear, they must be
cut or pulled at the most suitable time; this is necessary, for they not
only occupy space that should be growing flax, but give trouble in the
after treatment.
Harvesting.
The crop should not be allowed to fully mature. It is ready for
harvesting when most of the seed bolls have turned brown, though a
few of the lower ones may be more or less green. The stems at this
stage are usuallv, but not necessarily, of a golden colour, with the lower
portion of the foliage dropping off.
The crop should be cut as near the ground as possible, because the
stems carry fibre right to the surface, and if long stubble be left much
fibre is wasted. Another advantage is that cutting low makes the work
easier. The cutting parts of the reaper and binder should be in perfect
order, and plain blades are preferable to serrated.
Sheaves should be small, as in this form they are much more readily
threshed than when large. They should be stood in long stooks (not
round), and stacked when ready, as unduly long exposure in the
paddock is objectionable.
Note. — When the object is a crop of seed only, a thinner sowing is
advisable, and the crop should be alloAved to mature.
NOTES ON CARE OF HORSES DURING AUGUST.
The feeding and general management of horses recommended for
July will also api^ly for this month. Horses, more especially young
ones, running on low-lying country are liable to become affected with
internal parasites. This will be recognised by the unthrifty and poor
condition of the animals; in such, cases medicinal treatment will be
necessary. If the following lick be made available, it will not only be
of great assistance in preventing serious invasion, but in cases where
worms are not in large numbers, the repulsion of them from the intestinal
tjract will result : —
Liclc.
20 parts salt.
10 do. lime.
1 do. sulphate of iron.
If possible, be with mares at foaling, so that the navel cord may be
properly tied and thoroughly treated with antiseptic, and thus prevent
that very fatal disease, navel or joint ill. Wash cord with one part of
corrosive sublimate to 3,000 of water, and soon after paint with tincture
of iodine. The iodine treatment must continue till the cord has com-
pletely dried up.
10 July, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
xvii
LUCERNE
The King of
Fodder Crops
THE cultivation of Lucerne and its unsurpassable value as a
fodder plant, with irrigation, has become generally recog-
nised during the past few years. Lucerne will fatten cattle,
sheep, pigs, &c., better than any other feed, and with less expense.
The most favorable soils for Lucerne are those of a deep alluvial
character — soils resting on limestone ; deep soils of a black and
rich chocolate character ; soil rather light than heavy, and with a
good proportion of vegetable earth. Lucerne can be cut five or
six times during a season, and, being perennial, will yield good
crops for many years, but it requires regular manuring every year
to return to the soil the substance withdrawn by roots and growth.
All our Lucernes are Specially Machine Cleaned,
Hand Sieved, Free from Dodder, and True to
Name, and have passed the Government Test.
HUNTER RIVER— No. 1 Quality. Guaranteed True to
Name, 1/8 per lb. ; 175/- per cwt.
SOUTH AFRICAN— 1/4 per lb., 120/- per cwt.
LAW, SOMNER Pty. Ltd.
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston St., MELBOURNE
Established 1850 Telephone— Central 729
Nurseries — Orrong Road, ARMADALE, adjoining Toorak Railway Station
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Jtly, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Wyuna Experimental Farm
Poultry for Settlers
The 1918 Special Matings for Prolific Layers include
WHITE LEGHORNS
1. Pure Cosh (World's Record Strains) —
Hens, full sisters to the mothers of the Burnley winners which estab-
lished the world's record for six birds by laying 1 ,699 eggs in twelve
months, mated with a Moritz Cockerel of the same strain as the
pullet which created a world's record at Bendigo with a total of 315
eggs for one year. Prjce, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
2. Pure Moritz
A consistently successful strain in competitions in all the Australian
States, holding the world's record for single test.
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
3. Pure Subiaco
The most successful stram m the Commonwealth,
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
4. Hens, bred from birds mentioned above,
with an average of 269 eggs for twelve months ; mated to a cockerel
of the same strain as that of the world's record winner 1916-17
(315 eggs). Price, £2 2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
All the birds specified above were hatched from eggs laid under the trap-nesting and
single-testing system. Each egg in the various settings will be from a hen with records.
5. Trap-Nested Hens, average 240 eggs, mated to
Cosh Cockerel Price, £1/1/- per Setting
A limited number of Cockerels and Pullets bred from strains
specified above are available for sale. Price, £2/2/- & £1/1/- each
Note.— W. N. O'MulIane's Champion Burnley Pen (1914-15), which established
the still unbeaten world's record of 1,699 eggs, was the progeny of a hen hatched
from a Wyuna setting. This pen realized £75
10 JuLT, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
RHODE ISLAND
^^^^ REDS ^^^^
Pure Dairy mple— Imported Laying Strains
1. Hens, Single-tested
Average 246 eggs, mated with the sire of the Hawkesbury
Single Pen winner (278 eggs)
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 Eggs)
2. Direct Progeny from Single-tested Hens
with records of 285 and 246 eggs, mated to a cock sired
by an imported bird.
Price, £1/1/- per Setting (16 Eggs)
A limited number of Cockerels
Bred from birds specified above, are available for sale
Price, £2/2/- and £1/1/- each
Applications, accompanied by cheque, postal order or notes,
should be sent to the Farm Manager, Wyuna.
To allow for infertile eggs, sixteen eggs will be
forw^arded for each setting. No guarantee of
fertility or replacements w^ill therefore be made.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 July, 1918.
\SxQ iKiy i/prayl
and prGvonl:
your fruil
/rorn'ru/hn^'
SR 5
MANY fungicides, whilst ful-
filling their mission in regard
to protecting the tree from
Black Spot and other Fungus diseases
unfortunately "rust" the skin of the
fruit
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying
Oil, applied after your fungicidal,
will perform the double duty of
preventing such rusting, and of
holding your fungicidal in place when
rains would wash it off.
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying
Oil has an en rmous popularity
amongst orchardists. It is the most
reliable destroyer of Aphis, Scale,
Red Spider and other insect pests.
Ask your Storekeeper. If not obtain-
able, write direct to
Vacuian Oil Company Pty. Ltd.
Branches TInoughout Australasia
6P5^>5r^
PREPARED RED
SPRAYING OIL
10 July, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
XXI
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T. A.J. Smith .
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Carmody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knight.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Kenyan, C.E., and othern.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. G. H. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. H. T. Easterby.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cameron, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. O. Baxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T. A. J. Srnith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
Dr. S. S. Cameron and others.
20 NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Meeking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. W- A. A\ Robert ^<in, B. V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FOXWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. G. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1913-14. yV. A. X. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A . Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J . Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA,
F. R. Beulinc.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1914-15. ••'. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. W. A. iV. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
34. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1916-17. W. A. JV. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
35. SUMMER BUD, or YEMA GRAFT OF THE VINE
F. de Castella.
EVAPORATION OF APPLES.
POTATO CULTURE. J. T. Ramsay.
Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring-
Bees, Feedinf^ Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
inK, Some ^'intas:e Considerations, Sprini^ F'rosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato, Fruit
Tree Diseases and their Treatment.
21 Valuable
Improvements in
the New Mitchell
Finding it impossible to improve the
design of our Drill, we have turned our
efforts to making it
STILL MORE DURABLE
STILL LIGHTER IN DRAFT
STILL EASIER TO WORK
The new Drill altogether outclasses all
others, specially in durability, attained by
using UNBREAKABLE STAMPED
STEEL PARTS where possible, instead
of breakable castings, so buyers reap the
benefit in reduced cost of upkeep.
This feature alone makes the "Mitchell"
worth pounds more than others-
A USER'S EXPERIENCE
Mr. W. A, CAPRON. Table Top, via Albury,
says : — " Regarding the 16 Disc Drill I got from
you 10 years ago, I have drilled 7,000 acres and
have had no trouble whatever. Your drill is light,
strong, and durable. I cannot recommend it too
highly to anyone wanting a good, reliable, up-to-date
machine."
Inspect one before you buy
Ask for prices. Please say you caw this.
MITCHELL & CO. Z.
West Footscray & 596 Bourke St., Melb.
Bay St., Sydney. Agencies everywhere.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 JCLT, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
Red Poll Dairy Herd
This Herd contains the first cow in order of merit amongst all breeds under
the Government Herd Test for 1914-15, and the third for 1915-16; also the
Winner of the Weekly Times Butter Test at the Melbourne Royal Show, 1916
Proof of DUAL PURPOSE CHARACTER it given by the Prices for Culled Cows in
the Fat Stock Market reaching to £27 10s. and £29 lOs.; by a cow yielding 1,000 gallons of
milk containing 448 lbs. butter in a year and selling at butcher's auction for £22 7s. 6d.:
and by cows in milk weighing upwards of 1,500 lbs. live weight.
The Bulls in Use include-
LONGFORD MAJOR (Imported)
Dam's Record 14713 lbs. milk
G. Dam's ,. 10548 ,,
6 years average 10548 lbs. milk
4 ., .. 9155. ..
BELLIGERENT (Imported)
s Record (1st milking) 7144 lbs- milk.
14533 lbs. milk ... 4 years average 12871 lbs. milk
10370 7 ,, ,. 9354
9510 ,, ... 12 ,, ., 8033
10215 ,, 7 „ ,, 9386
12565 ,, . 10 ,, ,. 8853
10088 2 ,, ,, 9754
Dam
Dam's
Dam
Sire's
Dam
Sire's D.
Dam
G.
Sire's D.
Dam
G.G
Sire's D.
Dam
G.G.G.
Sire's D.
Dam
BULL CALVES are sold at prices based approximately on the actual milk and butter
fat record of the dam at the rate of Is. per lb. of butter fat yielded.
(NOTE. — All the bull calves of 1917 drop have been sold, and choices from cows to calve
this season have been booked ahead of calving. The demand for bull calves is so strong
that farmers contemplating purchase are advised to study the records of the herd published
in the March (1918) Journal of Agriculture and book their orders ahead, indicating a choice
by mentioning approximate value.)
Inspection of the Herd is invited.
Visitors will be met at the Station on notification tot-
Mr. R. R. KERR, Dairy Supervisor l
— or — y State Research Farm, Werribee
Mr. ED. STEER, Herdsman J
Application for purchase to DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE.
10 July, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
xxni
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kingdom and foreign
countries. Single copy, 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7,'8, and 9 (July, August, and September) out of print; V. (1907), and VI.
(1908). 12 parts each; VII. (1909). 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print ; and VIII. (1910), 12 parts, are at present in slock, and
will be supplied at the foregomg rales. The parts forming the current volume may also
be obtained. A few bound copies of Volumes VIII. (1910), IX. (1911), 11 parts,
exclusive of February, X. (19l2), 6 parts, exclusive ol January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), 11 parts, exclusive of June, are at
present available. Price, 5s. per volume. Postage: C, 3Jd. ; N.Z., U. 2d.;
B. & F., 2$. 4d.
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp., 200 illustrations. 2
coloured plates. Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2s. 6d. Postage: C, cloth 22d., paper
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d., paper 8d. ; B, & F.. cloth Is. 6d., paper Is. 4d.
AUSTRALIAN FUNGL By Dr. Cooke. £11$. Postage : C. 56.; N.Z. 106.;
B. & F., Is. 8d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2.. 6d.
Postage, I d .
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet. 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly " or " Weekly."
By Professor A. J. Ewart, GooertMnent Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS. AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C. IJd.; N.Z.,5d.; B. & F., lOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II.. I Os. Postage : C. 26.:
N.Z.,8d.; B. &F.. Is. 4d.
By C. French, F.E.S., Gooernment Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts I., II., III., IV.. V., 2$. 6d.
each. Postage : Parts I. and III., C. Id.; N.Z., 3d.; B. & F.. 6d. each. Parts
II. and IV., C, lid.; N.Z.. 4d. : B. & F., 8d. each. Part V.. C, Id.; N.Z.,
4d.; B.&F.. 7d.
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
xxiv Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 July, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
Facilities are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers in an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Telephones :
Office: 10383 Central. SnperinteDdent and Engineer-in-Cbarge : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telephone 9380 Central.
By Authority : Albert J. Mullett, Government Printer, Melbourne.
/ ^
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Vinegrowers !
Phylloxera
:: :: Resistant :: ::
Stocks
Limited numbers of Resistant Vines are obtainable from the
Department of Agriculture at the following prices for each
description of plant
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Grafted), per 1,000 (packing extra)
Supplied from July to September, 1919
£6
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Ungrafted), per l.OOO (packing extra) £1 10/
Supplied from July to September, 1918
RESISTANT CUTTINGS, per 1,000 (packing extra)
Supplied in July and August, 1918
15/-
Applications must be made on the official order forms which may be obtained from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Principal, Viticultural College, Rutherglen
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be
complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Citrus Growers !
LIMITED NUMBERS OF
CITRUS TREES
Are Obtainable from the Department of Agriculture
THE VARIETIES ARE—
Washington Navels, Valencia Late, Eureka & Lisbon
Price, £6 per Hundred
f.o.r. at WAHGUNYAH
An amonnt of 10s. (or each hundred ordered is to accompany applications,
and the balance, £5 10s. for each hundred, is to be paid when consignees
give directions to have consignments forwarded. A charge of 2/6 per hundred
will be made for packing unless the casings be returned.
Applications must be made on the official order forms, which may be obtained
from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Citrus Nursery, Wahgunyah,
Full paiticulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must
be complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
Vol. XVI.
TABLOIDING OF PRIMARY
PRODUCTS.
Part 8
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
PRICE THREEPENCE. fAnnual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 6/-.)
LOOK HERE!!
This is Important
Brunning's Seeds
ARE THE BEST
Get the Biggest Return
from your land
NOW IS THE TIME
SOW
SUMMER FODDER
LUCERNE
Brunning's Standard Quality
Lucerne is absolutely free from
Dodder and other harmful weeds.
Triple Machine Dressed. 98°,,
germination assured. Write to-day.
SAMPLE AND LEAFLET "J "
ON APPLICATION.
JAPANESE MILLET
Ensure an abundant supply of
green food when pastures are short.
Brunning's Japanese Millet can be
fed off five or six weeks after seed-
ing. Wonderful Drought Resister.
SAMPLE AND LEAFLET " L"
ON APPLICATION.
SOW BRUNNING'S SORGHUMS
Valuable Summer anJ Autu.nn fodder. Thoroughly Drought Resistant.
WRITE FOR jlAMPLE AND FULL PARTICULARS
F. H. BRUNNING Pty. Ltd.
VICTORIA SEED HOUSE" 64 ELIZABETH ST., MELBOURNE
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
VIOa?OE,I^^, .A.XJSTI^.6^IL.IA..
CONTENTS.— AUGUST, 1918.
PAI*K
Tabloiding of Piimary Products ... ... ... ... R.Crowe 449
Destroying ('alifornian Thistle ... ... ... ... ... ... 453
Apple Culture in Victoria .. . ... J. Far r ell 454
Agriculture in America ... ... ... .i. E. V. Richardson, MA.,B.Sc. 463
A Contribution to the Stud^- of Hereditary Unsouiulne.=;s in
Horses ... ... ' ... .. W. A. N. Robert/ion, B-V.Sc Ai')'^
"Black Spot" and "Leaf Curl" ... W. Lnidluw, B.Sc, and C. C. Britthhank 479
The Culture of the True Lavender .. ... ... ... ... 489
Notes on the Vaucluse District (France) ... ... ... F. dc CnMella 493
Lucerne Manurial Trials at Research Farm, \' .-nibee H. A. Mullett, B.A<j. tSc. 497
Treatment of Cream . . ... ... ... ./.,/. RicJuird^s 500
Notes on the Sapindus or Soap Tree ... ... ... ... .. 502
Victorian Rainfall — June Quarter ... ... ... ... ... 504
The Castor Oil riant and its Cultivation ... ... ... ... 505
Orchard and Garden Notes ... ... .. ... ... ... 508
Reminders ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 510
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the Journal of the Department of Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republish un\' matter ate at liberty to do so, prodded the Journal and author are
hoth acknowledged.
The Journal is issued monthly. The surjscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is .Ss. per a-mura for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
6s. for the United Kingdom and Foreign Countries. Single copy, Threepence.
Subscriptions should, be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
Journal of Agriculture^ Victoria.
flO Aug., 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Including Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Inspedion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES.
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D, READ,
Springhurst, Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls.
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
Jersey Butter Bulls
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON/'Banyule," Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 190S
448 Pases
200 Illustrations
2 Coloured Plates
rinfll ?« All • nanAr 9« (\A Postage .- C. cloth 2Kd., paper 2d.; N.Z.. doth 9d..
i^ioin, OS. oa. , paper, a, oa. p^p^, 8d. : b. and f., doth i.. 6d., paper, i.. 4d.
10 Aug., 1918.] Jottrnal of Agriculture, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
^^ NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. McALPINE.
government vegetable pathologist.
With Appendicet by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologiil),
•D Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTernment
EjHomologist), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
235 Pagei (Cloth). 58 Full Plate*. Prira ^ /m Po«a«e: Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealand. 8d.:
176 llluftrations. * riCC, «_»/ British and Foreign. 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to Tbe Director tl
Agrlcullure, Melbourne. Victoria. Remittances (rom beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post 0£ce Ordu.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and W. Percy Wilkinson.)
'WINE-MAKINO IN HOT ClilMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postage: C, i^d. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEIV METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION IVITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage: C, Id.; N.Z., 2d.; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, Hd. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON IVINE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foei. Paper, 9d. Postage :
C, id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
Bu D. Mc Alpine, CovernmenI Vegetable Palhologial. -^^^——^—^-^—
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5». Poitagt: C. 2d. ; N.Z.. 8d. ; B. & F.. It. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4t. Poilage: C. 2id.: N.Z.. 9d. ; B. & F.. I*. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2.. Pottage: C, Id.t N.Z..
3d. : B. & F.. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2». 6d. Postage: C. Ud.:
N.Z.. 5d. : B. & F., lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3.. Postage: C. 2d.; N.Z,.
8d. : B. & F.. Is. 4d.
Applieationa aceompanUd by Po$tal Note or ChtQue eovtring pries and postagt to be forwarded t»
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Rtmittanee* from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Poet Office Order.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Aug., 1918.
ii
BILLABONG Centrifugal
also made with
End Suction
PUMPS
For raising large quantities of Water
for Irrigation and other purposes.
This Centrifugal Pump embodies many
notable features a result of our long
experience in Pump manufacture. It
is made at our Melbourne Works of
good quality materials and by expert
: : : Pump Engineers : : :
The efficiency of our pumps taken under actual test is 75| per cent. Tfiis,
consider, for a stock line of pump, altogether above the average.
Specifications
and Prices
on Application
Expert
Advice
Free
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Fluming, &c., &c.
Melbourne and Sydney
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
■^
•Propy. Ltd.-
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and'CORNINA MANUFACTURERS
•ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR
GRAIN TO US.
BOX 53.
G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
M
10 Aug., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Balance — pay as you earn. Expert will
erect, start, and grive week's trial. These
are the conditions on which you purchase a
"Tangye" British Built
Oil Engine
It combines simplicity with the utmost
efficiency. Ever}- part is simple, strong,
diiral)le, and easily acces-ible. I'eeaiise-of
its low cost of operatintr, the ease of starting
and running- it, its strength and durability,
it is the engine that everj' progressive farmer
should buy. Starts on petrol, and switches
instantly on kerosene. Lanipless type, mag-
neto ignition. Works all day without atten-
tion. 60 purchased by N.S.W. Government.
Stationary and portable 2 to 28 H.P. in stock.
Get large Catalog " T."
Over
4,000
Australian
Farmers
Swear by
The " Lister" British Built
Petrol Engine
as the most compact, simple, durable, strong,
efficient and reliable power for all farm work.
Every Lister is fitted with
High Tension Magneto and
Special Carburetter
and is so simple in construction that you can start
and run one without previous experience. No other
farm machine pays for itself in such a short time.
Immediate deliveries can be had from stocks.
Runs easily and smoothly. Expert will erect, start,
and give week's trial. £10 down. Balance easy.
Write for Catalog.
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
Agents for Doncaster Hand and Motor Spray Pomp, Vineyard and Potato Sprayers,
"Harbas" Spraying Oil, "Haroia" Lime Sulphar Solation.
116 Sturt Street
South Melbourne
USE
FOR
BRANDING
YOUR
SHEEP
KEMP'S ^"^p"-^"^^
Sheep-Branding
LIQUID
It has been proved by hundreds of Woolgrowers, amongst
them some of the largest squatters in Australia, to be an un-
qualified success, and to do everything that is claimed for it.
BLACK AND BLUE (in Cases)
Containing Two
4-gal. tins - -
6/6
per
gal.
Or Eight 1-gal. tins
- 7/6 per gal. -
AGENTS
DALGETY & Co. Ltd.
MELBOURNE
& GEELONG
Journat of Agricidtttre, Victoria.
[10 Aug., 1918.
What
Can
You
Do
with this Six-In-One
Tool?
With the
STEWART HANDY WORKER
YOU CAN sharpen knives, meat choppers and
other kitchen cutting tools. YOU CAN sharpen
axe, chisel, and other wood or metal cutting tools.
YOU CAN bend or cut iron or lead pipe, and
do an emergency job of plumbing. YOU CAN
file down a piece of metal, trim or cut down a piece
of wood, can bore a hole in wood, leather or metal,
can clip a piece of wire or metal. YOU CAN
be your own smithy, doing your own ironwork ; can
mend waggons and other vehicles, and do a lot of
repair work on your own place, that you must now
send to the blacksmith's shop. There are many
other useful things that you can do with this wonder-
fully convenient household necessity. Price, £4 5/.
Illnstrated Handy Worker Book Free
A|5^PITerson%;
•'^'^ Proprietary Ltd.
Collins St., Melbourne
Established S8 Years
CREDIT FONCIER
Loans on Farms
UP TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATION
In sums from £50 to £2.000
At 6 per cent. Interest
and from 1^ per cent, in reduction of principal, which pays 06 the loan
IB 27| years.
Loans granted on Freeholds, or Crown Leaseholds which could be
made freehold at any time on payment of the balance of G'own Rents.
No Charge for Mortgage Deed
Loans may be paid off on any half-yearly pay day, subject to a smaU
charge if paid off within the first five years, but no penalty after five years.
Forms may be obtained at any Branch of the State Savings Bank, or
by writing to —
The Inspector-General, The State Savings Bank,
ELIZABETH STREET. MELBOURNE.
10 Aug., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
vu
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
Aid Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, C:c3e Lkk
Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
«!• ^xJ^JVDlJLiL^y Manufacturer
OFFICE: 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. TeUphoa* 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES, SHEDS, &c.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALU OUTSIDE PAINTING
Wholesale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
-FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS-
Obtainable
from all
Storekeepers
BROOKS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insuranee
Society Ltd.
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Goarantee, Plate
Glau, Personal Accident and Sickness,
Eaplorert' Liability, Workmen's Compen-
sation. Public Risk, Motor Car, and Barglary.
im- INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
vni
Joinual of Agricitltitre, Victoria.
[10 Aug.. 1918.
The Electrolytic Refining and Smelting Company of Australia Limited
COPPER
OUR product is eqaal to the best
imported brands on the market and
we GUARANTEE THE PURITY
ORDERS are being booked for the
(Bluestone)
We are Manafactareri of E.S.A. HIGH
GRADE COPPER SULPHATE (BInestene)
for SPRAYING and PICKLING PURPOSES
and also for ELECTRICAL PURPOSES
coming season.
SULPHATE
FULL INFORMATION as to PRICE and DELIVERIES will be supplied ON APPLICATION to—
Milacer The Elcctrolytic Refining & Smelting Company of Australia Ltd.
PORT KEMBLA, N.S.W..
tESLIE SALT LICKS
A NEW FOOD FOR SHEEP, COWS, AND HORSES
Leslie Salt Licks which supersede rock s^lt are coniiiosed of pure sterilized
salt, toijether with lime, a small proportion of Kpsom salts, and other
scientifically blended inj^redients. Thej' are the finest conditioner and
animal medicine known, and will do more to prevent disease than any
medical treatment. '2/- per block ; or 22/6 per case of 12 blocks (plus
freitrht to country centres). Order from saddler, produce merchant, black-
smith, butter factory, general store, or any of the followinjr a^'^ents: —
Gippsiand and Northern S llin^ and Ins. Co. Ltd., Melb. ; James McKwan
and Co. Pty. Ltd., Melh. ; Price, Griffiths & Co., Melb. ; J. Bartram & Son
Pty.Ltd., Melb. ; Lyall &Son, Nth. Melb. &Geelon,ir ; New Zealand Loan and
Mercantile Co. Ltd., ColUns & King-sts., Melb. ; or Alex. Mair «& Co., Melb.
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS !
II
LYSAGHTS
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE. VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA.
NOW AVAILABLE .'. BULLETIN 31.
BEE-KEEPING in VICTORIA
By F. R. BEUHNE. Government Apiculturist.
Comprising 1 26 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated) dealing with various phases of
BEE-KEEPING, and specially adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING. Postage: Commonwealth, Id. ; New Zealand, 2^d. ; British and Foreign, 5d,
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postag-e, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
10 Aug., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Oarron
Boxes & Oil Gaps.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
stood the Test.
BEWARE OF
IMITATIONS
Wbeels Guaranteed for 3 years against Breakage, &c.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. 1^ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36' and 32' dia. 4' Tyres. Table, 9i x 5J feet. Pole or Shafts. Weij^hs 10 cwt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 cwt.
These WheeU are guaranteed and will last for all time.
Hightr Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to SO tona.
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP— Truck body, and all classes of little Wagons for Farm and Station work.
W>Kons Shipped to all Ports in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: :: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
ClJcloiie :::;
^ .^^"""^^ GET OUR
^^^^^^^^^^^^ CATALOGUE
Fig 233. Ornamental
Handgate. 4 ft hieh
Fig. 211 OrnamenUl
UandKate 4 ft. higb
Fig. 188b OmamenUl
HandKatc 4 ft- high
CYCLONE Pty. Ltd.
450 8WAN8TON STRBIT
MCLBOURN8
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable AgriculturUts say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE TEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAY BE ENROLLED AT ANT TIHE
Alternative Courtea —
(») Diploma Course .. Three Years.
(b) One Year's Course.
Total Feea—
£25/-/- per annum.
Tbe college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Dookie, 1 ,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won (or sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS. — Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Farmers.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM. 2,336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing. Fat Lamb Raising. Dairying.
Irrigation of Fodder Crops. Fruit, &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS. Esq., Secretary, Council of Agricultural Education,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted in all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are eligible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointments in the
Commonwealth and State Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full particulars apply —
The DIRECTOR. Veterinary School. PARKVILLE, VICTORIA
■ ■ ARE YOU SATISFIED ■
WITH YOUR EYES ?
Your ©yes are under a constant strain all day; they are your
most valuable possession, and neglect in the early stages
may lead to eye strain. EYESIGHT TESTED.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.O.,
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
'PHONE 6778
for an appointment.
Estab.
32 Years
DAIRY & INCUBATOR THERMOMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
EmAjr^^^^j^ EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
■ W ^J ^J mJ J 95 Elizabeth St., Melb,
LONDON. LIVERPOOL, SYDNEY.
10 Aug., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture^ Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MELBOURNE. VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA
NOW AVAILABLE
- ■ BULLETIN 31 ■ =
BEE-KEEPING IN VICTORIA
Si; F. R. BEUHNE,
=fl Government Apiculturist. B —
Comprising 1 26 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated)
dealing with various phases of Bee-keeping, and specially
adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING
Postage : Commonwealth, Id.; New Zealand, 2^d.; British & Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
To Owners of Pedigreed Stock of all kinds
DAIRY FARMERS. AND OTHERS
The Department has compiled a
Stock Breeding Record Book
Comprising Table of Service and Due Dates, Females with Record
of Progeny, Sires with Record of Service, General Service Record,
:: :: Pedigree Charts, and Butter Record for Dairy Stock ::
This Book contains 234 pages on stiff paper, and is strongly bound in half leather
Price, 10/6 p
A limited number available.
ostage— Victoria and other States 1/6, New Zealand, 2/8, extra.
Applications acconnpanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be
forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria.
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
Jnuinul of Agriculture^ Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If YOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, lOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
10 Aug., 1918.]
Journal of J^griculture, Victoria.
xiu
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Elxecutors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Manasins Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD, Esq., LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE, Esq.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE, M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN, E.q. DAVID HUNTER. Emi.
Thia Company Acta as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trust** sf
Settlements, and Agent for Absentees under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices— 113 Queen St. (Corner of Little CoIIins-st.), Melbourne
" MONKEY " =^1°= " WALLABY " JACKS
For
GRUBBING
TREES
and
STUMPS
and
GENERAL
HEAVY
LIFTING
Oar complete illastrated catalog i> free, if roa have one ase it, if yon Laven't WRITE US TO-DAY!
TREWHELLA BROS. Pty. Ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the
Heathcote Chemical Co.
Pty.
Ltd.
— from
a Vidlorian Deposit.
^■.
^.
,
]
1
M
^i^
ml
1
1
^^
HBmi
MH
CROP GROWN AT BRIDGEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orden can now be supplied and full information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy. Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
XIY
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Auei, 1918.
"BULLDOG" Burnt & Unburnt
(carbon.1e) Agrlcultural Lime
For Orchards. Crops, and Pastures
Its use is strongly recoinmerifled by all experts, and those who have
had praetii'al experience. Any quantity supplied at shortest notice.
For applying to land we recommend our "Ajax " Lime Spreader
Rkgistkkhj Tkaue Mark
Wnrk
Rates and full particulars from Distributors —
cuRDiEs RIVER T. CURPHEY Pty. Ltd.
Telephone— Central 2807 225 Coppin Street, Richmond, Victoria
BURNT LILYDALE LIME
FOR THE LAND
Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should try it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Immediate. The demand (or Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Lilydale Lime.
ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide.
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, pji.. OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works— Cave Hill. Lilydale. TeL Lilydale 4. TeL Central 5726.
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Office
LONDON
Melbourne Office
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Batter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Account
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT >V1RE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Cliicl Atenti in Victoria for Ibe PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
10 Aug., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Vinegrowers !
Phylloxera
:: :: Resistant :: ::
Stocks
Limited numbers of Resistant Vines are obtainable from the
Department of Agriculture at the following prices for each
description of plant
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Grafted), per l.OOO (packing extra)
Supplied from July to September, 1919
£6
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Ungrafted), per i.ooo (packing extra) £1 10/-
Supplied from July to September, 1918
RESISTANT CUTTINGS, per 1,000 (packing extra)
15/-
Supplied in July and August, 1918
Applications must be made on the official order forms which may be obtained from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Principal, Viticultural College, Rutherglen
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be
complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
The New Stores at Victoria Dock
have a capacity of 600,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 300,000 boxes
of butter, or 200,000 cases of fruit, or
270,000 carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chambers
direct into the ship's hold. Electric motor povk^er totals 880 H.P.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected with the Cool Stores by direct lines; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable products are provided.
Expert Officers are connected with every Branch, so that
any one requiring information regarding the production, preparation, and
shipment of produce can rely upon being promptly supplied with up-to-
date information upon all matters.
THe JOURNAL
or
^fie department of Mgricufture
or
VICTORIA.
Vol. XVI. Part 8. 10th August, 1918.
tabloidinCt of primary products.*
By R. Crowe, Exports Superintendent.
Upon receiving a request from the Secretary of the Chamber of
Agriculture to prepare a paper on this subject, I called to mind the
picture on the railway hoardings of the tearful bullock sniffing the
diminutive bottle of bovril with the superscription, " Alas ! my poor
brother." I recognised that it was a most appropriate subject for
discussion at the present time, and being quite unfettered by any sugges-
tion as to the method of approaching the question, I have dealt with it
in my own way.
Primary produce is accumulating in Australia and New Zealand.
The shipping outlook is not wholly satisfactory, and, although some
people say that we have been singularly fortunate, so far, in getting
away nearly all our dairy produce and meat, I can only partially sup-
port that view. If Australia has been able to send overseas most of
its frozen meat, it is because the quantity for export has been small.
Surely it would have been far better for every one if we had enjoyed
such a good run of seasons as New Zealand has had — so good, in fact,
as to have given us an " embarrassment of riches." Whilst, during the
last three years, the Dominion of jSTew Zealand has received millions
for meat and dairy produce, Australia has been occupied in building
up her flocks and herds. Now that our stock is again reaching normal
numbers, there is certain to be large surpluses for oversea shipment
before the end of the present year, and perishable produce may accumu-
late in the same manner, but, of course, not to the same extent as wheat
and wool. I purpose dealing with the matter chiefly from the shipping
point of view, and to refer briefly to the staple primary products.
Wool.
Some time since, when the scarcity of shipping began to be felt, those
interested in wool took steps to get as many bales as possible into a ship.
• Paper read at the Annual Convention of the Chamber of Agriculture, July, 1918.
11128.
o.
450 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918,
A committee was formed which carried out some experiments, and suc-
ceeded in reducing the space to be occupied by each bale. Two bales
of dumped wool were put together and double-dumped, with the result
that each cubic foot of space carried 25.3 lbs. of greasy wool against
20 lbs. to the foot, and 18.8 lbs. of scoured wool against 16.2 lbs. when
only single-dumping was the practice. In other words, with double-
dumping, a bale of greasy wool measured 13 ft. 4 in. instead of 17 ft.
3 in., and a bale of scoured wool occupied 13 ft. 6 in. where previously
17 ft. 5 in. of space was taken up. This means a saving of 4 cubic
feet for each bale, or about 10 per cent. Thus nine steamers will now
carry as much wool as ten did formerly. You will recognise that this
achievement is an equivalent to the building of new ships, and is
calculated to largely help in circumventing the depredations of the
enemy.
If the chief woollen goods required for our own use were manufac-
tured here the whole of the shipping space required for wool sent
to oversea destinations to be woven and then returned to Australia,
oould be saved by the manufacture of certain articles in our own
country. There is no reason why the leading pxoducts of wool could
not be wholly made up in Australia. Blankets, flannels, tweeds, and
such like should, in the near future, have no place in our imports.
Owing to the war, increased attention has been given to the manufac-
ture of our own goods, and the present output is limited owing to the
difiiculty of getting increased machinery. This, however, should be
remedied in good time. As the operations are proving very profitable,
there appears no good reason why some of the present mills should con-
tinue working only one shift a day. The turnover, in some instances,
could be doubled and trebled by increasing the shifts, and overhead
expenses per yard of material produced thus considerably reduced, and
all sections of the community benefited. All our mills are working
night and day, and are proving very profitable. The industry
is one that lends itself to adaptation in country centres, as is illustrated
by its success at Ballarat, Geelong, Castlemaine, and Warrnanibool. Some
large firms have successfully developed certain branches of this industry,
and it is rumoured that others are to follow. The quantity of wool used
locally for manufacturing purposes from 1907 to 1913 ranged between
five and six million pounds weight, and for 1915 it exceeded
11,000,000 lbs.
Wheat.
Tn the Journal of the Department of Agriculture for August, 1917,
an excellent article appeared on the " Milling and Baking Qualities of
Australian Wheat," by Mr. Scott, Chemist for Agriculture, and Mr,
Winslow, Milling Expert. In that article it was shown that, in Aus-
tralia, 2,814,008 tons of wheat were then available for shipment, and
this quantity gristed would, on a 70 per cent, flour basis, return
1,868,713 tons. Taking the carrying capacity of the ships engaged in
the transport of wheat at approximately 4,500 tons, the number of
shiploads required to transport the wheat would total, in round figures,
625, while if the wheat were milled here, and the flour exported, ship-
ping would be reduced by one-third, for the flour could be transported
in 415 cargoes. They pointed out that, besides the immense saxang in
10 Aug., 1918.] Tahloiding of Primary Products. 451
shipping and the increase in local industry, there would be a further
gain, if all our wheat were milled in the Commonwealth, by the reten-
tion of wheat offals, screenings, &c., which could be profitably used here.
The writers gave illustrations showing that the bran, pollard, &c.,
represented 178 shiploads; the screenings, i.e., the cracked and
shrivelled grain, 27 shiploads; and impurities, such as oats, barley,
chaff, &c., 5 shiploads, making a total of 210 shipments that could be
saved. Whilst the impracticability of milling the whole of the wheat
here is quite apparent, it is obvious that everything possible should be
accomplished under this heading. It was gratifying to learn from the
Minister of Agriculture yesterday that he was arranging for as much
of our wheat as possible to be milled for export.
Maize.
During the last few years much has been accomplished in the tahloid-
ing of maize by the Maize Products Company, which has built up a
huge business by extracting oil and oil meal from the germ of the grain,
while, from the grain, starch is derived, which in turn is converted
into glucose, block glucose, cornflour, and laundry starch. Furthermore,
gluten is produced, and bran, or cow feed. This one company is pre-
pared to treat three times the present maize production of Victoria,
and some idea may be gained of its operations when it is stated that
last month the Produce Division of the Department of Agriculture in-
spected 34,000 bags imported by this firm from Queensland and New
South Wales. The price which the company gives is a profitable one
for the grower, and there is no reason why the production of maize in
the State should not be very materially increased.
Meat.
Those intrusted with the shipment of meat conceived the idea that,
by cutting carcasses of sheep across the middle, and utilizing the fore-
half as an envelope for the hind-quarters, they could be packed so as to
occupy smaller shipping space. As very little export business has been
done by Victoria since this discovery, information regarding results is
quoted from another source. In the May number of the Pastoral
Review, 1918, the following appears: —
" Sir Owen Cox, Managing Director, Birt and Company Limited,
who is chiefly instrumental in bringing about the development, has
now shown us the result of several shipments. All these prove what
was claimed as a fact, that is, a saving of from 33 per cent, to 38
per cent, in the storage has been successfully carried out, or, in
other words, two refrigerated steamers can now carry what three
did before. This, without doubt, is the most valuable work that
has been accomplished during the war in any Department outside
actual war work. Sir Owen Cox and others who have brought this
about deserve the thanks of not only the whole pastoral community
of the world, but also the consumers of meat in Great Britain and
Europe."
Rabbits.
Somewhat similar results have been accomplished in the rabbit export
trade. Last year, 1,556,209 crates, containing 37,349,016 rabbits, were
452 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aro.. 1918.
packed in Australia for export, and these required 61,488 tons of
shipping space. I suppose it was because the hospital authorities in
England and France found it difficult to utilize the skins, and desired
to be rid of the work of skinning rabbits, that the Imperial authorities
this year at first refused to enter into fresh contracts. Eventually, how-
ever, they agreed to accept skinned rabbits. With the removal of the
heads, j^aws, and skins, more carcasses are packed for shipment in a
crate of reduced size, sio that one steamer will now carry nearly as many
rabbits as two did formerly. Had the present arrangements obtained
last year, the rabbits exported would have occupied 36,616 tons of space,
and thus a saving of 25,072 tons, or roughly, 46|^ per cent., would have
been effected.
Eruit.
Perhaps it will be with fruit that most will have to be done in the
direction of tabloiding. In every house dried fruit, in the shape of
currants, raisins, and sultanas are required. The drying of grapes
and currants brings about a reduction in the original bulk of about
66 per cent., varying, of course, according to the variety and degree of
ripeness, &c. Apricots and peaches show a still larger reduction — 80
per cent, to 85 per cent. — pears, about 78 per cent ; and now more atten-
tion is being given to the drying of apples, in the case of which the
reduction in bulk is in the neiglibourhcod of 85 per cent., this larger
percentage being partly in consequence of the removal of the skins and
cores. It is interesting to recall that last year arrangements were made
in Tasmania for the drying of 1,000,000 cases of apples. Some atten-
tion has also been given to this industry in our own State.
Sugar Beet.
This product is nearest on the list towards meriting the title of
this paper. It takes about 8 tons of sugar beet to produce one ton
of sugar, and the success achieved in that industry augurs well for its
future.
Dairy Produce.
With the tabloiding of dairy produce every one is familiar. _By
means of the dairy cow grass, herbage and fodder are turned into milk,
and subsequently butter and cheese are produced, butter fat repre-
senting less than 4 per cent., and commercial butter about 4^ per cent,
of the milk, whilst cheese represents roughly 10 per cent. During
recent years great development has taken place in the production of
condensed and concentrated milk, dried milk, and casein. The pro-
duction of concentrated and powdered milk in Victoria in 1910 was
3,004,842 lbs.,, and for the year 1916-17, 33,280,635 lbs.— more than a
tenfold increase, in addition to which 467,168 lbs. of casein was made.
Eor the first seven months of the financial year just closed the Produce
Division of the Department of Agriculture inspected for oversea ship-
ment 291,213 cases of condensed milk, and 15,484 cases of dried milk.
This quantity was produced in addition to supnlying local require-
ments ; and it will be realized that the conversion of milk into the form
that enables it to be kept for a long time and transported over dis-
10 Aug., 1918.] Tahloiding of Primary Products. 453
tances naturally increases its consumption, as it is thus brought within
the reach of a large number of people who otherwise would have to
do without it. This comment is also applicable to fruit.
Conclusion.
Whilst the time allowed for the address precludes me from dealing
with this subject exhaustively or scientifically, I hope sufficient has
been stated to show the possibilities and the necessity for the tahloid-
ing of primary products. You will have seen what has been accom-
plished during recent years, and will xecognise that the war has
already done something in the direction of making Australia more re-
sourceful and self- supporting. You will also realize, as I do, that
each product touched upon, and others which have not been mentioned
at all, could easily form the subject of a lengthy discourse by itself.
However, if I have simply lifted the screen, so to speak, to enable a
glance to be taken of the present position, and the way in which those
concerned are endeavouring to meet contingencies as they arise. I
shall te satisfied.
DESTROYING CALIFORNIAN THISTLE.
A particular method of destroying patches of Californian thistle with
straw has been practised by certain farmers in South Canterbury for a
number of years past, but does not appear to be so generally known as
its merit warrants. Under this system the patch is well covered, in
autumn, with straw to a depth of about 1 foot. In spring the thistle
comes through the covering in spindly whitish shoots. The straw is
then turned with a fork, this operation breaking off the shoots. An
alternative, ^and perhaps rather more thorough, plan is to pull the shoots
with the hand, gloved. Either method can be repeated as necessary.
Patches have often been killed out in one year by this system, but. if
necessary, the treatment can be continued for ^another season. The
straw in due course rots, and m^akes good manure for the ground. As
with all other farm operations, careful attention must be given to
manipulating the thistle patches under treatment. Dumping down the
straw, and doing little or nothing further is practically waste of time. The
principle of the system is not immediate smothering, but inducing a
struggling weakly growth which exhausts the plant, the killing process
being furthered by the breaking of the shoots. Where straw is not
available, feni or other material, such as gorse clippings, might be used
for the same purpose. The originator of the method described appears
to have been Mr. A. Clelland, now resident in Tim>aru, who completely
cleared his farm at Cave of the thistle ten or twelve years ago. It may
be added that Mr. 'Clelland had previously tried to destroy the thistle
patches by the .application of salt, but with very ill effect on the soil, the
land being what is colloquially termed " tarry " limestone country,
which sets hard when liberally dosed with salt. — [New Zealand Journal
of Agriculture, June, 1918.]
454 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
APPLE CULTURE IN VICTORIA.
Bij J. Farrell, Orchard Supervisor.
(Continued from p. 363.)
The Dam System of Irrigation.
It has been previously stated that, although good results attend the
channel system in the north, relatively better returns in apple produc-
tion would follow the more general adoption of the dam system of
irrigation than accrue from the rather limited application of water by
this means at present obtaining in the southern fruit areas. This
calculation is based on the fact that apple trees, when cultivated in the
cooler undulating fruit districts occupying the central and southern por-
tions of the State, thrive better land yield heavier crops of higher quality
fruit than those grown on the flat lands of the warmer northern districts.
Orchardists in districts unsuitable for channel schemes, who realize
the advantages to b© derived from watering their trees, especially during
seasons of light summer rainfall, now resort to the dam system of irriga-
tion. The conditions militating against channel systems arise from the
serious irregular undulations in the physical features of those districts,
the absence of natural permanent streams and the consequent lack of
regular supply. Fortunately, however, the usually copious winter rains
experienced in such places are ample, when systematically accumulated
and carefully stored, to supply the normal irrigation requirements of
local orchardists during summer.
Dam and Reservoir Construction, Water Accumulation and
Storage .
In selecting the site for a dam from which to irrigate by gravita-
tion, care should be taken that it be placed at a level high enough to
command the whole of the area to be watered. The ground chosen for
the excavation and to form the embankment should be of a retentive
character so as to prevent the escape of any of the accumulated water
by seepage. Mistakes are often made through constructing dams in
porous clays. Not alone is the orchardist thus deprived of the use of
the water during summer, but the trees below the dam suffer from the
seepage.
Provided the soil on any part of a main slope will hold water, the
ground contour of the surroundings should be fully considered before
the position for the dam is decided upon. An area on which small
depressions of suitable lateral decline converge should be chosen. By
this means an adequately extensive water-shed may be provided and
ample catchment insured. When the plane of a slope is of even grade
the exca s'^atioLi may be made in a convenient position, then a few small
open drains or plough furrows running diagonally across the slope to the
dam will carry in the water.
When the site has been fixed upon, the building of the dam should
be commenced by removing the whole of the surface soil from the dam
area, including the portion forming the base of the embankment. This
soil, being friable and consequently unsuitable for use in constructing
the base of the embankment particularly, may be utilized in filling up
minor depressions in the orchard surface to bring it to a more even
10 Aug., 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 455
grade where necessary. Then the whole of the exposed surface of the
sub-soil should be ploughed and the portion from the excavation scooped
up into position to form the embankment. The objective in ploughing
the portion supporting the embankment is to create a rough surface and
thus subsequently form, at this point, a combination of the retentive
soil particles which prevents seepage from the dam.
The chief factors to be taken into account when calculating the width
of the base of the embankment at the sub-soil level are the nature of
the clay to be used in the construction of the bank, the extent of the
surface area of the water to be stored, and the depth at its maximum
level. When these matters have received consideration, and an esti-
mate has been made of the volume of water, care should be taken that
the embankment be of ample proportions to contain it, thus obviating
possible necessary reinforcement later.
The clay in many instances loses its cohesiveness through the action
oif the air while the water is at the lower levels, and if the embankment
be too steep the earth is washed in by the rippling of the surface water
caused by the wind when the higher levels are reached. To guard
against this contingency and maintain the maximum holding capacity
of the dam, the inside batter of the embankment should be at an angle
of about 45 degrees. This detail in construction should always be con-
sidered, but more (particularly when the surface area of the water is to
be extensive, and the situation of the dam is exposed to prevailing
winds.
The one-horse scoop, with a capacity capable of shifting about J cubic
yard of earth, is employed to transfer the clay from the excavation to
the embankment after each successive ploughing of the bottom vmtil the
desired depth is reached. The number of these scoops used in making a
dam varies according to the size of same and the time limit allowed for
its completion, but generally from three to six are employed. The one-
horse scoop, being made of light material, easily drawn, and on account
of the freedom with which it may be manipulated, is now almost
exclusively employed for this work in preference to the larger two-
horse scoop.
Plate 172 illustrates a section of a dam, with the water at its maxi-
mum level, and shows the formation of the embankment with the 2-inch
outlet pipe in position. This pipe should be placed as shown, before the
.building of the embankment is commenced. The intake end of the pipe
in the dam should be fitted with an L piece or the end of the pipe may
be bent upwards as shown, to prevent the admission of silt, the aperture
■being covered with galvanized wire netting of fine mesh to exclude
debris. Should it be desired to irrigate portions of land on either side,
at a higher level than the outlet pipe, but below the level of the water
in the dam, this may be accomplished by attaching a hose to the pipe
and conducting the water to the situation where needed. The water
from catchments of this kind, however, is almost invariably used for
irrigating the land below the level of tlie outlet pipe.
It will be seen that the constructing of a dam on a slope is a rather
simple proposition, and it will also be observed that in this case the
water is both accumulated and distributed by gravitation. But diffi-
"culty is often experienced in inaugurating a scheme for the irrigation
of an orchard occupying the summit of a ridge or rise when the area of
the elevated portion is not sufficiently extensive to afford adequate
catchment. To meet this emergency and provide sufficient water with
456 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
which to irrigate the elevated part, a reservoir may be constructed in a
suitable position on the rise and filled with water pumped from a dam
conveniently placed down the slope.
To facilitate the work of excavation a portion of earth to form an
inclining bank or ramp about 4 feet wide should be allowed to remain
in one corner of the reservoir, and over this the clay is drawn from the
excavation on to the embankment. This incline may be used as an
ingress and means of egress from the reservoir should subsequent further
excavation be necessary. It would also afford, if the embankment
were steep, a safe exit for the escape of animals that might fall into the
reservoir.
Plate 172a is a drawing showing section of a reservoir, depicting the
formation of the embankments, position of the inlet pipe connexion with
the dam, outlet pipes and the water at its highest level.
While the excavation is being made and the embankments built up,
the horses with the scoops, removing the earth from the bottom after
each successive ploughing, pass up the ramp and follow each other
around the top of the embankment. The earth is deposited where
required, and the continuous tramping, even if the clay be of only
average retentiveness, causes it to set firmly so that the banks almost
invariably h>ld the water satisfactorily
The illustrations representing the dam and reservoir, as they appear
on the opposite pages, may be considered as one, and regarded as a longi-
tudinal section, showing the engineering principles involved in the estab-
lishment of this method of irrigation. As the water accumulates in the
Plate 172. — Section of dam showing embankment and portion of outlet pipe, &c.
dam during early winter it is pumped through the 2-inch connecting
pipe into the reservoir and stored there until the following summer.
When the reservoir has been filled and pumping ceases, the dam with
provision made for the overflow is allowed during late winter to accumu-
late water to its regulated holding capacity. The pumping site should
be near the dam as shown in the illustration, and when in an exposed
position, a windmill may be employed to operate an ordinary suction
pump. If the pumping site be sheltered, hoAvever, an oil engine with
centrifugal pump of sufficient power to lift the water to the desired
level will give more satisfactory results.
In commencing to irrigate from the reservoir the land between the
level of the stand and horizontal pipes should be watered first from the
former and then the land below it from the latter. The land above
the level of the horizontal discharge might be watered by a hose attached
to this pipe, but experience would eventually prove the stand-pipe
10 Aug., 1918.] .Ipp/e Culture in Victoria. 45T
inetliod to be the more economical. These pipes should be placed in
position prior to commencing the building of the embankment.
The water may be drawn from the dam or reservoir by the siphon
principle, but in general practice the pipe method of delivery may be
regarded as the more satisfactory.
A light iron plate placed in the position shown in the illustration
receives from the inlet i>ipe connexion the water from the dam and this
saves the face of the embankment and crevents its washing in.
Methods of Applying Water at the Different Degrees of Surface
Decline suitable to the Different Classes of Soil.
Great diversity of physical construction as well as surface decline
characterizes the soils of our hilly and rolling lands suitable for dam and
reservoir schemes. The soils in these districts range from the stiff
retentive order overlying yellow impervious clays to those of the friable
loam and loose sandy class with porous sub-soils. Loose soils are more
WPLAnO// FACE OFBtNIt
Plate 172a. — Section of reservoir showing formation of embankments, position
of inlet pipe connexion with the dam, outlet pipes, &c.
easily wetted than compact ones, and care should be taken, when treat-
ing either class, that the water be systematically applied, in order that
all the good results which accrue from scientific irrigation may be
attained.
The drawings in Plate 173, like the others used to illustrate these
articles, are original, and they show in longitudinal and cross-sections
the methods by which the water may be distributed under the different
soil conditions. The furrow method of watering is employed and the
long sections represent the furrows in the direction of their length, and
running with the slope which is at an angle of 20 degrees from the
horizontal. Fig. 1 represents soil suitable for irrigation, friable, yet
sufficiently impervious to enable it to carry the water from the delivery
pipe along the full length of the furrow in which it may be controlled
by means of checks until distributed as required. The arrows from
the vertical indicate the downward percolation of the water, and the
uppermost row of arrow-heads denotes the line of demarcation between
the surface and sub-soils. The lower row of arrow-heads indicates that
the water, having percolated through the sub-soil, has reached the
stratum below. In this the five arrows running parallel to the surface
line depict the free water draining aw^ay. Fig. 2, being a cross-
section of Fig. 1, further illustrates that, when the soil is of a character
highly amenable to irrigation, the water, as the arrows denote, perco-
lates gradually outward and downward from the furrow by almost semi-
circular radiant movement Id treating a loose surface with porous sub-
soil, however, the furrow is unable to carry the water the necessary
distance away from the delivery pipe, because the descent of the water
is much more rapid, and gives a considerably less lateral spread.
458
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Arc., 1918.
Plate 173. — Methods of irrigating the different classes of soil.
10 Aug., 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 459
These loose soils, no matter in what part of the State they occur, are
almost invariably unfavorable for apple culture, but, if fairly rich in
plant food, they may, according to their physical construction and local
situation, be utilized for the production of citrus fruits, peaches, pears,
passion fruit and berries. Oranges, lemons, and peaches thrive well
under irrigation on the sandy rises at Mooroopna, Cobram, and other
parts of the north. Pears may, with careful management, be profit-
ably cultivated on the sandy loams of Burwood, Brighton, and Chelten-
ham; while the red, loose soils of South Gippsland, Wandin, &c., are
suitable for the cultivation of cherries, passion fruit and berries.
These open soils respond freely to scientific irrigation. When they
are being irrigated, the water, as it escapes from the delivery pipe,
instead of being carried the full length of the furrow as illustrated in
Fig. 1, disappears a short distance from the pipe as shown in Fig. 3 {a).
The length of the stream is regulated according to the looseness of the
soil. The water descends as shown by the arrows and drains away.
leaving the portion of land between {a) and (h) unwatered.
In order to overcome these difficulties and insure equitable and
economic distribution, the method of applying the water shown in Fig.
4 may be practised. In this case the furrow is lined with strips of old
canvas or other suitable material, over which the water flows freely to
the point where it is required for distribution. One strip lines the
furrow between the delivery pipe and (a), and overlaps by a few inches
the strip to (6), and two strips are similarly placed between (h) and {d).
When the water reaches the point (c) the lining between it and {d)^ is
removed, and the soil is watered as indicated by the arrows passing
through the heavily shaded portion of earth. The part between {h) and
(c) is next treated, and so on till the watering of the whole section is
completed. The terraced formation described by the two horizo'utal
rows of arrow-heads running from the stratum to the left denotes the
portion of soil affected when the water is scieiitifically applied, but fur-
ther penetration takes place later. It is not suggested that the water-
ing in every instance can be accomplished with such unerring precision
as the illustration would seem to indicate, but, as the supply of water is
usually limited, this should, nevertheless, be the operator's objective.
Fig. 5 is a cross-section of Fig. 4, showing the canvas lining containing
the water in the furrow.
The better, although a more expensive mode of watering raspberries,
loganberries, gooseberries, and other shallow-rooting plants when culti-
vated on loose soil, is by the employment of a system of overhead
sprinklers connected by 1-inch iron piping with the outlet supply pipe.
Not alone is an even, economical and more natural distribution of the
water afforded by this means, but the spriaikling banishes thrip, which
badly infests the flowers of these plants during the early part, particu-
larly, of dry, warm seasons.
It has already been stated that the roots are most active when there is
just the (proper amount of moisture present in the soil. The proper
amount may be defined as the quantity of water necessary to moisten all
the soil particles, but not enough to cause saturation by excluding the air
from the soil's interspaces. This essentially healthy environment is set
up when all the free water has been carried away ; good drainage hastens
its creation and maintains this condition. The trees draw their supply
460 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
from the residual porticn known as the capillary moisture which con-
tains the elements of plant food. By its capillary ascent or inclining
upward movement, this solution is made available to the feeding roots
as illustrated in Plate 171, Fig. 2 [ci). A scientific irrigationist, know-
ing the effect of a check on his trees, would not permit the capillary
Plate 174. — Engine and pump used by Mr. J. Stephens at his orchard,
East Burwood.
Plate 175. — Mr. J. Stephens' reservoir.
moisture in the soil to become exhausted and not replenish the supply.
Now it will be understood that regular and systematic waterings during
the growing periods are desirable.
Although irrigation is essential in the warmer parts of the State, the
apple being of n9,turally thrifty habit, is capable of adapting itself to
comparatively dry soil conditions, provided the district in which it is
30 Aucx., 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
461
grown be cool and that the land be kept cultivated. When irrigation
has been introduced into such an orchard, however, the trees use up con-
siderable quantities of water. Then the waterings should be regularly
and systematically applied, because, when they have become accustomed
to a regular supply, its irregular application or discontinuance during
the period of vegetation would have an evil effect on the trees. It may
be easily understood that the changed and inimical root environments
set up' by the exhaustion of a customary supply of capillary moisture
would cause a check in the growth of the trees and otherwise injuriously
affect theni
In connexion with the distribution of water on a partly impervious
surface, it should, perhaps, be further explained that, especially if the
fall be more abrupt than that illustrated in Plate 173, the furrows may
be made to run at such an angle, or by such deviations across the plane
of the area under treatment as will insure a gentle flow of the water and
thus afford sufficient time for downward penetration. A further study
Plate 176. — View of the ramp in the reservoir.
nf what hah been previously written concerning the advantage of diagonal
planting in relation to irrigation as well as the illustration in Plate 14,
will enable the reader to better understand how water may be controlled
and distributed on abrupt slo'pes.
Plate 174 shows the pumping plant employed by Mr. J. Stephens, of
East Burwood, to transfer the water from his dam to the reservoir.
The engine is of three-horse-power, but is capable of developing up to
five-horse-power. The water is drawn from the dam through the 2-inch
suction pipe {a), by the centrifugal pump {h), operated by means of a
belt from the driving wheel, and forced up through the pipe (c) to the
reservoir. Since its erection this plant has given entire satisfaction,
and the cost of working it has been very moderate.
Plate 175 is a photographic illustration of Mr. Stephens' reservoir,
taken soon after its construction and before it was filled with water.
Plate 176 gives a view of the ramp, denoted by the arrow, in the reser-
voir which contains water to about one-third of its holding capacity.
462 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
Plate 177 illustrates what has been previously stated concerning the
rippling water washing in the embankments, and shows the necessity for
banks with suitable batter and of solid construction.
The writer has no hesitation in stating that there is no class of per-
sons engaged in rural occupations, where maximum production with
minimum expenditure should be the objective, requiring more knowledge
Plate 177. — Shows the inside hatter of a dam.
concerning
orchardists
a particular industry and its general details, than
Even from what has already been written, it is plain that
Nature study is largely involved, and that the subject of fruit-growing
literally teems with scientific, engineering and mechanical problems.
(To be continued.)
10 Aug., 1918.] Agriculture in America. 463
AGRICULTURE IN AMERICA.
Letter from Mr. A. E, V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc, Agricultural
Superintendent to the Director of Aj^riculture.
[Like the letter published in the Journal of Agriculture for July,
this one, too, is unofficial, but as its contents will be interesting to
readers, I am taking the liberty of publishing it. — ^S.S.C]
iSince I last wrote you I have visited the University of Illinois and
the Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbana, 111. ; the State Depart-
ment of Agriculture, Columbus, Ohio ; the State University, Ohio ; the
Carnegie Foundations at Pittsburgh, and the Department of Agricul-
ture at Washington. Eive whole days were spent in travelling.
The University of Illinois and the State University of Ohio have
associated with them two of the leading Colleges of Agriculture in
America. Indeed, with the possible exception of Cornell University,
they are probably the best Agricultural Colleges in Worth America.
Each of them has a remarkably strong agricultural faculty, and a
body of over 1,000 students, taking a four-year course for the degree of
agricultural science. Both of these institutions enjoy a remarkable
degree of confidence, and the short courses held in winter time for
farmers are crowded with students. Last year at Ohio over 4,000
farmers attended the college during the " round up," i.e., a school of
ooie week's duration, held in February,
Curiously enough, at Ohio, the Federal Experiment Station is
separated from the State University. It is located at Wooster, several
hundred miles away. Only one other college (l^ew York State) has
the experiment station se^Darated from the college.
Both these colleges are in the rich corn belt, where the average hold-
ing is from 150 to 160 acres. Twenty years ago there were seventeen
students in the whole of the agricultural courses at Illinois. Last year
there were 1,230 undergraduate students, and 75 graduate students in
residence. Similar growth has been observed at Ohio,
Whilst at Ohio I investigated the working of a typical 'State Depart-
ment of Agriculture of the United States. The work is entirely
inspectional and regulatory. The educational and investigational work
are carried on by the College and Experiment Station. The Depart-
ment manages the State Fair at Columbus, and maintains six adminis-
trative and regulatory bureaux —
1. Live Stoch Inspection. — Control of animal diseases, distribu-
tion of serum, and veterinary inspection of stallions.
2. Horticultural Bmreau. — ^For control of disease in nurseries,
orchards and apiaries.
3. Bureau of Feeds and Fertilizers. — 'Control of Artificial
Fertilizer Act, stock foods, and Fungicides Act.
4. Bureau of Markets. — ^Which promotes the establishment of
co-operative societies within the State.
5. Dairy Bureau. — The control and inspection of creameries
and cheese factories. Most of the milk inspection work is
carried out by city ordinances.
6. Fish and Game Bureau. — An important bureau, because Ohio
borders on the Great Lakes, and has a good river system.
464 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918,
The Department is under tlie control of a Secretary for Agriculture
■ — a professional man — and a Board of seven, appointed by tlie
Governor. Government by Boards appears to be tbe usual method of
control of Departments in America. These Boards are necessary,
because there are no Cabinet Ministers in the States. The Governor
is the controlling power, and in most States a large number of the
higher administrative officials, and many of the Boards of Control,
change with each change of Governor. It is rather interesting to note
that in Ohio an Advisory Board of three has been appointed to prevent
overlapping in the agricultural work of the State. A law was passed
appointing the Secretary of Agriculture, the Dean of the College of
Agriculture at the State University, and the Director of the Agricul-
tural Experiment Station as a Board to control all agricultural develop-
ments which affected more than one of these three interests.
At the State Fair I saw a building which would interest you. It
was a huge Coliseum — a building erected primarily for the judging of
stock at the State Fair. Americans lay much stress on stock judging,
and at most fairs there is some building set apart where spectators may
witness the judging of cattle and horses. This Coliseum is 325 feet
long and 225 feet wide, with a single cantilever roof, tied underneath
by steel girders. The arena is 190 feet long and 110 feet wide, and is
magnificently lighted. The cost was 200,000 dollars (£41,600). It
will seat 12,000 people, and has proved to be a great educational factor
in the State Fair.
The Department of Agriculture at Washington is a colossal institu-
tion— colossal in organization, scope of its work, and in results it is
achieving in war work. It must be giving the nation good dividends,
because Congress is appropriating almost incredible sums for its activi-
ties, and frequently appropriates millions of dollars more than the
Estimates provide for.
I had planned to spend three weeks at Washington, and thought I
could acquire a very thorough knowledge of its work. There are no
less than sixteen huge bureaux — animal industry, plant industry, forest
service, chemistry, soils, entomology, biological survey, crop estimates,
States Relation Service (extension work), niral engineering, markets,
rural organization, farm management, weather service, publications.
The Secretary for Agriculture (Mr. Houston), who is a member of
President Wilson's Cabinet, spent a whole moniing in giving me the
history of the development of the Department, its main lines of work,
and the chief regulatory, investigational, and extension activities of
the Department. He then arranged with the chiefs of each bureau to
give me a bird's eye view of the work each bureau is doing.
I found that it took at least a morning for each head of the bureau
to sketch the main lines of work of their Departments, and I shall have
to content myself with these general views, supplemented with some
details in the plant industry, soils, farm management, animal industry,
markets, rural organization bureaux, and the States Relation Service.
The Department has over 18,000 employees, and is housed in 40 separate
buildings in various parts of the city of Washington. Some of the
buildings axe immense structures, a-nd exceed in size the whole group
of buildings in the Treasury Gardens, Melbourne. ;
10 Aug., 1918.]
Agriculture in America.
465
The ordinary expenditure of the Department for salaries and
expenses is 26,000,000 dollars (£5,416,700). In addition, there are
permanent annual appropriations amounting to 17,500,000 dollars
(£3,645,800), making a total ordinary expenditure of 43,500,000 dollars
(£9,062,500). Then the emergency appropriation for war work brings
the expenditure over 60,000,000 dollars (£12,500,000). Some idea
of the investigational work of the Department may be gained from the
fact that the outline of projects under investigation covers 502 pages of
closely-'printed matter.
I have .obtained details of every item of expenditure submitted to
Conigress, the report of the Committee of Congress on the appropria-
tions, and a list of every project in every Department, together with
the plan of attack, and the results so far secured.
During the course of a week a collection of flax seeds, hemp, cotton,
com, tobacco, wheat, oats, barley, and dry land sorghums will probably
be despatched by the Office of Plant Introduction. I selected a number
of seeds of varieties which do well in the various climatic regions of
the United States, and have asked the Office of Plant Introduction to
fumigate them, to remove all possibility of introducing any fungoid
disease. These seeds will probably reach you in time for planting the
wheat, barley, oat, and flax varieties at Werribee.
The principal items of expenditure for the Department of Agricul-
ture are as follow (for year ending 30th June, 1917) : —
Office of Secretary
Bureau of Plant Industry
Bureau of Animal Industry
Forest Service
States Relation Service . .
Weather Bureau
Bureau of Chemistry
Bureau of Entomology . .
Bureau of Biological Survey
Bureau of Crop Estimates
Bureau of Soils
Bureau of Markets ; ,
Miscellaneous Services . .
Total for salaries and expenses. .
Pennanent annual appropriations
$717,820
$3,143,630
$3,810,000
$5,712,275
$3,107,660
$1,783,140
$1,200,591
$931,480
$592,010
^323,452
$363,735
$1,718,575
$2,514,745
(£14,945)
(£654,922)
(£793,750)
(£1,190,057)
(£647,429)
(£371,487)
(£250,123)
(£194,058)
(£123,335)
(£67,385)
(£75,778)
(£358,036)
(£523,905)
$25,919,113 (£5,399,810)
$17,235,000 (£3,590,621)
$43,154,113 or £9,000,000*
. (*Approxiraately.)
In addition to these annual comimitments, there are the emergency
appropriations to cover the period of the war, and, with these, the
expenditure for 1918 will amount to over 60,000,000 dollars
(£12,500,000).
. The sixty-fourth Congress (1917) passed an Act called the Smith
Hughes Act, which provides, for co-operation between the Federal
466 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
Government and tlie States for the promotion of vocational education
in tlie fields of agriculture, home economics, and industry. It insures
an annual appropriation for the stimulation of this work, and creates
machinery for expending the money in accordance with the law.
The money granted in 1917-18 by the Federal Government amounts
to $1,860,000 (£387,500). The amount increases annually for ten years,
when the appropriation will be $7,367,000 (£1,535,000). This is an
interesting example of the principle of Federal aid to education.
The Federal Government proiposes to grant this money to the States
on a population basis on the following conditions : —
(1) All schools receiving Federal aid must ibe under public
■supervision.
(2) The purpose of the education is to fit the individual for
useful employment.
(3) The instruction must be less than academic grade, and
designed to meet the needs of ipupils over fourteen years
who are preparing to enter upon farm work.
(4) Every dollar of Federal funds must be matched by a dollar
of State funds, or local funds, or both.
As the States must contribute dollar for dollar, the ultimate annual
expenditure will be over 14,500,000 dollars (£3,021,000) for vocational
training. Six and a quarter million dollars are to be expended on
agriculture, a similar amount on trade and home economics, and
10,000,000 dollars (£2,084,000) on the training of teachers.
The Board appointed by the Federal Government to control the
vocational educational work is located at "Washington. I met the
Director of the Board and the Head of the Agricultural Division, and
secured valuable informaton on the work of the Board. The principle
underlying this new method of teaching agriculture is to concentrate
all the educational work of the school around a " project," e.g., the
raising of some specified crop, such as corn, wheat, potatoes, on the
home farm or some neighihouring farm.
The boy from fourteen to eighteen, who does not intend to go to
the Agricultural iCollege, but who wishes to take a course in agriculture,
will carry on some project (raising crops or caring for animals, e.g.,
production of baby beef, raising of calves, poultry, or pigs), and spend
half his time on the project. In the school he receives instruction in
ajgricultural science, English, and civics. Practically the whole of the
instruction is to be linked up and correlated with the particular project
in hand. I understand that this system of training has produced
remarkably good results in Massachusetts, in which State there are a
number of agricultural schools (high schools) which have had great
success in training boys in this manner. Inasmuch as the Federal
Government, with the unanimous consent of the States, has decided to
support this type of instruction with Federal money, it would seem
that the system must have some merit. I propose to insipect one or two
of these typical Agricultural High Schools in Massachusetts, to judge
for myself the results of this system of vocational training.
I have not attempted to give details of the work at Illinois and the
Ohio Colleges of Agriculture, nor of the many-sided activities of the
10 Aug., 1918.] Agriculture in America. 467
Department of Agriculture. I have, however, detailed notes of every
interview, aud all that I have seen, and these notes Can be better
presented when time and contemplation place them in their proper
perspective.
The information so far gained has been up to expectation, and I
feel that I will be able to turn much of what I have gained to imme-
diate practical use on my a-eturn. The time is flying fast, and much
remains to be done, but I hope to be Oible to complete what I mapped
out within my specified time. From Washington I go to New York
State, and visit the famous Cornell University — which has the largest
and 'most successful Agricultural College in America — and the Geneva
Agricultural Experiment Station; then Massachusetts, to see the Agri-
cultural High Schools and the way in which vocational agriculture is
taught. From Massachusetts I shall proceed to Canada to examine
the work of the Canadian Department of Agriculture, the Ontario
Agricultural College, and the Maodonald Institute. From Guelph I
intend going to Chicago — the University of Wisconsin and the Minnesota
Agricultural College — the centres of wheat and barley breeding in the
States. Thence to the Winnipeg Agricultural College and the Cana-
dian prairies and Vancouver.
The American people are facing war problems with great spirit
and quiet courage. Secretary Baker officially announced that there
were over half-a-million men in France ; but it is generally believed
that the number there now is not far from a million. President Wilson,
at the Metropolitan Theatre, in New York, last night, said that they
would not limit the army to 5,000,000 men, but would send as many
men as were wanted to achieve victory, and win the war " worthily."
The shipyards are turning out ships with extraordinary speed, and you
read of fresh launchings almost every day. Concrete ships, steel ships,
and wooden ships ai*e being turned out at Portland, (Seattle, San Fran-
cisco, Philadelphia, and a dozen other places. It was stated that one
shipyard alone will this year turn out as much shipping as was built in
one year by Great iBritain before the war. At every college I have
seen thousands of men (mostly college graduates) training for officers.
In Washington there are temjDorary structures, housing several thou-
sands, being built all over the open spaces of the district of Columbia.
In the West I saw but few soldiers in the streets and cafes, but in the
East they are to be seen everywhere. The Secret Service is doing good
service. One does not read of their activities in the press, but they
have had a difficult task in putting an end to pernicious propaganda
and by ferreting out nests of pro-Germanism. The Food Conservation
Administration has done fine work, and the co-operation of the people
and the press has been remarkable. The only disturbing feature has
been the delay in aeroplane construction; ugly rumours of graft have
been heard, and President Wilson has ordered a complete investigation
to be made by a Supreme Court Judge.
Very little news is reported from Australia. The only two items
recorded recently, other than an occasional reference to the Anzacs on
the Amiens line, were the change of Government in Victoria, and the
arrival of Mr. Hughes, after an exciting adventure near Australia.
468 Journal of AgricvUnre, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
I have found that the people here know very little ahout our Com-
monwealth. Thej regard it as a la rid of drought, and appear to think
that droughts are the rule rather than the exception. They seem
astonished when they heax the plain truth about-Australia. Ours, how-
ever, is not the only country that suffers from dry seasons. Oalifornia
has just had the worst drought since 1849, and in Texas and South-
western United States there has been a two-year drought, and fodder is
being brought from all the other parts of the continent.
The cost of living is extraordinarily high in America. The meal
you would get in Melbourne for Is. 6d. costs, at least, li dollars in the
United States. In fact, a shilling and a dollar seem about the same
value in the two countries, so far as food is concerned. The United
States had a record crop of potatoes last year. All the same, you have
to pay 20 to 30 cents (lOd. to Is. 3d.) for potatoes in most restaurants.
Prices of other commodities are in similar proportion.
I hope the season opens favorably in Australia, and that we shall
be favoured with another good year. The general view here is that
Europe is almost cleaned out of grain, and that the belligerents have
made serious encroachments on their live stock reserves, and that all
surplus food — animal or cereal — will ibe wanted during the next few
years. At last the problem of checking the submarines seems in sight
of solution, and with the enormous tonnages now being tunied out at
the shipyards the time is raj)idly approaching when the freight situation
will be easier. Production is not materially increasing in the States,
despite all encouragement and exhortation. With further depletion of
man power to fill the new armies, the position must grow worse.
Correction.
In Mr. Richardson's letter published in last month's Journal of
Agriculture, il was stated in the remarks on Colorado (page 387), that
" beef is worth $16 a ton at present." The sentence, of course, should
have read "beef is worth $16 a qental at present."
A COxNTRIBUTION TO THE STUDY OF HEREDITARY
UNSOUNDi^ESS IN HORSES.
By W. A. N. Rohertson, B.V.Sc, Chief Veterinary Officer.
(Continued from page 4.33.)
Pamily 3.
This is undoubtedly an unsound family; out of 326 horses examined^
109, or 33.4 per cent., were aifected with sidebone or ringbone. The
founder of the line was not examined, neither were any of his sons ; but
10 Aug., 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
469
of 21 of his grandsons, 33 per cent, were declared unsound.
ing table shows the unsoundness in each generation : —
The follow-
T.\BLE
Showing
UNSOtrNDNESS IM
Family
3.
Sons.
G Sons.
GG Sons.
GGG Sons.
GGGG
Sons.
Total.
Sires.
a
•a
a
•a
§
o
s
5i)
c
■6
o
a
E
X
■a
a
5
■6
o
a
«
■d
c
0
c
0
■6
S
X
•6
0
a
1^
1
X
■6
0
5
■3
X
3
0
a
P
4
c
0
31
3-2
3-3
3-4
3-5
3-6
3-7
4
2
9
3
1
2
3
3
i
75-0
33-3
so'o
113
9
14
13
46
1
5
40-8
11-1
35 -7
112
16
7
1
'2
35
6
1
i
31-2
37-5
14-3
56-0
14
3
7
50 0
1
244
30
30
17
1
2
2
91
7
9
i
1
37-2
23-3
30 0
56-0
50 0
Total
21
7
33 149
52
34-9 ll38
43
31-2
17
7
41-0
1
326
109
33-4
It Avill be noticed that, of the stallions examined, 244 were descendants
of 3.1, 37.2 per cent, were unsound, representing 75 per cent, unsound
sons, 40 per cent, unsound grandsons, 31 per cent, unsound great-grand-
sons, and 50 per cent, unsound great-great-grandsons.
Unsoundness is such a prominent feature in the progeny of Family 3
that it may be considered as the dominant factor, and an explanation
must be looked for when soundness appears dominant in any branch.
It would have been particularly interesting to have had examinations of
all the members of this family as aged horses, for among the 153 sound
descendants of 3.1, we find 4 were two years, 60 were three years, 29 were
four years, 43 were five years, and 16 were six years old or over at the
time of examination. As mature horses, there would unquestionably
have been many more unsound members in the family than the total
now recorded.
3.1, and many descendants of his not recorded in these tables, are
found very frequently on the dams' side of unsound horses which are
descendants of stallions known to be sound.
The first .sound line in this family is noted in 3.141 and his
descendants. He was sound when aged, and his six sons examined were
also sound — five of them being five years or over at examination. Three
grandsons were sound, and two unsound. Evidently, therefore, unsound-
ness is not so strongly developed in this line. Can we ascertain why?
The dam of 3.141 was by 6a.11. jSTine descendants of this horse
were examined as mature horses, and only one was unsound. Unfor-
tunately, the full pedigree of this unsound horse has not been obtained.
We may assume 6a.11 was sound, and his influence is seen through 3.141.
The breeding of 3.15 on the dam's side cannot be traced, but he also
probably introduced soundness, for of his unsound descendants —
3.156 was from a mare by 3, the founder of this family.
3.1541 was from a mare by 3.100014, an unsound horse.
3.1514 was from a mare by 1.11, a very unsound sire.
The remaining four cannot be traced.
470
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
As there are a number of four and five year old horses in this branch
sound, it may be assumed that the tendency to unsoundness is at any
rate diminishing.
* The stallion 3.102 was not examined, but he left 42 per cent, of
unsound descendants, and of the sound ones, 24 were three years of age
or under at time of examination. This horse appears very frequently
as the sire of dams in unsound pedigrees.
The balance of the members of this sub-family show so much unsound-
ness that one is forced to the conclusion that the defects are i:)resent
in the stallions themselves, and could not be carried entirely by the
dams.
The line with 3.4 at its head is apparently sound, for, in the seven-
teen descendants examined, no trace of sidebone was found. 3.41 was
from a mare by 6.1, a horse which, from the records, appears to be
sound.
The complete tables for this family are as follows: —
3 3-1, not
examined
3 • 11, not examined-
3-12, not examined-
3-13, not examined-
3-14, not examined —
FAMILY 3.
— 3-111, ringbone, 5 I
3-15, not examined —
3-16, not examined —
3-121, sound, 6
3 • 122, not examined-
3-123, sound, 4
3-124, sidebone, 4
^ 3-125, not examined
3-132, sound, 4
3-134, not examined
3-131, sidebone, a
3-133, sidebone, a
.3-135, sidebone, 3
3-141, sound, a
3-143, not exarained-
3-142. sidebone, 4
L3-144, sidebone, 4
3-151, sound, 5
3*152, sound. 3
3 '1501, sound, 4
3-153, sound, 3
3-154, not examined-
3-155, sound, 4 —
3-157, not examined—
3-158, not examined^
3-159, not examined—
3-1502, sound, 5
3-1503, not examined-
3-1504, sound, 4 — —
3-1505, not examined-
3-1506, not examined-
3-1507, sound, 7
^3-156, sidebone, a
— 3-161, sound, 5
f 3-1211, sound, 4
\ 3-1212, sound, 2
( 3- 1221, sound, 5
|,3-1222,soundD.A.P.,5
— 3 - 1251, sound, 3
—3-1341, Nervy. 5
'3-1411, sound, 5
3-1412, sound, 6
3-1415, sound, 6
3-1416, sound, 6 —
3-1413, sound D.A.P., 5
L3-1414, soundD.A.P.,3
I 3-1431, sidebone, 5
(31432, sidebone, 3
3-151], sound, 5
3-1513, sound, 2
3-1515, sound, 3
3-1516, sound, 3
3-1517, sound, 3
3-1512, sound 1).A.P.,3
,31514, sidebone, 3
— 3-
— 3-
\ s-
■( 3-
3-
3
3-
— 3-
— 3-
— 3-
— 3-
3-
3-
3-
— 3-
— 3-
— 3-
— 3-
1531, sidebone, ring-
bone, 3
1541, sidebone, 3
1551, sound, 5
1552, sound, 3
1571, sound, 5
1572, sound, 5
1573, sound, 4
1581, sidebone, ring-
bone, 7
1591, sound, 3
15021, sidebone, 3
15031, sound, 4
15041,soundD.A.P.,4
15042, sound D.A.P.
150t3,8oimdl).A.P.,3
15051, sidebone, 5
15061, sound D.A.P., 4
15071, sound, 4
1561, sound, 6
3-14121, sound, 5
3-14122, sound, 5
3-14123, sidebone, 5
3 14124, sidebone, 4
—314161, sound, 4
10 Aug., 1918.]
Hereditary Uiisounclness in Horses.
471
Family 3 — continued.
3'l,not
exam'd.
— contd.
3-17,
not ex-
amined
3-18,
not ex-
amined
319,
not ex-
amined
3,101,
not ex-
amined
3-102,
not ex-
amined
—3 171, sidebone, 6 —
( 3 181, not examined-
I 3 182, sidebone, 5
3-191, sound, 3
3-192, sound, 5
3-193, sound, 3
3-194, sound, 5
3 •195, sound, 3
—3 1011, sidebone
31021, sidebone, a —
3 • 1022 , not examined
-31711, sidebone, 4
—31811, sidebone, 6
3 - 1023 , not examined-
3-1024, sound, 3
3-1025, sidebone, 8 —
3-1026, sidebone, ring-
bone, 9
3-1027, sidebone, a -
3-1028, sound, 4
3-1029, sound, 4
3-10201, sound, 5
3-10202, sound, 5
3-10203, sound, 3
3-10204, sound, 11
3-10205, sound, 6
3-10207, sound, 6 —
3 - 10208, not examined
3 - 10209, sound, 5
3-102001, sound, 5
3-102002, sound, 5
3-102003, sound, 4
3-102004, sidebone, 5-
3-102005 sidebone, 4
3-102006, sidebone, a
3-102007, sidebone, 5
3-102008, ringbone, 6
3-102009, sidebone, 4-
3 1020001, sidebone,
ringbone, 7
3-1020002, sidebone, 4
3-1020004, sidebone, 5
3-1020003, sidebone,
I 12-
10211, sidebone, 5 —
10221, sound, 2
10223, sound, 3
10224. sound, 5
10225, sound, 4
10226, sound, 6
■10227, sound, 3
■10228, sound, 5
■102203, sound, 4
10222, sidebone, ring
bone, 5
■10229, sidebone, 4
•102201, ringbone, 4
-102202, sidebone, 5
-10231, sound, 4
-10233, sound, 3
-10234, sound, 5
-10232, sidebone, 3
•10251, sound, 3
-10252, sound, 3
-10253, sidebone, 3
-3-102111, sound
[D.A.P.,3
10271, sidebone, 3
10272, sidebone, a
-3-102021, sidebone, 3
102071, sound, 4
■102072, sound, 3
•102081, sound 3
-102091, sound, 3
-3 1020041, sound, 5
-3-1020091 sidebone, 3
10200031, sound, 7
■10200033, sound, 3
•10200036, sound, 3
•10200039, sound, 3
•102000302, sound, 3
•102000303, sound, 3
■102000:i04, sound, 4
•102000305, sound, 3
•102000306, sound, 6
•102000: 07, sound, 3
•1020003001, sound, 3
3-1020003003, sound, 5
3-1020003006, sound, 3 -
3-10200030031,
sidebone, 3
3-10200030032,
sidebone, 4
3 10200030061,
sound, 3
3-10200030062,
sidebone, 3
-3'102000300611,
sound, 5
472
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Ai
1918.
Family 3~cont.inued.
3' J, not
examined
— contd.
3-102,
amined
tinued.
ex-
con-
3-103,
3-104, not ex-
aminod-
3-105, not ex-
amined-
3-106, not ex-
amined-
3-107, not ex-
amined-
3-108, not ex-
amined-
3-103, sidebone, 10
3-1001, not ex-
amined-
3-1020003, sidebsne, 12
— continued.
3-1002,
not ex- ["3-1031, sound, 3
amined- < 3-1033, sound, 3
L3-1032,sidebone, 3
J 3-1041, sound, 5
(3-1042, sideboae, 5
/ 3-1051, sound, 5
13-1052, sound, 5
—3-1061, sidebone, 4 —
) 3-1071, sound, 3
13-1072, sound, 3
—3-1081, not examined —
3-10012, sound, 3
3 10013, sound, 5 — ■
3,1001, Shiverer, 3
I 3-1001, sidebone, ring-
L bone, 5
not ex-
amined-
3 1003, sidebone, a
3-1004, sidebone, a
3-1005, not ex-
ami Qed-
3-1006, not ex-
amined-
3-1007, sound, 9 -
3-1008,
not ex-
amined-
—3-10021, sound, 4
r 3-10031, sound, 4
< 3-10034, sound, 4
3-10037, sound, 5
3-10038, sound, 5
3,10039, not examined, 4
3-100301, sound, 4
3,100302, sound. 3
3-10032, sidebone, 2
3-10033, sidebone, 4
3 10035, sidebone, 4
.3-10036, sidebone, 3
'3 -100 i2, sound, 3
3,10043, sound, 3
3-10044, sound, 3
3 -10045, sound, 3
3-10047, sound, 3
3-10048, sound, 5
3-10049, sound, 5
3-100101, sound, 3
3 -100402, sound, 5
3-100403, sound, 3
3-10041, sidebone, 4
3-10046, sidebone, 3
L 3-100404, sidebone, 5
[3-10052, sound, 3
3-10054, sound, 4
3 - 10053, not examined -
3-10056, not examined -
3-10058, sound, 3
3-10057, sidebone, 4
3-10059, sidebone, 3
L 3 -10055, sound, 6
—3-10061, sidebone, ring-
bone, a
3-10071, sound, 5
3-10072, sound, 5 ,
3-10081, not examined—
3 -10082, not examined^
3 -1020003008, sound, 3,
3-10200032, sound
B.A.P.,3
3-1020003007, sound,
D.A.P.,5
3-1020003009, sound
D.A.P., 11
3-10200034, sidebone, 8
3-10200035, ringbone, 3
3-10200037, sidebone, 7
3-10200038. sidebone, 4
3-102000301, sidebone,
ringbone, 6
3-102000308, sidebone, 3
3-102000309, sidebone, 3
3-1020003002, sidebone.s
3-1020003004, sidebone,3
13-1020003005, sidebone,8
-3-10611, sound, 3
—3-10811, not examined
/ 3-100131, sound, 4
13-100132, sound, 5
—3-100391, sound, 5
r3-108111,sound,3
-j 3-108112, side-
l bone 3
3 -100523, sound, 4
3 -100522, sound D.A.P. 3
3 -100521, sound D.A.P. 4
3 100533, sound, 5
3-100531, sidebone, 3
3-100532, sidebone, 4
3-100534, Sidebone, 4
3-100561, sidebone, 4
-3-100811. sound, 3
-3-100821, sound, 4
10 Aug., 1918.]
Hereditary JJnsoiindness in Horses.
473
Family 3 — continued.
3-1, not
examined
— contd.
3-2, not
examined
3-3, not
examined
3-4, not
examined
3-1009. not ex-
amined-
3 10001, not ex-
amincd-
3-10002, not ex-
arained-
3-10003, not ex-
feiM ainined-
3-10004, not ex-
amined-
3-10005, not ex-
amined
3-10006, not ex-
amined-
3-10007, not ex-
amined-
J 3-21 not examined
3-22, not ex-
amiiied-
3 -23, sound, a —
3-24, not ex-
ainined-
3-25, not ex-
amined-
3-26, not ex-
amined—
3-27, sound, a- —
3-31, sound, 4
3-32, sidebone, 7
3-33, sound, 5
3-35, sound, 5
3-37, sound, 3
3 -38, sound, 5
3-39, not ex-
amined-
3-301, sound, 5 —
3-302, not ex-
amined-
3-34, sidebone, 5-
.3-36, sidebone, 5
- 3-41, Slaverer, 11
—3-10091, not examined -
[3-100011, sound, 11
< 3-100012, sidebone, 9
3-100013, sidebone, a
L 3-100014, sidebone, a
—3-100021, not examined-
3-100031, sound, 5
3-100041, sidebone, 6
—3-100051, sound, 3
—3-100061, sidebone, ring-
bone, 4
—3-100071, Sidebone, 3
f 3-211, sound, 3
( 3-212, sound, 3
—3-221, not examined
— -3-231, not examined-
—3-241, sound, 3
3-251, not examined-
3-252, not examined —
3-261, sidebone, a
3-271, sound, 3 -
3-272, sound, 3 -
3-273, sound, 4
3-274, sound, 3
L 3 -275, sound, 4
f 3-311, sidebone, 4
!. 3-312, sidebone, 3
<i 3-321, sound, 6-
< 3 -322, sound, 4
-3-391, bog spavin, 3
-3-3011, sidebone, 3
3021, sound, 3
341, sound, 3
343. sound D.A.P., 3
342, sidebone, 3
363, sound, 4
364, sound, 4
361, sound D.A.P., 3
362, sidebone, 4
411, sound, 3
412, sound, 3
413, sound, 5
414, sound, 5
415, sound, 5
416, sound, 3
417, sound, 3
419, sound, 3
4102, sound, 5
4101. sound D.A. P. 6
418, roarer, 5
3 100911, sidebone, 5
3-1000211, not examined
3-1000311, sound, 2
3-2211, sound, 4
3-2212 sound, 7
3 -2213, sound, 3
3-2217, sound, 3
3-2218, soimd, 3 —
3-2214, sidebone, 6
3-2215, sidebone, 3
3-2216, sidebone, 3
3-2219, sidebone, a
3-2311, sidebone, 3
3-2511, sound, 3
3-2521, sound, 3
3-2522, sound, 3
3 -2523, sound, 4
3-2711, ringbone, 3
3-2721, sound, 5
3-3211, sound
3-3213. sound, 3
3-3214, sound, 2
3-3216, sound, 3
3-3215, sound D.A. P., 3
3-3212, sound D.A. P., 4
3-3217, ringbone, 3
3-4171, sound D.A.P.,5
3 -10002111, sound
3
3-10002112, side-
bone, 3
-3-22181, sound, 4
( 3-22161, sound, 5
(.3-22162, sound, 5
474
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Aug., 1918.
3*4, not
examined
— contd.
3-5, not
examined
3-6, not
examined
3-7, not
examined
3-42 sound, 5
3-43 sound, 5 —
3-44, not ex-
amined-
—3-51, sound, 4
—3-61, sidebone, 5
-3 •71, not examined
Family 2— continued.
—3 -431, sound, 3
—3-441, sound, 3
f 3-711, not examined
( 3-712, not examined
-3-7111, sound, 5
-3-7121, sidebone,
Family 4.
This family sliows a considerable amount of unsoundness, more
particularly in the descendants of 4.1, which is the main representative,
and 32 per cent, unsoundness is revealed in his progeny, as hereunder : —
Table showing Unsoundness in Family 4.
Sons.
G
Sons.
GG
Sons.
GGG
Sons
GGGG
Sons.
GGGGG
Sons.
lotal.
Sires.
■6
S
a
3
o
t3
■a
a
S
=3
a
S
a
so
P4
•3
■6
C
1
a
BO
"S
■6
1
i
i
c
0
•a
0
-i
5
0
a
KG
C
g
•6
1
p4
•a
c
0
S
i
a
■0
0
a
a
a
a
0
a
P
a
a
11
4-1
4-2
4-3
4-4
i
5
3
60-0
14
5
35-7
45
4
'2
16
35-5
22
"1
'4
4
18-1
'7
-3
42-8
86
5
1
13
28
'3
32-5
23-6
Total . .
1
5
3
60-0
14
5
35-7
51
16
31-4
27
4
14'8
7
3
42-8
105
31
29-4
It is possible that a considerable amount of this unsoundness has
been introduced through the female side, for in the first branch of the
family, through 4.11, we find : —
4.1112 was from a mare by a son of 22.
4.11151 was from a mare by a son of 22.1, and the granddam by
the same son of 22 as in the preceding pedigree.
In other branches —
4.124 was from a mare by 2.1, and the granddam was by 1.
4.125 was from a mare by 22.
4.1271 was from a mare by a grandson of 3.
4.1315 was from a mare by 22.
4.12641 was from a mare by a grandson of 1.
4.12645 was from a mare by a grandson of 1.
4.12911 was from a mare by 17.2211, which was sound, but whose
sire was unsound.
4.12917 was from a mare by a grandson of 3, and the granddam
was by 22.
4.13121 was from a mare by a son of 22.
4.13162 was from a mare by 1.1.
4.128115 was from a mare by 3.101.
Consequently, in a large number of cases, at least it can be shown
that the chief cause for unsoundness was present with the dams, if they
were not actually responsible for its introduction into the family.
10 Aug., 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
475
22, which appears so frequently in the above pedigrees, and is so ofteu
seen in unsound lines, is related to 1, as shown in the following outline : —
Not examined
Not examined,
1
Not examined—
Not examined-
Not examined,
22
In the last branch of this family, viz., 4.4, it is probable that its
unsoundness was introduced through the dams, for 4.4112311 was from
a mare by 1.33, and the granddam by 38. Other unsound members of
this family cannot be traced through their dams to any horse recorded
in these tables.
4.2111 appears as the sire of a number of mares, which, though
mated with sound stallions, threw unsound progeny.
FAMILY 4.
4-1,
not ex-
amiried
4-11,
not ex-
amined
4-12,
not ex-
amined
4-111, not ex-
amined—
L4112, sound, 10-
r 4-121 sound 8-
i 4-122, not ex-
amined—
4-123,
4-124,
4-125,
4-126,
sidebone, 8
sidebone, 7
sidebone, a
not ex-
amined—
4-127,
not ex-
amined—
4-128, not ex-
amined
4-1111, sound, 5 -
4 1112, sidebone,4
4-1113, sound, 4
4-1114, sound, 3
4-1115, not ex-
amined—
—4-1121, sidebone, 3
-4-1211 sound, 4
f 4 -1221, not ex-
amined—
4-1222, not ex-
amined
4-1223, sound, 3
-4-1231, sound, 3
4-1261, not ex-
amined—
4-1262, not. ex-
amined
4-1263, not ex-
amined
—4-11111,
—4-11121,
—4-11151,
12212.
12213,
•12214,
•12215,
•12216,
•12217,
•12211,
sound, 4
sidebone,
5
sidebone,
4
sound, 4
sound, 3
sound, 4
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 3
sidebone,
4
sound, 4
4-12611,
4-12612,
4-12613,
4-12614,
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 5
sound, 3
4 1264,
not e:
amined —
4-1272, sound, 5
4 -1273, sound. 3
4-1271, Side-
bone, 5
—4-1281, not ex-
amined
-4-12621, sound, 3
— 4 12631, sound
D.A.P. 4
4 -12642. sound, 4
4-12643, sound, 4
4-12641, Sidebone,
4
4-12644, side-
bone, 3
4 12645, Side-
bone, 5
— 4-12711, sound
D.A.P. 3
—4 12811, not ex-
amined
4 -126131, sound, 4
4 126141, sou- (1,5
4 -126142, sound, 5
4-126143, ring-
bone, 3
4 -128111, sound, 3
4-128112, sound, 3
4-128113, sound, 5
4-128114, sound,2
4128116,sound,3
4-128117, sound, 5
4-128115, Side-
bone, 5
476
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
Family 4 — continued.
r|4-l, not
4 '12, not
-4 -129, not ex-
^4 1291, sound, 4
(4 -12913, sound, 5
exam'd
exam'd.
amined
4-12014, sound, 6
— contd
— contd.
4 -1292, not ex-
amined—
4-12916, sound, 3
4-1291S,sound,3
4-12919, sound, 5
4-12911, side-
bone, 4
4-12912, Side-
bone, 4
4 12915, Side-
bone, 3
4-12917, Side-
bone, 5
— 4-l2921,sound,6
4 129191, sound
D.A.P. 3
4-13,
'4-131. not
'4 -1311, not ex-
amined—
— 4-13111,sound,3
not ex-
examined— •
amined
4-1312, not
amined^
4-1313, not
amined—
—4-13121, side-
bone, 5
'4-13131, not
■i amined
4-13133, sound,
3
4 13132, side-
—4-131311,
sound, 5
bone, 5
1
4 1314, Side-
'4-13143, notex-
—4131431,
bone, 7—
< amined
4-13142, sound,
3
413141, side-
bone, 2
sound, 3
!
4-1315, Side-
-4-13151, Side-
i
bone, ring-
bone, 3
bone, a
4-1316, notex-
r 4 -13161, sound.
amined —
< 3
4-13163, sound,
7
4-13162, side-
bone, 8
4 13164, side-
—4-131641, side-
l bone, a
bone, 3
1
'4-13171, sound,
a
'4-131711,
sound, 3
1 4-1317, not ex-
L amined —
4-13172, not
examined
4-131712,
sound, 3
4-131713,
sound, 3
4-131714,
sound, 5
4-131715,
sound
D.A.P. , 3
—4-131721,
sound, a
4-132, not
— 41321,sound,a
examined
4-133, not -
—4 -1331, not ex- -
—4-13311, not
4-133111, ring-
examined
amined
examined
bone
4-2
4-21,
4-211, notex-
—4-2111, not ex-
r4-21111, sound.
not ex-
amined
amined —
3
amined
4-2112, not
examined
4-21112, sound
'4-21121,
sound, 5
4-21122,
—4-211121,
[sound, 3
4-3,
4-31,
sound, 3
not ex-
sound, 8
amined
4-4—
4-41,
4 -411, not ex-
'4-4111,notex-
amined —
r4-41111,
not ex-
amined—
< sound, a
amined
4 -4112, not ex-
4-41112,
sound, 10
'4-41121, not
examined
—4-411211,
amined —
sound, 5
4-41122, not
—4-411221,
examined
sound, 3
4-41123, not
C4-411231,
examined
< sound, 6
U-ill231,
soimd, 5
-4-4112311
sidebone,4
4-41124, not
— 4-411241, not
-4-411241]
examined
examined
sidebone,6
10 Ar(i-., 191S.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
477
Family 4- — continued.
4-42,
not ex-
ami nod.
4-421, not
f.'camined
4-4211, not
examined
4-42111, not
examined
4-421111, not
e.xamined—
4-421112, not
examined
•4211111,
sound, 4
•4211112,
sound, 3
•4211113.
sound, 3
•4211114,
side-
bone, 3
4211121,
sound, 6
Family 5.
Very few members of this family have been recorded, but as some of
the sires appear in dams' pedigrees, the table is reproduced.
The only comment necessary is that 5.11112 was from a mare whose
sire was probably 1.3311, a defective horse; while the dam of 5.11112
was probably by 9.3127, a sire of unsoundness.
FAMILY 5.
-1.
511,
5-111,
5-1111,
not ex-
'5-11111,sound, 2
i
not ex-
not ex-
not ex-
amined— -
- 5-11114, sound, 7
amined
amined
amined
5-1112,
sound
5-11112, Side-
bone, 4
5 11113, side-
bone, 3
5 11115, sound
D.A.P.
'5-11121, sound
D.A.P. 6
1
D.A.P.—
5 -11122, sound, 4
5-11123, side-
bone, 4
5-1113,
sound
D.A.P. a
5-1114,
not ex-
amined
5-11141, sound, 3
51115,
not ex-
5-11151, not ex-
5111511, side-
5-1115111,
amined
amined
bone, a
Th. Pin
Famil
Y 6.
This is another short family. It is divided into two branches, 6 and
6a, related to one another as follows : —
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined
Not examined,
6
Not examined,
6a
From a study of the tables, one is led to believe that the family is
sound, though there are not sufficient members recorded, nor can the
pedigrees through the dams of the unsound ones be traced far enough, to
allow of a definite pronouncement. In the progeny of 6.11, a number
of mature horses are seen which are sound, and the only unsound one
is a three-year old — possibly the mare is responsible for this.
The dam of 6.1211 was most probably by 9.128, an unsound horse,
and the dam of 6.13 was by a son of 3.
6.14111 was from a mare by a half-brother of 1.
478
Journal of A gricutture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
6a is evidently a sound line, for most of the horses examined were
aged, and only one was unsound, viz., 6a. 116. In this case, the dam
was by an unrecorded horse, and the granddam by 3.1 ; so there is
sufficient reason for the ap2:)earance of unsoundness here.
The full table is as follows :
FAMILY 6.
•1, not ex-
amined—
6-2, not ex-
amined
6-3, not ex-
amined—
6-4,
6-5,
not ex-
amined
not ex-
amined—
6-6, not ex-
amined—
6a -1, not ex-
amined-
6a-
not ex-
amined
6-11,
not ex-
amined—
6 12, not ex-
amined-
6-13, ringbone,
sidebone, a-
614,
not ex-
amined-
not ex-
amined—
6-16, not ex-
amined—
—6 '21, not ex-
amined—
6-31, sidebone, 5
6-32, not ex-
amined—
^6-41, not ex-
amined—
f6-51, not ex-
amined—
6-52, not ex-
amined—
-6-61, sound, a —
6a 1], not ex-
amined—
6A-12, sound
D.A.P.,a
— 6A-21, not ex-
amined
111, sound, 3
112, sound, 7
113, sound, 5
114, sound, 3
117, sound, 5
118, sound, 3
119, sound, 5
1102, sound
1103, sound, 4
115,soundD.A.P.
4
116, sound D.A.P.
6
1101, sidebone, 3
121, not examined
122, sound, 3 —
132, sound, 3
131, Sidebone, 3
133, sidebone, a —
141, not examined
152,
154,
151,
153,
161,
162,
211,
212,
sound, 4
sound, 3
sidebone, 3
sidebone, 4
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
—6-321, sound, 3
— 6-411, sound, 5
— 6-511, sound, 4
6-521, sound, 3
6-612, sound, 3
6 -613, sound D.A.P.
3
6-614, sound
D.A.P., 7
^6-611. sidebone, 5
'6a 111, not ex-
amined—
6a -113, sound, 8 —
6a"115, sound, a
6a -11 7, sound, a
6a- 118, not ex-
amined—
6a 112, sound
D.A.P., 11
6A-114, sound
D.A.P., 4
6A-116, sidebone, a
— ■6a -211, sound, 5
-6 1191, sound
D.A.P., 4
-6-11021, sound, 5
/■ 6-1212, sound, 3
1.6-1211, sidebone, 3
—6-1221, sound
D.A.P.. 3
—6-1331, sound, 5
-61411,
not ex-
amined
-6A1111, sound, 11
-6a -1131. sound
D.A.P., 4
-6A-1181, sound, 4
6A-2111, sound
D.A.P., 4
-6-14111, r side-
bone, S-
(To be continued.)
10 Aug., 1918.] " Black Spot " and " Leaf Curl.
479
"BLACK SPOT" AND "LEAF CURL."
(W. Laidlair, B.8c., Biologist; and C. C. Brittlehanh, Vegetable
Pathologist.)
During the last four seasons experiments have been carried out for
the purpose of testing the efficacy of different sprays on " Black Spot "
of the apple and " Leaf Curl " of the peach, and also to ascertain the
most effectual time for their application.
Row of Statesman — sprayed Twice.
Experiments during the first two seasons were made at the orchards of
Mr. C. Nickell, at Drouin, and at Mr. Peart's, Picnic Point, Bairnsdale,
l)ut subsequent tests have been conducted entirely at Drouin. These
orchards are very liable to the attacks of " Black Spot " and " Leaf
Curl." The former because of the high rainfall of the district and the
retentive nature of the subsoil, the latter owing to the situation of the
orchard on rich river flats where it is impossible to culitvate, as periodic
floods wash away the soil. Ideal conditions exist, therefore, at both places
for the growth of fungoid pests. Clover, grass, &c., springs up very
luxuriantly, as will be seen from the photographs, and this vegetation,
together with the heavy dews and river mists, keeps up a dampness
favorable to the development and spread of fungus.
At the start of our experiments, the following mixtiires were used, viz.: —
Bordeaux, 6.4.40;
Copper soda, 6.8.40;
Lime sulphur, 1 in 9; and
Acetate of copper (verdigris), 3 lbs. to 40 gallons of water;
480
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Avn., 1918,
and all the mixtures were carefully prepared and tested. We would
point out to growers the importance of testing their spray mixtures, as
acid mixtures are very liable to burn, and russeting is largely due to
their use.
It is unnecessary to give details of all the tests, nor would it be
of any educational value.
Spraying a Pear Tree for the Second Time.
In conducting experiments of any kind in the field, it is absolutely
essential to extend them over a series of years before any conclusions can
be drawn from them, as so many factors have to be considered ; and,
though we know we have not exhausted the subject, our results on " Leaf
Curl " have been so uniformly good since the com.mencement, and as
those on " Black Spot " have been improving all the time, we feel justi-
fied, owing to our excellent results last season (1917-18) in giving a short
paper on the subject.
10 Ar(;.. 191S. I -Black Spot" and ''Leaf Curl"
m
Leaf Curl of the Peach.
(Exoascus Deformans — Berk, FcJc).
When we took this disease in hand, a number of trees in Mr. Peart's
orchard had succumbed to the continued defoliation. On our first visit
to Mr. ISTickell's, we found a team of bullocks pulling the trees out,
and on asking the reason, were told that the trees were of no use, as
they bore no fruit, and were gradually dying. The rooting out was
stopped on our advice, and with the happiest results.
Cutting from a Pear Tree which was not sprayed.
Mr. Peart wrote on the 11th January, 1914, that peach and apricot
trees sprayed with verdigris were quite free from curl, as were those
which had been sprayed with copper soda. Bordeaux mixture did not
give quite such good results as the two previous sprays, and lime sulphur,
though it cleaned all lichens from the trees, was not a success as far as
the " Leaf Curl " was concerned.
ni2s.— 2
482 Journal of Agriculhire, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
10 Aug., 1918.] " BlacJc Spot" and "Leaf Curl"
488
22
484
Journal of Agrumlture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
Though the results obtained from acetate of copper were excellent,
the high price of the material compelled us to abandon the tests with it.
Experiments were continued with Bordeaux and copper soda, the latter
always giving better results than the Bordeaux ; in fact, during the last
three seasons, we have used copper soda exclusively for " Leaf Curl," and
with excellent results at both orchards.
The Time to Apply.
By spraying the trees just before or when the earliest buds are
showing pink, " Leaf Curl " can be cured. The mixture used with com-
plete success was copper soda, 6.8.40.
■^P
^^^^^^^^^^H
^^K|^«^|^^ 1
■p
^^^^^■'w'^l
^^^H Urn
^^^H|^,*^^H|
HtP
B^^^
^^^^^B ,^H^
^^^a
H
W^^"' 'J^m/BK^^ ^1^1
Jonathan Blossom — shows
when first spraying should
be made.
Jonathan Blossom — shows when second
spraying should he made.
Black Spot of Apple.
(Venturia inaequalis (Che) Aderh — formerly known as Fusicladium
dendriticum) .
Experiments in the treatment of Black Spot were made on six dif-
ferent varieties, all of which are commonly grown throughout- the State.
The disease, as before mentioned, was very prevalent in the orchards
where the experiments were conducted, in wet years the bulk of the apple
and pear crops being so badly aifected as to be unsaleable.
The past season's rainfall was above the average at Drouin (see table
on page 488). The spraying season, September and October, was excep-
tionally wet. During these months there were 43 wet days and 11^
inches of rain fell. Notwithstanding this excessive rainfall, the experi-
ments were very successful, as will be seen from the results.
Last season we confined our experiments to the lime sulphur spray
principally, using the commercial product. Three different brands were
10 Aug., 19 18. J "Black :Spot" and "Leaf Curl.
485
Statesman Blossom — when first spray should
i be applied.
used, and each gave equally good results. The cost of material works out
at threepence (3d.) per tree.
The dates on which the different varieties were sprayed are given
below, not as a guide,
but as showing tlie time
when the buds were more
green than pink, which was
the condition of the trees
when the first spray was
applied. The second spray
was given when the centre
ilowers of the blossom cluster
were fully open. (See photo-
graphs on page 484-5).
We are of opinion that
the time of spraying is more
important than tlie fungicide
used, provided the mixtures
are properly made and tested.
While making this statement,
we must point out that the
result obtained from lime
sulphur last season was very
much better than that ob-
tained from Bordeaux, 6.4.40.
The foliage looked healthier,
and remained longer on the
trees ; the skin of the fruit
had a better colour, and was
clearer and sappier looking.
We would like to impress
on growers the necessity of
having all the cultivation
done before spraying is com-
menced. The reason for this
is that the resting spores
have developed in the fallen
diseasef^ leaves of the previous
season, reaching maturity at
the time the apple and pear
trees are coming into bloom.
Under favorable weather
conditions, they are thrown
out in countless numbers, and
are carried by air currents
into the young leaves and
fruits, where they germi-
nate and infect the crop.
Cultivation should not be resumed till all danger of infection is past.
This- period will vary in different districts and under different weather
conditions.
Statesman Blossom — when second spray should
be applied.
486 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
In conclusion, we would express our thanks to Mr. C. Nickell and to
Mr. L. Pilloud, Orchard Supervisor, for their interest in the experi-
ments, and for the careful way in which they carried out the spraying,
picking, and grading, and also for the many suggestions made by them,
which helped to naake the work so pronounced a success.
Hereunder are details of the yields obtained from the apple trees
upon which the experiments were made : —
Jonathans.
18 trees sprayed with lime sulphur —
1st spraying, 1 in 12, on 19.9.17..
2nd spraying, 1 in 30, on 1.10.17.
First picking on 27.2.18 gave —
22 cases clean and good ;
4 apples with slight spot, but marketable ;
16 apples with black spot, but marketable;
9 cases of windfalls, all good.
Second picking on 21.3.18 —
46 cases good and clean;
20 apples with black spot;
3 apples with codlin moth;
2 cases windfalls, all clean.
1 Jonathan tree sprayed once, 1 in 12, on 19.9.17 :
Picked 21.3.18—
4 cases clean and good;
39 apples with black spot;
5 api^les with black spot, but marketable ;
2 apples with codlin moth;
1 case windfalls, all good.
Jonathan check tree — no spray:
Picked 21.3.18—
1 case of marketable, slightly marked with black spot;
4 cases badly spotted, unmarketable.
The average number of Jonathan apples to the case was 186.
London Pippins.
5 trees sprayed with lime sulphur (4 trees sprayed twice and
one tree sprayed once only) —
1st spraying, 1 in 15, on 8.10.17.
2nd spraying, 1 in 35, on 16.10.17.
Picked 4 trees on 17.4.18 —
64 cases all clean, no seconds or spotted apples.
1 tree sprayed once, 1 in 15, on 8.10.17.
Picked on 17.4.18—
13 cases all good, no seconds or spotted apples.
Check tree, sprayed once, 1 in 35, on 16.10.17 —
12 cases all spotted, 4 cases good apples.
10 Aug., 1918.] " Blaclc Spot" and "Leaf Curl" 487
Rome Beauty.
3 trees sprayed with lime sulphur —
1st spraying, 1 in 15, on 8.10.17.
2nd spraying, 1 in 35, on 16.10.17.
Picked on 1.5.18—
22 cases, all clean and good.
Statesman.
18 trees sprayed with lime sulphur —
1st spraying, 1 in 12, on 19.9.17.
2nd spraying, 1 in 30, on 1.10.17.
Picked on 24th and 25th April, 1918—
64 cases all good, no spot ;
26 cases slightly spotted, marketable;
4 cases unmarketable.
Check tree —
1 case good;
7 cases black spot, unmarketable.
Rokewood.
18 trees sprayed with lime sulphur —
1st spraying on 4.9.17.
2nd spraying on 21.9.17.
Picked on 30.5.18. (Owing to the wet weather, the Rokewoods were far
too late in being picked, the bulk of the crop having
fallen on the above date.)
72 cases picked from ground and off the trees —
18 cases no spot ;
54 cases spotted and cracked, the cracks on account of the
. fruit being left too long before picking.
Yates.
1 tree sprayed with lime sulphur —
1st spraying, 1 in 15, on 4.9.17.
2nd spraying, 1 in 15, on 19.9.17.
3rd spraying, 1 in 30, on 26.9.17.
Picked on 25.5.18—
5 cases clean and good;
i case spotted.
Check tree, sprayed once, 1 in 15, on 4.9.17 —
All apples more or less spotted, only 110 apples left on tree,
leaves affected, and tree partially defoliated.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
RAINFALL AT DROUIN WEST
During the Tejn Years 1908 to 1917 (both incl-sive).
No.
of days on
Year.
which rain fell
Total rainf.
ill during year.
during year.
Points.
1908 . .
165
30
02
1909 .
186
41
48
1910 .
193
38
15
1911 .
189
48
84
1912 .
191
36
22
1913 .
188
42
90
1914 .
151
30
10
1915 .
190
35
68
1916 .
198
46
34
1917 .
202
47
61
1,853
397
•34
Yearly aver
I 39
Yearly average for ten years
185
age for ten
•73
years
Rainfall During Each Month of the Year, 1917-18.
Month.
Jung, 1917
July, 1917
August, 1917 . .
September, l!)i 7
October, 1917
Ncvember, 1917
December, 1917
January, 1918
February, 1918
March, 1918 . .
April, 1918
May, 1918
Total number of days on which
rain fell during the year
or 7 days over the average for
ten years
Total rainfall for twelve montlis
ended 31st May, 1918
or 10^77 points over average
for ten vears
No. of days on
which rain fell
during month.
Total rainfall fo
month.
Points.
64
78
53
82
68
78
37
24
•99
6-10
1-90
7^67
50-50
10 Aug., 1918.] The Culture of True Lavender. 48l9
THE CULTURE OF THE TRUE LAVENDER.
By Ed. Zaccharewicz, Director of the Agricultural Service of the
Department of Vauclv^e, France.
(Translated by Francois de Castella, Government Viticulturist, and W. Percy
Wilkinson, F.I.C., Commonwealth Analyst.)
[In the Revue de Viticulture, Paris, 4th April, 1918, the results of
a detailed study on methods of cultivation for true lavender were com-
municated by Monsieur Ed. Zaccharewicz. As much attention is at
present being devoted, inter alia, to the project for extensive cultiva-
tion of lavender, by the Victorian Scent and Essential Oils Associa-
tion, it is hoped that a translation of the recent French studies on this
subject may be opportune.]
The present description of lavender culture is intended to meet the
wishes of numerous agriculturists, who desire to take advantage of
post-war conditions in order to render productive land where no other
culture can be successfully undertaken. The true lavender* enables
uncultivated, hilly, or mountainous land to be profitably utilized, since
this plant is not exacting as regards depth or fertility of soil.
The class of soil which suits the lavender best is a light and sandy
clay, stony, well exposed to the sun, at an elevation of 1,200 to 4,000
feet. It is noticeable that at a lower altitude true lavender yields an
essential oil poor in ester; it would also have a tendency to degenerate
in the direction of spike lavender, whereas, on the contrary, the
higher the altitude the richer (in ester) is the essential oil yielded
by the true lavender, which reaches its maximum value at 3,000 feet.
Experiments with artificial manures, which will be described sub-
sequently, enable us to afiirm that, even at lower elevations, soils,
which by their nature are suitable for this culture,- can be rendered
fertile and profitable if judiciously manured. Artificial fertilizers have
an action on the quality of the oil and on the growth of the plant, con-
ditions which are necessary to prevent degeneration.
True lavender (Lavendula vera) must not be confounded with spike
{Lavendula aspica). True lavender is a small woody plant which bears
numerous upright herbaceous branches, with undivided sessile pointed
leaves, covered with a whitish down when young. The flowers are
arranged in glomerules, grouped in a sort of compound head.
The essential oil of true lavender is slightly yellow in colour, has a
sweet aromatic odour, is rich in ester, and possesses an acrid flavour.
Spike lavender differs from true lavender by its larger leaves, broader
bracts, more numerous branches, more powerful but less agreeable odour.
The essential oil it yields is known commercially as oil of spike.
In the course of inspections made in the Department of Vaucluse,
we have been able to collect interesting notes concerning the culture
of true lavender. One of the estates where this plant is carefully cul-
tivated is situated in the Commune of Lagarde; it is under the manage-
ment of Monsieur Clement, is of 150 acres in extent, and is situated
at an elevation of 2,500 feet ; it is surrounded by the mountainous spurs
of Mount Ventoux; it is on these mountains that true lavender grows
wild, and it is here that it yields a highly esteemed essential oil.
• Lavendula vera as distinguished from otner species.
490 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
It has been shown that by means of cultural operations conducted
at the proper moment, in these soils where pebbles predominate, the
growth and flowering of the plants can be increased. On this class of
country, where lavender grows wild occupying the whole surface, the
land has been worked during March with the araire^-' in such a manner
as to only leave narrow strips of lavender 3 feet apart. Thus treated
the plants situated on the strips grow strongly, and yield twice as much
as uncultivated land. Observation of the superior growth of plants
bordering roads, in fact, suggested cultivation on these lines.
The araire has been replaced by the spring-tooth cultivator (houe
canadienne) which enables the land to be worked several times, before
winter and again in the month of March (September in Australia).
The last working should not be too late, so as to avoid damaging young
roots.
Simultaneously with these workings, artificial manures have been
applied experimentally with most satisfactory results. Analyses showed
that the soil is relatively rich in nitrogen, but below the average in
potash and phosphoric acid. This relative abundance of nitrogen is
the result of the accumulation, during centuries, of organic matter
resulting from plant debris.
The manure dressings were mixed in the following proportions : —
Nitrate of soda, 20 parts.
Chloride of potassium, 20 parts.
Superphosphate (18-20 per cent.), 60 parts.
Four hundred and fifty pounds per acre of this manure were broad-
casted between the rows before the March (September here) ploughing.
Striking differences were noted between the manured and the control
plots both as regards gi'owths and yield of flowers.
The control under ordinary cultural conditions yielded an average
of over 2,000 kilos of lavender flowers per hectare (about 18 cwt. per
acre) ; the manured part reached a yield of 3,500 kilos per hectare
(about 31^ cwt. per acre). In other words, lan additional 13^ cwt. per
acre.
Mr. Clement distilled the two lots of flowers separately, with the
following results: — 100 kilosf of control lavender gave an average yield
of 600 grammes of oil; 100 kilos of lavender flowers from the fertilized
plots yielded, on an average, 800 grammes of oil. The yields per hectare
(2|- acres) were as follows: — Unmanured lavender, 12, kilos of oil;
lavender with fertilizer, 28 kilos of oil. Prices averaged from 10 to
12 frs. per kilo of oil. But increasing demand having enhanced the
price, this hardened las follows: — In 1904, 20 frs.; in 1905, 32 frs.;
until it reached, in 1912, the remarkably high price of 40 frs. Since
then prices have been maintained at from 35 to 40 frs. per kilo of oil.
Prior to 1904, the value of the crop was — per hectare, without
manure, 12 kilos of oil, at from 10 to 12 frs. per kilo, say, 120 to 144 frs.
In 1904, the value rose, as the result of enhanced prices, to
12 X 20 = 240 frs.; in 1905, 12 X 26 = 312 frs.; in 1906,
12 X 32 = 384 frs. ; and in 1912, 12 X 40 = 480 frs. Hence, the
gross return of lavender without fertilizer may Teach 480 frs. per
hectare, owing to increased commercial value of the oil. But far more
* The araire is the old Roman wooden plough with a steel point and no mould-board,
t 1 kilogram = 2.2 lbs. avoirdupois ; 28-4 grammes =i 1 oz.
10 Aug., 191S.] llie Culture of True Lavender. 491
remunerative results may be obtained by the application of fertilizers
suitable for tbis crop.
Before 1904, witb fertilizer, tbe yield was 28 kilos of oil per bectare,
witb a value of 10 to 12 frs. per kilo, say, 288 to 336 frs. ; as tbe result
of enbanced value of tbe oil, tbe gross returns readied, in 1912, tbe
figure of 1,120 frs. per bectare. According to tbese figures, tbe action
of artificial fertilizers bas more tban tripled tbe returns.
Mr. Clement, in reporting tbese results, added tbat, in tbe case of
tbe crop gatbered from tbe fertilized land, tbe flowers were better
developed and more numerous tban on tbe control plots ; tbe oil suffered
no diminution in quality; in bis opinion, it sbowed bigber quality, and
commanded, consequently, a better price. In tbese tests, self-sown
lavender was experimented witb. Tbe question arises wbetber it would
be possible to successfully establisb plantation fields of lavender. In
our opinion, wbat bas already been acbieved as regards truffle culture
would be equally feasible in tbe case of lavender.
As we bave already sbown, land planted to lavender migbt be situated
at a lower altitude tban tbat wbicb bas bitberto been considered indis-
pensable for tbis culture, provided tbat tbe soils fulfil conditions wbiob
lavender culture requires.
A lavender plantation may be establisbed eitber from slips or from
seed; slips may be planted out eitber in autumn or in spring. If tbe
land is at a bigb altitude, spring planting is to be preferred, owing to
cold winter spells. In tbe case of seed, tbis may be sown equally
successfully eitber in autumn or spring. Wbere tbe winters are mild,
autumn sowing is to be preferred.
Opinions differ concerning tbe merits of propagating lavender fi'om
seed or from slips. Slips grow quicker tban iseeds, and may yield in
tbe first year under suitable climatic conditions; tbis depends also on
tbe plants ; young ones are mucb to be preferred to old ones ; but plants
cost tbree times as mucb as seeds, as will be sbown later.
Slips are planted in rows about 3 feet apart, witb tbe plants 2 feet
apart in tbe row. In other words, about 16,600 plants per bectare.
Slips are planted witb tbe dibble. Seeds are likewise sown in rows
about 3 feet apart, treatment being tbe same as in tbe case of carrot
seed, it being buried about 1 inch deep. About 1 oz. of seed is sown per
square metre; tbis is equivalent to 10 kilos of seed per bectare (9 lbs.
per acre).
Tbe land should receive two workings; one at the beginning of
winter, and another in March (September in Australia) ; advantage is
taken of the latter to turn in the fertilizer broadcasted between tbe rows.
Tbe harvest commences on the 1st of August (1st of February in Aus-
tralia), and finishes about the beginning of September (March in
Australia). In the Department of Vaucluse, pickers come at harvest
time from tbe neighbouring Department, and are paid at tbe rate of 7 frs.
per 100 kilos of flowers gatbered with the stems (£2 16s. per ton). A
picker can gather about 130 kilos of lavender flowers per day.
Gathering is not carried out if the plants are wetted by rain, as the
flowers then yield less oil; absence of sun and excess of water do not
favour the production of oil in the flower. As the flowers are brought
in from the farm, distillation proceeds. Distillation is carried out in
the open air in a still witb a boiler capacity of from 4 to 8 cwt. of
492 J ournal of Agriculture, Victoria. flO Attg., 1918.
flowers. Distillation is conducted in a current of steam. The flowers
are placed loosely in a perforated cylinder of slightly smaller diameter
than the boiler of the still ; the cylinder is supported by three vertical
iron rods, rather shorter than the depth of the boiler; these rods con-
verge above, so that the whole (cylinder) may be lifted out of the boiler
by means of block and tackle after distillation is completed. A tripod
is placed in the boiler to support the perforated cylinder, the base of
which just touches the water. On boiling, the steam which is generated
passes through the flowers, carrying the oil with it. It then passes
trough a worm cooled with water, and, on condensation, is caught in a
separating receiver. The apparatus once under way, is operated day
and night. It is, of course, necessary to have a .sufficiently large staff,
so that fresh flowers may be supplied to the boiler as fast as the spent
flowers are removed.
Complete figures are given in the original showing the costs of
establishment of a lavender plantation, manuring, distillation equip-
ment, &c. As Australian conditions differ so greatly from those in
France, these details of costs, &c., have not been reproduced. From the
detailed statement a few extracts will, no doubt, prove of interest.
On a properly planted and manured lavender field the following
yields could be expected: — Second year, 1,800 lbs. of flower tops,
yielding 12 lbs. of oil; third year, 3,150 lbs. of flowers, 21 lbs. of
oil; fourth year, 4,500 lbs. of flowers, 3L5 lbs. of oil. In the
case of plants grown from seed the oil yield during the first few years is
less than that obtained from plants grown from slips, though by the
fifth year the yield is equal in each case.
The profits from lavender growing could be increased by planting
evergreen oaks for truffle production in the waste land between lavender
plantations. Far from interfering with one another, these two cultures
would mutually benefit from the same cultivation and manures. It is
well known that cultivation, by aerating the soil, favours truffle produc-
tion, and this is increased in a marked manner by dressings with
artificial, and especially with nitrogenous manures, as our experiments
have already shown.*
The lavender plant is not, however, free from liability to disease.
In many fields plants have been observed to die off, fonning centres of
infection. This is caused by a root fungus analogous to pourridie of
the vine.t The only remedy is the eradication of diseased plants, which
should be burnt. This disease has been more particularly noticed where
lavender grows wild. Artificial plantations are almost immune, but as
the fungus might be introduced with slips used for planting, it would
be more prudent to establish new fields by means of seedlings. If, how-
ever, planting by slips is followed, the slips should be disinfected by
dipping in a solution of sulpho-carbonate of potassium, strength 5 oz. to
10 gallons of water. Lavender is also liable to be attacked by dodder;
strong vigorous plants are most liable, and soon succumb. Spraying
with ] 5 per cent, sulphate of iron solution is the treatment recommended
for this parasite.
Damage is also caused to the plants by cutting the flowering tops too
long, thus diminishing the vitality of the plant. This, however, is easily
• Revue de Viticidlure, xxxiii, p. 350, and xxxv, p. 204.
t Po<irricl6 or root rot of the vine is caused by several fungi, tlie most important bein;? DemrUophora
neccitrix and ArmUlaria mellea.
10 Aug., 1918.] Notes on the Vaucluse District.
493
avoided bj carefully supervising the gathering; pickers have a tendency
to cut the stems too low in order to increase the weight of the harvest.
In the Carpentras district lavender is chiefly found noa-r Mount
Ventoux. Over an area of about 10,000 acres, it is about equally dis-
seminated on the flat land and on the rocky mountain slopes; lavender
plantations are mostly confined to flat land, artificial lavenderaies occupy
about one-sixth of the total land.
NOTES ON THE VAUCLUSE DISTRICT.
By F. de CasteUa, Government Viticulturist.
The foregoing article vividly recalls a brief visit to this most
romantic region, in August, 1907, and how, as my host (Mons. A.
Taccusel) and myself sat, after lunch, on the terrace overlooking the
swift Sorgues river, sipping coffee and the petit verre of fifty-year-
old cognac, an agreeable odour of lavender was distinctly noticeable in
Fig. 1. — Vaucluse, France. — Portion of the Village (the rocky hills where the
lavender grows are shown in the background) .
the air. This, it was explained, came from a neighbouring distillery
across the river, where the oil is extracted. Formerly lavender grew
wild on the hills and other waste lands in the region, but of recent years
it has been cultivated to some extent, where this is possible, with
plough or scarifier. The wild plants are thus thinned in one direction;
the loss of a certain number of them is, however, fully compensated by
494
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
Fig. 2. Source of the Sorgues. — Cleft or vent whence the river issues.
rig. 3. Source of the Sorgues. (Photograph taken when the river was in full
flow — at such times the vent shown in Fig. 2 is completely submerged.)
10 Aug., 1918.] Notes on the Vauchtse District 495
the stronger growth of those which remain. Light dressing with
superphosphate also increase the yield and quality of the oil. Higher
up the hills among the rocks (see Fiig. 1) cultivation is no longer
possible, and the herb grows wild. The price paid for the fresh flowers
and stalks (cut at the top of the leaves) was at that time 24s. to 32s;
per ton, delivered at the distillery.
Fig. 1 will give some idea of the rocky hillsides where lavender grows
wild. Vaucluse, though little more than a village, has given its name
to the department of which Avignon is the capital. It is usually known
in the region as Fontaine de Vaucluse, owing to its being situated at. the
very source of the small River iSorgues, which, as is not unusual in this
part of France, issues from a chasm, or vent, at the base of tertiary,
Fig. 4. Ruins near Vaucluse known as Chateau de Petrarquc, also shown to
the right in Fig. 1.
limestone, cliffs. Fig. 2 shows the chasm during a dry period, when
the lessened flow finds its way to the river bed through crevices at a
lower level; at seasons of greater flow, the water rises, completely
submerging the chasm and overflowing into the main bed of the river,
as shown in Fig. 2.
Vaucluse is celebrated in history for having been for some years the
refuge of the celebrated Italian poet Petrarch (1304-74), or Petrarque,
as he is known in French. After vainly striving to win the heart of the
beautiful Laura de Noves, to whom he dedicated many celebrated odes
and sonnets, he retired in despair to Vaucluse, where some of his finest
work was written. The lady died of plague in 1348. At every turn
the tourist is reminded of Petrarque and Laura; there is even a Cafe
496
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
de Petrarque in the village ! I was informed by Mons. Taccusel, how-
ever, that the imposing ruins, which are a marked feature in the
landscape (Fig. 4), and which are known locally as the Chateau de
Petrarque, was never occupied by the poet; this castle was the ancient
residence of the Bishops of Cavaillon.
Several interesting cultures, many of which are novel to an Aus-
tt-alian, are in evidence in this region, where the fertile irrigated flats
contrast strongly with the dry, almost barren, hillsides. Amongst
others, silk and truffles may be briefly mentioned.
Concerning truffle culture, little is known to the average Aus-
tralian. This is becoming quite a regular industry in Yaucluse. M.
Taccusel informed me that he was replacing some of the vines in drier
Fig. 5. Harvesting Truffles with the aid of a pig.
situations, where the yield was poor, by evergreen oaks. It is on the
roots of this small tree that this highly valuable fungus lives a s _ a
parasite, forming the tubers, or truffles, which, at the time of my visit,
were worth 13s. per lb., though in years of plenty the price falls to
aibout one-third of this. Eemarkable progress has been made recently
in the establishment of artificial truffieres, in other words, evergreen
oak plantations, with a view to truffle production. Small trees, 4 to 8
feet high, often bear a truffle on their roots of up to 1 lb. in weight.
The harvesting of the crop is most interesting. Being underground,
the tuber can only be located, thanks to the keen sense of smell of pigs
or dogs; both animals are used for the purpose. Gathering, with the
assistance of a pig, is shown in Fig. 5.
10 Aug., 1918.] Lucerne Manurial Trials. 497
LUCERNE MANURIAL TRIALS AT RESEARCH FARM,
WERRIBEE.
THE VALUE OF WINTER TOP=DRESSING AND RENOVATION.
(H. A. Mullett, B.Ag.Sc.)
Object of the Trials.
Lucerne is a plant wliich has wonderful foraging powers. When
properly treated, yields from 6 to 8 tons of hay per annum may be
obtained. It, however, makes large demands on the soil minerals, and,
further, the watering which is usually neAessary is not without its effect
on fertility.
On most soils continual application of water results in the surface
setting down. This leads to bad aeration and sour conditions, which, if
not treated, will inevitably depress yields.
In extreme cases, such as may be seen in parts of the Goulburn
Valley, so great is the need for manures that many of- the stands are
now quite unprofitable, while often the continual watering and lack of
cultivation and drainage have caused such sour conditions, rushes have
come up during the last two years on farms where they have never been
seen before. It was with the object of determining the relative effect of
manures in supplying mineral deficiencies and in augmenting and arrest-
ing the decline of yields, that a series of top-dressing trials was laid
down at Werribee in 1913.
Thorough winter renovation was adopted as standard practice, and
the success of both the manuring and the cultivation in maintaining
yields and the freedom from rushes has been strikingly demonstrated.
Similar results have been obtained in the northern irrigation districts.
Lay=out of the Plots.
The manures to be tested are top-dressed in parallel strips at right
angles to the direction of the greatest slope of the land; even watering
is therefore insured. The manurial application, which is top-dressed
after the winter renovation in August, is made only every second year.
Check plots, on which no manure is dressed are provided, and the dry-
cured hay from each is weighed separately. Up to six cuttings are
usually obtained per annum, but in some years, owing to failure of
irrigation supplies and to other causes, fewer cuts have resulted. Last
year four cuts were obtained, but, owing to shortage of labour, only three
of the four were weighed, so that the figures for the yields of 1917-18
are for these three cuts only.
Results of Trials.
From the very first it was evident that certain of the manures, par-
ticularly superphosphate and stable manure, were having a marked
effect on the yields. The effect of relatively insoluble manures like
Thomas' phosphate and bone fertilizer has not been marked. The use of
soil amendments like lime and ground limestone have given payable
498
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
returns, particularly last year, when, owing to excessive rainfall, some-
vvliat sour conditions arose. The following are the results : —
Table showing Yield of Air-dkt Commercial Hat obtained
FOR THE Seasons 1914-15, 1915-16, 1916-17, 1917-18.
No.
1
i
of
Plot,.
Treatment.
1914-15.
1915-10.
191 6-1 T.
1917-18.
Total.
tns. cwt.
tns. cwt.
tns. cwt.
tns. cwt.
tns. cwt.
7
Super. 2 cwt.
5 11-0
4 1-6
4 18-3
3 0-8*
17 11 'T
8
No Manure . .
4 12-7
3 4-8
3 11-9
2 9-1*
13 18-5
9
C4round Limestone 36 cwt.f
4 16-8
3 13-6
4 10-6
2 19-1*
16 0-1
10
Lime 20 cwt.t + Super. 2 cwt.
5 8-3
4 4-8
5 11-5
3 7-9*
18 12-5
11
Lime 20 cwt.t + Thos. Phos. 2
cwt.
5 4-2
4 5-6
4 10-6
3 4-4*
17 4-8
12
Lime 20 cwt.f + Bone Fertilizer
2 cwt.
5 7-8
4 1-6
4 8-4
2 16-7*
16 14-5
13
Lime 20 cwt.f
5 3-8
3 6-8
4 0-1
3 3*7*
15 14*4
14
Lime 20 cwt.f + Super. 2 cwt.
+ Sulp. Pot. 1 cwt.
5 2*8
5 5-6
4 14-9
3 4-6*
18 7-9
15
Lime 20 cwt.f + Super. 2 cwt.
4- Nitrate Soda 1 cwt.
5 19-1
4 13-6
5 3-2
3 10-4*
19 6-3
16
Lime 20 cwt.f + Stable Manure
10 tons
5 9-0
5 3-6
5 1-6
4 5-4*
19 19-6
17
Lime 40 cwt.f + Super. 2 cwt.
5 4-2
4 16-8
3 15-0
3 10-6*
17 6-6
18
Lime 20 cwt.f + Super. 2 cwt.
+ Blood Manure 1 cwt.
5 13-6
4 18-8
5 0-2
3 18-5*
19 11-1
• Note. — The weights given for 1917-18 are for 3 cuts only; 1 cut was not weighed.
t Note. — I ime was applied in 1913-14 (the initial year) and in 1914-15 only. The other manure.9
were applied during these two years, and then every alternate year.
The table hereunder shows the net profit that has been obtained by
the use of the fertilizer top-dressings. The manures were valued as
under : —
Superphosphate
Blood manure
Bone fertilizer
Ground lime
Ground limestone
Stable manure
It will be noted that all dressings have given payable returns, and
that the least profitable plots have been those treated with insoluble
manures. While stable manure has given the highest net profit per
acre, it is not always readily obtainable. Superphosphate has given the
greatest return for the outlay involved. It has been shown to be an even
more valuable stimulant for lucerne than it is for wheat. For an outlay
of 1 cwt. of superphosphate per annum, valued at 5s., an average net
profit of over £2 per acre has been obtained as a result of top-dressing.
£ .s.
d.
.. 5 0
0
a ton
.. 11 0
0
6 5
0
1 10
0
. . 0 17
6
.. 0 2
6
10 Aug., 1918.]
Lucerne Manurial Trials.
499
Table showing Aggregate Net Profit per Acre for Four Years,
OBTAINED AFTER DEDUCTING THE CoST OF THE MaNURE.
Aggregate
Net Profit
No.
of
Plot.
Treatment per Acre.
Total
Weight
of Hay
for Four
Increase
over No
Manure
Plot.
Value of
the Increase
at i'2 10s.
Total Cost
of the
Manure
applied
per Acre
tor Four
Years,
after
Seasons.
cL
per Acre.t
deducting
Cost of
Manure.
tns. cwt.
tns. cwt.
£
s.
d.
£ s. d.
£ s. d.
16
Lime 20 cwt. + Stable
Manure 10 ton.s
19 19-6
6 1-1
15
2
9
4 0 0
11 2 9
18
Lime 20 cwt. + Super. 2
cwt. + Blood 1 cwt. . .
19 11-1
5 13-6
14
4
0
3 12 0
10 12 0
15
Lime 20 cwt. + Super. 2
cwt. + Nitrate Soda 1
cwt.
19 6-3
5 7-8
13
9
6
*
10
Lime 20 cwt. + Super. 2
cwt.
18 12-5
4 14-0
11
15
0
2 10 0
8 5 0
7
Super. 2 cwt.
17 11-7
3 13-2
9
3
0
1 0 0
8 3 0
14
Lime 20 cwt. + Super.
2 cwt. + Sulp. Potash
1 cwt.
18 7-9
4 9-4
11
3
6
*
11
Lime 20 cwt. + Thos.
Phos., 1 cwt. . .
17 4-8
3 6-3
8
5
9
*
17
Lime 40 cwt. + Super. 2
CAVt.
17 6-6
3 8-1
8
10
3
4 0 0
4 10 3
12
Lime 20 cwt. + Bone
Fert., 2 cwt. . .
16 14-5
2 16-1
7
0
3
2 15 0
4 5 3
9
Ground Limestone 36 cwt.
16 0-1
2 1-6
5
4
0
1 11 6
3 12 6
13
Lime 20 cwt.
15 14-4
1 16-9
4
12
3
1 10 0
3 2 3
8
No Manure
13 18-5
Nil
* A"* nitr.ate of soda, base slag, and sulphate of potash were obtainable at prohibitive prices only,
Calculations of net p.'ofit from their use have not been made.
t In calculating the profit per acre tne cost of the manure for two seasons only and the return of hay
for four seasons have been talten into consideration. As a matter of fact the cost of an application of
manure which was made at the seeding in 1913 and for which no direct returns were obtained has not been
included. This dressing would have a certain residual effect, which must be talcen into accoimt, but oft-
setting this there would be the after effects of the whole of the applications. Tlie value of wliich can only
be surmised. It is probably quite as much as that of the first application spread over five years.
Winter Renovation.
There can be no doubt that the winter renovation has contributed
largely to the results, and recent observations in the Goulburn Valley
irrigation areas have shown that where no cultivation is undertaken or
manure applied, the stands have become very ragged. The most
advanced men, however, by manuring .and cultivation have, except in
extreme cases, kept their plots in good order and eradicated weeds and
rushes, and their stands of lucerne leave nothing to be desired.
It should be remembered that the lucerne in the irrigation areas
is now four years older than it was at the time of the last drought,
and should abnormally dry conditions recur, the stands will not be
nearly so remunerative either for grazing or for hay growing.
In nearly every case the increased yield of lucerne will pay for a
thorough scarifying in two directions at right angles, and then a dressing
df 1 cwt. of superphosphate. The present month is the best time for
siich treatment.
500 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
TREATMENT OF CREAM.
By J. J. RicTcetts, Dairy Supervisor.
The quality of butter depends on the class of cream from which it is
made. ISTo farmer ever considers his cream inferior to that of his neigh-
bour, and very often the remark is made, '' I got only 35 per cent, and
my neighbour got 45 or 50 per cent, butter." This difference may usually
be traced to the running of the home separator. In a new separator
the cream screw is adjusted so that, if the regulated revolutions per
minute are maintained, a cream containing between 45 and 50 per cent,
of butter will be obtained. iSTot once, but scores of times, I have witnessed
a separator in action, and on inquiry been told that the handle was
making forty-five revolutions per minute, yet on timing them with a
watch, have found that the number was only forty, and sometimes it
has been as low as thirty-seven. The operator of a separator should
always have a watch hanging in front of him, so as to be able to check
the speed of the separator. Some machines are geared to forty-five and
some sixty revolutions per minute, and, if satisfactory results are to
follow, the correct speed should always be nuaintained. Too often the
farmer says, " I received 45 per cent, last week and only 38 per cent,
this week," and, without trying to find out the reason, blames the
factory manager. If the separator is geared to forty-five revolutions
per minute, and only forty are turned, it means that the driving wheel
makes five hundred less revolutions of the bowl. The farmer, in conse-
quence, gets a much larger yield of cream, but of a poorer quality in fat.
The float in the separator regulates the supply of milk from the
receiving vat. If the stem on the float has been broken off and resoldered
the additional weight may be sufficient to sink the float down in the top
cover and allow a larger supply of milk into the machine than it can
deal with, so that a proportion is going through the separator and
leaving it only partly skimmed. At a dairy fann recently I looked
into the skim-milk tank, and noticed that the contents had a thick coating
of cream on it from the morning's separating. Another cause of the
variation in the results is that occasionally the cream screw may work
loose and almost fall out. Within the last few months I met with a case
of this kind, but it is not common. Where a large quantity of milk is
dealt with by means of a hand separator, the cream at first is of a good
consistency, but as the operator tires the turning becomes slower, and
though the return of cream increases in volume, there is a correspond-
ing falling off in quality. The worth of cows on a dairy farm are too
often gauged by the number of cans of cream — not by the quantity of
butter which the cream will produce.
Another very common complaint of the farmer is the classification
of his cream as second grade. There are many factors which affect the
quality of cream, such as insanitary cow sheds, badly ventilated dairies,
keeping small quantities of cream too long, water supply, fodder, &c.
Water for cows should, if possible, be provided from a trough supplied
by a windmill and ball tap. This insures the trough always being full.
Water coming from black puggy soil often carries an organism which
10 Aug., 1918.] Treatment of Cream. 501
causes ropy milk and cream. Such places should be fenced off, so as to
prevent the access of dairy cows.
A cowshed should have fairly high walls — at least S feet — -and it
should be seen to that there is plenty of light and ventilation. The
floor should be impervious to moisture, and have a fall
from the front to the back of the cow, and a brick or concrete drain.
The skins of sheep, rabbits, foxes, or any other animals, should not be
taken into a cowshed to dry. They attract flies and exude a most
offensive odour, which quickly taints milk and cream.
The dairy should not be used as a storeroom — it should contain
nothing but the separator and cream. The building should be of a
fair height, large enough for the convenient handling of the milk, and
plenty of light and ventilation is, of course, essential.
Fodder for cows should be of the best quality. Too often is it
said, "This chaff is not good enough for the horses; give it to the
cows." The quality of the cream depends on the quality of the feed
given to the cows. Keeping cream too long is one of the many over-
sights found on small holdings where from one to three cows are
milked. A can is placed under the separator on Monday morning,
and it remains there perhaps until Friday or until it is full. The
cream from each separating goes into the one can — the hot cream
twice a day running in on top of the cold cream, and sometimes it is
the practice not to wash the separator at night. When a can of such
sort of cream is delivered at the factory it is fennenting, and " boiling "
over the top of the can, and then is heard the cry, " I got only second
quality to-day."
The separator should be washed as soon after use as possible, and
the various parts scalded by being put into a trough or tub and a can
of boiling water poured over them. They should then be placed in the
sun to dry.
A separate vessel should be used to catch the yield of each separation
and the morning's cream should not be added to the general can until
evening and the evening's cream until the following morning. I have
for years noted that when this method of handling cream is followed
there is usually no complaint about second quality. The stirring of
the cream twice a day at least is a good preventive against the growth
of bacteria, and makes the cream of a more uniform quality.
Recently I made inquiries regarding the quality of butter produced
on a farm where only a few cows were milked, and where the pre-
cautions suggested above were observed, and the cream churned twice
a week. I was told that the butter was considered the best made in
the district, and was much sought after by the residents. This proves
the advisability of making butter while the cream is reasonably fresh,
or if the cream be sold to a factory, the desirableness of sending it
as frequently as possible.
The pasturing of dairy cows on rape or any rank greenstuff immedi-
ately prior to milking also has a marked detrimental effect on the
quality of cream. While the food is undergoing the process of digestion
some of its gases pass into the blood, and as the milk is secreted from
the blood, some of them are given off with the milk. If the cows are
pastured on the fodder immediately after milking and taken off
502 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918
several hours before milking, the gases will have in the meantime been
consumed by the digestive system.
Unclean cans also have a detrimental effect on the quality of cream
stored in them, and those in a rusty condition should not be used.
Rust slightly " honey-combs " the iron, and the crevices thus formed
make good breeding-places for different kinds of bacteria. If cream be
kept for a few hours in a rusty can with the lid on, it will give off
a strong unsavoury smell, and this is often the cause of second quality
cream. Sometimes when a can is patched the hole is not first soldered,
and consequently there are small cavities, which cannot be thoroughly
.cleansed, with the result that cream put into the can is contaminated.
"When cans are returned from the factory, they should always be washed,
steamed, or put in boiling water before being again used, and it should
not be overlooked that the outside of the cans requires as much attention
as the inside, for the same hands handle both cans and cream.
Cream is often carted to the roadside and left standing there
perhaps hours for the cream cart to come along. When treated thus
in the hot days of summer, and afforded no protection from the sun,
is it any wonder that it is marked second quality. A farmer knows
that if he kills a sheep at night he must be up in the morning and
bring the carcass in before the warm sun gets on it, but he does not
think of the sensitiveness of cream to the heat. It would not take
long to provide a small shed for the cream to (Stand in while it remains
at the roadside waiting for the carrier. Many a can of good cream
has been ruined by permitting it to stand in the sun, and farmers
have admitted to me that the only time they have had second quality
cream was when they neglected it thus.
From the observations made, it is plain that the farmer possesses
the power to regulate his cream returns and to improve the quality
of his cream. If he would but exercise this power, he would have less
abuse for the butter factory manager, for no butter maker can manu-
facture first class butter out of second quality cream.
The aim of the Dairy Supervision Act is to improve the quality
of our dairy produce. If, in order to comply with the provisions of the
Act, the farmer has to build better sheds and dairies, he should not
forget that these tasks will bring him larger profits and will also in-
crease the value of his holding.
NOTES ON THE SAPINDUS OR SOAP TREE.
According to Dr. Trabut {Revue de Viticulture, 5th January, 1901).
a species was imported by the Algerian Government in 1845. Young
plants were raised and distributed to settlers in 1859. In 1867, Hardy,
Director of the Alger Experimental Gardens, drew attention to its
heavy crop of fruit. In 1869, Riviere, Hardy's successor, catalogued
it as follows: —
" Sapindus emarginatus. — Tree of Central American origin,
producing fruits, the envelope of which can replace soap for
washing linen."
10 Aug., 1918;] Notes on the Sapindus Tree. 503
This Sapindus is allied to a Japanese species, S. mukorossi* from
wliicli it differs by its keeled fruit, a new species was therefore created,
viz., S. utilis. The fruit, when dry, weighs up to 6 or 7 grammes (^ oh.).
Seedlings vary greatly, especially as regards yield. M. Bertrand planted
cuttings of selected seedlings in 1895 ; by 1901, some trees yielded up to
50 kil. of fruit each (110 lbs.), whereas seedlings seven years' old bore
no crop. Dr. Trabut considers the tree to be worthy of taking an
important place in French-Colonial cultures.
Riviere and Lecq, in their work Practical Agriculture for Northern
Africa, devote a couple of pages to this tree under the title of Sapindus
or Soap Tree. Trees belonging to the Sapindaceae family bear fruit
with a soapy pulp which has been used for centuries by different peoples
of tropical countries. It is a handsome, almost evergreen, tree, often
bearing heavy crops of fruit varying in size from that of a large filbert
to a walnut. The plant referred to by Dr. Trabut was sent to Alger
from the Botanical Gardens of the Paris Faculty of Medicine, under
the name of S. marginatus. It is sometimes also called ^S*. emarginatus.
It was renamed by Radlkofer in 1873 8. mukorossi var. Carinatus.
During the past few years (the work is dated 1914), a Sapindus utilis
has been much spoken of, which is none other than the old plant
re-baptized. This large tree has a well-defined trunk, and handsome,
almost evergreen, leaves. The fruit ripens in winter. It thrives on
the lower plains in rich, free, irrigable soil, which alone suits it; under
other conditions, its growth is slow, and yield poor.
On boiling the fruit with water, a soapy emulsion is obtained well-
suited for cleaning woollens and silk, to which it gives a kind of lustre.
The dried fruit contains about 62 per cent, of sapindine (probably the
same as saponine). A fine white powder can be extracted from it, which
was much remarked at the Colonial Exhibition at Lyon, in 1894. A
considerable demand for this was booked for in connexion with the wool
and silk spinning industries.
The authors consider that it would be imprudent to conclude that
this fruit has an economic value and an assured demand such as would
render its plantation on a large scale profitable. Attempts to popularize
the product during the past twenty years have led to no result. Two
or three Sapindus trees on a farm would suffice for household needs.
More recently still (Progres Agricole 1911-1912), Gastine has
recommended Saponine for the purpose of giving greater wetting power
to fungicide sprays, for which purpose it seems to be of considerable
value. This use is also referred to in the reports of the "Woburn Experi-
mental Orchard (Pickering and the Duke of Bedford), Gelatine and
casein are now used for the same purpose.
In the Melbourne Botanical Gardens, there are three species of
Sapindus, viz., S. emarginatus, about 3 feet high; S. mukorossi, about
10 feet high ; and S. trifoliatus, a small plant.
* In Japan this is known botanlcally as Sapindus Muliuroshi, the specific name being derived from
Mukuroji, the common Japanese name of the tree.
501
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
VICTORIAN RAINFALL.
Second Quarter, Year 1918.
District.
^
Quarter.
<
S
3
t-5
Points.
Points.
Points.
Points.
Mallee North . .
District Mean . .
Il8
328
lUl
557
Normal
61
116
139
316
Per cent, above normal
110
183
76
„ below „
••
27
••
Mallee South . .
District Mean . .
106
302
124
532
Normal
91
132
172
395
Per cent, above normal
16
1-9
35
„ below „
145
28
••
North Wimmera
District Mean . .
266
223
634
Normal
111
164
208
483
Per cent, above normal
31
62
7
31
„ below „
••
••
••
South Wimmera
District Mean . .
106
313
280
799
Normal
152
197
270
619
Per cent, above normal
36
59
4
29
„ below „
Lower Northern Country
District Mean . .
142
442
186
770
Normal
109
171
220
500
Per cent, above normal
30
158
54
„ below „
15
••
Upper Northern Country
District Mean . .
184
466
229
879
Normal
145
193
264
602
Per cent, above normal
27
141
46
„ below „
216
. 13
Lower North-East
District Mean . .
688
363
1,267
Normal
170
257
38S
815
Per cent, above normal
27
168
55
„ below „
309
6
••
Dpper North-East
District Mean . .
1,146
636
2,091
Normal
266
373
597
1,236
Per cent, above normal
16
207
7
69
„ below „
••
••
••
East Gippsland
District Mean . .
178
156
384
718
Normal
240
246
308
794
Per cent, above normal
, ,
25
..
„ below „
26
37
••
10
West Gippsland
District Mean . .
158
619
366
1,143
Normal
288
303
349
940
Per cent, above normal
. ,
104
5
22
„ below „
45
••
••
East Central . .
District Mean . .
141
575
267
983
Normal
274
306
341
921
Per cent above normal
88
7
„ below „
49
22
10 Aug., 1918.
The Castor-Oil Plant.
505
Victorian Rainfall — continued.
District.
6
Quarter.
<
C3
5.
Points.
Points.
Points.
Points.
West Central . .
District Mean . .
123
311
222
656
Normal
192
214
244
650
Per cent, above normal
45
1
„ below „
30
9
North Central
District Mean . .
2()0
590
353
l,20.i
Normal
ISO
253
334
772
Per cent, above normal
41
133
6
56
„ below „
Volcanic Plains
District Mean
141
354
268
763
Normal
183
224
164
671
Per cent, above normal
58
2
14
„ below „
23
West Coast . .
District Mean . .
126
413
367
906
Normal
241
302
352
895
Per cent, above normal
37
4
1
„ below „
48
THE CASTOR-OIL PLANT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
Possibility of Establishing the Industry in Australia.
1. Introduction. — Castor-oil is derived from the seed of the Castor
Plant, Eicinus communis, L., which is believed to be a native of North
Africa and India. Of this plant, there are numerous varieties which
are sometimes regarded as distinct species.
The Castor Plant is cultivated as a crop in India, Java, Brazil, and
the United States, and is grown as an ornamental garden shrub in most
of the warmer countries in the world. It is also found as a wild or semi-
wild plant in most warm countries, having probably escaped from culti-
vation.
In the tropics, it forms a small tree from 20 to 30 feet or more in
height. In warm-temperate climates, it is a shrub 8 to 12 feet high,
whilst in localities where frost occurs it is a herbaceous perennial.
Under cultivation in temperate climates it is treated as an annual.
In India, the leaves are used as fodder for cattle, and in Assam they
are used for feeding the Eri silkworm. The chief product of the plant is,
however, the seed or Castor-bean, from which oil is extracted.
506 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 AuG.> 1918.
The beans produced by different varieties vary in size, colour, and
shape, as well as in oil content. For practical purposes, the varieties
may be grouped as large and small-seeded forms. The former are more
prolific in yield, and the oil obtained from them is used chiefly for
lubricating and industrial purposes, the small-seeded varieties yield the
better-quality oil used in medicine.
2. Cultivation. — Since the castor plant is sensitive to frost, it requires
a warm climate, or a temperate climate with a long summer. In
general, it will succeed in any locality Avhere maize will ripen. Moisture
is essential for the germination of the seed, but when once the plant is
established, it requires little rain, and excessive rainfall is injurious to
it. The most suitable soils are rich, well-drained, sandy, or clayey loams,
or in general soils which will produce good wheat or maize crops. Very
loose sand and heavy clays are alike unsuitable.
Deep ploughing and harrowing are essential. The plant is exhaust-
ing to the soil, and, except in virgin land, requires manuring. For this
purpose, the residual cake left after expressing the oil is valuable, and
the leaves and . seed husks of the plants are also useful if ploughed in.
Pure crops should not be taken from the same land more than once in
five or six years. In India, it is not often grown as a pure crop, but is
usually grown as a hedge round cotton or sugar fields. The plants are
not liable to the attacks of fungi or insects to any great extent.
3. Harvesting. — The capsules of the small-seeded varieties begin to
ripen in four or five months, those of the large-seeded varieties in seven to
ten months after sowing. Since when ripe the capsules of many varieties
burst suddenly and scatter the seed to a considerable distance, it is
necessary to gather the spikes bearing the capsules as soon as they show
signs of ripening. When ripening has commenced, the crop requires
looking over once a week in order that ripening capsules may be gathered.
An attempt has been made in the United States to produce a variety
which ripens all its capsules at once, but apparently this has not been
accomplished.
The capsules when gathered are spread out on a floor, preferably in
an open shed where they are exposed to the sun and protected from
the rain. They need to be turned over from time to time. When all
the capsules have shed their seed, the husks are removed and the seeds
swept up and collected. Capsules are also gathered from wild plants,
and the seed obtained in the same manner.
India is the principal producing country, exporting annually about
1,500,000 cwts. of beans. In addition, about 1,500,000 gallons of oil
are exported annually from seed crushed in India. Before the war,
about 400,000 gallons of this oil were exported to Australia.
4. Extraction of the Oil. — Castor beans are crushed by crude native
machinery in India as well as by more modern machinery. Beans
imported to Europe are crushed chiefly at Hull and Marseilles by
methods similar to those adopted for other oil seeds. The only firm
in Australia which manufactures the oil from imported seed is Lycett
Proprietary Limited, ]^ormanby-road, Montague, Melbourne.
10 Aug., 1918.] The Castor Oil Plant. 507
Tor the finer grades of oil, selected seed is taken, the husk removed,
and the soft kernels expressed in the cold. The colourless oil thus
obtained is free from the poisonous principle, ricin, which is present
in the seeds. The remaining cake is pressed again, yielding inferior oil.
Inferior seed is hot-pressed directly, or else the oil is extracted by
solvents. The solvents used are carbon bisulphide, or alcohol. The oil
is subsequently refined by steaming.
The beans contain 45 to 53 per cent, of oil, about 40 per cent, being
obtained by expression. The residual cake is not available for stock
feeding, since it contains the poisonous ricin. It is, however, as already
mentioned, a useful manure.
5. The Castor Plant is Australia. — The castor plant grows wild in
many parts of Australia, particularly in "Western Australia; along the
Torrens Kiver, in South Australia ; and in the neighbourhood of Sydney.
Mr. W. M. Doherty, F.I.C., stated in a communication to the Industrial
Section of the Royal Society of New South Wales, in April, 1918, that
he had collected seeds from a vigorous plant growing in sand near the
shore of Botany Bay, and he exhibited samples of oil crushed from
the seed of two varieties grown at Wamberal, near Gosford, ISTew South
Wales. The analysis of the oil was quite satisfactory.
Lycett Proprietary Limited have tested two samples of seed from
Western Australia on a laboratory scale, and obtained 47 and 49 per
cent, of oil respectively, as against 53 per cent, from Calcutta and Java
beans. This is high enough to form a paying proposition provided the
seed could be obtained in sufficient quantities.
6. Prospects of the Industry. — Castor oil is used largely as a lubri-
cant for machinery, especially in warm climates, and its use has been
increased lately in Europe and the United States, owing to the demand
for it as a lubricant for aeroplane engines. The present price of the
seed in Australia is £20 to £25 per ton, c.i.f., Melbourne, and the demand
is about 200 tons per month. Before the war, the price was £11 to
£J3 per ton, but it is very improbable that prices will fali as low as
this for a number of years after the war.
The crop, as already indicated, is a quick-growing one, and seed
can be harvested within six to ten months. The chief drawback is
undoubtedly the labour required in gathering the seed. In addition,
there is no experience available in Australia as to the best cultural
methods, nor as to the best varieties of seed for cultivation. Lycett
Proprietary Limited are planting a small area at Violet Town, Vic-
toria, in order to obtain this information for the benefit of growers. In
the meantime, this firm is prepared to supply Indian seed to intending
cultivators.
— (Communicated hy the Commonwealth Council of Science
and Industry.)
508 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aro., 1918.
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
{E. E. Fescott, F.L.S., Pomolorjisi.)
The Orchard.
If the winter spraying lias been delayed, it should be completed as
quickly as possible, and before the buds begin to swell and burst.
It is not advisable to spray the stone fruits with the red oil emulsion
at this time, as there is danger of burning and destroying the early
buds that may be swelling, arid consequently loosen their outside scales
It will be safe, if the work be done at once, to spray apple., pear and
quince trees with this spray, especially where the Fyrobia Mite, scale
insects, or woolly aphis are prevalent.
If it is intended that the lime-sulphur wash be the specific for these
and other pests, it may be used with safety, although the spraying
should be completed as early as possible. This mixture has a certain
value as a fungicide, and it is well worth trying on peach trees thai
have been affected with the leaf curl ; more especially in view of the fact
that in some districts severe burning has occurred in peach orchards aa
a result of using Bordeaux mixture late in the season.
Where peach aphis has appeared, it will be advisable to spray at
once with a strong nicotine solution. Tobacco stems should be soaked
in cold water for some days, and a teaspoonful of caustic soda added to a
cask of steeping stems. The liquid should be made strong, and everj
endeavour made to kill out the first insects that appear.
The pruning of deciduous trees should be at an end this month
The pruning of evergreens such as oranges, lemons, and guavas, may be
left until later.
Young deciduous trees must be planted not later than this month.
The soil should be trodden firm round the roots, and, when planting
has been completed, the tree ought to be headed back to three or four
buds on each arm.
Preparation may be made for planting citrus and other evergreen
trees. It is necessary that the soil be well ploughed and SAveetened in
anticipation of planting in September and October.
In root-borer affected districts, the beetles will begin to appeal
during the latter part of the month. A close observance should be
kept on them and the insects regularly collected and destroyed.
The Flower Garden.
All winter-flowering shrubs that have dropped their blossoms may
now be pruned. It is important to prune these immediately after
flowering, so that the plant may be able to make plenty of flowering
wood for next season.
10 Aug., 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 509
Seed beds and plots need constant cleaning and weeding. Weeds
must now be kept out of the garden, both by hoeing and hand picking.
The seedlings growing in their permanent situations should be thinned
out and given a good chance to develop strong and sturdy plants.
Divisions of herbaceous plants such as delphiniums, cannas, shasta
daisy, herbaceous chrysanthemums, rudbeckias, salvias, and phlox, may
still be planted out. If it is intended to leave the plants in the places
they occupied last season, they should be lifted, the soil being well dug
and manured, and the crowns planted back again. By this means the
plants retain their vigour, and are able to produce good flowers each
season.
Evergeen shrubs may now" be planted out, if the spots chosen for them
have been well dug and aired. All beds should be well dug over by this
time, manure and refuse litter having been dug into the soil.
A few corms and tubers of early summer flowering bulbous plants
may now be planted.
The Vegetable Garden.
The plots should be well dug over at this time, adding gypsum or
lime where any pests have been prevalent. In other beds stable manure
should be well worked into the soil.
The soil should be rich, well worked, and warm, so that a quick
growth may result. Vegetables quickly raised are generally more
tender than slowly grown ones; and frequent changes of crops in the
plots will give better results. At this season, the weeds will require
constant checking; frequent use of the hoe will, therefore, be neces-
sary, and in the rows hand-weeding should be resorted to.
All seedlings should be planted out, especially seedlings of cabbage,
cauliflower, lettuce, and onion. Seeds of peas, carrots, parsnips, radish,
lettuce, tomato, and broad beans may be sown.
Where they can be sheltered and protected from frosts, young tomato
plants may be planted out for early fruiting. On© method of managing
these early plants is to place the young plant a few inches below the
surface, and then a box, 8 or 9 inches deep, with top and bottom re-
moved, over the plant at ground level. This can then be covered
loosely with a piece of glass whenever necessary.
Potatoes, artichokes, and asparagus crowns may be planted.
Asparagus beds should be kept free from weeds; they should have a
loose surface, and a light top dressing with old manure would be
beneficial.
In the frames, cucumber, vegetable marrow, melon, pumpkin, water
and rock melon seeds may be planted. These are best planted in pots
placing three or four seeds in each pot ; they then suffer no check
when being transplanted into beds.
510 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
REIVIIflDERS fOR SEPTEMBER.
LIVE STOCK.
Horses. — Feed stabled horses well; give green stuff if available. Continue
rugging to encourage the shedding of the coat; good grooming will also be
beneficial. Give hay or straw to grass-fed working horses. Feed old and badly-
conditioned horses liberally. In foal mares due to foal early, if worked, should
be turned out to paddock. Stallions doing stud duty should be fed liberally.
Equivalent amount of cracked Indian corn (maize) may with advantage be
substituted for oats, if latter grain is scarce.
Cattle. — Cows should still be rugged, but coverings should be removed
frequently, in order to enable the animal to get rid of the old coat; or, better
still, a good curry-combing may be given. Continue hay or straw. Look up
treatment for milk fever in Year-Book of Agriculture, 1905, and treat cattle
accordingly. Give calves a good warm drj' shed. Give the milk to young
calves at blood heat. Have feeding troughs or buckets clean. Don't over-feed.
Feed regularly with regard to quantity and time. Provide a good grass run, or
fine hay or crushed oats in a box or trough. Give a cupful of limewater per
calf per day in the milk. The problem with many at the present time is how
to rear calves without milk. This can be done very well by starting them on
new milk for a fortnight, and then gradually substituting the milk with one of
the calf meals on the market. To these it would be advisable to add two or three
tablespoonfnls of cod liver oil. The following meal is in general use in Ireland : —
Two parts, by weight, of oatmeal, 2 parts maize meal, 1 part pure ground lin-
seed, all finely ground. Scald with boiling water, and allow to stand for twelve
hours. Start with new milk, then gradually substitute skim and J lb. daily of
the meal mixture per head per day, gradually increasing to 1 lb. or more. In a
month milk may be dispensed with altogether. The crushed oats, fed dry, have
been found to give excellent results.
Pigs. — Supply plenty of bedding in warm well-ventilated sties. Keep sties
clean and dry, and feeding troughs clean and wholesome. Sows may now be
turned into grass run. If pigs are lousy dress with kerosene emulsion or
sulphur and lard, rubbing well into crevices of skin, and disinfect sties. Con-
sidering the present high price of pork, there should be a good margin of profit
in fattening pigs. Worms are very prevalent at present, and may be treated by
giving 2 to 10 grains of Santonin in form of pill, or from half to one teaspoonful
of oil of turpentine in milk or castor oil.
Sheep. — Wherever early shearing is possible, and shelter available, all sheep
to be disposed of can be fattened earlier, if shorn. Sheep or lambs not good
enough for freezing also thrive better after being shorn. Where insufficient know-
ledge of grading cross-bred wool exists, draft the coarse sheep from the fine before
coming into the shed, and shear and bale separately. Clean all daggy sheep before
bringing them on to the shearing board. Avoid deep and careless skirting. Only
dense seedy parts, and heavy frilDs and stains should come off fleeces. Press in a
box press, which forms square sides to bales, and avoid round bales, called " Sew
Downs." Pack in all possible. Brand boldly and neatly on the long and narrow
side. Clean carefully all straw, chaff, &c., from shearing place. Cut back all
misshapen feet when noticed during shearing. Mark all " duggy udder " ewes
for disposal, and all black-marked and inferior-fleeced sheep.
Yard and go through all well-bred Merino-Lincoln cross lambs before offer-
ing to exporters. Select, ear mark, and shear all best sorts for future breeding
and shearing. Buyers will find shafty, well bred, fine to medium grade wools,
disappointingly scarce for years.
Poultry. — September is one of the best months for hatching for winter eggs.
Incubators should be kept going, and broody hens set. Care must be taken to
keep down vermin, as they now breed quickly; use sprays in houses and Insecti-
bane or Izal in nests — nothing stunts chickens quicker than vermin. The food
10 Aug., 1918.] Reminders. 511
for young chicks should be fine oatmeal, stale bread crumbs or biscuit meal, a
little calcined bird's grit, a little chopped green stuff such as lettuce, thistles, or
green lucerne or spring onions occasionally cut fine is a good tonic, and
a pinch of powdered charcoal. Slightly moisten with new milk. Make the
whole friable, and feed frequently ("little and often") just as much as they will
xeadily eat, as an excess of food only sours and disturbs their digestive organs.
Animal food may be given in small quantities after the first ten days once or
twice a week. Chickens should be protected from damp ground and the cold,
bleak winds.
CULTIVATION.
Fabm. — Plant early potatoes, and work up fallow for the main crop. Keep
fallow for summer forage crops well worked up with the disc and harrows.
Make early sowings of mangolds, beet, field carrots, and turnips. Push on with
the fallowing in the Northern Districts. Prepare land for tobacco seed beds
by burning rubbish on the site; afterwards work up to depth of three or four
inches.
Oechabd. — Commence spring ploughing; plough in leguminous crops for
green manure as soon as the plants are in full flower. Finish grafting early in
the month. Spray peach and apricot trees with Bordeaux mixture as the
blossom buds are opening, as a preventive against " leaf curl " and " shot
hole " fungi ; watch for peach aphis, and spray when present with tobacco
solution.
Flower Gabden. — Cultivate and work up the surface to a fine tilth — clear
out all weeds. Water newly-planted shrubs, &c., if the weather is dry. Plant
out cannas, early dahlias, chrysanthemums, gladioli, and other herbaceous
plants.
Vegetable Gabden. — Plant out seedlings. Sow seeds for summer use, such
as tomatoes, cucumbers, marrows, pumpkins, melons, &c. Plant out tomatoes,
and shelter till frosts are over. Hoe and work up the soil surface.
ViNEYAED. — Plantation of young vines (grafted or ungrafted) should be
concluded before the commencement of September; pruning of old vines like-
wise, as well as tying down of rods on long-pruned vines. Prune recently-
planted vines just before buds commence to swell (if not pruned when planted),
cutting strongest cane back to two buds. Do not delay this work until buds
have shot, as this seriously weakens the young vine. Field grafting may be
carried out, if weather be fine and warm. If cold and wet, postpone until
October. Swab with acid iron sulphate vines which showed signs of Black Spot
last season. To avoid burning, this must be completed before the buds commence
to swell. (See articles in issues of July, 1917 and 1918.) Cultivation (scarifying
or discing) must receive attention when soil is in suitable condition.
Cellar. — Conclude spring racking early in month, if not already done. Fill
up, regularly, all unfortified wines.
512 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Auo., 1918.
GOOD FITTING COLLARS ESSENTIAL.
With the great demand for horse-power on the farm and in the army,
we are looking after the welfare of our horses somewhat more carefully.
Protecting them from pain while at work or at rest is about on a par
with good food and shelter in aiding these faithful animals to generate
their maximum amount of power.
Sore shoulders and neck are common sources of pain to the working
horse. Since these important parts are under such severe pressure
while pulling a load, it is very necessary to keep them sound. It has
been found that practically all injuries to these regions can be avoided
if proper care is exercised. Poorly-fitting collars and neglect to the
parts themselves are potent causes of shoulder and neck troubles.
It is well to remember the old maxim, " fit the collar to the horse and
not the horse to the collar." The necks and shoulders of horses (writes
J. "W. Benner, in the Maritime Farmer) are found to differ about as
much in shape as those of people, so a collar fitting one horse is often-
times a misfit for another.
Best results are obtained where the collar follows closely the contour
of the shoulders and fits in closely to the sides of the neck. Collars that
are too wide, which stand away from the sides of the neck too far, cause
harmful friction upon the working surface of the shoulders, often
resulting in the formation of abscesses, ulcers, and shoulder sweeney.
The care of these important regions of the horse's body is simple
enough if the proper collar is chosen for the animal. In hot summer
weather it is good practice to wash the shoulders and necks of horses
every evening when the collar is removed. It should never be done
just before the animal is to be worked, for the skin should always be dry
when the collar is to work upon it.
Common soap of non-irritating qualities may be used for bathing
these parts, or a choice of two or three other preparations may be made.
Cold salt water, water with a little vinegar added, or about one per cent,
alum water may be substituted for the soap and water, and seem to be
somewhat more toughening to the skin than the latter.
— The Queenslander.
^,^^^^3^^
10 Aug., 1918.]
Journal nf Agriculture, Victoria.
< <0
y JO
,0 au bu
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Wyuna Experimental Farm
Poultry for Settlers
The 1918 Special Matings for Prolific Layers include
WHITE LEGHORNS
1. Pure Cosh (World's Record Strains) —
Hens, full sisters to the mothers of the Burnley winners which estab-
lished the world's record for six birds by laying 1 ,699 eggs in twelve
months, mated with a Moritz Cockerel of the same strain as the
pullet which created a world's record at Bendigo with a total of 315
eggs for one year. p^ce, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
2. Pure Moritz
A consistently successful strain in competitions in all the Australian
States, holding the world's record for single test.
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
3. Pure Subiaco
The most successful strain in the Commonwealth,
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
4. Hens, bred from birds mentioned above,
with an average of 269 eggs for twelve months ; mated to a cockerel
of the same strain as that of the world's record winner 1916-17
(315 eggs). Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
All the birds specified above were hatched from eggs laid under the trap-nesting and
single-testing system. Each egg in the .various settings will be from a hen with records.
5. Trap-Nested Hens, average 240 eggs, mated to
Cosh Cockerel Price, £1/1/- per Setting
A limited number of Cockerels and Pullets bred from strains
specified above are available for sale. Price, £2/2/- & £1/1/- each
Note.— W. N. O'Mullane's Champion Burnley Pen (1914-15). which established
the still unbeaten world's record of 1,699 eggs, was the progeny of a hen hatched
from a Wyuna setting. This pen realized £75
10 Aug., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
RHODE ISLAND
^^^^ REDS ^^^^
Pure Dalrymple— Imported Laying Strains
1. Hens, Single-tested
Average 246 eggs, mated with the sire of the Hawkesbury
Single Pen winner (278 eggs)
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 Eggs)
2. Direct Progeny from Single-tested Hens
with records of 285 and 246 eggs, mated to a cock sired
by an imported bird.
Price, ^1/1/- per Setting (16 Eggs)
A limited number of Cockerels
Bred from birds specified above, are available for sale
Price, £2/2/- and £1/1/- each
Applications, accompanied by cheque, postal order or note?,
should be sent to the Farm Manager, Wyuna.
To allow for infertile eggs, sixteen eggs will be
forwarded for each setting. No guarantee of
fertility or replacements will therefore be made.
Journal of A t/ririif( i/re^ Victoria.
[10 Aug., 1918.
IIIIIIIIIIIUIIIIIIIIIIillllBBIIIIIIIIII
when the Bud/ drp dur/Hnd
BLACK and Green Aphis are more
readily destroyed at this period
of a tree's growth. Do not fear
to use Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying
Oil. It will never injure the buds of the
most delicate fruit tree, even when
bursting. On the contrary, it invigor-
ates the tree and paves the way for a
tip-top yield.
For the destruction of Aphis, Thrips,
Red Spider, bcale, and all insect
pests, pin your faith to Gargoyle
Prepared Red Spraying Oil.
Orchardists everywhere praise it.
Ask your Storekeeper.
Vacuum Oil Co.
Fty. Lid.
SPx4
Hii
"iiiii
nil
10 Aug., 1918.]
Joitni'il of Af/nrif/fiirc, Victoria.
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T.A.J. Smith .
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
r. J. Carmody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knight.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Kenyan, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. G. H. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. U. T. Eauterby.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cameron, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. liaxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T I.J.Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
Lr. S. S. Cameron and others.
20 NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Meeking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. »'. A. N. Robertson, B.WSc.
11. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E.V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. G. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1913-14. !>'. A. N. Roliertson, B. \'.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING. ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A . Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA,
F. R. Beuhne.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1914-15. ir. A. -V. Robert wn, B.V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. W. A. y. Rubn-taon, B. V.Sc.
34. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1916-17. W. A. iV. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
35. SUMMER BUD. or YEMA GRAFT OF THE VINE
F. dc Castella.
36. EVAPORATION OF APPLES.
39. POTATO CULTURE. J. T. Ramxay.
Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring
Bees, Feeding; Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
ing, Some Vintage Considerations, Spring Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato, Fruit
Tree Diseases and their Treatment.
21 Valuable
Improvements in
the New Mitchell
Finding it impossible to improve the
design of our Drill, we have turned our
efforts to making it
STILL MORE DURABLE
STILL LIGHTER IN DRAFT
STILL EASIER TO WORK
The new Drill altogether outclasses all
others, specially in durability, attained by
usina UNBREAKABLE STAMPED
STEEL PARTS where possible, instead
of breakable castings, so buyers reap the
benefit in reduced cost of upkeep.
This feature alone makes the "Mitchell"
worth pounds more than others-
A USER'S EXPERIENCE
Mr. W. A. CAPRON, Table Top, da Albury.
says :—" Regarding the 16 Disc Drill 1 got from
you 10 years ago, 1 have drilled 7,000 acres and
have had no trouble v^hatever. Your drill is light,
strong, and durable. I cannot recommend it too
highly to anyone wanting a good, reliable, up-to-date
machine."
Inspect one before you buy
Ask for prices. Please say you saw this.
PPY.
LTD.
MITCHELL & CO.
West Footscray & 596 Bourke St., Melb.
Bay St., Sydney. Agencies everywhere.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[lO Aug., 191!
10 Aug., 1918. J
Journal of Agriculture^ Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
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YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp., 200 Ulustrations. 2
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PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2.. 6d.
Postage, Id.
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet. 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly *' or " Weekly.'
By Professor A. J. Ewart, Gooemment Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS. AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
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Journal of Afjriciiltvre^ Victoria. [10 Aug., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
FSiCilitieS are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers in an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Telephones :
Office: 10383 Central. Soperintendent and Engineer-in-CIiarge : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture.
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street, Melbourne.
Telephone 93SO Central.
By Authoritv:. H. .T. Guf.en, Acting- GoTernment Printer. Melbourne.
Maize Products
((
Polly" Feed and Oil Meal
All Cattle and Poultry Like It
"POLLY" BRAND FEED is just Maize, with the germ and the surplus
starch removed, toasted, and made appetismg, then dismtegrated into powder,
and put up for ready mixmg and immediate use. Is rich in Protein, viz.,
20 per cent, guaranteed.
COWS fed on "Polly" Feed will yield 20 per cent, more milk.
HORSES thrive better on "Polly" Feed because the heavy and indigestible
starch proportion is removed, and the Feed is muscle and bone forming.
" POLLY " FEED does not weevil or germinate, and it does not turn ranc'd
with age.
Maize Products "Oil Meal"
IN^Slize Oil IN^ea.! is toasted and tasteful, does not germinate or turn
rancid with age or storage. Ready for use as a mash at a moment's notice.
CALVES thrive on "OIL MEAL" better than any other.
POULTRY of all kinds do better with "OIL MEAL" than with any other.
Fattening Pigs For fat bacon nothmg IS more successful for Weight
and Flavour.
Maize Oil Meal differs from our " Polly" Brand Feed in that the
latter is cheaper and produces bone and muscle, whereas Maize Oil Meal
produces Bone, Muscle, Fat, and a Glossy and Beautiful Coat.
"Maize Oil Meal" "Polly" Brand Feed
Put up in lOO lb. bags. Every bag guaranteed.
Write for prices and further parliculars.
Note, — Visitors to Royal Show are invited to call and obtain at our booth —
Dairy Machinery Pavilion FREE SAMPLES and literature.
MAIZE PRODUCTS Pty. Ltd.
Office and Works -^— ^— Footscray, Victoria
Telephones : Footscray 367—368
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Citrus Growers !
LIMITED NUMBERS OF
CITRUS TREES
Are Obtainable from the Department of Agriculture
THE VARIETIES ARE—
Washington Navels Jalencia Late, Eureka & Lisbon
Price, £6 per Hundred
f.o.r at WAHGUNYAH
An amount of 10s. (or each hundred ordered is to accompany applications,
and the balance, £5 10s. for each hundred, is to be paid when consignees
give directions to have consignments forwarded. A charge of 2/6 per hundred
win be made for packing unless the casings be returned.
Applications must be made on the official order forms, which may be obtained
from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Citrus Nursery, Wahgunyah,
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must
be complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
Vol. XVI.
REPORT ON STANDARD
HERD TEST.
Part 9.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 5/-.)
Special Offer
to Farmers!!
Illustrated
Booklet
FREE! FREE!!
SOW BRUNNING'S SWEET CLOVER
(Melilotus Alba)
Produces highly nutritious pasture from early Spring
to late Autumn, suitable for all Live Stock, excellent
Hay, first-class Silage; its climatic adaptability, to-
gether with its wonderful soil improving qualities, will
make it one of the most valuable plants in Victoria
NOTE THESE FACTS REGARDING SWEET CLOVER
(1) Wonderful milk producer
(2) Valuable plant for Honey Bees
(3) Soil Improver
(4) Equal to Lucerne for pasture
(5) Furnishes early Spring pasture
(6) Will not bloat cattle or sheep
(7) Contains more protein than Red
Clover
(8) Withstands drought
Special booklet — now ready
"SWEET CLOVER AND ITS UTILITr'-Price, 1/1
This important Booklet will be sent FREE to any Farmer on application
t.ll (he 30th September, by mentioning this Journal.
BRUNNING'S SERVICE, Experience, and Reputation are at your commanc'.
Our Sales Force is made of practical people, who are pleased to give practical advice.
Ensure Success Use the Best Seeds
F. H. BRUNNlNG Pty. Ltd.
"Everything for the Farm" 64 ELIZABETH ST., MELBOURNE
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPAP;rMENT OF AGRICULTURE,
V"ICTORI.A-, .A.XJSTE.^ft.LI.A..
CONTENTS.— SEPTEMBER, 1918.
PA8K
Sixth Annual Report oa the Testing of Pedigree Herds ... R.T.Archer 513
Returns of Certificated Cow-
Agriculture in America
Downy Mildew ...
Orchard Notes ...
Reminders for October
s for Year Ended 30th June, 1918 ... ... 534
... A. E.V. Richardson, M. A., B.Sc. 555
... F. de Castella and C, C. Briltlehank 568
... 575
... 575
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the .Journal of the De{)artraent of Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republish any matter are at liberty to do so, provided the Jownal and author arc
both achioidedfjed.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per annum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
5s. for the United Kingdom and Foreign Countries. Single copy. Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied by the latter.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
SUNLIGHT
OIL- cake:
A Better Result.
MR. 5H AN AH AN. of Coleraine, writes:—
Dear Sirs,
1 am enclosing cheque for Oil-Cake. It took
me a long time b< fore I coukl get ttie cows to
est it. but they gi .t to like ii by degrees, and ttie
result is entirely satislactory. 1 really do not
know of a subitance ttiat could give a better
result. 1 res ret very much that 1 did not have it
earlier, and I feel sure I would have doubled mv
supply of crt^am. One of mv cows was nearly
dry, and was not giving more than a pint of m Ik
perday. Now she is giving 1 ^ gallons. Certanly
some of the result is due lo the incrt^ased
supply of grass, but from the time I got her to
eat f'e Oil-Cake she steadily improved and is
continuing on the improve.
Please send me 2cwt. more as the lasl lot
is nearly used up.
Yours faithfully,
(Signed) JOHN 5HANAHAN.
For Post Free Book —
"Science in the Dairy"
By L. A. SAUNDERS.
Late Lditor "Australian Field,"
Write to Lever Brethers Ltd., Box 2510, G.P.O., Melbourot
SUNLlCHt
Oilcake
Guaranteed Pure
See that the name "Sunlight" is
branded on every cake
PAMPHLETS
■e/
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T. A. J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Carmody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knic,ht.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Kenyan, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. .J. Smith.
10. SIL05 AND SILAGE. G. H. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. //. T. Easterbi/.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cameron, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Saivers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. Ikixter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T.A.J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY, li. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
JJr. S. .S'. Cameron and otheis.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Meeking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. W. A. JS'. nobert.wn. L. r.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. llickanison, M.A., D.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. 0. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1913-14. I*'. .-1. X. Iluhertson. B.V.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, ETC.
A. II art.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J.Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. II. Beuhnr.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
- 1814-15. ir. A. S. Robertson, Ii. V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. 5. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. II'. A. JS. Rvb-rtson, B.V.Sc.
34. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1916-17. ••'• A. y. Ilobtrtson, B.V.Sc.
35. SUMMER BUD. or YEMA GRAFT OF THE VINE
F. dc Ca.s-tella.
36. EVAPORATION OF APPLES.
39. POTATO CULTURE. J. T. Ramsay.
Also Leaflfts on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring
Bees, Feeding' Cows for Milk Production, Sulphic-
intr. Some Mntasre Considerations, Spring Frosis,
Cut Worms, Insect Pe^ts of the Potato, Fruit
Tree Diseases and their Treatment.
10 Sept., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
The BANYULE JERSEY STUD
Heidelberg, Melbourne, Victoria (8 miles from General Post Office, Melbourne)
The Leading Type and Utility Herd in Australia
Strongly infused with the "Brighton King" and "Mabel's Chief" blood.
10 " Mabel's Chief " Heifers last year averaged over 300 lbs. of
Butter Fat in the 9 months' test period. Many Show Yard
Champions have been bred in this Herd — including the winner of
the Male Championship, Adelaide, 1917
Slock in great demand by Interstate Buyers
GOVERNMENT TEST RECORDS
1913 — Champion Herd and Champion Cow
1914 — Third in Herd Averages — Leading Jersey Cow, and First
for Cow under 4 years
1915 — Leading Jersey Herd
1916— Second Prize Herd — Leading Cow under 4 years
1917 — Third in List of Herd Averages
1918 — Third in Herd Averages, and Third in Order of Merit
Many individual records of over 400 lbs. fat, while the 500 !b. mark
has been exceeded.
The average milk yield of the mature cows for the 9 months' test period is nearly
750 gallons, with 18 lbs. on the last day — while 1,000 gallons has been reached
in a few instances.
There are a number of YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE
from these record making cows
Bulls all well grown and in splendid condition
INSPECTION CORDIALLY INVITED
JERSEY BREEDERS AND DAIRY FARMERS
Improve your Herd by selecting a Bull from this Stud.
Prices and Partrculars—
C. GORDON LYON, "BANYULE," HEIDELBERG
or 17 Queen Street, Melbourne
'PHONE— HEIDELBERG 16 CENTRAL 1498
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Including Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES.
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
Inspedion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA,
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairymg conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springhurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture,
Melbourne.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 190S
4-48 Pages
200 Illustrations
2 Coloured Plates
ri»*l. Q. CA , »..%»* 9. fiJ Pos/age; C. cloth 2}4d., paper 2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d..
Cloth, St, bd. ; paper, Z$. bd. p.per^Sd. ; B. and F., doth l.. 6d.. paper. Is. 4d.
^
ARRAN CHIEF"
Seed Potatoes
£1 per cwt.
12/6 - 56 lbs.
7 6 - 28 lbs.
Cash with order
Free on Rail Nowa Nowa
C. HENDRIE&SONS,
Lake Tyers, via Now.
a N
Bed Growers
owa, Vic.
w
10 Sept., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
The MELROSE JERSEY HERD
^^^ Great Sale ^
^^a
J
100 FEMALES and 20 BULLS of this wonderful
herd will be disposed of EARLY IN NOVEMBER
DAIRYMEN AND JERSEY BREEDERS, take
the opportunity of securing animals to improve your herds
GOVERNMENT TEST RECORDS
1914— Champion Herd
1915 — Leading Jersey Herd and Best Jersey Heifer
1916 — Champion Herd and Champion Cow
1 9 1 7 — Second Prize Herd — Leading Cow under 4 years,
and 1st for Jersey Heifer
1918 — Champion Herd, Champion Cow, and Leading
Jersey Heifer
ALSO — Many Show Yard Honours too numerous to mention.
Make your name famous by
securing some Melrose Jerseys
Wm. WOODMASON, "MELROSE/^ MALVERN, VIC.
'PHONE-MALVERN 464
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
«
BILLABONG Centrifugal
PUMPS
also made with
End Suction
For raising large quantities of Water
for Irrigation and other purposes.
This Centrifugal Pump embodies many
notable features a result of our long
experience in Pump manufacture. It
is made at our Melbourne Works of
good quality materials and by expert
: : : Pump Engineers : :
The efficiency of our pumps taken under actual test is 75 J per cent. This, we
consider, for a stock line of pump, altogether above the average.
Specifications
and Prices
on Application
&SONi
Expert
Advice
Free
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Fluming, &c., &c.
Melbourne and Sydney
■<^
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
Propy. Ltd.
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and CORN IN A MANUFACTURERS
■ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR ^
GRAIN TO US. •^
BOX 53.
G.P.O., MELBOURNE.
\±
•^
10 Sept., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Balance — paj' as you earn. Expert will
erect, start, and frive week's trial. These
are the conditions on which jou purchase a
"Tangye" British Built
Oil Engine
It combines simplicity with the utmost
efficiency. Every part is simple, stronj;',
durable, and easilj' accessible. Because of
its low cost of operatinir, the ease of staitin^
and running: it, its strength and durability,
it is the enifine that every proirressive farmer
should buy. Starts on petrol, and switches
instantly on kerosene. Lanipless type, mag-
neto ig-nition. Works all day without atten-
tion. CO purchased by N.S.W. Government.
Stationary and portable 2 to 2S H.P. in stock.
Get large Catalog " T."
Over
4,000
Australian
Farmers
Swear by
The "Lister" British Built
Petrol Engine
as the most compact, simple, durable, strong,
efficient and reliable power for all farm work.
Every Lister is fitted with
High Tension Magneto and
Special Carburetter
and is so simple in construction that you can start
and run one without previous experience. No other
farm machine pays for itself in such a short time.
Immediate deliveries can be had from stocks.
Runs easily and smoothly. Expert will erect, start,
and give week's trial. £10 down. Balance easy.
Write for Catalog.
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
Agents for Doncaster Hand and Motor Spray Pump, Vineyard and Potato Sprayers,
"Harbas" Spraying Oil, "Harola" Lime Sulphur Solution.
116 Sturt Street
South Melbourne
USE
FOR
BRANDING
YOUR
SHEEP
KEMP'S ^"^p^Q^^^
Sheep-Branding
z^
LIQUID
It has been proved by hundreds of Woolgrowers, amongst
them some of ihe largest squatters in Australia, to be an un-
qualified success, and to do everything that is claimed for it.
BLACK AND BLUE (in Cases)
Containing Tw^o
4-gal. tins - -
6 /•J per Or Eight 1-gal. tins
/ O gal. - 7/6 per gal. -
AGENTS
DALGETY & Co. Ltd.
MELBOURNE
& GEELONG
Vlll
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
A New Farm Tool
AN AUSTRALIAN INVENTION
The E. T. K.
PORTABLE
DRILLING MACHINE
Can be fixed to a post, tree, bench, or anywhere
convenient in a minute, or taken into the field or
anywhere to the work.
Can be changed in one minule into a
CHAIN DRILL LIFTING JACK FLOOR DOG
WOOD BORER CRAMP of any length
ORDINARY VYCE PIPE VYCE
SAW VYCE or LATHE
The Price is-
3 5 I - Illustraled E.T.K. Book Free
AJ^PIiersonS:
V'"''^ Proprietary Limited
TOOL MERCHANTS
554-66 & 582-88 Collins St., MELBOURNE
CREDIT FONCIER
-^
Loar
UP
In
A
and from \\ per ce
IB 2J\ years.
Loans granted
rnado hreekoid at a
N
Loans may be
charge i( peud off wi
Forms may be
by writing to —
The Inspe
IS on F<
TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATI
sums from £50 to £2,0'
t 6 per cent. Intere
nt. in reduction of principal, whic
on Freeholds, or Crown Leasehc
ny time on payment of the balanc
9 Charge for Mortgage De(
paid off on any half-yearly pay day
thin the first five yeeurs. but no pen
obtained at any Branch of the Sta
ctor-General, The State Savi
JZABETH STREET. MELBOURr
^rms
ON
DO
St
h pays off the loan
Ids which could be
e of Crown Rents.
, subject to a small
alty after five yean.
te Savings Bank, or
tngs Bank,
4E.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
BONEDUST, SUPERPHOSPHATE,
Aid Other High-Gnde Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Csftle Lkk
Delivered at Railway Station, Footscray, or on Wharf, Melbourne
«!• \^vJC^l!V.DlJLil^y Manufacturer
OFRCE : 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. TeUphoaa 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES, SHEDS, ftc.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL OUTSIDE PAINTING
Wholesale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
-FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS-
Obtainable
from all
Storekeepers
BROOKS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insupanee
Society ltd.
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Goarantee, Plate
Glat*, Personal Accident and Sickness,
EaploTcrs' Liability, Workmen's Corapen-
tatian. Public Risk, Motor Car, and Bnrglary.
INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
^^f
"'i^ifW
Nine Years
Pracfcal Tests
The Renowned
"BLUE BELL"
Arsenate of Lead
Secure your orders at once.
F. W. PRELL & CO., 31 Queen St., Melbourne
SOLE VICTORIAN AGENTS
The Electrolytic Refining and Smelting Company of Australia Limited
COPPER
OUR prodact is equal to the best
imported brands on the market and
we GUARANTEE THE PURITY
ORDERS are being booked (or the
comins season.
(Bluestone)
We are Maoafactnrers of E.S.A. HIGH
GRADE COPPER SULPHATE (Blnestone)
for SPRAYING and PICKLING PURPOSES
and also for ELECTRICAL PURPOSES
SULPHATE
The
Manaier
FULL INFORMATION at to PRICE and DELIVERIES will be supplied ON APPLICATION to—
The Electrolytic Refining & Smelting Company of Australia Ltd.
._i»^.i_.i- PORT KEMBLA, N.S.W. ^^..._^._i^..
tESLIESftlltlCKS
A NEW FOOD FOR SHEEP, COWS, AND HORSES
Leslie Salt Licks which supersede rock salt are composed of pure sterilized
salt, toa:ether with lime, a small proportion of Epsom salts, and other
scientifically blended ingredients. They are the finest conditioner and
animal medicine known, and will do more to prevent disease than any
medical treatment. 2/- per block ; or 22/6 per case of 12 blocks (plus
freitrht to country centres). Order from saddler, produce merchant, black-
smith, butter factory, g-eneral store, or any of the foUowinfr a^'ents : —
Gippsland and Northern S llinjf and Ins. Co. Ltd., Melb. ; J^imes McEwan
and Co. Pty. Ltd., Melh.; Price, Griffiths & Co., Melb. ; J. Bartram & Son
Pty.Ltd., Melb. ; Lyall&Son, Nth. Melb. & Geelonf? ; New Zealand Loan and
Mercantile Co. Ltd., Collins & King-sts., Melb. ; or Alex. Mair & Co., Melb.
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Oarron
Boxes Is, Oil Caps.
The only Steel
Wheel that baa
Stood the Test.
BEWARE OP
MITATION8
Wheels Guaranteed tor 3 years against Breakage, &c,
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. IJ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36' and 82' dia. 4* Tyres. Table, 9i x 5J feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 cwt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 cwt.
Thea» Wheelt art guaranteed and will last for all time.
Higktr Wheels if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to iO tona.
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP — Truck body, and all classes of little Wasrons for Farm and Station work.
Wagons Shipped to all PorU in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
R. J. L. HILDYARP,
:: :: BRUCE STREET, :: ::
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
Wft WWi
Journal of Agriculture, ^Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE YEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAY BE ENROLLED AT ANY TIME
Alternative Courses —
(a) Diploma Course
(h) One Year's Course.
Three Years.
Total Feea —
£25/-/- per annum.
The college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Dookie, 1 ,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS.— Agriculture, Animal Husbandry. Poultry. Fruit Growing.
Butter and Cheese Factory Management. Building Construction for Farmers.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM. 2.336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raising, Dairying.
Irrigation of Fodder Crops. Fruit. &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS. Esq.. Secretary. Council of Agricultural Education.
Department of Agriculture. Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted in all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are eligible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointment! in the
Commonwealth and State Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full particulars apply —
The DIRECTOR. Veterinary School. PARKVILLE. VICTORIA
■ ■■ ARE YOU SATISFIED ■
WITH YOUR EYES ?
Your eyes are under a constant strain all day; they are your
most valuable possession, and neglect in the early stages
may lead to eye strain. EYESIGHT TESTED.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.O.,
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
'PHONE 6V78
for an appointment.
Estab.
32 Years
DAIRY & INCUBATOR THERMOMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
E.WOOD
EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
95 Elizabeth St., Melb.
LONDON. LIVERPOOL.
SYDNEY.
10 Sept., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If lOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
XIT
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Austredasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN. Chairman and Managing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD. Esq.. LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE. Eiq.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN. E.q. DAVID HUNTER. Esq.
This Company Acta as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trustsa sf
Settfsmsnts, and Afent for Absentees under POMter of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices — 1 13 Queen St. (Corner of Little Collins-st.)> Melbourne
=^
"1000 TREES & STUMPS
GRUBBED OUT"
Thus writes Mr. J. Sutherland, Parwan.
" I am very well pleased with the Grubbers, as they are doins very g:ood w-ork. With mine I have
close on 1,000 trees ati<l stumps {rrubbed out. I have done all this work myself without any assistance.
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10 Sept., 1918.J
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
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Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Sept., 1918.
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TH6 JOURNAL
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VICTORIA. NEwvoi
Vol. XVI. Part 9. 10th September, 1918;u»<|JH^
THE STANDARD HERD TEST.
Sixth Annual Report on the Testing of Pedigree Herds, conducted
by the Department of Agriculture, Victoria, for the Year
ended 30th June, 1918.
By R. T. Archer, Senior Dairy Inspector.
The Sixth Year of the Standard Herd Test has now been completed
and some very interesting and valuable results have accrued. It is
very pleasing and encouraging to note the increased interest being taken
in the system by farmers and others, although some of our chief breeders
have not so far decided to submit their cows to the only impartial test
of their value from a dairyman's point of view, i.e., the scales and
Babcock Tester. The time is at hand when the principal factor in
fixing the value of a cow of any of the dairy breeds will be the amount
of milk and butter-fat she is capable of producing rather than the points
that are considered in the show ring. Of course, when butter-fat pro-
ducing qualities are combined with physical appearance as in such
animals as Sweetbread and Mercedes Noble Queen amiong the Jerseys^
Scottish Queen and Laura IV. among the Ayrshires and other hand-
some high-producing cows in these and other breeds, we have what may,
perhaps, be called the ideal type of cow. However, it is to the heavy
producers that we must look for progeny to increase the average produc-
ing capacity of the dairy herds of the State. Consider what it means.
It is estimated that the average production of butter-fat per cow in
Victoria is about 140 lbs. At pre-wai* price, i.e.. Is. per lb., the financial
return would be £7 per cow. Compare this with the return from the
herd of Mr. J. D. Read. Six years ago nine of Mr. Read's cows
(including two first calf heifers) averaged 264 lbs. of butter-fat (at Is.,
£13 2s. per cow). This past season twenty-three cows, including seven
first calf heifers, nine second calf heifers, and seven mature cows,
averaged 341 lbs. of butter-fat (at Is. per lb., this means £17 Is. per
13142.
514
Journa\^Qf-AgrJ!cidtuxB,,yictoria. [10 Sept.
1918.
cow), or an increase of^7*lbs,fof-buttep-fiat per cow. In 1912-13 season
Mr. Read's herd averaged 498 gallons of milk, while for tlie 1917-18
season the twenty-t|;ree cows, ajid heifers gave an ,av,erageof 622 gallons
— an increase ,pf;, 1^4. g^*llofts;per cow., The lowest* recprd for the year is
that of Holly, W first calf heifer, wKose yield was 277 lbs. of fat. The
increased results are partly due to better methods of feeding and manage-
ment, and it is by keeping the records of milk and ascertaining its
butter-fat value that Mr. Read was able to prove that his herd would
more than pay for liberal feeding. . , '
We often hear the complaint that co\Vs on coinparatively poor land
cannot be expected to thrive as well as those on rich pastures, yet Mr.
Read's farm is in light country, and his is the only herd in the district
Year.
1915
1916
1917
Mr. C. Gordon Lyon's '
Milk. Test.
lbs. %
8,361 4 -59
7,400 4 -62
.. 10,434 4-67
Velveteen. ' '
Butter Fat.
lbs.
383-98
341-68
487-73
Last day of test,
lbs.
23
16
27
on that class of land, the land there being chiefly devoted to the growing
of wheat and the grazing of sheep. Throughout the season the cows are
fed in the bails at milking time on a mixture of concentrates, and care
is taken to see that milking takes place at regular hours. No chaff is
given. The amount of feed varies according to the quantity of milk
being produced and the condition of the cows. Heifers about to calve
are also fed in the bails.
This year the leading cow in Mr. Read's herd is Trefoil on her second
calf, and her record is 426 lbs. of butter-fat. Last year, as a
heifer, she produced 326 lbs. of fat. Nightshade, which headed the
herd list in 1916, is third this year with 418 lbs. Lucerne, a first-
calf heifer and full sister to Trefoil, made 305 lbs. of fat this year.
10 Sei't., .1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
mt^
Mr. C. Gordon Lyon's " Molly ith of Banyule.'
Year.
Milk.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
%
lbs.
lbs.
1915 (first calf) . .
5,622
5-38
302 -28
► 94
1916 . .
7,491
5-24
392-85
13i
Mr. C. Gordon Lyon's " Silvermine ISth," by " Mabel's Chief."
Year. Milk. Test.
lbs. %
1917 (first calf) . . . . 5,636 5 -41
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
lbs.
305 -18
15
516
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
The , Princess family in this herd provides a good illustration of the
transmission of butter-fat producing qualities. Princess this season
yielded almost 395 lbs., and 414 lbs. last year. Her daughter,
Princess Defiance, gave 322 lbs. in 1917 on second calf, and 415 lbs.
for 1918, Infanta, a full sister to Princess Defiance, made 281 lbs.
fat as a two-year-old, and Banksia, also a two-year-old and daughter
of Princess Defiance, yielded 308 lbs., while Czarina, full sister to both
Princess Defiance and Infanta, produced 383 lbs. This transmission
of power to produce large quantities of milk and butter fat is very
strikingly illustrated in the detailed family tree of the Jessie family,
so largely represented in Mr. Woodmason's Melrose herd. Details of
other families will be given at a later date. Mr. Read's herd, which
" Mabel's Chief." (imp.). — The sire of many good heifers.
gains second prize this year, has shown an average increase in butter-
fat production of 77 lbs. per cow during the six years they have com-
peted in the Standard Herd Test.
"What is to prevent similar methods being applied to the dairy
herds of this State generally? Only the easy-going apathy of the
farmers themselves. What would be the result in the dairy industry
of the State if similar methods were generally adopted? Suppose we
could obtain an improvement of 40 pounds per head from each
of the 600,000 dairy cows in Victoria. At Is. per lb. it would give
the dairy farmers an increased return of £1,200,000 per annum, to
say nothing of the increased profit from calves and skim milk.
During the year Mr. C. Gordon Lyon's Velveteen II. gave 10,434 lbs.
of milk, 487 lbs. of fat, and 27 lbs. of milk on the last day of the test.
Last year her yield of butter-fat was 341 lbs.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd. Tost.
517
^ 1 . t^ (M CD lO lO -t* O OS
tHO -OOCSC^OiOOOOCC
q;S ''^^ 00 "* CO CO -^ CO -^
s-
.^-rrfNcoccicOcoaO
O I> 00 W lO I> <©^ 03
-«
ra
s
CC _6p
'
o
wn
3rd
4 th
13th
hora
Starb
2nd
CO
n the
CoUee
Velve
Molly
Silver
Silver
Silver
Capto
Majes
Parra
Parra
1^
518
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
In Mr. Lyon's lierd several good families are represented. It includes
the Molly family, a member of which is Molly II., and her record is
worth reproducing. It is as follows : —
Year.
Milk.
Test.
Fat.
Milk on Last
Day of Test.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
1912-13 ..
7,440
4-85
361
17i
1913-14 ..
7,429
4-97
369
17
1914-15 ..
8,043
5-03
404
15
1915-16 ..
8,708
4-84
421
16
1916-17 ..
7,532
4-90
369
12
Average
7,830
4-92
385
15|
In the recent test Molly IV. gave 302 lbs. of fat, and Molly V., a
first calf heifer, 300 lbs. The Lassie and Silvermine families are
First calf
Mr. A. W. Jones'
" May Queen '
' (Friesiai
a).
anik.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
9,386
%
4-37
lbs.
410-39
lbs.
30
well established. The Music family holds some very interesting re-
cords, including that of Soprano, 463 lbs. fat, and Chorus, 411 lbs.
The main object of the Standard Herd Test is to discover females
whose male progeny will be of most value to dairy farmers desiring
to improve the yield of their cows. With the object of showing
the influence and importance of a good sire in improving yields, re-
cords of some of the progeny of Mr. "W. "Woodmason's imported bull
Pretty Noble were published in the Journal for September, 1916. Here-
under is reproduced the results of heifers by Mabel's Chief (imp.),
the property of Mr. Gordon Lyon. Unfortunately, both Pretty Noble
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
519
and Mabel's Chief died in the prime of life, and their loss to the
dairying industry may perhaps without extravagance be spoken of as a
national one.
Mabel^s Chief Heifers, 1917-18.
Name.
MUk.
Test.
Fat.
Butter.
Milk
Last Day.
Silvermine 14th .
Silvermine 13th .
Molly V.
May X.
May IX.
Hawthorn V.
Hawthorn IV.
Creamcake
Whitebread
Gingerbread
lbs.
6,067
5,636
5,342
4,.527
5,251
5,247
4,998
5,278
6,786
5,339
4-95
5-41
5-63
4-94
5-00
5-46
6-10
6-17
5-40
5-78
lbs.
300-14
305-18
300-95
223-57
262-81
286-37
304-90
325-80
366-61
308-87
lbs.
342
348
343
255
299
326
347
371
418
352
lbs.
21,^
15
13*
14i
13i
16"
24
Average . .
5,447
5-47
298-20
340
16i
Mr, A. W. Jones' "Jubilee 15th.
1917
1918
Milk.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
%
lbs.
lbs.
7,694
5-60
431 -10
21i
9,361
5-33
499 -55
25
520
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
At the beginning of the last test Mr. C. G. Knight's herd was
just recovering from the effects of the drought. Mixed concentrates,
together with the usual amount of soaked chaff, -are always fed to the
herd. The satisfactory improvement during the past year is largely
due to the interest and kindly attention of the younger members of Mr.
Knight's family to the dairy stock.
Arcadia, winner of the WeeMy Times Dairy Test at the Royal Show
of 1917, leads the herd for the second time in succession. This year
her record is 479 lbs. fat; last year it was 441 lbs. Royal Rose,
dam of Arcadia, yielded 345 lbs., while Foxglove, a daughter of the
latter, gave 405 lbs., and Primrose, a half-sister, 358 lbs. Mythic, a
Mr. C. D. Lloyd's " Sweetbread 24tli.'
Year.
1914
1915
1916
1917
1918
Milk.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
°'o
lbs.
lbs.
8,421
5
84
492
19
24
8,504
5
•67
482
26
17
8,484
5
•33
452
42
16
8,608
5
•39
464
20
11
8,372
4
•82
403
61
17
member of the Magnet family, and related to Mr. J. D. Read's Night-
shade, is second in the herd with 474 lbs. of fat. Six cows each gave
over 400 lbs. of fat, and eighteen, including two first-calf and four
second-calf heifers, averaged 6,483 lbs. of milk and 355 lbs. of fat
without handicaps.
Mr. F. Bidgood's name has not previously appeared in a herd test-
ing report. He has made a good beginning with Miss Twilight, with
301 lbs. of fat to her credit on her first calf. It is anticipated that
some good records will be made by the cows of this herd in the
future, as great interest is taken in their feeding and management.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
521
Mr. C. D. Lloyd's Sweetbread XXIV. keeps up her reputation,
and her five years' record is some indication of her vahie and con-
stitution-—
Year.
Milk.
Test.
Fat.
Milk on Last
Day of Test.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
1914
8,421
5-84
492
24
1915
8,504
5-67
482
17
1916
8,484
5-33
452
16
1917
8,608
5-39
464
11
1918
'age
8,372
4-82
403^
17
Avei
8,478
5-41
459
Sweetbread's two-year-old heifer Whitebread made a good start
in the last test with a total of 6,788 lbs. of milk and 366 lbs. of fat.
Milk.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
%
lbs.
lbs.
6,786
5-40
366 -61
24
TVCr. C. D. Lloyd's " Whitebread," ex " Sweetbread," by " Mabel's Chief."
Year.
1918 (first call) . .
Mr. Wm. Woodmason's Melrose herd obtains the Herd Prize
for the year under the Standard Herd Test. This is a splendid per-
formance, considering the size of the herd. Eighty-two cows completed
the test during the year, including twenty-three first-calf and nineteen
second-calf heifers. The whole herd averaged 5,926 lbs. of milk and
345 lbs. of butter-fat. Jessie VI. of Melrose wins the championship
ior the highest individual result. On another page will be found
522
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
the full record of this cow, included with the Jessie family tree and
records. The possession of complete information of the individual
performances of members of herds is an advantage held by those who
entered their herds from the commencement of the tests six years
ago, and this fact increases enormously the value of those families
shown to be consistent producers.
One of the most valuable results of the Standard Herd Test has
been its proving the dominance of production in certain families
from members of which records have been ohtained. These results
will be reproduced from time to time. Those given on page 523 of the
" Jessie " family are most striking, and will repay investigation. This
family originated from Jessie, by Freetrader out of a cow imported
by the late Mr. Edward Wilson. Jessie was awarded first prize at
[mason's
' ' Jessie
VI.
of Melrose.
"
Milk.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
7,92-t
8,342
7,691
6 -71
6-27
6-74
lbs.
532-17
523 -34
518-35
lbs.
2U
13J-
24i
Year.
1915 . .
1916
1917 . .
the National Show, Melbourne, in 1884, at the age of sixteen years.
She must have transmitted her constitutional longevity to her progeny,
for Jessie's Progress, born September, 1897, whose photograph is re-
produced on page 524,- is now twenty-one years old, and still " doing
well."
This year, for the first time, we have represented a breed that is
rapidly growing in favour in practically every country where dairying
is of importance, viz., the Friesian, or, as they are often called, Ilolstein
Friesian. There are now three herds of this breed being tested, the
owners being Mr. O. J. Syme, Bolobek, Macedon; Mr. A. W. Jones,
St.. Albans, and the Department of Agriculture. Mr. Jones' Friesian
heifer May Queen was first in the heifer class. She calved at two
10 Sept., 191S.]
Standard Herd Test.
523
JESSIE (by Freetrader), out of a cow imported by the late Edward Wilson.
awarded 1st prize at National Show 1884, when 16 years old).
Jessie 2nd (by Peter III.)
Jessie 3rd (by Brilliant).
Jessie 4tli (by Jim).
(Jessie was
to 50 50
►- l-J H- OJD
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to to Oi-^ _ to " ^
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to 00 H- o ^ *a
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"to'tooS"— ''^ o
Mto or ;>^^^ S.
*>.eocoa*:
en^JOoi :
Oi(^co° .
OOCOOOftW
to"*!
524
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
years and ten months old, and in nine months gave 9,386 lbs. of milk
of 4.5 per cent, test, 410.39 lbs. butter-fat, and 30 lbs. of milk on the
last day of the test. The herd of the Department of Agriculture was
imported from New Zealand, and should prove a valuable addition
to those already in this country. Mr. Syme's Duplicate Posch Maud
gave 10,762 lbs. of milk of 3.63 per cent, average test, 390| lbs. fat
and 22^ lbs. of milk on the last day ; while Bolobek Belle, on her second
calf, gave 10,174 lbs. milk of 3.77 test, 384^ lbs. fat, and 29^ lbs. milk
on the last day. Another first-calf heifer gave 9,055 lbs. of milk of
3.52 per cent, test, 319^ lbs, fat, and 21 lbs. milk on the last day of the
test. Though the Friesian cattle generally have a low test, it will
Mr. W. Woodmason's "Jessie's Progress.''
1914
1915
1917
Milk.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
Jbs.
%
lbs.
lbs.
6,379
6-38
406-94
18i
7,781
5-96
464-28
18i
5,916
6-23
368 -84
19
be noticed that the average of Mr. Jones' May (^ueen was 4.5. There
is no reason why the average test of this breed should not be consider-
ably improved by judicious selection and breeding.
Several herds of iVyrshire were included in the test just completed,
but many of the leading breeders still neglect to avail themselves
of the opportunity to prove the worth of this handsome breed of cattle.
Mr. "W". Greaves' " Warrook " herd bids fair to improve the reputation
of the breed, and this year his herd gained an average of 7,575 lbs.
of milk and 338 lbs. of butter-fat.
Milking Shorthorns are again represented in Mr. Atkinson's herd.
This is a breed that has been very much neglected in this country,
and in the home of the Milking Shorthorn it is only quite recently
10 Sept., 1918.1
Standard Herd Test.
525
li
55?"
1
",
^B '^^^^^^^1
^ ■ -r 'i- ■ ^^^^W
Mr. W. Woodmason's "Rarity 6th of Melrose."
Year.
1915 (second calf)
1916
1917
1918
Milk,
lbs.
6,421
8,023
8,070V
8,839
Test.
5-88
5-28
4-92
5-10
utter Fat
Last day of test
lbs.
lbs.
377 -i?
13J
423 -48
18i
396-77
18i
450-57
21*
Mr. W. Woodmason's "Quality 6tli of Melrose."
Year.
1915
1916
1917
1918
aiik.
Test.
Butter Pat.
Last day of test
lbs.
%
lbs.
lbs.
7,158i
5-83
417-45
22
8,349i
5-73
478-44
18
8,327
5-24
436-73
24
8,494
5-31
451 -29
26
526
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
that a Herd Book has been formed. The results from the " Darba-
lara" herd in New South Wales show what this breed can do when
bred and managed on sound lines. Melba VII. of Darbalara produced
over 1,000 lbs. of butter in twelve months. Mr. Atkinson has a Darba-
lara bull at the head of his herd, and good records from this herd may
be looked for in the future.
Some of the beneficial results of the operation of the Standard
Herd Test are well illustrated in the experience of Mr. A. W. Jones,
St. Albans. When he started his herd he attended clearing sales
of pure Jerseys in South Australia. Mr. Jones showed the writer his
marked catalogues, and the prices ranged from five to twenty-five
guineas. The herd was submitted to the scales and Babcock test, and
Year.
1917 (first calf)
Mr. W. C. Greaves' " Letty of Warrook."
Milk. Test.
lbs. %
5,343
5-21
Butter Fat.
lbs.
278 -47
Last day of test.
lbs.
20
the result showed that Mr. Jones had become possessed of some very
valuable cattle. The following year he returned to South Australia
to purchase more of the same strains, but he found that the fame of
his cows had preceded him, and that dairymen there appreciated their
value as well. Consequently Mr. Jones could not buy for less than
fifty guineas. He purchased all the cattle of the " Lady Grey "
strain, but one owned by Mr. Peter Wood. This one Mr. Wood
would not sell at any price. It is safe to say that the herd test has
increased the value of Jersey cattle from 50 per cent, to 100 per cent.
Mr. Edward Hayes, of Archie's Creek, informed an officer of the
Department of Agriculture that the entry of his herd in the Standard
Herd Test meant a gain to him of fully £100, chiefly from the advice
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
527
on the feeding of cows given by visiting officers. Owing to ill-health,
Mr, Hayes had to relinquish dairy farming temporarily, and has sold
all his cattle. As the official records of the yields of the cows were
available, they brought prices far in excess of what would otherwise
have been offered. It is also interesting to add that the improved
method of feeding at Mr. Hayes' farm became an invaluable object-
lesson in the district.
Mr. Trevor Harvey, of Boisdale, bought two heifers at Mr. Jones'
sale for nine guineas each. Dainty VI. has since given the following
results : —
Year.
Age.
Milk.
Test.
Butter
Fat.
Milk on Last
Day of Test.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
1915-16
2 years
5,306
5-66
300*
m
1916-17
3 years
5,985
5-57
333^
n
1917-18
4 years
9,189
5-14
473
10
This cow is by Young Black Antimony, and is out of Dainty V., by
^Navigator, thus combining at least two excellent milk and butter pro-
ducing strains. Her value is now much more than 100 guineas.
%^
i»
in
^
1 1 n •
i
WjB^^y (il'iil j<yjB
m
L
■■ . .... ..rttv. - •
^^^^B
^1
Mr. W. C. Greaves' Ayrshire Herd.
Note reinforced brick silo, which has been in regular use for eight years.
Mr. Harvey depends principally on grazing, green oats and millet.
Maize is groAvn also for summer feeding and conversion into silage for
winter. Silage is an important factor on Mr, Harvey's farm. Concen-
trates and chaff are regularly fed in the bails.
During the year 1915-16 three cows belonging to the Leongatha
Agricultural High School were tested by the Department of Agriculture
528 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
Year.
1918
Mr. W. C. Greaves' " Vanity of Warrook."
Milk .
lbs.
8,241
4-64
Butter Fat . Last day of test,
lbs. lbs.
382-26 12
Year.
1917
Mr. W. C. Greaves' "Fidget of Warrook."
Milk.
Test.
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
%
lbs.
lbs.
7,427
4-43
328-60
7i
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
529
Mr. J. D. Read's Springhurst herd of Jerseys.
" Mona."-
Year.
1918
-One of the Competitors from the Leongatha
Agricultural High School.
MUk. Test,
lbs. %
. . 10,344 4 -65
Butter Fat.
Last day of test
lbs.
lbs.
480 -95
22
530
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
under the Standard Herd Test, and the same three have been tested
during the 1917-18 season. The results are very striking —
Cow.
Year.
Milk.
Test.
Butter
Fat.
Milk
Last
Bay.
I'rice.
Total
Return from
Milk.
Skim
Milk.
Return
from Skim
mik at Id.
per gal.
lbs.
lbs.
s. d.
£ S. d.
galls.
£ s. d.
Mona
1915-16
5,509
4-78
263 i
11
1 4
17 12 8
495
2 1 3
i>
1917-18
10,356
4-61
477 1
26i
1 4
30 3 3
932
3 17 6
First Choice
1915-16
2,886
6 -.33
182i
U
1 4
12 3 6
1.59
0 13 3
,,
1917-18
6,830
5-98
406
\U
1 4
25 7 8
514
2 2 10
The Gift ..
1915-16
2,913
5-35
156
Dry
1 4
10 8 0
162
0 13 6
"
1917-18
6,933
4-95
343^
21.^
1 4
22 18 0
624
2 12 0
' Mongolia.'
'^One
of the
Werribee Research Farm
Red
Poll Herd
Year.
MUk.
Test.
Butter Fat
Last day of test.
lbs.
°o
lbs.
lbs.
1915 . .
5,524
4-18
231 -23
loi
1916
7,415
4-30
319-81
10
1917 . .
7,704
4-18
322-15
m
1918 . .
8,042
4-44
384 -09
22
The question which naturally arises is, " Why have these cows given
SO much better results the second year?" The answer is simple. During
the first season the manager was not allowed to purchase any con-
centrates (i.e., bran, oil-cake, &c.), and the cows were grazed only
10 Sept., 1918.] Standard Herd Test. 531
on grass or green crop, which was not sufficient to enable them to
give good returns. The second year concentrates were available, and
the yields were increased twofold. One cow tested in the first year
did not give enough milk to pay for her food and she was sent to the
butcher, although she had been awarded a prize at the Show. With
rich milking Jersey cows the standard rule the world over is to give
one pound of concentrates to each three pounds of milk they give.
"Working on this basis with Mona, and taking bran as a standard, she
would consume 1| tons, or £7 10s. worth. Allowing that she had the
'Longford Major "" (imp.) (by "Longford Majiolini " ex "Mona") of
the Werribee Research Farm Red Poll Herd.
Dam's record .. 14,713 lbs. milk .. 6 years' average. . 10,548 lbs. milk
G. Dam's record .. 10,548 „ .. 4 years' average . . 9,155 „
same roughage as the previous year, she would give a profit of £7
over the extra cost of feed, to say nothing of the increased value of
the manure due to the concentrates. If oats and lucerne are grown
and the former threshed, crushed and fed to cows, no concentrates
would need to be bought; but phosphates would be required
for the growing of the crops. The experience of nearly all those having
their cows tested goes to prove that the good cow gives a handsome profit
for concentrates fed. Of course, it is not wise to over-feed stock.
Rational feeding should be the aim.
An outstanding feature in connexion with Herd Test operations
is the part ensilage plays in feeding on many of the farms. It is
abundantly proved that silage is a very valuable food. There is some-
thing indefinable in it to which the cows respond very readily. Amongst
those using ensilage largely may be mentioned Messrs. Gordon Lyon,
532 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
A. W. Jones, W. Greaves, J. D. Kead, Trevor Harvey, the Geelong
Harbor Trust, Wm. Parbury, O. J. Syme, and the Department of
Agriculture. Ensilage is the cheapest fodder of a succulent nature
that can be conserved. In those places where strict account has been
kept of all the expenses in connexion with growing and saving, it
works out at about 7s. 6d. per ton in the silo.
To show the apathy that exists among farmers in some districts,
the following incident, which occurred at a clearing sale recently, is
worth recording. It was a sale of pure Jersey cattle, which are being
tested under the Standard Herd Test scheme. All the old rubbish
about the place, broken harness and old iron, were carefully collected
and put into heaps. These lots all sold readily ^at many times their
value. At last a four-bottle Babcock Tester, with acid and glassware
all complete, was offered, but not a bid came for this lot. The auc-
tioneer, trying hard, said, " Any one give a pound for it ? " but there
was no response. " Any one say 10s. — 5s. ? Any one give a bob for
it ?" and still no reply. " Any one have it as a gift ?" and, I under-
stand, no one would even take it. The owner had no use for it, as
the Government was testing his cows.
In 1914 a Herd Testing Association was started in the Colac Dis-
trict. There are nearly 30,000 cows in the district supplying the Colac
Dairy Company, owned by about 1,200 dairynaen. Only forty-five of
these owners have patronized the Herd Test Association, and last year
only 1,600 cows were tested, and this is the only milk testing associa-
tion operating in Victoria. Until there are some means adopted to
awaken the interest of owners of dairy cattle in this most important
phase of the industry, there is not likely to be much development. The
cost per cow for testing in the Colac Society is 2s. 9d. The experience
of the Ayrshire breeders in Scotland may be of interest here. From
the last annual report of the Scottish Milk Eecords Association, it is
learned that the rate of improvement has been a little over 4 per cent.
Taking the last five years, the total cumulative increase in milk yield
of 26,000 cows tested annually amounts to over 8,000,000 gallons of
milk. From this 8,000,000 lbs. of cheese would be made. At 6d. per lb.,
this would return £200,000, or £40,000 per annum. It was found that
the maintenance of an 800-gallon cow was very little more than that of
one giving 500 gallons.
The following are the new herds entered during the year: — Messrs.
O. J. 8jme, " Bolobek," Macedon (Friesian) ; A. Schier, Caldermeade
(Ayrshire) ; Meier Bros., Balwyn (Jersey) ; W. K. Atkinson, Swan
Hill (Shorthorn) ; George Gauge, junior, Westmere (Ayrshire) ; Dr. S.
S. Cameron (Jersey) ; Mr. Parbury, " Brookfield," Warburton
(Jersey) J. McKenzie, Glenroy (Jersey).
Since this report was written ten more herds have been entered, and
the total number now undergoing test is forty-seven.
I have much pleasure in acknowledging the assistance given in the
preparation of this report by Messrs. J. M. Kerr, B. A. Barr, K. E.
Kerr, and other members of the staff.
10 Sept., 1918.] Standard Herd Test. 533
Standard Cow Prizes.
The following prizes were offered by the Government for the year
ended 30th June, 1918. The prizes will be awarded through the Royal
Agricultural Society : —
1. Grand Champion Cow — under Herd Test Regulations.
A grand champion prize of £100, as a trophy or cash, for
maintaining the position of annual champion for three years,
not necessarily in succession. Not yet allotted.
2. Annual Champion Cow — under Herd Test Regulations.
A prize of £10, to be awarded to the cow which, during a
lactation period terminating within a year ending on 30th
June, gives the greatest amount of butter-fat under the herd test-
ing regulations of this Department.
Won by " Jessie VI. of Melrose " ; owner, W. Woodmason.
3. Reserve Annual Champion — under Herd Test Regulations.
A prize of £5 per annum to be awarded to the cow attain-
ing second place under the herd testing regulations of the De-
partment during the year ended 30th June.
Won by " Jubilee XV." ; owner, A. W. Jones.
These prizes to be awarded conditionally upon the win-
ning cow being exhibited at the next Royal Agricultural Show.
In the event of the death of the winning cow prior to such
Show, the owner to exhibit his next best cow.
4. Best Herd — under Herd Testing Regulations.
A first prize of £20 and a second prize of £10 to be awarded
to the herds giving the greatest average returns under the herd
testing regulations of this Department and complying with the
following conditions : —
(1) Minimum number of cows (completing the test during
the year) in a herd, 10.
(2) Such herd to average not less than 300 lbs. of butter-fat.
(a) Handicaps to be allowed on the following scale : —
i. A herd of more than 10 cows to receive a handicap
of ^ lb. of butter-fat for each cow.
ii. Cows entered under regulation 11a to receive a
a handicap of 75 lbs. of butter-fat.
iii. Cows entered under regulation 11 h and c to
receive a handicap of 50 lbs. of butter-fat.
The prizes to be allotted for the year ending 30th June,
and the three best cows in the winning herd to be ex-
hibited at the next Royal Agricultural Show.
First prize won by the " Melrose " Herd ; owner, Mr.
Wm. Woodmason.
Second prize won by the " Springhurst " Herd ; owner,
Mr. J. D. Read.
No cow competing for any prize shall be milked more than twice
a day, and must re-calve within fifteen months from her previous
calving date.
534
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
RETURN OF CERTIFICATED COWS FOR YEAR ENDED
30th JUNE, 1918.
W. K. ATKINSON, Swan Hill. (Shorthorn.)
Completed during the year, 2. Certificated 2.
Name of Cow.
o
a o
Qo
a
o o
.H
o
M
B 3
en M
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Poplar Vale Princess XXIX.
Not yet
allotted
1.9.17
273
14J
5,595
3-92
219-56
176
250i
Blanche Rose IX.
"
13.9.17
273
16*
6,774
4-01
271-53
175
309i
JOHN BAKER, Gheringhap. (Red Poll.)
Completed during the year, 3. Certificated, 3.
o si
o
ft
-2^5
Name of Cow.
"2
0) 6
■Km
§•3
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Elcho Lady
Not yet
allotted
30.4.17
273
23i
7,028
4-84
340-11
250
387f
Elcho Maid
25.6.17
273
9
5,510
5-13
282-51
250
322
Karong Belle
"
29.7.17
273
13J
6,682
5-41
361-62
250
412}
T. BIDGOOD, Staghorn Flat. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 2. Certificated, 2.
Name of Cow.
§
m
fed
Miss TwiligTit
Bluebell.II
Not yet
allotted
m
^
«1s
1^
^1
-2^
13 S
^2
^ o
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
20.8.17
273
15i
5,788
6-20
301-07
175
343i
19.9.17
273
12
5,869
6-38
374-49
250
427
10 Sept., 1918.]
Siandard Herd Test.
535
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, Werribee. (Red Poll.)
Completed during the year, 62. Certificated, 57.
Name of Cow.
Asiana* . .
Violet III.
Biitanuia
Persioa . .
Serbia
Mongolia
Netherlana
Russia
Bullion . .
Malaysia
Lallali
Coinage . .
Tabeltina
Sylpli
Santa Clara.
Azora
Pacitica . .
Gallipoli . .
Birdseye
Argentina
Samotina
Empire
Aleutia
Briar
Opticia
Aridia
Sumonta
Cutty
Tropic
Congo
Baltica
Anglia
Lily
Kubanka
Avesia
Laranaga§
Africana
Soudana
Orinoco
Nictitanall
Nickalioe
MuriaK . .
Morocco . .
Latakia . .
HoUandia
Iris
Sylvia
Silken Bond
Jamaica . .
Velveteen (imp.)
La Reina
Tonga . .
Tasmania
India
Coinage . .
Nyanza . .
Mongolia. .
cq
<u o
Wlz;
T20, Gl
T15, G3
T31, Gl
Til, Gl
T41, Gl
T20, G2
T34, 61
T43, Gl
T2, Gl
T24, G2
Til, G2
T2, G2
ri7A, G3
T4, G3
T6, G2
T26, G2
T36, Gl
T45, Gl
T15, G4
T19A, Gl
T15A, G3
T15, G4
T35, Gl
T16A, G3
T15D, Gl
T29, G2
T15A, G2
TIO, G2
T28, G2
T23, G3
T39, Gl
T31, G2
T46, Gl
T6, G2
T15C, Gl
T7, G2
T23, G2
T23, G2
T47, Gl
T15, G5
T15, G4
T5, Gl
T23A, G2
T12, G2
T34, G2
Th6, G2
T4, G2
T16, G3
T24, G4
T50, Gl
T15, G5
T37, G2
T32, Gl
TIO, Gl
T2, G2
T23B, Gl
T20, G2
>»
..J
cj
MH '0,
(M
o a
a_^.
o
si
^6
^1
lbs.
lbs.
24.6.16
273
13.V
6,465
30.9.16
273
8
5,786
1.10.16
t251
15
7,845
1.10.16
273
18
16,014
6.10.16
273
19
8,841
11.10.16
273
12^
7,704
11.10.16
273
26
10,373
17.10.16
273
10
6,580
19.10.16
235
4
7,892
14.11.16
273
12
6,182
6.12.16
273
23
6,809
12.12.16
273
24J
7,125
13.12.16
273
20*
6,822
14.12.16
273
18i
6,684
15.12.16
273
30
8,488
16.12.16
273
18
6,298
18.12.16
273
8
6,253
20.12.16
273
15*
7,262
23.12.16
273
18
7,596
25.12.16
t263
19
7,716
31.12.16
273
20
6,350
10.1.17
273
12^
5,180
18.1.17
273
19J
7,033
31.12.16
273
13*
5,779
30.1.17
273
22"
7,914
5.2.17
273
9i
6,345
16.2.17
273
22
6,725
24.2.17
273
2H
8,351
5.3.17
273
10*
5,717
20.3.17
273
17*
6,103
4.4.17
273
22*
8,512
20.4.17
273
20'
6,790
24.4.17
273
19*
7,651
3.5.17
273
23"
7,223
6.5.17
273
26^
8,231
16.4.17
257
16
4,780
8.5.17
273
11*
5,622
16.5.17
273
IS
7,113
22.5.17
273
10
5,823
24.5.17
221
4
3,587
26.5.17
273
14
5,807
6.5.17
266
4
7,293
7.6.17
273
22J
8,421
11.6.17
273
26
7,421
10.6.17
273
14J
5,447
1.7.17
273
18i
6,402
4.7.17
273
16
7,424
5.7.17
273
5
4,382
13.7.17
273
20*
6,417
5.8.17
273
15
8,593
5.8.17
273
15*
7,410
15.8:17
273
124
8,290
16.8.17
273
104
7,853
16.8.17
273
17
7,990
15.9.17
273
164
5,698
18.9.17
273
20*
6,025
23.9.17
273
22
8,642
lbs.
302
266
306
301
382
322
403
263
333
280
310
286
272
302
384
255
279
298
392
289
306
247
306
254
341
274
284
388
t248
255
366
267
313
308
334
198
266
296
248
181
250
406
307
350
247
296
354
196
256
303
346
349
320
326
241
256
384
lbs.
250
250
250
250
250
250
250
200
250
250
175
175
175
175
200
175
250
250
250
250
175
200
250
175
175
200
175
200
175
250
250
175
250
175
200
175
250
250
175
175
175
250
175
200
200
175
250
175
175
250
250
250
250
250
200
175
250
_2 o
lbs.
344i
3034
349
344
4354
3674
4604
300i
380
320+
3541
326l
310i
345'
4381
291a
318"
340i
447
330
349i
28l|
349
290
389J
312|
324
442J
283J
291i
418j
305+
357+
351J
381+
226i
304
338
283
206J
286
463
350i
399i
281*
337|
403i
22Ji
293
34 5*
394i
398
365
372
275
29 If
437i
* By an oversight this cow was omitted from last year's Annual Report.
t Sold before term expired.
t Sickness for eleven days affected yield.
§ Entry liad to be deferred sixteen days through sickness after calving.
I! Calved throe months prematurely. _
^ Entry delayed through attach of milk fever. .
536 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
MRS. A. BLACK, Noorat. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 12. Certificated, 12.
Name of Cow.
1
■H .
•5^
ight of
klast
y of Test.
o
P
-;3
1^1
sl
S.'S.
Go
6'
8.=
S' — =5
^1
«?=<
wll
1
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Grey Girl
2064
4.4.17|
273
8i
4,859
5-63
272-25
250
310i
Marguerite
3576
8.4.17'
255
4
6,292
4-87
306-39
250
349i
Beauty of Candelo 11 .
3739
10.4.17
273
11
6,585
4-46
294-15
250
335i
FlasUight
1972
19.4.17'
253
4
6,221
4-77
296-95
250
338i
Heatherbell -^ . .
3574
21.4.17
273
12*
7,029
4-42
310-61
250
354
Sheila V.. . " ' . .
3580
26.4.17
273
H
4,686
5-40
253-06
250
288^
Carnation V.
3572
26.4.17
246
4
4,767
5-62
268-08
250
305i
Mona's Pearl
3577
7.5.17
273
6
6,611
507
335-57
250
382i
Madge
3575
19.5.17
251
4
5,903
5-45
321-75
250
366i
Opaline . .
3578
4.7.17
273
8
5,025
5-16
259-12
250
29(4
Dolly of Clydebank 11.
3742
18.7.17
273
6i
5,182
6-37
329-89
250
376
Diamond III.
Not yet
3.9.17
221
4
3,430
5-78
198-17
1V5
22C
allotted
C. FALKENBERG, Elliminyt. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 6. Certificated, 5.
.14
(3
■s
■o*.
O
« .
o«H
o
"S-d
£ o
Name of Cow.
•s .
CJ O
ate ol
Jiving
0. of
Test
f-i
as
C 3
1 x^
0.-3 ^^.5
!?SP
!SS
<H
KfR
m u
taiffp;
1
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Annie of Taringa . .
4023
29.5.17: 273
8i
4,803
5-65
271 18
250
309i
Handsome Lassie of Colac .
• 4028
26.6.17
262
4
5,289
4-71
249-52
200
284i
Canary of Colac . .
Not yet
allotted
7.7.17
273
6
3,812
5.- 24
200-29
175
228i
Doris 11. of Kingsvale
4025
16.8.17
273
12^
5,183
5-40
280-03
250
3194
238J
Princess of Colac i. .
Not yet
24.9.17 273
lOi
3,983
5-25
209-10
200
allotted
'
GEELONG HARBOR TRUST, Marshalltown. (Ayrshire.)
Completed during the year, 1.5. Certificated 8-
Name of Cow.
M
■a
o5
Princess Edith of " Gowrie
Park "
Belle of Sparrovale
Flower of Sparrovale
Madge of Sparrovale
Maid of Sparrovale
Flora of Sparrovale
■Clover of Sparrovale
Laura of Sparrovale
2876
Not yet I
allotted
2872
Not yet
allotted
25.9.16
25.9.16
118.10.16
il2.12.16
! 9.7.17
I 6.9.17
9.9.17
I 22.9.17
1
273
273
273
273
273
273
273
273
*:
ti-i o
^
■a»-
-a -
■^ C3>«
■*-
cc
S g
<s-s »:
b:5>
3^
2^
^,-
"O.tJ
B 3
§-S5
^sa
^%
^^
S2
■5 «?"S
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
11}
6,060
4-26
258-43
250
29 4i
m
4,353
4-32
175-51
175
200
12*
4,581
4-44
203-22
175
231}
16
5,343
3-88
207-48
175
2361^
23
8,142
4-09
332-88
200
379J
5
4,057
5-01
203-38
175
231}
lOi
6,894
4-97
342-86
200
390}
lOJ
4,754
5-03
239-13
175
272}
• Published in first quarterly report as " Bluebell of Sparrowvale" prior to name being changed.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
537
MRS. A. C. GIBBS, Bamawn. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 6. Certificated, 6.
M
03
-5
13 ».
Name of Cow
§
■s .
V o
M
'o £
IS
•SP.«°.
o
Si
^1
1^-
■a.i:
S =
CO S
III
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Boronia of Springhurst
4377
23.5.17
254
4
4,558
5-54
252-56
250
288
Musk of Springhurst
4388
29.5.17
273
10
4,482
5-77
258-61
250
2943
Hyacinth of Springhurst
3705
30.5.17
273
10
4,974
6-30
31317
250
357
Honeysuckle of Springhurst
4383
26.6.17
261
4
4,319
5-88
253-91
250
289i
Rose of Springhurst
4393
5.7.17
253
4
3,836
608
233-13
200
265}
Foxglove of Springhurst
3704
22.7.17
273
18
6,749
5-81
392-04
250
445
W. C. GREAVES, Monomeith. (Ayrshire.)
Completed during the year, 7. Certificated, 7.
M
>>
t«-l <1>
Name of Cow.
o
n
Id
Date of
Calving.
o S
1^
Is
CO
II
"S-a
CO £
Estimate
Weight 0
Butter.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lb'..
lbs.
Grace Darling of Warrook . .
2909
5.10.16 259
4
7,306
4-40
321-63
250
3661
Vanity of Warrook
2546
6.10.16 273
12
8,2 il
4-64
382-26
250
4351-
Bit of Fashion
1852
23.12.16 273
16
6,447
500
322 - 58
250
3671
Grace IT. of Warrook
2908
3.4.17 273
15
6,669
4-93
328-87
250
375
Future of Warrook
2244
25.4.17 273
20 i
8,885
4 02
357-18
250
407i
Letty of Warrook
Not yet
allotted
17.9.17
273
9
6,670
4-38
292-35
200
333i
Fuchsia of Warrook
2544
20.9.17
273
16
8,807
4-16
366-14
250
417*
T. HARVEY, Boisdale. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 4. Certificated, 4.
Name of Cow.
8
fed
ate of
living.
0. of Days
Test.
'eight of
ilk last
ay of Test.
o
•1:3
1
utter
at.
.5 ^-S
■S?'S
w^
Qo jl2;.5
iSSP
li
<;h
«PR
m rt
w;?M
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lady Marge V. . .
Not yet
allotted
4100
3.4.171 273
14
4,868
5-80
282-64 ■
175
322}
Kirsty V.
17.6.17
2731
18^
6,211
5-58
346-40
200
395
Sparkle . .
2978
21.6.17
273
17i '
5,875
5-35
314-18
250
358i-
Dainty VI.
4099
30.7.17
273
10
9,189
.514
.472-87
250
539
HILL and DOAKE, Narracan. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 3. Certificated, 2.
1 ^
>.
.w-
Name of Cow.
Herd Bo
No.
B'>
"o S
Weight 0
Milk.
> o
1-
Is*
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
CSoverleaf
Not yet
allotted
29.5.17
270
4
4,441
4-41
197-24
175
2241
OKam Girl
329,
C.S..T.H.B.
22.7.17
273
6
4,347
5-09
221-55
200
252*
538 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
A. JACKSON, Glen Forbes. (Jersey and Ayrshire.)
Jersey — Completed during the year, 5. Certificated, 5.
AJ
1 1
*tH m
^
•o»-
Name of Cow.
Herd Bo
No.
Date of
Calving.
No. of D
in Test.
Weight 0
Milk last
Day of T
> S
■S"§
13 13
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Graceful Duchess XI.
394
C.S.J.H.B.
21.9.16
273
14
5,751
6-43
369-58
250
421i
Mystery XIV. of Meirose . .
452
21.9.16
273
15
6,784
5-19
351 -94
2.50
401i
Lady's Maitland
C.S.J.H.B.
423
11.2.17
273
17
5,521
5-60
309-27
175
352i
C.S.J.H.B.
Maitland's Duchess of
Lesterfleld
. 17.7
C.S.J.H.B.
15.8.17
27.3
15i
6,816
5^18
353-12
200
402i
Mystery XIV. "s Beauty . .
Not yet
allotted
6.9.17
273
13
4,690
542
254-34
175
290
Ayrshire — Completed during the year, 2. Certificated, 2.
Princess Mary II. of Stra-
chan
Not yet
allotted
13i
7,153
3-94
282-09
32U
A. W. JONES, Geelong. (Jersey and Friesian.)
Jersey — -Completed during the year, 9. Certificated, 9.
Name of Cow.
•§
o
M
'a
1
Q .
■•si
Weight of
Milk last
Day of Test.
o
> s
It
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Silver Queen II. of Colac . .
4032
27.11.16
273
23 it
6,318
6-76
427-18
250
487
Lady Gray I. of St. Albans . .
4186
20.4.17
273
14
5,899
6-85
404-05
250
460.V
Lady Grey VTII. . .
4187
5.6.17
273
26
9,430
4-87
459-31
250
523^
Lady Grey V.
3756
20.7.17
273
22
8,0S4
5-37
434-49
250
495i
Buttercup
875
6.8.17
273
11
6,318
4-00
253-24
2.50
288i
Blanchette I. of St. Albans . .
Not vet
allotted
21.8.17
273
2U
7,101
5-13
364-86
200
416
Queenie II. of Holmwood . .
J,
27.8.17
273
2U
7,659
5-53
423-88
250
483|
Jubilee XV. . . . .
,,
10.9.17
273
25
9,361
5-33
499-55
2,50
569V
Bright Jewel
,,
23.9.17
273
16
6,009
606
364-40
250
415i
Friesian — Completed during the year, 1.
May Queen IJ. .. .. iNotyetl 20.7.17i 2731 30 I
allotted
Certificated, 1.
9.386 1 4-37 1 410 -.39
467?
G. KENT, Junr., Archie's Creek. (Ayrshire.)
Completed during the year, 1. Certificated, 1.
M
>>
.^
o
Q .
°-Sh
o
■dS
_g o
Name of Cow.
» o
o S
lit
eight
ilk.
> a
u
§1
MS
Qo
^.d
&:aQ
ISS
<!B
pqii<
iiK!
B^«
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Bud of View Point
2163
15.7.17
273
16*
7,497
4-87
365-39
250
4l6i
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
539
C. G. KNIGHT, Cobram. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 18. Certificated, 18.
^
Name of Cow.
o
n
"2
S 6
■si
Wa
Go
Royal Rose
2585
28.9.16
Princess of Tarnpirr
2986
15.10.16
Patchwork
Not yet
allotted
18.11.16
Princess May
jj
28.11.16
Idyll's Morocco
4207
30.11.16
Dolly of Tarnpirr . .
1840
3.12.16
Cliristmas of Tarnpirr
4206
17.12.16
My Queen of Tarnpirr
4209
27.4.17
Mistletoe of Tarnpirr
2984
6.5.17
Romany Lass
2563
15.6.17
Sweetheart II. of Tarnpirr . .
4211
6.6.17
Arcadia . .
1534
17.8.17
Foxglove of Tarnpirr
2983
6.9.17
Mytliic . .
2404
12.9.17
Alice of Tarnpirr . .
4205
17.9.17
Primrose of Tarnpirr
2985
20.9.17
Lily of Tarnpirr . .
2221
21.9.17
Bonnie . .
2980
23.9.17
"o
T3T3
ai o
*i
c8 ►-
o S
Weigh
Milkl
Dayo
2«
3"§
If
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
273
9
5,952
5-80
345-35
250
3931
273
9
6,234
4-97
310-08
250
353^
273
13
4,264
5-64
240-53
175
274i
273
19
4,285
5-36
229-62
175
261i
273
16i
5,147
6-04
310-97
200
354i
273
24i
5,812
5-47
318-17
250
362J
273
17i
4,328
6-16
266-63
200
304
273
17i
5,775
5-82
335-94
200
383
273
25i
7,630
5-13
391-49
250
446i
273
22
6,543
5.54
362-72
250
413i
273
20i
5,669
5-31
301-35
200
343^
273
25
9,450
5-07
479-16
250
54 6i
273
19i
6,819
5-97
407-23
250
464i
273
20i
9,060
5-23
474-15
250
540i
273
15*
6,868
5-96
409-56
250
466i
273
15"
6,145
5-83
358-48
250
408i
273
23^
9,252
4-66
431-40
250
491i
273
21
7,474
5-41
404-61
250
461i
LEACH BROS., Binginwarri. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 1. Certificated, 1.
Name of Cow.
1
M
« 6
1
Weight of
Milk last
Day of Test.
"3
Butter
Fat.
•o-g
MR
„ o
.S_6B-S
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Ida May
404
C.S.J.H.B.
8.9.17
273
26
6,939
5-07
352 14
175
401J
HIGH SCHOOL, Leongatha. (Jersey).
Completed during the year, 3. Certificated, 3.
Name of Cow.
Herd Book
No.
o a
Po
>,
P^.
°|
ma
0
|1
CO '^
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
^lona . .
155
C.S.J.H.B.
12.8.17
273
22
10,344
4-65
480-95
250
548i
The Gift
259
C.S.J.H.B.
14.8.17
273
19i
6,933
4-95
343-50
250
391i
First Choice
372
C.S.J.H.B.
21.8.17
273
13
6,820
5-98
407-85
200
465
)40 Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
C. D. LLOYD, Caulfleld. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 7. Certificated, 7.
o
o
O 4^:5
O
■s-^
73 «-
Name of Cow.
o S
Ml
3^
S .
ate
IS.
Estima
Weight
Butter
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Countess Twylish . .
928
2.11.16
273
14
7,617
4-54
346-01
250
394i
Spatter . .
4242
24.12.16
•184
8^
2,599
7-30
189-71
175
216i
Whitebread
4244
11.3.17
273
24
6,786
5-40
366-61
175
418
Dainty Molly
2830
15.3.17
273
19
5,293
605
320-33
250
365
Sweetbread XXIV. (imp.) . .
2979
14.8.17
273
17
8,372
4-82
403-61
2.50
460
Crcamcake
Not yet
allotted
20.8.17
273
16
5,278
617
325-80
175
371*
Gingerbread
1.9.17
273
m
5,339
5-78
308-87
175
352
* Sold before completion of term.
MEIER BROS., Box Hill. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 2. Certificated, 2.
8
1
°^H
o
■?,^
_g o
Name of Cow.
as
o S
Si-S
'^1
m2
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Princess Lady II. . .
Not yet
21.8.17
273
14
3,896
4-83
188-08
175
214i
1 «.w
allotted
Flower Queen
4285
10.9.17
273
19
6,480
5-17
335-23
200
382i
MUHLEBACH BROS., Batesford. (Ayrshire.)
Completed during the year, 5. Certificated, 4.
§
P .
o
V,^
|o
Name of Cow.
O a;
^gp
^1
•a a
a a
t« 2
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lily^of Retreat . .
2961
16.11.16
273
7i
4,600
4-63
213-18
175
243
Fuchsia of Retreat
2960
7.9.17
273
5.V
5,408
4-35
235-10
200
268
Boronia of Retreat
4321
12.9.17
273
11
5,534
4-30
237-98
175
271i
Pansy of Retreat . .
4336
21.9.17
273
7
4,275
4-73
202-31
175
230Jt
MRS. ORCHARD, Grahamvale, Shepparton. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 1. Certificated, 1.
Name of Cow.
it
o
o
n
•a
(-1 .
a o
p5
1
P_^.
Weight of
Milk last
Day of Test.
■St;
T3.S
a a
« o-
m2
Estimated
Weight of
Butter.
Ivy .. ....
Not yet
allotted
23.9.17
273
lbs.
lbs.
4,586
4-59
lbs.
210-39
lbs.
200
lbs.
239}
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
541
C. GORDON LYON, Heidelberg. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 36. Certificated, 36.
look
1
o
c;
•S-o
|o_
H
"S ti
U)
S V
eS-li C
Name of Cow.
•2 .
<U O
WW
c
"o S
.H
Weigh
Milk 1
Day o:
Si
2^-
a> bo
> a
^•3
a -as
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Tambourine
1417
7.10.16
273
20
7,902
4
98
394
08
250
449i
Molly 11...
614
20.10.16
273
12
7,532
4
90
369
05
250
4 20 J
Pride of Rocklands
Not yet
allotted
13.11.16
273
24
7,112
5
21
370
46
250
422i
Thora II.
J
13.11.16
273
14i
5,086
5
87
298
56
175
340i
Symphony
J,
23.11.16
273
Hi
4,760
6
56
312
20
200
356
Thora III.
J,
8.12.16
273
20
5,785
6
07
351
06
175
-400i
Maixnet'!3 Lass III.
jj
12.12.16
273
15i
5,766
6
05
349
19
175
398
Molly V.
,,
13.12.16
273
13i
5,342
5
63
300
95
175
343
Audrey Lassie
825
17.12.16
273
19i
7,808
4
55
355
73
250
405i
Ettie IV.
2889
28.12.16
273
28. V
9,813
4
34
426
17
250
48.5J
Lassie II.
1136
31.12.16
273
i9i
, 7,539
4
78
360
92
250
411^
Statuette
4251
8.1.17
273
20 .V
6,816
5
76
392
62
250
447i
Lassie
509
18.1.17
273
Hi
5,356
5
17
276
85
250
315i
Silvermine XIV. . .
Not yet
allotted
5.2.17
273
21i
6,067
4
95
300
14
175
342i
Starfinch II.
2915
7.3.17
273
Hi
5,473
4
95
271
25
250
309i
Noble Jessie
2843
14.3.17
273
Hi
5,575
5
67
316
59
250
361
Ha^vthorn IV.
Not yet
allotted
27.3.17
273
13i
4,998
6
10
304
90
175
347i
Chorus . .
2823
31.3.17
273
17
7,309
5
62
411
35
250
469
Hawthorn V. of Banyule
Not yet
allotted
6.4.17
273
14i
5,247
5
46
286
37
175
326i
Hawthorn of Banyule
1064
8.4.17
273
13
6,920
5
21
360
66
250
41U
Noble's Pet
4247
14.4.17
273
16
5,847
5
36
313
61
175
357i
Soprano . .
1395
28.4.17
273
17
7,874
5
88
463
86
250
528i
Pretty May (imp.l
3103
3.5.17
273
12i
6,024
5
38
323
97
250
369i
Milkmaid 37th
1222
14.6.17
273
21i
8,639
4
77
412
55
250
4701
Velveteen II.
2927
15.6.17
273
27
10,434
4
67
487
73
250
556
May IX. of Banyule
Not yet
allotted
22.6.17
273
16i
5,251
5
00
262
81
175
299J
May X. of Banyule
jj
22.6.17
273
13i
4,527
4
94
223
57
175
254J
Harp
jj
12.7.17
273
14i
5,114
5
83
298
34
175
340
Zenobia . .
J
20.7.17
273
7i
3,363
5
88
197
71
175
225J
Captor's Vanilla . .
3330
22.7.17
273
18
7,368
4
65
343
02
250
391
Maitland's Petal II.
Not yet
allotted
31.7.17
273
8i
5,013
6
51
326
50
200
372i
Melodious
2336
1.8.17
273
8
7,666
4
98
380
91
250
434i
Zoe V. . .
1497
5.8.17
273
11
6,920
5
47
378
79
250
431f
Cora
3331
15.8.17
261
4
5,348
5
92
317
07
250
361i
Captor's Thora
3329
4.9.17
273
15
7,398
5
46
404
09
250
4 60 J
Parrakeet
3625
19.9.17
273
18
8,656
3
88
335
81
250
382J
W. PARBURY, Warburton. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 1. Certificated, 1.
.M
>.
O
C3
o
P .
Name of Cow.
o a
a o
eSla
o\.
W«
fio
^:s
Sweet Alice
532
C.S.J.H.B.
11.9.17
273
^*
«*H *''
MH
■d*.
°-SH
O
'M-a
« o
in
J3
Butter
Fat.
as ^
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
10
4,.327
6-35
274-89
250
313i
542 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
T. MESLEY, Dalyston. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 17. Certificated, 17,
' -g
>.
•s
•a«-i
Name of Cow.
o
Mtl
q6
IS
o
& .
■§-§
a 3
m2
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lily Langtry
Not yet
allotted
7.1.17
273
15i
5,391
5-91
318-69
250
363i
Nanette . .
^j
4.2.17
273
11
4,658
4.95
230-40
200
262}
Daisy of Springliurst
1788
19.4.17
273
12
6,300
5-54
348-08
250
396}
Euroa of Spriugliurst
1918
12.5.17
258
4
4,920
5-52
271-41
250
309}
La Charme
Not yet
allotted
9.6.17
273
20}
5,577
5 01
279-52
200
318}
Meadow Sweet II.
jj
3.7.17
273
20i
7,574
5-27
399-42
250
455
Bright Princess
,^
7.7.17
273
19
7,838
5-24
411-06
250
468}
Fairy Belle
^^
8.7.17
273
15J
6,035
5-93
357-95
250
408
Alsyke of Springhurst
1515
22.7.17
273
16
6,376
4-98
318-01
250
362}
Charmian
Not yet
allotted
23.7.17
273
13
6,824
5-54
378-63
250
431}
Namesake II.
J
3.8.17
273
19i
7,248
4-92
356-83
250
407
Little Queen
J
4.8.17
273
15
7,087
5-16
366-15
250
417}
Verbena . .
8.8.17
273
15
5,889
5-22
307-43
200
350}
Gazelle . .
9.8.17
273
21
7,373
4-70
346-57
250
390
Phvllis ..
13.8.17
273
16
6,201
5-49
340-72
200
388}
Charmian II.
19.8.17
273
17
5,888
5-18
305-40
200
348i
Garenne II.
'
27.8.17
273
14
6.631
5.26
351.76
200
401
J. D. READ, Springhurst. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 23. Certificated, 23.
Name of Cow.
<o o
Wiz;
03
o
5.
a s
00 2
Estimated
Weight of
Butter.
Iba.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Nightshade of Springhurst . .
3707
22.3.17
273
25
8,477
4
93
418-51
250
477
Banksia of Springhurst
Not yet
allotted
31.3.17
273
9}
5,115
5
59
303-32
175
351}
Infanta of Springhurst
21.4.17
273
9
4,946
5
69
281-24
175
320}
Trefoil of Springhurst
4395
22.4.17
273
16
7,139
5
97
426-48
200
486;:
Princess Defiance of Spring-
hurst . .
4392
23.4.17
273
20V
7,223
5
75
415-17
250
473i
Buttercup of Springhurst . .
3702
28.4.17
273
14*
6,442
6
16
397-14
250
452J
Princess of Springhurst
2521
29.4.17
273
\U
7,010
5
63
394-99
250
450i
Verbena of Springliurst
Not yet
allotted
2.5.17
273
13'
5,545
5
40
299-31
175
341i
Crocus of Springhurst
,,
10.5.17
273
15
6,295
5
56
349-92
175
399
Tulip of Springhurst
2730
11.5.17
273
12}
6,426
5
42
348-47
250
397}
Wattle of Springhurst
Not yet
allotted
13.5.17
273
16
5,768
4
98
287-37
175
327}
Holly of Springhurst
24.5.17
273
14i
5,061
5
48
277-27
175
316
Solanum of Springhurst
4394
29.5.17
273
8i
7,465
4
89
364-89
200
416
Cobea of Springhurst
4379
13.6.17
273
7
5,512
5
60
308-56
200
351i
Lobelia of Springhurst
4386
15.6.17
273
6
4,940
5
78
285-80
200
325i
Freezia of Springhurst
4382
18.6.17
273
12
6,797
5
51
374-25
200
426i
Daffodil of Springhurst
4381
2.7.17
273
8|
4,431
6
36
282-04
200
321}
Czarina of Springhurst
4380
8.7.17
273
5
6,692
5
72
383-17
200
423
Arum of Springhurst
4375
9.7.17
265
4
6,519
5
56
363-08
250
414
Primrose of Springhurst
4391
17.7.17
273
9
6,809
5
18
356-30
250
406}
Lucerne of Springhurst
Not yet
allotted
18.7.17
273
11
5,050
6
04
305-10
175
3471
Balsam of Springhurst
4376
19.6.17
*246
14i
7,517
5
61
422-32
250
48U
Calla of Springhurst
4378
29.7.17
273
9"
5,951
5
03
299-20
200
341
* Withdrawn from test 27 days prematurely in error.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
543
MISS S. L. ROBINSON, Malvern. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 5. Certificated, 2.
a
■
^
•s
o
Q
0«H
o
V.T--
_gO
Name of Cow.
n
•E .
Date oi
Calving
o S
115
si
•Id
la
1 •
cS g
•oJs
9 3
1!
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Twinkle
538
C.S.J.H.B.
5.3.17
273
20
5,468
4-92
269-49
250
307i
Needle X. of Puen Buen. .
Not yet
allotted
1.8.17
273
lU
4,303
5-72
248-64
175
. 283ir
GEO. ROWE, Kardella. (Jersey.)
Completed during the year, 7. Certificated, 6.
. M
•i
•a*.,
o !
W
o^^
o
V-o
a O
Name of Cow.
Herd B
No.
Date of
Calving
o £
a,—
1
> s
.2 .
Estima
Weight
Butter.
i 1
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Ruby . .
513 9.11.16 273
7
5,798
4-82
279-55
250
31Sf
C.S.J.H.B.I
Bluebell of Brighteyes ..
562 !12.11.16
CS.J.H.B.
497 19.12.16
273
4
2,929
6-22
182-21
175
2071
Princess Dot
273
7*
3,485
5-12
178-40
175
203}
C.S..T.H.B.
Daffodil
157 12.9.17
273
10
6,156
4-31
265-38
250
302J-
C.S.J.H.B. i
Queen'Elizabeth
Not yet , 12.9.17! 273
8J
4,732
4-53
214-32
175
244i
^ ., ^
allotted
Roseg..
509
17.9.17! 273
9
6,324
4 04
256-00
250
291J
C.S.J.H.B.
A. H. SCHIER, Caldermeade. (Ayrshire.)
Completed during the year, 11. Certificated, 6.
.M
>>
0!
^ -S
^
Name of Cow.
■E .
4) O
•a
4>S
an
a 3
to S
Estimate
Weight 0
Butter.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Dot of Pine Grove
Not yet
allotted
1.4.17
273
15i
7,721
4-53
349-59
250
398J
Dear of Midbriinch
jj
2.5.17
273
14^
6,258
4-50
281-65
250
321
Streak of Balvormie
,,
31.7.17
273
9
6,573
4-21
276-83
250
315i
Silver of InverleiRh
jj
30.8.17
273
10
4,862
4-31
209-87
175
239i-
Mussel II. of Balvormie
,,
4.9.17
273
9
6,141
4-24
270-84
250
308J
Bettv II. of Pine Grove
4624
21.9.17'
273
12
4,489
4-50
202-42
175
230i
544
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
0. J. SYME, Macedon. (Friesian.)
Completed during the year, 3. Certificated, 3.
Name of Cow.
iA
O
O
n
"S
<a o
1
o S
o
(a
as
a o
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Bolobek Belle
Not yet
allotted
1.7.17
273
29i
10,174
3-77
384-53
250
438J
Duplicate Posch Maud
,j
21.7.17
273
22*
10,762
3-63
390-74
250
445i
Bolobek Isabella . .
"
23.8.17
273
2U
8,133
3-63
295-66
175
337
W. WOODMASON, Malvern. (Jersey.)
Completed daring the year, 84. Certificated, 82.
8
1
!H«^
"o
u
■d-e
Name of Cow.
%6
o S
6^
6C
> s
3 «
11
.ill
ft^
«5
^.B
S^SQ
_^S_
<!H
Wfe
Sp:;
wEsm
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Lady Elector II. of Melrose . .
Not yet
allotted
25.9.16
273
12i
5,524
6-51
.359-69
200
410
Empire V. of Melrose
4515
28.9.16
273
12.V
7,067
5
54
391
68
250
446.i
Graceful Duchess Xll.of Mel-
Not yet
2.10.16
273
16
5,168
6
19
320
20
175
365'
rose
allotted
Handsome Girl VII. of Melrose
jj
4.10.16
273
13
5,665
7
12
403
18
200
459Sr
Sweet Pansy II. of Melrose . .
^1
4.10.16
273
6
4,440
5
90
261
94
200
298i
Lassie Fowler V. of Melrose . .
jj
8.10.16
273
14V
5,128
6
03
309
18
200
352|
Gaiety (iirl VIII. of Melrose. .
jj
9.10.16
273
18.V
6,563
5
99
393
20
200
448i
Peerless 10th of Melrose
,,
11.10.16
273
14. V
5.197
0
11
317
37
175
361J
Peerless IX. of Melrose
16.10.16
273
7
4,007
5
60
224
59
200
256
Jessie VI. of Melrose
4519
6.11.16
273
24 i
7,691
6
74
518
35
250
591
Daisy VI. of Melrose
4512
9.11.16
273
9
6,0!8
5
26
318
15
250
3621
Zoe V. of Melrose
1496
11.11.16
273
11
5,803
6
24
361
94
250
412i
Lady Elector 3rd of Melrose. .
Not yet
allotted
19.11.16
273
9
4,098
6
53
267
59
175
305
Jessie V. of Melrose
3652
20.11.16
273
15
6,279
5
12
321
30
250
366i
Mystery 15th of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
21.11.16
273
9i
3,740
5
75
215
05
175
24 5i
Jessie's Progress . .
3657
22.11.16
273
19
5,916
6
23
368
84
250
420J
Pearl II. of Melrose
3670
22.11.16
273
17i
6,526
5
43
354
71
250
404i
Graceful Duchess of Melrose
VIII. ..
1056
25.11.16
273
25
7,786
5
70
443
76
250
506
Lily 6th of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
3671
28.11.16
273
15
4,693
6
69
314
10
175
358
Peerless VI. of Melrose
28.11.16
273
10
5,816
5
68
330
22
250
376.1
Chevy 8th of Melrose
4511
2.12.16
273
23
6,853
6
01
412
06
250
469|
Pearl 4th of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
6.12.16
273
12
4,886
6
06
296
28
175
33 7S
Flower VI. of Melrose
3641
7.12.16
273
22i
6,867
5
50
377
94
250
430}
Quality VI. of Melrose
3674
7.12.16
273
26
8,494
5
31
451
29
250
514i
Chevy VI. of Melrose
3635
7.12.16
273
13^
7,440
4
59
341
27
250
389
Rarity VIII. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
9.12.16
273
14
5,999
5
90
353
79
175
403i
Jessie X. of Melrose
3655
16.12.16
273
llj
5,480
5
61
307
39
250
350.1
Mystery XII. of Melrose
3667
17.12.16
273
17*
6,122
5
17
316
61
250
361
Jenny JLind VI. of Melrose . .
3649
30.12.16
273
13 V
6,112
4
73
289
16
250
329i
Flower IX. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
31.12.16
273
15V
3,668
5
48
201
15
175
229i
Pearl V. of Melrose
,1
31.12.16
273
14
4,126
5
68
234
41
175
267i
Rarity VI. of Melrose
3675
1.1.17
273
21V
8,839
5
10
4-50
57
250
5131
Pleasance V. of Melrose
4527
4.1.17
273
lOi
4,914
5
54
272
51
250
310J
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
545
W. WOODMASON, Malvern— co««mwe'^.
8
_
1
o
■a -a
a o
Name of Cow.
PQ
•a
a o
W!2;
Date of
Calving
la
60
> s
^1
Standar
Require
Estimat
Weight
Butter.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
Mates V. of Melrose
4524
5.1.17
273
22
6,652
5-26
350-25
250
399J
Fuchsia X. of Melrose
4516
12.1.17
273
16i
7,473
4-66
348-31
250
397
Edith V. of Melrose*
4514
16.1.17
273
\il
5,466
515
281-64
250
321
Jessie XVI. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
19.1.17
273
Vi\
4,207
6-83
287-54
175
327i
Peerless of Melrose III.
2817
1.3.17
273
11.V
5,566
5-20
289 - 59
250
330i
Mystery XVI. of Melrose . .
1 Not yet
1 allotted
5.3.17
273
12"
3,807
5-98
227-98
175
259f
Graceful Duchess XIV. of
31.3.17
273
13 i
4,473
6-26
280-12
175
3191
Melrose
Jessie IX. of Melrose
3654
5.4.17
273
19
7,159
5-50
393-91
250
449
Empire VI. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
6.4.17
273
20
7,058
6-25
4)0-80
200
502^
Blossom IV. of Melrose
,j
16. •1.17
273
14
6,506
5-38
350-05
200
399
Mermaid III. of Jlelroset . .
4525
4.5.17
273
14
6,683
4-83
323-07
250
368i
Vanilla IX. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
14.5.17
273
15
4,532
5-39
244-28
175
278.V
Laura VI. of Melrose
3658
20.5.17
273
9.V
5,527
5-30
292-69
250
3331
Snowy III. of Melrose
3676
22.5.17
273
22"
8,512
4-52
385-04
250
439
Mates VI. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
29.5.17
273
20i
7,190
5-43
390-32
175
445
Mystery VIII. of Melrose . .
3664
31.5.17
273
13
6,036
5-90
355-98
250
405J
Pearl III. of Melrose
4526
4.6.17
273
\A\
6,j34
6-65
427-78
250
4871
Fuchsia XI. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
12. p. 17
273
16'
5,869
5-45
319-68
200
364J
Mayflower VI. of Melrose . .
jj
16.6.17
273
13i
5,259
6-01
316-30
200
360*
Empire IV. of Melrose
3639
20.6.17
273
18.1
7,731
5-22
403-53
250
460
Jessie XV. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
29.6.17
273
lU
5,229
6-21
.325-76
200
37U
Waverley Lass II. of Melrose
,,
1.7.17
273
m
6,096
6-36
387-75
200
442
Jessie XII. of Melrose
4520
12.7.17
273
18.V
7,270
6 19
450-24
250
513i
Lassie Fowler III. of Melrose
1137
16.7.17
273
15"
8,072
513
414-52
250
472V
Jenny Lind IX. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
21.7.17
273
18
6,in
6 -.39
391-5C
200
44 6i
Laura IX. of Melrose
,j
25.7.17
273
15.V
6,105
6-42
392-36
200
447i
Jessie XIV. of Melrose
J,
26.7.17
273
16"
5,886
5-90
347-37
200
396
Gaiety Girl IX. of Melrose . .
jj
28.7.17
273
14
5,015
6 -.59
330-86
200
377i
Quality VII. of Melrose
J,
1.8.17
273
16
4,584
5-23
239-73
175
273i
Jessie XIX. of Melrose
jj
2.8.17
273
12
3,785
5-97
226-10
175
257J
Jessie XVII. of Melrose
,j
2.8.17
273
11
4,046
701
283-86
175
323i
Peerless XI. of Melrose
,,
11.8.17
273
15
4,987
5-38
268-61
175
307i
Graceful Duchess X. of Melrose
364a
11.8.17
273
17
6,952
6-32
439-62
250
5011
Vanilla VII. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
20.8.17
273
18
6,991
601
420-30
200
479i
Vanilla V. of Melrose
3678
21.8.17
273
12
8.040
4-56
366-54
250
417f
Rarity IX. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
23.8.17
273
14
5,182
5-41
280-51
175
319|
Graceful Duchess XI. of Mel-
rose
4518 ■
23.8.17
273
17
7,555
6-21
469-04
250
5341
Waverley Lass III. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
21.8.17
273
n
4,113
6-55
269-43
175
307i
Jessie XVIII. of Melrose . .
28.8.17
273
11. V
5,200
5-83
303-18
175
3451
Graceful Duchess XV. of Mel-
rose
„
28.8.17
273
13 J:
5,146
6-48
333-95
175
380i
Lassie Fowler IV. of Melrose
4522
29.8.17
273
21"
8,505
5-52
469-81
250
535i
Sweet Pansy III. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
30.8.17
273
15
5,987
6-49
388-89
200
4431
Jessie XIII. of Melrose
4520
11.9.17
273
15.V
7,420
6-29
467-22
2.50
532J
Peerless VIII. of Melrose . .
3673
13.9.17
273
161^
8,088
513
414-92
250
473
Graceful Duchess XII. of Mel-
Not yet
16.9.17
273
14'
5,622
6-32
355-83
200
405i
rose
allotted
Jessie XI. of Melrose
3656
18.9.17
273
IIV
6,065
609
368-99
250
420.V
Polly II. of Melrose
4528
21.9.17
273
18V
6;732
5-88
396-05
250
451J^
Fuchsia XII. of Melrose
Not yet
allotted
22.9.17
273
17"
5,752
5-09
292-04
175
333
Empire V. of Melrose . . j
4515
25.9.17
273
17V
8,379
5-43
456-23
250
520
* For her two previous lactation periods this cow's name appeared as " Editli II.," through no fault
of this Department.
t For her three previous lactation periods this cow's name appeared as "Mermaid II. of Melrose,"
through no fault of this Department.
13142.— 2
546
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
COWS IN ORDER OF MERIT.
Cows over 4 years of Age or on third lactation period — 250 lbs. Standard.
o
Name of Cow.
i; o
Owner.
Breed.
Milk.
CS
1^
1
OS
W^
> s
3 S
9
P3
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
1
Jessie VI. o£ Melrose
4519
W. Woodmason. .
Jersey .
7,691
5-74
518-35
591
2
Jubilee XV. . .
A. W. Jones
I.
9.361
5-33
499-55
569J
3
Velveteen II. . .
2927
C. G. Lyon
,,
. 10,434
4-67
487-73
556
4
Mona
155
C.S.J. H.B.
Leongatha High
School
'• •
. 10,344
4-65
480-95
548i
5
Arcadia
1534
C. G. Knight . .
„
. 9,450
5-07
479- 16
546J
6
Mythic
210t
C. G. Knight . .
,,
9,060
5-23
474-15
540|
Dainty VI.
4099
T. Harvey
,,
9,189
514
472-87
539
8
Lissie Fowler IV. of Melrose
4522
\V. Woodmason
i>
8,505
5 -52
469-81
535.1
9
Graceful Duchess XI. of
Melrose
4518
W. Woodmason
,. .
7,555
6-21
469-04
53 4 i
10
Jessie XIII. of Melrose . .
4520
W. Woodmason
7,420
6-29
467-22
532i
11
Soprano
1395
C. G. Lyon
,,
7,874
5-88
463-86
528|
12
Lady Grey VIII.
4187
A. W. Jones
• >
9,430
4-87
459-31
5235
13
Empire V. of Melrose . .
4515
W. Woodmason
„
8,379
5-43
456-23
520
14
Quality VI. of .Melrose . .
3674
W. Woodmason
!.
8,494
5-31
451-29
514.',
15
Rarity VI. of Melrose . .
3675
W. Woodmason
8,839
5-10
450-57
513J
16
Jessie XII. of Melrose . .
4520
W^. Woodmason
7,270
6-19
450-24
5131
17
Graceful Duchess VIII. of
Melrose
1056
W. Woodmason
7,786
5-70
443-76
506
18
Graceful Duchess X. of
Melrose
3646
W. Woodmason
6,952
6-32
439-62
501i
19
Lady Grey V. . .
3756
A. W. Jones
8,084
5-37
434-49
495J,
20
Lily of Tarnpirr
2221
C. G. Knight . .
9,252
4-66
431-40
49lj
21
Pearl III. of Melrose
4526
W. Woodmason
6,434
6-65
427-78
487?
22
Silver Queen of Colac . .
4032
A. W. Jones
6,318
6-76
427-18
487
23
Ettie IV.
2889
C. G. Lyon
9,813
4-34
426-17
485}
24
Queenie II. of Holm wood
A. W. .Tones
7,659
5-53
423-88
483i
25
Balsam of Springhurst* . .
4376
J. D. Read
7,517
5-61
422-32
481.1
26
Nightshade of Springhurst
3707
J. D. Read
8,477
4-93
418-51
477
27
Princess Defiance of Spring-
hurst
4392
J. D. Read
"
7,223
5-75
41517
473i
28
Peerless VIII. of Melrose
3673
W. Woodmason. .
,,
8,088
5-13
414-92
473
29
Lassie Fowler Ill.of .Melrose
1137
W. Woodmison. .
,,
8,072
5 13
414-52
472i
30
MUkmaid 37th
1222
C. G. Lyon
.,
8,639
4-77
412-55
470t
31
Chevy VIII. of Melrose
4511
W. Woodmason
.,
6,853
6-01
412-06
469|
32
Chorus
2823
C. G. Lyon
,,
7.399
5-62
411-35
469
33
Bright Princess
T. Mesley
J.
7,838
5-2J
411 06
468J
34
Alire of Tarnpirr
4205
C. G. Knight . .
6,868
5-96
409-56
466!
35
Fo.xglove of Tarnpirr . .
2983
C. G. Knight . .
6,819
5-97
407-23
464t
36
Muria
T5, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Red Po
11 7,293
5-57
406-10
463
37
Bonnie
2980
C. G. Knight . .
Jersey
7,474
5-41
404-61
4611
38
Captor's Thora
3329
C. G. Lyon
,,
7,398
."j'-fd
404 09
4602
39
Lady Grey I. of St. Albans
4186
A. W. Jones
,,
5,890
6 -8.0
404-05
460'.
40
Xetherlana . . si Mmi ■ ■
T34, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Red Po
11 10,373
3-89
403-69
4601
41
Sweetbread XXIV.
2979
C. D. Lloyd
Jersey
8,372
4-82
403-61
460
42
Empire IV. of Melrose . .
3639
W. Woodmason
„
7,731
5-22
403-53
460
43
Meadow Sweet II.
T. Mesley
,.
7,574
5-27
399 - 42
455
44
Buttercup of Springhurst
3702
J. D. Read
,,
6,442
6 16
.397-14
452?
45
Polly II. of Melrose
4 528
W. Woodmason
,,
. 6,732
5-88
396-05
451J
46
Princess of Springhurst . .
2521
J. D. Read
7,010
5 ■ 63
394-99
450i
47
Tambourine
1417
C. G. Lyon
7,902
4-98
394-08
449J
48
Jessie IX. of Melrose . .
3654
W. Woodmason
„
7.159
5-50
393-91
449
49
Statuette
4251
C. G. Lyon
,,
6,816
5-76
392-62
447*
50
Birdseye
T15, G4
Department of
Agriculture
Red Pc
11 7,596
516
392-07
447
51
Foxglove of Springhurst . .
3704
Mrs. A. Gibbs . .
Jersey
6,749
5-81
.392 04
445
52
Empire V. of Melrose
4515
W. Woodmason
7,067
5-54
391-68
4461
53
Mistletoe of Tarnpirr
2981
C. G. Knight . .
7,630
5 13
391-49
446i
54
Duplicate Posch Maud . .
O. J. Syme
Friesia
1 10,762
3-63
390-74
445J
55
Snowy III. of Melrose . .
3676
W. Woodmason
Jersey .
8,512
4-52
385-04
439
56
Bolohek Belle . .
O. J. Syme
Friesiai
1 10,174
3-77
384-53
iS»i
57
Mongolia
T26,' G2
Department of
Agriculture
Red Pc
)11 8,642
4-44
384-09
437J
58
Vanity of Warrook
2546
W. C. Greaves . .
Avrshir
e 8,241
4-64
382-26
435J
59
Serbia
T41, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Red Pr
11 8,841
4-32
382 03
435}
60
Melodious
2336
C. G. Lyon
Jersey
7.666
4-98
380-91
4341
*
[ncomplcte test.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
547
Cows OVER 4 Years of Age or on Third Lactation Period — 250 lbs. Standard —
continued.
Name of Cow.
Zoc V.
Charmian
Flower VI. of Molrose
Bluebell II. . .
Pride of Rocklands
Graceful Duchess XI. . .
Molly II.
Jessie XI. of Melrose
Jessie's Progress
Ealtica
Vanilla V. of Melrose
Little Queen . .
Fuclisia of Warook
Bud of View Point
Bright Jewel . .
j\rum of Springhurst
Romany Lass . .
Zoe V. of Melrose
Karong Belle . .
Lassie II.
Hawthorn of Banyiile . ,
Primrose of Tarninrr
Fairy Hello
Future of Warrook
Namesake II. . .
Primrose of Springhitr.«t
Mystery VIII. of Jlelrose
Audrey Lassie
Pearl II. of Melrose
Sylvia
Mystery XIV. of Melrose
Mates V. of Melrose
Dot of Pine Grove
Tonga
Tulip of Springhurst
Fuchsia X. of Melrose
Daisy of Springhurst
Gazelle
La Reina
Countess Twylish
Royal Rose
The Gift
Captor's Vanilla
Chevy VI. of Melrose
Elcho Lady
Parrakeet
Mona's Pearl . .
Bullion
Peerless VI. of Melrose . .
Dolly of Clydebank II. . .
Grace II. of AVarrook
India
Pretty May (imp.)
Mermaid III. of Melrose
Bit of Fashion
Mongolia
Madge
Grace Darling of Warrook
Jessie V. of Melrose
Tasmania
Dainty Molly . .
Lily Langtry . .
fc< o
« o
1-197
3641
394
C.S.J.H.B
614
3656
3657
T39, Gl
3678
2544
2163
4375
2563
1496
lise
1064
2985
2244
4.391
3664
825
3670
T4, G2
452
C.S.J.H.B
452i
T37," G2
2730
4516
1788
T15, Go
928
2585
259
C.S.J.H.B.
3330
3635
3625
3577
T2, Gl
3671
3742
2908
TIO, Gl
3103
4525
1852
T20, G2
3575
2909
3652
T32, Gl
2830
Breed.
C. G. Lyon
T. Mesley
\V. Woodmason
F. Bidgood
C. G. Lyon
A. Jackson
C. G. Lyon
W. Woodmason
W. Woodmason
Department of
Agriculture
W. N\'oodmason
T. Mesley
W. C. Greaves . .
Geo. Kent
A. W. Jones
J. D. Read
C. G. Knight . .
W. Woodmason
J. Baker
C. G. Lyon
C. G. Lyon
C. G. Knight . .
T. Mesley
W. C. Greaves . .
T. Mesley
J. D. Read
W. Woodmason
C. G. Lyon
W. Woodmason
Department of
Agriculture
A. Jackson
W. Woodmason . .
A. H. Schier
Department of
Agriculture
J. D. Read
W. Woodmason. .
T. Mesley
T. Mesley
Department of
Agriculture
C. D. Lloyd
C. G. Knight . .
Leongatha High
Scliool
C. G. Lyon
W. Woodmason
J. Baker
C. G. Lyon
Mrs. A. Blacli
Department
Agriculture
W. Woodmason
Mrs. A. Black
W. C. Greaves
Department
Agriculture
C. G. Lyon
W. Woodmason
W. C. Greaves
Department
Agriculture
Mrs. A. Black . .
W. C. Greaves . .
W. Woodmason
Department of
.\gricultnre
C. Di. Lloyd
T. Meslev
22
of
of
of
Jersey
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Ayrshire
Jersey . .
Red Poll
J ersey . .
Ayrshire
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Ayrshire
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Ayrshire
Red Poll
Jersey . ,
Ayrshire
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Ayrsliire
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Milk.
lbs.
6,920
6,824
6,867
5,869
7,112
5,751
7,532
6,065
5,916
8,512
8,040
7,087
8,807
7,497
6,009
6,519
6.543
5,803
6,682
7,5.39
6,920
6,145
6,035
8,885
7.248
6,869
6,036
7,808
6,526
7,424
6,784
6,652
7,721
8,290
6,426
7,473
6,300
7,373
7,410
7,617
5,952
6,933
7,368
7,440
7,028
8,656
6,611
7,892
5,816
5.182
6.669
7,990
6,024
6,683
6,447
7,704
5.903
7,306
6,279
7,853
5,293
5,391
5-47
5-54
5-50
6-38
5-21
6-43
4
609
23
4-31
4-56
16
4-16
4-87
606
5-56
5-54
6-24
5-41
4-78
5-21
5-83
5-93
4-02
4-92
5-18
lbs.
378 • 79
378-63
377-94
374-49
370-46
369-58
369-05
368-99
368-84
366-95
5-90
4-55
■43
4-77
5-19
26
4-53
-42
4-66
5-54
5-1
80
4-95
4-85
4-59
4-84
3-88
-07
4-22
6-3
4-93
4-08
38
83
00
4-18
45
40
12
4-09
605
-91
366
366
366
365
364
363
362
361
361
360
360
358
357-
357-
356-
356-
.355-
355-
.354-
354-
350-25
349-59
349-04
348-47
348-31
348 ■ 08
346-57
346-39
346-01
345-35
343 - 50
3)3-02
341-27
340 11
335-81
335-57
333 - 30
330 - 22
329-89
328-87
326-35
323-97
323-07
322 - 58
322-15
321
321-63
321-30
320-90
lbs.
431|
431i
430|
427
422i
421}
4 20 J
420i
4 20i
nsi
4171
417J
417J-
416i ■
415.V
414
413*
412i
112}
411A
411}
408i
408
407}
407
406}
405?
405J
404}
J03?
401}
399}
39S.V
.398
397}
397
396?
.395
394J
394*
393J
3911
391
389
3873
382J
382i
380
3761
376
375
372
369}
368}
367j
367}
366f
366}
365
320-33 365
318-691363}
548
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
Cows OVER 4 Years of Age or on Third Lactation Pbriod-
continucd.
-250 LBS. Standard-
Name of Cow.
6
Owner.
Breed.
Milk.
1.,
I'S
^ O
OJ o
> o
stj
3
OS
MP
<r^
«fn
«
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
123
Dolly of Tanipirr
1840
C. G. Knight . .
Jersey . .
5,812
oil
31817
3622
124
Daisy VI. of Melrose
W. Woodmason
,,
6,048
5-26
^1815
3621
125
Alsyke of Springhurst . .
15i5
T. Mesley
6.376
1-98
31801
362*
126
Cora . .
3331
C. G. Lyon
,,
5,348
5-92
317-07
361 i
127
Mystery XII. of Melrose
3667
W. Woodmason
,,
6,1?2
5-17
U6-61
361'
128
Noble .fessie
2843
C. G. Lyou
,,
5,575
5-67
316-59
361
129
Sparkle
297S
T. Harvey
,,
5,875
5-35
314-18
358i
130
Lily
T46, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Red Poll
7,651
4-10
313-46
357i
131
Hyacinth of Springhurst
3705
Mrs. A. Gibbs . .
Jersey . .
4,974
6-30
313-17
357
132
Heatherbell . .
3574
Mrs. A. Black . .
„
7,029
4-42
310-61
3.54
133
Princess of Tarnpirr
2986
C. G. Knight . .
,. - .
6,234
4-97
310-08
353;',
134
.Jessie X. of Melrose
3655
W. Woodmason
5,480
5-61
307 • 39
3501
135
Marguerite
3576
Mrs. A. Black . .
6,292
4-87
306 - 39
349i
136
Britannia*
T31, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
lied Poll
7,845
3-90
306-12
349
137
Aleutia
T35, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
•'
7,033
1-35
306-08
349
138
Velveteen (imp.)
T50, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Department of
.'
8,593
3-52
303-06
345*
139
Asiana
T20, Gl
6,465
4-67
302-28
344 V
Agriculture
140
Persica
Til, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
6,014
5 02
301-76
344
141
Gallipoli
T45, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
7,262
4-11
298-74
340i
142
Flashlight
1972
Mrs. A. Black . .
Jersey
6,221
4-77
296-95
338i
143
Soudana
T23, G2
Department of
Agriculture
Bed Poll
7,113
416
296-39
338"
144
Beauty of Candelo II. . .
3739
Mrs. A. Black . .
Jersey. .
6,585
4-46
294-15
335i
145
Laura VI. of Melrose
3658
W. Woodmason
,.
5,527
5-30
292-69
3331
146
Peerless of Melrose III.
2817
W. Woodmason
»i
5,566
5-20
289-59
330i
147
Argentina*
|T19A, Gl
3649
Department of
Agriculture
W. Woodmason
Red Poll
7,716
3-75
289 - 55
330
148
Jenny Lind VI. of Melrose
Jersey . .
6,112
4-73
289-16
329?
149
Elcho Maid
J. Baker
Red Poll
5.510
5 13
282-51
322
150
Princess Mary II. of
Strahan
A. Jackson
Ayrshire
7,153
3-94
282-09
321i
151
Dear of Midbranch
A. H. Schier . .
6,258
4-50
281-65
321
152
Edith V. of Melrose
45i4
W. Woodmason
Jersey . .
5,4 66
515
281-6-1
321
153
Malaysia
T24, G2
Department of
Agriculture
Red Poll
6,182
4-5-1
280-83
320i
154
Doris II. of Kingsvale . .
4025
C. Falkenberg . .
Jersey . .
5,183
5-40
■280-03
319i^
155
Ruby
513
fC.S.J.H.B.
G. Rowe
" ••
5,798
4-82
279-55
318i
156
Pacifica
T36, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Red Poll
6,253
4-46
279-06
318
157
Lassie
509
C. G. Lyon
Jersey . .
5,356
5-17
276-85
3151
158
Streak of Balvormic
A. H. Schier
Ayrshire
6,573
4-21
276-83
315i
159
Sweet Alice
532
C.S..T.H.B.
W. Parbury
Jersey . .
4,327
6-35
274-89
3131
160
Pleasancc V. of Melrose. .
4527
W. Woodmason
,,
4,914
5-54
272-51
3101
161
Grey Girl
2064
Mrs. A. Black . .
55 . •
4,859
5-63
272-25
310i
162
Euroa of Springhurst
1918
T. Mesley
4,920
5-52
271-41
309i
163
Starfinch II. . .
2915
0. G. Lyon
„
5,473
4-95
271-25
309i
164
Annie of Taringa
4023
C. Falkenberg . .
,. . .
4,803
5-65
271-18
309i
165
Mussel II. of Balvormic
A. H. Schier
Ayrshire
6,141
4-24
270-84
308?
166
Twinkle
.538
C.S.J.H.B.
Miss Robinson . .
Jersey . .
5,468
4-92
269-49
307i
167
Carnation V. . .
3572
Mrs. A. Black . .
„
4,767
5-62
268-08
305i
168
Africana
T23, G2
Department of
Agriculture
Red Poll
5,622
4-74
266 - 76
304'
169
Violet III.
T15. G3
Department of
Agriculture
5,786
1-60
266-03
303 i
170
Daffodil
157
C.S.J.H.B.
G. Rowe
Jersey . .
6,156
4-31
265-38
302*
171
Opaline
3578
Mrs. A. Black . .
„
5,025
516
2.59-12
2961
172
Musk of Springhurst
4388
Mrs. A. Gibbs . .
,,
4,482
5-77
2.58-61
294i
173
Princess Edith of Gowrie
Park
2876
Geelong Harbor
Trust
Ayrshire
6,060
4-26
258-43
2941
174
Rose . .
509
C.S.J.H.B.
G. Rowe
Jersey . .
6,324
4-04
256-00
291?
Incomplete test.
10 Sept., 191S.
Standard Herd Test.
549
Cows OVER -4 Years of Age or on Third Lactation Period — 250 lbs. Standard-
continued.
d
o
"A
it,
u^
Name of Cow.
■aM
Owner.
Breed.
Milk.
t- .'
B .
oa
am
■<H
WfH
lbs.
lbs.
175
Congo
T23, G3
Department of
Agriculture
Bert Poll
6,103
4-19
255-74
176
Honeysuckle of Springhurst
4,383
Mrs. A. Gibbs . .
Jersey . .
4,319
5-88
253-91
177
Buttercup
875
A. W. Jones
,,
6,318
4-OU
253-24
178
Sheila V.
3580
Mrs. A. Black . .
„
4,686
5-40
253-06
179
Boronia of Springhurst . .
4377
Mrs. A. Gibbs . .
'• ••
4,558
5-54
252 • 56
lbs.
291^
289 i
288 J
2881
288
Cows under 4 Years of Age— 200 lbs. Standard.
(-1 ^
Name of Cow.
d
Owner.
Breed
Milk.
5 .
Is
h o
<u o
> s
3
OS
w«
<H
«P=<
«
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
1
Empire VI. of Melrose . .
\V. Woodmason
Jersey
7,058
6-25
440-80
502J
2
Trefoil of Springhurst . .
4395
J. D. Read
,,
7,139
5-97
426-48
486i
3
Vanilla VII. of Melrose
\Y. Woodmason
,,
6,991
6-01
420-30
479i
4
First Choice
372
C.S.J.H.B.
Leongatha High
School
"
6,820
5-98
407-85
465
5
Handsome Girl VII. of Mel-
W. Woodmason
..
5,665
7-12
403-18
459J
6
rose
Gaiety Girl VIII. of Mel-
W._ Woodmason
„
0,563
5-99
393-20
448}
7
rose
Laura IX. of Melrose . .
W. Woodmason
6,105
6-42
392-36
447i
8
Jenny Lind IX. of Melrose
W. Woodmason
,,
6,141
6-39
391-50
4!6i
9
Sweet Pansy Ill.of Melrose
W. Woodmason
,,
. 5,987
6-49
388-89
443i
10
Cutty..
T16, G2
Department of
Agriculture
Bed Po
11 8,351
4-64
.388-18
442i
11
Waverley Lass II. of Mel-
W. Woodmason
Jersey
6,096
6-36
387-75
442
12
rose
Santa Clara
T6, G2
Department of
.\griculture
Red Pc
11 8,488
4-53
384-61
438J
13
Czarina of Springhurst
4380
J. D. Read
Jersey
6,692
5-72
383-17
423
14
Freezia of Springhurst . .
4382
J. D. Read
.,
6.797
5-51
374-25
426f
15
Solanura of Springhurst. .
4.394
J. D. Read
7,465
4-89
364-89
416
16
Blanchette I. of St. Albans
A. W. Jones
,,
7,101
5-13
364-86
416
17
Lady Elector II. of Melrose
W. Woodmason
,.
5, .524
6-51
359-69
410
18
Graceful Duchess XII. of
Melrose '*$0
W. Woodmason
5,622
6-32
355-83
405t
19
Maitland's Duchess j^ of
Lesterfield ft
177
C.S.J.H.B.
A. Jackson
"
6,816
5-18
353-12
402*^
20
Garenne II. . .
T. Mesley
,,
6,681
5-26
351-76
401
21
Latakia
T12,'G2
Department of
Agriculture
Red Po
11 7,421
4-72
350 - 56
3901
22
Blossom IV. of Melrose . .
W. Woodmason
Jersey
6,506
5-38
350-05
399
23
Jessie XIV. of Melrose . .
W. Woodmason
,,
5,886
5-90
347-37
396
24
Kirsty V.
4i6o
T. Harvey
,,
6,211
5-58
346-40
395
25
Clover of Sparrovale
2872
Geclong Harbor
Trust
Ayrshir
e 6,894
4-97
342-86
3901
26
Phyllis
T. Mesley
Jersey
6,204
5-49
340-72
388!t
27
My Queen of Tarnpirr . .
4209
C. G. Knight . .
,,
5,775
5-82
335-94
383
28
Flower Queen . .
4285
Meier Bros.
,,
6,480
5-17
335-23
382J
29
Avesia
T15f\ Gl
Dep.artment of
Agriculture
Bed Po
11 8,231
4-06
334-51
381 i
30
Maid of Sparrovale
Geelong Harbor
Trust
W. Woodmason
C. G. Lyon
Ayrshir
e 8,142
409
332-88
379*
31
32
Gaiety Girl IX. of Melrose
Maitland's Petal II.
Jersey
5,015
5,013
6-59
6-51
330-86
326-50
377i
372i
33
Jessie XV. of Melrose . .
W Woodmason
5,229
6-21
325-76
371i
34
Fuchsia XI. of Melrose . .
W. Woodmason
5,869
5-45
319-68
364*
35
Mayflower VI. of Melrose
W. Woodmason
5.259
6-01
316-30
360
36
Symphony
C. G. Lyon
4,760
6-56
312-20
356
37
Idyll's Morocco
4207
C. G. Knight . .
5,147
6-0.
310-97
354*
38
Lassie Fov.'ler V. of Melrose
W Woodmason
5,128
6-03
309 - 18
352J
39
Cobea of Springhurst
4379
J. D. Bead
5,512
5-60
308-56
351j
40
Verbena
T. Ales ey
.-
5,889
5-22
307-43
350J
550 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. 1 10 Sept., 1918.
Cows UNDER 4 Years of Age — 200 lbs. Standard — continued.
o
6
Sl
Zid
Naxne of Cow.
■x:ii
Owner.
Breed.
Milk.
iZ ^
^
^
■5'§
- o
- o
> t
-t:'
■s
OS
Spq
<;h
p6
«
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
41
C'liarmian 11. . .
T. Mesley
Jersey . .
5,888
5-18
305-40
348i
42
Sweetheart II. of Tarnpin
42il
C. G. Knight
., . .
5,669
5-31
301-35
343i
4:5
C'alla of Springhurst
4378
J. I). Read
,,
.5,951
5 03
299-20
341
44
Letty of Warrook
W. C. Greaves . .
Ayrshire
6,670
4-38
292-35
333i
45
J.obelia of Springhurst . .
4386
J. D. Read
.Jersey . .
4,940
5-78
285-80
325J
46
Daffodil of Springhurst . .
4381
.1. U. Read
.,
4,431
6-36
282-04
321i
47
La Charm
T. Mesley
5,577
501
279-52
318i
48
Aridia
T29, G2
Dei)artment of
Agriculture
Red' Poll
6,345
4-32
274-44
312J
49
Christmas
4206
C. G. Knight
.1 ersey . .
4,328
6-16
266-63
304
50
Russia
T43, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Red Poll
6,580
4 00
263-47
3()0i
51
Sweet Pansy II. of Melrose
W. Woodmasoii
.Jersey . .
4,440
5-90
261-94
2981
52
Handsome Lassie of Co!ac
4028
C. Falkenberg . .
5,289
4-71
249-52
284*
53
Empire
T15, G4
Department of
Agriculture
Kcfi'Poli
5,180
4-77
247-15
281 !
54
Hollandia
T34, G2
Department of
Agriculture
"
5,447
4-53
24704
28U
55
Coinage
T2, G2
Department of
Agriculture
5,693
4-23
241-17
275
56
Fuchsia of Retreat
2960
MulJebach Bros.
Ayrshire
5,408
4-35
235 10
268
57
Rose of Springhurst
-1393
Mrs A. Gibbs . .
.Jersey . .
3,836
6-08
233-13
265J
58
Nanette
Not yet
allotted
T. Mesley
" •■
4,658
4-95
230-40
262J
59
Peerless IX. of Melrose . .
W. Woodmason
., . .
4,007
5-60
224-59
256
60
Cream Girl
Hill and Doake
I!
4,347
5-09
221-55
252. t
61
Ivy
Mrs. L. Orchard
.,
4,586
4-59
210-39
239J
62
Princess of Colac
C. Falkenberg . .
„ ■ •
3,983
5-25
209-10
2381
Heifers— 175 lbs. Standard.
o
Name of Cow.
d
Owner.
Breed.
Milk.
2^
i
■o h
>-. o
u£,
« o
> o
3 c8
3
OS
•
Kpq
<:h
paii.
n
lbs.
lbs.
lbs.
1
May Queen II.
A. W. Jones
Friesian
9,386
4-37
410-39
467|
2
Miites VI. of Melrose . .
\V. Woodmason
Jersey . .
7,190
5-43
390-32
445
3
Whitebread . .
4244
C. D. Lloyd
,, , .
6,786
5-40
366-61
418
4
Rarity VIII. of Melrose. .
W. Woodmason
5.999
5-90
353 - 79
403 i
5
Ida May
404
C.S.J.H.B.
Leach Bros.
6,939
5-07
352-14
4014
6
Thora III.
C. G. Lyon
,. . .
5,785
6-07
351-06
400i
7
Crocus of Springhurst . .
J. D. Read
6,295
5 -56
349-92
399
8
Magnet's Lass III.
('. G. Lyon
5,766
6-05
349 - 19
398
9
Opticia
T15D, Gl
Department of
Agriculture
Red' Poll
7,914
4-32
341-88
389?
10
Graceful Duchess XV. of
Melrose
W. Woodmason
.Jersey . .
5,146
6-48
333-95
380i
11
Creamcake
5278
C. D. Lloyd
.,
5,278
6-17
325-80
3711
12
Graceful Duchess XII. of
Melrose
W. Woodmasou
5,168
6-19
320-20
365
13
Peerless X. of Melrose . .
W. Woodmason
,, . .
5,197
6-11
317-37
361 1
14
Lily VI. of Melrose
W. Woodmason
4,693
6-69
314-10
358
15
Noble's Pet . .
4247
C. G. Lyon
5.847
5-36
313-61
357i
16
Lallah
TU, G2
Department of
Agriculture
Red' Poll
6.809
4-56
310-72
3544
17
Lady's Maitland
423
C.S.J.H.B.
A. Jackson
Jersey . .
5,521
5-60
.309-27
3521
18
Gingerbread
C. D. Lloyd
Jersey . .
5,339
5-78
308-87
352
19
Kubanka
T6', 'G2
Department of
Agriculture
Red Poll
7,223
4-27
308-65
351i
20
Banksia oi Springhurst . .
J. I). Read
Jersey . .
5,115
5-59
308-32
351*
21
Morocco
T23A, G2
Department of
Agriculture
Red Poll
8,421
3-65
307-35
350i
22
Sainotina
T15A, G3
Department of
Agriculture
" --
6,350
4-82
306-30
349i
23
Lucerne of Springhurst . .
J. D. Read
Jersey . .
5,050
6-04
305 - 10
347J
24
Hawthorn IV.
C. G. Lyon
,."
4.998
6-10
304-90
347*
25
Jessie XVIII. of Melrose
W. Woodmason
.. • •
5,200
5-83
303-18
3451
10 Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
551
Heifers — 17.5 lbs. Standard — continued.
Name of Cow.
Sylph . .
Miss Twilight . .
Molly V.
Silvi'rmine XIV.
Verbeaa of Spriiighurst.
Thora II.
Harp
Iris . .
Pearl IV. of Melrose
Bolobek Isabella
Fuchsia XII. of Melrose
Jessie XVI. of Melrose . .
Wattle of Springhurst . .
Coinage
Hawthorn V. of Banyule
Sumonta
Jessie XVII. of Melrose. .
Lady Marge V.
Infanta of Springhurst . .
Rarity IX. of Melrose . .
Graceful Duchess XIV. of
Melrose
Holly of Springhurst
Tabeltina
Blanche Rose IX.
Waverley Lass III. of Mel-
rose
Peerless XI. of Melrose . .
Anglia
Lady Elector III. of >[elrose
May IX. of Banyule
Jamaica
Xyanza
Azora
Briar
Mystery XIV. 's Beauty
Nickahoe
Tropic
Xeedle X. of Puen Buen
Orinoco
Vanilla IX. of Melrose . .
Patchwork
Quality VII. of Melrose
Laura of Sparrovale
Boronia of Retreat
Pearl V. of Melrose
Princess May . .
Mystery XVI. of Melrose
Jessie XIX. of Melrose . .
May X. of Banyule
Poplar Vale Princess
XXIX.
Mystery XV. of Melrose
Queen Elizabeth
Lily of Retreat
Silver of Inverleigli
Madge of Sparrovale
Flora of Sparrovale
WS
T2.
02
G2
■v.n, G2
T24,
T23B,
T26.
T16A, G3
T28, G2
T47. Gl
4321
Xot yet
allotted
Not yet
allotted
2961
Owner.
Department of
Agriculture
F. Bidgood
C. G. Lyon
C. G. Lyon
J. D. Read
C. G. Lyon
C. G. Lyon
Department of
Agriculture
W. Woodmason
O. J. Syme
W. Woodmason
W. W^oodmason
J. D. Read
Department of
Agriculture
C. G. Lyon
Department of
Agriculture
W. Woodmason
T. Harvey
J. D. Read
W. Woodmason
W. Woodmason
J. D. Read
Department of
Agriculture
W. Atkinson
W. Woodmason
W. Woodmason
Department of
Agriculture
W. Woodmason
C. G. Lyon
Department of
Agriculture
Department of
Agriculture
Department of
Agriculture
Department of
Agriculture
A. .lackson
Department of
Agriculture
Department of
Agriculture
Miss S. L. Robinson
Department of
Agriculture
W. Woodmason
C. G. Knight . .
W. Woodmason
Geelong Harbor
Trust
Muhlebach Bros.
W. Woodmason
C. G. Knight ..
W. Woodmason
W. Woodmason
C. G. Lyon
W. K. Atkinson
W. W^oodmason
G. Rowc
Muhlebach Bros.
A. H. Schier
Gc'long Harbor
Trust
Gi-elong Harbor
Trust
Breed.
Red Poll
Jcr.sev . .
Fiitisian
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersev . .
Red Poll
Milk.
Red Poll
Shorthorn
Jer.sey . .
Red" Poll
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersev . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Ayrshire
Jersey . .
Shorthorn
Jersey . .
lbs
4-53
3-20
5-63
4-95
•40
■87
•83
6^06
^•63
5-09
6^83
4^98
4-02
6,684
5,788
5,342
6,067
5,545
5,086
5,114
6,402
4,886
8,133
5.752
4,207
5,768
7,125
5,247 5-46 286^3
6,725 4^22 284^25
lbs
302^69
301 07
300 95
300 14
299 31
298 • 56
298 34
96^28
296-28
•66
292 04
287-54
287-37
4,046
4,868
4,946
5,182
4,473
5,061
6,822
6,774
4,113
4,987
6,790
4,098
5,251
6.417
6,025
6,298
5,779
4,690
5,807
5,717
4,303
5,823
4,532
4,264
4,584
4,754
5,534
4,126
4,285
3,807
3,785
4,527
5,595
3,740
4,732
4.600
4,862
5,.343
283^86
282-64
281^24
41 280-51
6-26 280-12
5-48
3-99
4-01
6-55
5-38
3-79
6-53
5-00
4-00
4-24
4 06
4-40
5-42
4-32
272-3;
268-
267-
267
262
256
256
255
254
254
50'
5-75
4-53
4-63
4-31
3-88
248-64
248-20
244-28
240-53
239 - 73
239-13
237-98
234-41
229-62
227-98
226 10
223-57
219-56
215-05
214 • 32
213-18
209-87
207-48
■203-38 2? 15
lbs.
345
343J
343
342i
34 IJ
34nj
340
3371
3371
337
333
327f
327i
3261
326i
324
323i
322i
320i
3191
319i
316
307J
307J
305 i
305
299i
293
291J
291 J
290
290
286
283f
78i
n^
272i
271J
267J
261i
259f
257|
254j
250J
244i
243
239i
236i
552
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
Heifers — 175
LBS. Standard —
zonlinucd.
o
II
Name of Cow.
6
Owner.
Breed.
Milk.
> o
IS
«
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
95
Flower of Sparrovale
Betty II. of Pine Grove
Pansy of Retreat
Flower IX . of Melrose . .
Canary of Colac
Laranaga
Diamond III. . .
Zenobia
Cloverleaf
Silken Bond . .
Spatter*
Princess Lady II.
Bluebell of Brighteyes . .
Nictitana
Princess Dot . .
Bluebell of Sparrovale . .
4624
4336
T7', 'g2
116 63
4242
562
C.S.J .H.B
T15, Go
497
C.S..I.H.B.
Oeelong Harbor
Trust
A. H. Schier
Muhlebach Bros.
W. Woodmason
C. Falkenberg . .
Department of
Agriculture
Mrs. A. Black . .
C. G. Lyon
Hill and Drake
Department of
Agriculture
C. D. Lloyd
Meier Bros.
G. Rowe
Department of
Agriculture
G. Rowe
Geelong Harbor
Trust
Ayrshire
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Red' Poll
Jersey . .
Red Poll
Jersey . .
Ayrshire
4,581
4,489
4,275
3.668
3.812
4,780
3,430
3,363
4,441
4,382
2,599
3,896
2,929
3,587
3 485
4,353
Ibs
4-44
4 -.50
4-73
5-48
5-24
4-15
5-78
5-88
4-41
4-48
7-30
4-83
6-22
5-04
5-12
4-32
lbs.
•203-22
-202-42
•202-34
•201-15
200-29
198-63
198-17
197-71
197-24
196-63
189-71
188-08
182-21
181-31
178-40
175 -51
bs .
23 If
230i
230i
229i
228i
226J
226
2-25i
■224i
224 i
216i
214 i
•207i
206f
203 i
200
Incomplete test.
HERD AVERAGES.
WM. WOODMASON'S "Melrose" Herd (Jerseys).
Cows of Herd in their Respective Classes.
Butter Fat.
Average.
42 Mature Cows yielded
19 Second-calf Cows yielded
Handicap of 50 lbs. each
6,719
950
23 lbs.
00 lbs.
lbs.
15,622-20
7,669-23
8,172-59
371-95
■353-64
23 Heifers yielded . .
Handicap of 75 lbs. each
6,447
1,725
59 lbs.
00 lbs.
280-33
Return (without herd allowance) . .
84 Cows in herd allowed 42 lbs. each (equal to J lb. per cow)
31,464-02—
3,528-00
374-57
Herd total (including all handicap allowances)
34,992 02
416-57
J. D. READ'S "Springhurst" Herd.
Cows of Herd in their Respective Classes.
lbs.
lbs.
Butter Fat.
Average.
7 Mature Cow* yielded
9 Second-calf Cows yielded . .
Handicap of 50 lbs. each
3,080
450
69
00
lbs.
2 770-90
3,530-69
2,633-53
395-84
342-29
7 Heifers yielded . .
Handicap of 75 lbs. each
2,108
525
53 lbs.
00 lbs.
301-22
) . .
Return (without herd allowance) . .
23 Cows in herd allowed llj lbs. each (equal to i lb. per cow
8,935-12
264-50
388-48
Herd total (including all handicap allowances)
9,199-62
399-98
JO Sept., 1918.]
Standard Herd Test.
553
C. GORDON LYON'S "Banyule" Herd (Jerseys).
Cow3 of Herd in their Respective Classes.
Butter Fat.
Average.
22 Mature Cows yielded
2 Second-calf Cows yielded . .
Handicap of 50 lbs. each
638
100
70 lbs.
00 lbs.
lbs.
8:153-53
738-70
4,387-21
370-61
319-35
12 Heifers yielded . .
Handicap of 75 ll)s. each
3,487
900
21 lbs.
00 lbs.
290-60
Return (without herd allowance) . .
36 Cows ;n herd allowed 18 lbs. each (equal to \ lb. per cow)
13,279-44
648-00
368-87
Herd total (including all handicap allowances)
13,927-44
386-87
C. G. KNIGHT'S "Tarnpirr," Herd (Jerseys).
Cows of Herd in their Respective Classes.
Butter Fat. Average
12 ilatiire Cows yielded
4 Second-calf Cows*yielded . .
Handicap of tt lbs. each
2 Heifers yielded
Handicap 75 lbs. each
Return (without herd allowance) . . . .
18 Cows in herd allowed 9 lbs. each (equal to § lb. per cow)
Herd total (including all handicap allowanee«)
1,214-89 lbs
200-00 lbs
469-97 lbs
150-00 lbs
lbs.
4,692-40
619-97
i,727-26
391-03
303-72
234-98
373-73
382-73
THOS. MESLEY'S Herd (Jerseys).
Cows of Herd in their Respective Classes.
Butter Fat.
Average.
12 Mature Cows yielded
4 Second-call Cows yielded . .
Handicap of 50 lbs. each
1,305-31 lbs.
200-00 lbs.
lbs.
4,152-37
1,505-31
346-03
326-32
Nil Heifers
Return (without herd allowance). .
16 Cows in herd allowed 8 lbs. each (equal to i lb. per cow)
5,657-68
128-00
353-60
Herd total (including all handicap allowances)
5,785-68
361-60
>54 Jouniul of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RESEARCH FARM, WERRIBEE.
Cows of Herd in their Respective Classes.
Butter Fat. ' Average.
32 Mature Cows yielded
9 Second-calf Cows yielded . .
Handicap of 50 lbs. each
2,731
450
13 lbs.
00 lbs.
lbs.
9,781-42
3,181-13
7,207-34
300-57
303-46
21 Heifers yielded . .
Handicap of 75 lbs. each
5,632
1,575
34 lbs.
00 lbs.
268-21
Return (without herd allowance). .
62 Cows in herd allowed 31 lbs. each (equal to i lb. per cow)
20,169-89
1922-00
325-32
Herd total (including all handicap allowances)
22,091-89
356-32
Mr. Gordon Lyon's Dairy Herd.
10 Sept., 1918. J Agriculture in America. 555
AGRICULTURE IX AMERICA.
Letter from Mr. A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc, Agricultural Superintendent
to the Director of Agriculture.
Agricultural Education of College Grade.
It seems to me that the agricultural work in the highest grade —
the university and college — has been organized in America very
thoroughly and completely.
Canada has followed the American plan of organization for the
liighest grade of instruction, so also has South Africa and the South
American States.
The essential features in this organization are —
(1) Entrance requirements equivalent to four years' high school
work ; age eighteen.
(2) A four-years' eourse leading to the degree of B.S.A. or B.Sc.
(3) N^o manual work in the university eourse, but farm experi-
ence to be acquired during the long vacation on approved
private farms. Practical and laboratory instruction is
given in each technical subject throughout the entire
course.
(4) This type of training is given for — ■
(a) The teachers of agriculture in the high schools and
elementary schools.
(h) Agricultural specialists and extension workers.
(c) Research workers in agriculture.
(d) Farmers' sons. Half the graduates at the
universities go straight back to the land. The
farmers now are sending their sons to the colleges
and universities in increasing numbers. Over
15,000 students attended the four-year course at
the universities in 1916.
(5) The curriculum consists of four years of intensive study.
An actual study of the curricula of 48 colleges of agricul-
ture in the United States shows that the student's time
during the four-years' course is taken up as follows : — ■
(1) Technical agricultural subjects — agronomy,
animal husbandry, horticulture, dairying,
farm management, &c. . . . . 42 %
(2) Pure and applied science — Agricultural
chemistry, botany, physics, biology, &c. . . 38 %
(3) Non-technical and general subjects and
foreign language — English, mathematics,
civics, &c. . . . . . . . . 16 %
(4) Military training and physical training —
required by law under the provision of the
Agricultural Colleges Act . . . . 4 %
(6) The colleges train for leadership in agriculture and rural
life.
Dr. Bailey, formerly Dean of the JSTew York State College of Agri-
•culture (Cornell University) says that the American ideal is to train
rural citizens. He declares emphatically that you must break ■ away
556
Journal of Agriciiltnre, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
from tlie idea of trade schools for agriculture, and from the English
ideal of agricultural education, which is founded on a social cast —
that the farmer should be kept where he belongs. The Democracies of
the world must see that social and economic conditions are attractive
to men on the land. '' The farmer's part in society," he said, " is not
a mud-cell on which other ranges of activity are built, but it is a
collateral, requiring equal education with other branches of human
activity."
What America is doing for Agricultural Instruction of Secondary
Grade.
Special agricultural schools, apart from the State colleges, are main-
tained wholly or in part by State funds in at least sixteen States. The
schools vary in the nature of w-ork, equipment, income, and size of
district they serve. They are intended for boys of fourteen to eighteen
years of age. The area served by the agricultural schools in the various
States varies from a single county to an area serving a third of a
State.
High School in Salt Lake City, Utah.
(Population of Salt Lake City, ll.S,000. Population of tlie State of Utah, 420.000.
In Massachusetts, Michigan and Missouri, North Dakota, and Wis-
consin, the county is the unit. In Alabama, there is an agricultural
school in each of the nine Congressional districts. In California,
Colorado, Minnesota, l^ebraska, Sfew York, Pennsylvania, and Ver-
mont, there are agricultural schools serving large indeterminate areas
In addition to these special agricultural schools, many of the agri-
cultural colleges maintain schools of agriculture. Thus at Colorado,
Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Ohio. Minnesota agricultural colleges there
are strong secondary schools of agriculture for boys of high school
age, and for those who have been unable to reach the entrance require-
ments for the regular college courses.
Secondary agricultural teaching in the United States is in the
melting pot. From what I have seen I have no doubt that an efficient
and practical system of education will be evolved.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Agriculture in America.
557
Many methods of teaching agriculture in the High School are in
vogue in the United States, but probably the most promising of these
methods is being tried out in Massachusetts. I propose to describe the
system of agricultural instruction in Massachusetts as an illustration
of the method adopted for secondary instruction in agriculture.
The Reading High School, Massachusetts.
This High Ecliool gives an agricultural course based on the " Home Project " plan.
Agricultural Class Room in the Reading High School, Massachusetts.
Through the courtesy of the Massachusetts Board of Education I
was able to inspect the Reading High School, the Bristol County Agri-
cultural School, the Essex County Agricultural School, and the ISTorfolk
County Agricultural High School. These schools provide for training
in agriculture for boys of the age of fourteen to eighteen.
ti68
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
1 did not, owing to the shortage of time, go to the Massachusetts
Agricultural College. One cannot get the Spirit and inside working
of an agricultural college in less than three to five days' residence there,
and I was anxious to see the secondary schools at work and compare
them with our own agricultural high schools. T may say, however, that
Massachusetts has one of the hest colleges of agriculture in the East, and
its standard of entrance is equal to Harvard University — " the Oxford
of America." It has some 700 students going through the regular four-
year course for a degree.
Massachusetts is quite a small State — about 5,000,000 acres — you
could pack it away in the Western District of Victoria. It cannot be
called an agricultural State, for the amount of produce it exports is
unusually small. Its population of 4,000,000 is dependent on the West
for its cereals, and for the large amount of fruit it imports. But it is
a State in which intensive agriculture is practised; dairying, truck
farming, and potato culture are the principal industries, but specialized
The Essex County Agricultural School, Massachusetts.
industries, such as fruit growing, onions, tobacco, asparagus, and cran-
berries have a firm hold. The distribution of these various types of
agriculture is based on the market conditions, and on the adaptability
of the soil. The fine sandy and silty soils of the Connecticut Valley
are deA^oted to tobacco and onions and garden crops. The sandy bogs
near Cape Cod are utilized for cranberries', whilst the dry ,sandy regions
are used for asparagus culture. The claj^ey soils in the central portion
of the State are adapted to hay and pasturage for dairy cows; the
mountainous western portion is devoted to forest products.
Despite the fact that Massachusetts is not an agricultural State, it
supports a college of agriculture with over 700 regular students and
four special agricultural schools of secondary grade, and fourteen high
schools with departments of agriculture within the high schools.
The equipment for these secondary schools and the cost of mainten-
ance are supplied partly by the State and partly by the County or High
^School District. The State pays half, and the local people pay half,
10 Sept., 1918.]
Agriculture in America.
559
and, ill addition, raise the money for equipment and maintenance by
local taxation.
There are two types of agricultural schools in Massachusetts — -the
special agricultural school and the high school with a department of
agriculture. The special agricultural schools have attached to them
farms on which the boys get instruction in farm practice. The average
area of the farm is 100 acres.
The Home Project Principle.
The fourteen high schools with agricultural departments have no
land attached to them. In both types of school the work centres round
what are called " Home Projects," i.e., productive projects thoroughly
The Norfolk County Agricultural School. Massachusetts.
studied and carefully planned at the school, but carried out, with super-
vision throughout the producing season by agricultural instructors, on
the home farms of the pupils.
These high schools employ an agricultural specialist, who devotes his
entire time to the teaching of agriculture, the supervision of the " Home
Projects," and advisory work amongst the farmers.
The emphasis put upon the " Home Projects " insures that the
agricultural instruction shall not be academic. Where agricultural
instruction is really scientific, there should be no hesitation in putting
it to the test of producing work. Approximately one-half of the school
day is devoted to the project study and project work.
A continuous line of development in scientific studies is carried
on throughout the four years, e.g., biology of farm plants, fann animals,
agricultural botany, and agi-icultural chemisty are taught in such a way
560 Journal of AgricnUure, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
as to show their relationship to the productive work the boys are
carrying on. In addition, the boys receive —
(a) English every year.
(&) A course in history, civics, agricultural economics, hygiene,
and physical training.
As a matter of fact, the percentage of time given to these various
subjects works approximately as follows: —
50 per cent, is devoted to project studies and project work.
30 per cent, is devoted to subjects whose relationships to agri-
culture are strongly emphasized.
20 per cent, for non-agricultural subjects, e.g., English literature,
civics, history, duties of citizenship, and wholesome recrea-
tion.
Last year, the attendances at the agricultural high schools of
Massachusetts were as follow: —
1, Special Schools of Agriculture.
Essex County Agricultural School . . . . 171
Norfolk County Agricultural School . . . . 53
Bristol County Agricultural School . . . . 50
Northampton Agricultural School . . . . 43
2. High Schools with Departments of Agriculture.
In the high school — numbers of pupils taking the agricultural course.
Reading . . . . 32 Orange . . . . 15
Concord . . . . 29 Harwich . . . . 11
Hadlev . . . . 21 Marlborough . . 10
Ashfield . . . . 16 Clinton . . . . 10
Easton . . . . 15 Brimfield . . 10
Leominister - . . 14 ISTew Salem . . 9
Newton . . . . 13 Petersham . . 9
As already stated, the interesting and essential feature of these
schools is that the boys are taught agriculture by means of the " Home
Project." That is to say, each boy is given some agricultural project —
by the sowing of a crop, the caring for animals — and his whole school
instruction is centred around this project. In 1917, each of the 523
boys in the agricultural classes of high schools or the county schools
of agriculture either planted a vegetable garden, raised a few acres of
staple crops, raised several hatches of chickens, or reared pigs or calves
to selling age, &c.
I visited a number of the boys who were engaged in this project
work, and was surprised at the fine work they were doing and their
general attitude towards the school work and fanning problems. Some
were caring for a group of five Holstein cattle, growing feed for them,
weighing and testing the milk, and keeping exact records of cost of
production. Others were raising three to five pigs, or keeping a flock
of pullets, raising chickens, growing potatoes, maize, and vegetables.
The Commissioner for Vocational Education informed me that the total
earnings of these boys last year was 120,309 dollars (£25,000). One
boy — P. O'Connel — a third-year pupil of Bristol County, seventeen
years of age, was keeping exact feeding and milking records from five
cows, growing 2 acres of com, raising an acre of potatoes, and
renovating an old orchard for his " third-year project."
10 Sept., 1918.]
Agriculture in America.
561
The County agricultural schools are well equipped with teachers
and laboratory facilities. The cost of maintenance for last year of
Essex County School was 49,000 dollars (£10,200). There are fourteen
teachers at Essex Agricultural School — all trained agriculturists — and
an attendance of 171, with 125 on the waiting list.
The principle underlying the Massachusetts system of vocational
agricultural education is the centralization of instruction in agriculture
round some project perfonned on the home farm or some rented land,
and the correlation with this project of studies in English, civics, and
aigricultural science.
Mr. R. W. Stimson, of the Massachusetts Board of Education, the
founder of the " Home Project " idea, accompanied me on a visit to
these vai'ious agricultural schools, and explained that the basic idea is
to graduate the work on home projects from the simple to the complex.
The first year the project is usually " home gardening." This forms
a modest approach to the farmer. There are motives for having a
Bristol County Agricultural School. Massachusetts.
good garden on every farm. They wish the farmer to have something
other than a diet of salt pork and potatoes. The farmer is usually very
willing to be relieved of the work of attending to the vegetable garden.
The boy, under supervision of the teacher, plants vegetables at appro-
priate times, and tends to them in a manner which is in accord with
best practice.
The bo3' keeps accurate accounts of the cost and worth of these vege-
tables, and generally surprises his father at the end of the year by
submitting an exact statement of what the vegetables would have cost
the family if purchased in the market. The farmer sees that the boy
is an economic factor in the household, and the boy gets appreciation
and commendation. The instructor, too, has established a right to
come on to the farm. The fanner will want to get as much out of the
instructor as possible.
He will try to get information of value, or he may try to " pump "
the instructor and " trip him up." The instructor is always a graduate
562
Journal of AgricuHure, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
of an agricultural college, with at least two years' practical exi)erieuce
behind hiui.
In that first year the teacher has either made a place for himself
on that farm, or he has demonstrated that he has no place in that
fanning community. The second year, the boy proceeds to something
demanding more care to detail, viz., the raising of poultry and the
incubation and rearing of chickens. The matter is carefully considered
in school in great detail. All agricultural instruction for the year is
centred round profitable poultry production, and the technical details
necessary for successful poultry management and the incubation and
rearing of chickens. Then comes the practical test — 'the actual rearing
of, say, 100 or 200 chickens. The instructor, as usual, visits the boy
on the farm, and encourages him to keep exact and systematic records.
The third year, a farm crop is raised. An acre of potatoes, a couple of
acres of corn, or an acre of mangolds.
Again, care is paid to details of cultivation, fei-tilization, and selec-
tion. Finally, the task of attacking such problems as the control of a
Spraying Potatoes, Bristol County Agricultural School.
few cows, raising a litter of pigs, or the balancing up of the farm crops
and stock, i.e., studies in farm management are undertaken in the
fourth year.
As an example of a poultry project, I may mention one of a number
of cases which came under my personal notice in the States of Xew York
and Massachusetts.
Trumiansberg is a small town in the State of New York, 10 miles
from the State college of agriculture, with a population of 1,100. At
the time of my visit to the local high school there were seventeen boys
engaged in project studies. One boy — Harold E. Wilkin — sixteen years
of age, had taken over from his father, last December, 679 mixed hens,
for which his father debited him 126.32 dollars (£26 6s. 4d.). The
father informed me that prior to the project work his boy showed very
little interest in agriculture. !N'ow, howeven, the boy wias intensely
interested in his work.
This boy had kept a record of all the feed consumed by the birds,
jhe.time spent daily on the project, and the cost of the feed, shell grit,
10 Sept.. 1918. | AyrlcuUure in America.
563
. . 1,360
.. 2,216
. . 3,816
. . 5,991
. . 6,292
charcoal, kc, required for the birds. The first thing young Wilkm did
was to weed out 210 fowls of poor type. Twenty-eight were lost by
death and exposure to cold. From the balance he obtained the
following : —
December . . . . • • . . \;6m eggs
January
February
March
April ....
The season proved to be one of the coldest ever experienced in I^ew
York State, but, despite this, egg production and the results of his
incubation proved satisfactory.
Here are the results of his hatching costs, which I took from his
record book : —
Incubation Costs.
98t dozen eggs at .492 dollars per dozen
30 gallons of kerosene at 14 cents per gallon
63 hours labour
Disinfectant
Interest and depreciation on incubators —
90 dollars at 6 per cent, for three weeks . .
Total expenses of hatch
Number of chickens reared
Total cost per chick
This boy was learning agriculture by the practice of it. His whole
life for the time being was centred on those fowls, and he would read
anything which helped to give him inforni'ation on profitable fowl rais-
ing. Next year, the project would be farm crops; the following year,
pig raising.
In December last he owed his father 126.32 dollars (£26 6s. 4d.)
for the fowls. In April, his debit balance was 30.36 dollars (£6 6s. 6d.) ;
i.e., he had paid all the expenses of feed, labour, &e., and had reduced
liis indebtedness from 126 to 30 dollars in four months. He expected
to break even for May, and then he would own the fowls and be free
from debt.
One great feature about this project work is the opportunity it gives
the teacher. The teacher explains to the parents that these schools of
agriculture are conducted on the principle that there are educational
opportunities at home, and that the school, in order to perform its func-
tions properly, must make use of those opportunities. Besides the educa-
tional value to the boy, the home project plan gives to the teacher a better
idea both of the home conditions and of the farming conditions in
general. It also helps him to keep his teaching Avithin the realm of possi-
bility.
These high schools work in closest co-operation with the Massa-
chusetts Agricultural College and the United States Department of
Agriculture. All joint undertakings, e.g., promotion of boys' and girls'
club work, making of farm management surveys, &c., are covered by
written memoranda of agreement between the 'authorities concerned.
dollars.
48.54 =
4.20 =
11.34 =
.05 =
£
10
0
2
0
.^. cl
2 3
17 6
7 3
0 2i
.31 =
0
1 3^
64.18 =
13
8 6
10.2 cents =
629
= 5M.
564 Journal of AgricuHnrp, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
Mr. Stinsou stated that the " Home Projects " are important
because they illustrate improved methods and provide convenient
facilities for group teaching in observational and practice work. They
emphasize them not merely because they 'aid in preventing the agricul-
tural teaching from becoming too bookish, but because each project
usually becomes a demonstration in its neighbourhood of a better method
of farming than that generally practised in the vicinity, but also because
things done by farmers on their own farms are usually more convincing
than things done on the school premises.
Such is the type of vocational education given in Massachusetts.
That the system has some considerable merit is evidenced by the fact
that Congress has passed a Bill authorizing the Federal Government to
spend several million dollars per annum on vocational education.
Pupil at work on a 'Home Project." Bristol County. Massachusetts.
The Federal and State Governments Co=operate For Vocational
Training in Agriculture.
The Smith-Hughes Act, approved on 27th February, 1917, provides
for co-operation between the Federal Government and the States for
the promotion of vocational education in agriculture, home economics,
and industry.
This Act insures annual appropriations for the stiinulation of
vocational education, and sets up definite conditions under which moneys
will be advanced to the States.
10 Sept.. 1918.]
Agriculture in America.
565
For the financial year 1917-18, the Act provided for an expenditure
from Federal funds' of 1,094,000 dollars (£230,000), increasing to
4,317,000 dollars (£900,000) annually from 1927. This money will be
used for two purposes —
(1) The cost of training teachers for vocational work.
(2) The payment of salaries of teachers of vocational work.
The aim of the Bill is to initiate a plan of agricultural education of
secondary grade. In doing this, the expenditure of Federal funds has
been amply safeguarded, and the autonomy of the States has been en-
tirely preserved.
The conditions under which grants are made are that —
(1) All schools receiving Federal aid must he under public
supervision or control.
(2) The controlling purpose of the Act is to provide education
which will provide useful employment.
(3) The instruction given under the Act must be of secondary
grade.
(4) Federal money must be matched, dollar for dollar, by State
monev.
•'Home Project." — Care of two brood sows.
The Far=sighted Policy of the Federal Government.
The Federal Government, under the Land Grant Act of 1862.
donated large tracts of land to the States for the creation of the agricul-
tural colleges. Under the Morril Act, Congress voted 50,000 dollars
(£10,500) per lannum for the maintenance of the instruction work in
each of the 48 State agricultural colleges.
Under the Hatch Act and the Xelson Amendment, the Federal
Government appropriated 30,000 dollars (£6,250) per annum for the
maintenance of each State experiment station to carry out investigations
and research work in agriculture.
Under the Smith-Lever Act, Congress appropriated sums which in
1923 will reach 4,580,000 dollars (£950,000) annually for publicity
566
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. \ 10 Sept., 1918.
work or extension work — bringing the teachings of the colleges and
' stations to the last farm and the last farmer.
xVnd now, finally, under the Smith-Hughes law, the Federal Govern-
ment has agreed to provide over 4,000,000 dollars (£830,000) per annum
for vocational education.
Tnily, the men who founded the agricultural education systems of
the United States laid their foundations deep and well.
Food Production, Shipbuilding, and Supply of Men for the Army.
Just at present three great problems confront the nation — food pro-
duction, shipbuilding, and the training and munitioning of men for the
army.
America is facing these with characteristic vigour and foresight.
Under food production two factors are involved — the actual produc-
tion of increased quantities on the farms, and the conservation of what
foodstuffs are in the country by prudent consumption and prevention
of waste.
Boys' Clubs in Massachusetts.
A twelve-year-old lad and his jtlot of vegetables.
The production of increased quantities is being provided for in a
large number of ways — fixing the price of staples for the next harvest;
extensive use of tractors ; recruiting of farm labourers from voluntary
women workers; utilizing all boys of high school age during June,
July, and August (the three summer months) ; establishment of
machinery in each State for mobilization and direction of farm labour.
Then from thousands of platforms speakers urge increased food pro-
duction; the 3,000 county agents — one in nearly every agricultural
county of the United States — send out literature and personally urge
farmers to increase production. In crowded cities, such as Xew York,
Boston, and Chicago, the parks in the city are laid out in model
vegetable gardens to bring before the citizens how each can turn his
back yard to account. All kinds of vegetables, neatly set out in rows,
labelled with directions as to hoAv and when to plant, may be seen
growing in the gardens of the large cities. In l^ew York, thousands of
10 Sept., 193 8.]
Agriculture in America.
567
citizens pass these gardens on their way to Broadway past the Public
Library every day.
Then, again, prevention of waste and conservation of foodstuffs by
judicious consumption is encouraged in every way through a nation-
wide organization with machinery in every town, hamlet, or city.
In many cases heavy fines have been imposed for wilful waste. More
is done, however, by the voluntary co-operation of the public and the
eating houses with the Food Administration. In all the large cities, too,
you will find numerous centres where canning demonstrations are held,
at which people are invited to can perishable fruits and vegetables in
standardized receptacles with standardized methods. Last year,
875,000,000 lbs. of canned fruit and vegetables were put up b}- the
" Food will win the War."
A park in New York City sown down as a demonstration vegetalile garden to
arouse interest in the growing of vegetables. Hundreds of thousands of " War
Gardens " have been planted by civilians of the United States during the past
twelve months.
American. Bread, such as we know it in iVustralia, is unobtainable.
The bread now used consists largely of corn, barley, or rice-flour.
All this is effected without a word of grumbling on the part of the
people. The press supports the Administration with remarkable
loyalty and apparent good- will.
The shipbuilding yards have been accomplishing wonders lately.
Some months ago there was considerable dismay shown in some quarters
at the apparent failure of the Government shipbuilding plans. The
latest figures for construction are, however, amazing. In a report issued
at Washington a few days ago from the Department of Commerce it
was stated that during the first five months of this year there were
built in the United States 629 vessels with a gross output of 687,055
568 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
tons. The report further stated that in January, 1918, 57 ships of
64,759 tons were built. In May, 1918, however, 185 ships, with a
tonnage of 194,465 tons, were built.
The total number of vessels flying the Stars and Stripes in January
was 26,742, representing 9,343,224 gross tons of shipping.
As I mentioned in my last letter to you, Mr. Hoover, the Food
Administrator, told me that the Shipping Board intended to build
600,000 tons a month by January next.
Then, as regards men, the eastern cities seem crowded out with
men in khaki. The President, Mr, Wilson, at the Metropolitan Opera
House, ]!^ew York, said that the army in France would not be fixed
at any definite limit, but that he proposed to send as many men across
as were necessary to obtain a complete victory over the Hun. It is
generally believed that over 2,000s000 Americans will be in the firing
line or in France before the end of 1918.
Yes ! America is tackling the war problems with great vigour and
energy. I have noticed a remarkable change come over the community
during the last two months. The people and the leaders appear to
realize that the world's greatest Democracy is on trial — in the melting
pot — and they hope and believe that the test will prove that the metal
is free from dross.
DOWNY MILDEW, Plasmopara viticola.
(B. and C), B. and de T.
By F. de CasteUa, (lovei'nment Viticulturist, and C . G . Brittlehanh ,
Gorerriinent Pathologist.
This unwelcome addition to our fungus flora has not unnaturally
caused consternation in those districts of north-eastern Victoria where it
first made its appearance. The foothold it obtained here during the
1916-17 summer permitted an early start for the disease in October,
1917. Favoured by quite abnormally wet weather, the fungus developed
with an intensity recalling the violent invasions not uncommon in
France. The 1918 vintage will long be remembered in north-east Vic-
toria as the mildew year, the loss of ci'op being generally estimated at
over 90 per cent.
The Ruther^len Outbreak of 1917=18.
This altogether disastrous visitation was the result of a combination
of circumstances. The mildness of the first outbreak (1916-17), and
the quite insignificant damage resulting therefrom, lulled growers into a
false sense of security. Warnings given at a lecture at Rutlierglen in
February, 1917, when preparations for a spraying campaign in the fol-
lowing spring were recommended, were almost entirely unheeded.
Until the end of October no signs of the fungus were reported.
Favoured by the almost continual October rains,* the disease suddenly
appeared during the last days of that month. From its first appearance
it spread with such rapidity and intensity as to constitute an absolute
disaster. Though all growing parts of the vine were more or less
* The rainfall at. Riitherplen during the 1917 spring was altogether abnormal; 591 points was
recorded for October, though the average for the month (nine years) ij only 133 points. During October,
1917, rain fell on no less than seventeen days out of the 31.
10 Sept., 1918.]
Downy Mildew.
569
affected, the damage was mainly due to Buncli Mildew or Grey Kot,
the most dreaded form of the disease. Within a few days of the first
manifestation, the bulk of the embryo bunches were white with the
efflorescence (Conidiophores) of the fungus; the crop was doomed.
Appearance of the Disease in Other Parts of the State.
The extension of the disease to other districts during the 1917-18
summer was characteristic of the extraordinary powers of dissemination
of the mildew fungus. Obviously, the date of first appearance could not
be accurately ascertained in every case, but the following notes as to
the dates on which the fungus was first identified in several districts
should prove of interest, as instancing its rapid spread; they should
Ixg. 1.
Grey Rot or Bunch Mildew . Diseased vines slioot
in e.irly spring — lower bunch covered witli
characteristic white down, which is also
visible on upper half of stem, the twisting of
which is due to fungus action. Reproduced
from Le Mildiou by L. Ravaz. (This form of
the disease was responsible for destruction lof
the grape crop in N.E. Victoria last spring).
Fig. 2.
Oil spots on upper side of leaf ; corresponding with
these on the undor-side, the white down
develops in moist weather. (After Ravaz)*
serve as a warning to those districts which the fungus has not yet
reached.
In the late autumn of 1917 the furthest point to which mildew had spread
appears to have been Glenrowan, some 40 miles as the crow flies from Ruther-
glen, where the disease was first found during the previous January.
It was subsequently identified at the following places: —
Violet Town, on the 11th December, 1917;
In the Yarra Valley district, near Healesville, on the 18th January,
1918; within a few days the fungus was abundantly in evidence
throughout the whole Lilydale district. Healesville is distant from
Violet Town some 70 miles as the crow flies. In about a month the
fungus had thus traversed this distance and crossed the Dividing
Range.
At Sunbury, on 1st February ;
At Whittlesea, about the same date.
Meanwhile, the fungus had made its appearance at Tabilk, Shepparton, and
Mooroopna, in the Goulburn Valley.
570 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. | 10 Sept., 1918.
On 17th April, the fungus was found to be widespread throughout the Nyah
district, as well as at Swan Hill, Tresco, and Cohuna; at the last-named place it
was by no means plentiful.
Contamination was plentiful throughout the metropolitan area late in the
autumn.
Mildura was visited and inspected on 18th February and 1st May, but
several days' careful examination failed to reveal any trace of the fungus; it has
either not reached so far, or, if present, has spread so little as to escape
discovery.
It will be seen that the disease spread in one brief season from the
Rutherglen district to parts a couple of hundred miles distant. In most
of the above localities severe damage was not caused, mainly owing to
the first appearance of the disease being too late to permit bunch infec-
tion, but premature fall of the leaves was in many cases responsible for
a marked diminution in the sugar content of the grapes.
The efficacy of spraying was strikingly demonstrated at one of the
large Rutherglen vineyards, portion of which was sprayed in October,
1917, 95 per cent, of the grapes being saved thereby, whilst the un-
treated portion lost almost the entire crop.
In vineyards attacked late, at Sunbury and Whittlesea, where spray-
ing was carried out early in February, the foliage suifered little, and
the grapes ripened. Unsprayed control plots in the same vineyards lost
all their leaves, the fruit ripening very unsatisfactorily in consequence,
though it was only slightly affected by brown rot.* In these districts,
mildew only appeared after Christmas; earlier spraying to combat bunch
mildew was thus unnecessary.
In New South Wales, serious loss was confined to the Murray vine-
yards across the river from Rutherglen and Wodonga, where the fungus
appeared shortly after its first discovery in Rutherglen (January, 1917).
During the 1917-18 summer, however, it appeared at such widely
distant places as Yanco, Mirrool, and the Hunter River district; at
these, owing to the lateness of its first appearance, the vines escaped
bunch mildew, and the yield suifered little. The fungus has not yet
been found in South Australia, Western Australia, or Queensland.
As Regards the Future.
Forewarned by last season's disaster, North-Eastern vine-growers
are no longer in doubt as to the evil potentialities of the new disease.
Outfits and materials have already been secured for the indispensable
spraying campaign of the coming spring. It is to be feared, however,
that in more recently invaded districts, where only slight damage re-
sulted last vintage, the peril is less thoroughly realized. Here the
situation is exactly similar to-day to what it was at Riitherglen a year
ago. To growers in all districts where the fungus has yet appeared, the
following warning must be emphatically urged, that, given two contin-
gencies,— (a) similar weather conditions to last year; and (b) absence
of preventive spraying — no grapes will he vintaged. Even districts
apparently as yet unvisited, such as Mildura, should likewise take
warning.
Treatment for the prevention of mildew (cure is impossible) was
dealt with in these columns nearly a year ago.+
* By brown rot is understood t-lie form of the disease when the berries are attaclced when more than
half their full size, as distinguislied from grey rot or bunch mildew, in which case infection takes place
before or shortly after blossoming.
t November, 1917. A reprint of this article will be I'ostrd on application.
10 Sept., 1918.
Downy Mildew.
571
It will suffice to recall here that 2 per cent. Bordeaux mixture
(2 lbs, copper sulphate to 10 gallons of water, with enough lime of good
quality to neutralize)' is the standard spray; its wetting or spreading
power can, with advantage, be increased by the addition of casein at the
rate of 1 oz. to 10 gallons of spray mixture.*
How often must vines be sprayed to insure safety? The answer
depends on weather conditions. Given those which prevail in France
during spring and summer, the frequent sprayings common in that
country would, of course, he needed here; fortunately, our climate
diifers altogether from that of France. In normal seasons we have
even drier conditions than prevail in Algeria. It is, therefore, probable
that mildew control will be at least as easy here as it is in Northern
Africa, where the disease is not feared to nearly the extent that it is in
France. Indeed, our experience of it in so abnormally wet a season
us the last is most reassuring; it encourages the hope that one spraying
in the early part of the season (before
Christmas) will save the grape crop. A
second spraying in late January or early
February will probably be required, in
most seasons, to protect the foliage, thus
allowing the grapes to ripen properly, and
to accumulate the reserves essential for the
following season. Its utility will deipend
much on the prevalence of the fungus during
the spring.
Save in altogether abnormal seasons,
these two sprayings should suffice. We
must not forget, though, that we grow the
same vines as in France, and we have the
same disease to deal with. Should we,
therefore, have the misfortune to experience
the same kind of weather, similar treatment
to that needed in France can alone protect
our vines.
Fig. 3
Macroconidium (abovo) resulting
germination of oospore (below). The
Macroconidium is itself almost ready
for germination ; its contents liavo
The First Spring Spraying.
divided into numcrons Zoopores. After What our viue-growers particularly want
Ravaz. (Highly magnified.) ,, ., • ,-, j. <
to know just now is the most opportune
moment for the first spray, a question which it is not nearly so easy to
definitely answer as might at first appear. The chief object of the
present note is to endeavour to throw some light on the subject.
Spraying being essentially preventive, it must precede infection;
once the fungus has penetrated the tissues, any fungicide application is
powerless so far as that particular invasion is concerned, f " Too
late" spells disaster; it is, however, also possible to be too early. Any
* For 50 gallons of spray mixture take 5 oz. Casein ; mix (dry) with three or four handfuls of fresh
slaked lime in powder ; make into a smooth paste with a little water ; when quite smooth add water to
make half a gallon ; pour through a sieve into the 50 gallons of Bordeaux mixture.
Casein may also be dissolved in 10 per cent, washing soda solution (1 lb. to 1 gallon).
Casein must only be added to alkaline " Bordeaux." If it fails to redden phcnolphthalein test paper,
add more lime until the paper changes colour.
The use of casein is to be recomir ended for the first spraying; it increases bunch protection by
enabling these to be more thoroughly wetted.
t The spray material remaining on the vinos will, of course, serve to combat the ne.xt invasion
which, after about seven days (the period of incubation) will result from the previous one if weather
conditions render it possible.
172
Joiintdl of Agricitlture, Victoria. \ 10 Sept., 1918.
fresh growth made by the vine subsequent to u spraying is quite un-
protected thereby, and liable to contamination. Vegetation is very
active in early spring, and a large quantity of unsprayed growth consti-
tutes a dangerous breeding ground, which may easily become a source of
bunch contamination in a wet season. Even the sprayed parts of the
vine soon lose a portion at least of their protective copper through the
action of rain, &c. A vineyard sprayed some days before infection can
take place is much less efficiently protected than one sprayed immedi-
ately before the dangerous moment. If sprayed too early, it may even
be necessary to repeat the treatment. Were it possible to exactly pre-
dict the day on which infection is to be expected, the best moment for
spraying would be the morning of that day.
The first invasion of spring results from the germination of the
wintering spores (oospores) formed towards the close of the previous
season, and contained in leaf debris in the soil; neither Conidia (summer
t.
-^v-.
_^■^.._
. ' v &!'
^1 A-^l^
1^^^
i
li
m
CS^-
n ^ .
1
^'
f
j#
mi^r¥^
"^r« ,
#^>^
Fig. 4.
Macroconidia i^roduced in spting from
oospores contained in debris of infected
leaves. After Ravaz. (Highly magni-
fied.)
Fig. 5.
Macroconidia shortly aftertheirgermin-
ation — the Zoospores have nearly all been
expelled. The two zoospores in the centre
of the figure show the flagellse (taila),
which enable them to swim about in
water. After Ravaz. (Highly magnified).
Conidia (ordinary summer spores) ger-
minate in similar manner, but each one
only produces four to six zoospores.
spores) nor Mycelium seem able to survive the winter. Oospore ger-
mination has been followed in the laboratory, notably by Eavaz in
France and Gregory in America. Earlier attempts were often unsuc-
cessful, owing to the specimens being insufficiently wetted during ger-
mination; they must, in fact, be bathed in water during the whole pro-
cess, the duration of which depends on the temperature. At 52 deg. F.,
it lasts more than a day; at higher temperatures, a few hours are suffi-
cient. It follows that it is only warm, and at the same time very wet,
weather which would favour wholesale oospore germination, conditions
which are rare in early spring.
Under suitable conditions of moisture and temperature, each oospore
emits one or two (rarely three) slender filaments, each bearing one large
10 Sept., 1918.]
Downy Mildew.
573
spore of similar type to ordinary summer spores, or Couidia, but con-
siderably larger, hence the term " Macroconidia." These germinate in
water in the same manner as the ordinaiy summer spores, i.e., by Zoo-
spores.* Should rain continue, these are splashed on to the lower leaves
of the vine, which they penetrate through the stomata or breathing
pores, forming in due course, after the lapse of the incubation period
(7 days), the characteristic oil-spot; should weather conditions continue
favorable, sporulation shortly occurs in the shape of the appearance of
the patches of white down on the under surface of the leaf. Subsequent
invasions occur, as has been previously described, whenever weather con-
ditions and absence of protective copper render fresh infection possible.
Conidia germination likewise is only possible in water (rain or dew-
drops) ; it is influenced to a very considerable extent by' temperature.
Fig. 6.
Penetration of the vine tissues by the Mildew Fungus. The
germ tubes from the zoospores are entering through the stomata
or breathing spores of the vine. Above— zoospores from
macroconidia Below — zoospores from conidia (ordinary summer
spores). After Ravaz. (Highlj^ magnified.
Below 46 deg. F., and above 85 deg. F., it does not occur. Germination
takes four or five hours at 46 deg., 40 minutes at 77 deg., and
twelve hours at 85 deg. It appears to be most active in the dark.
Zoospore germination takes place rapidly — 20 to 25 minutes after ex-
pulsion from the conidum their germ tube has already sprouted. It
follows that, at the most favorable temperature (77 deg. F.), contami-
nation may take place in an hour and a half.
Sporulation of oil-spots (appearance of the white down) depends on
moisture (in dry air it does not take place), and also on temperature;
it scarcely occurs below 55 deg. F., nor above 82 deg. F.
The above notes from Professor Ravaz's recent article (Progres
Agricole, 19th May, 1918), will give an idea of the moisture and tem-
perature requirements of the different stages of the mildew fungus, and
show the extent to which the evolution of the disease depends on the
* Conidia usually emit four to six Zoospores ; Macroconidia send out a far larger number — 15 to 20.
574 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. 1 10 Sept., 1918.
season. In reality, it is not one unique invasion which has to be com-
bated, but a series of them, one (or more) of which may be of far greater
intensity than its predecessor. In the French climate, there are often
several intense invasions in a season, hence repeated spraying is neces-
sary. Here, where it is hoped that one spring spraying may suffice, it
will be essential to provide against the first dangerous infection, and to
.thoroughly spray the vines immediately before it takes place.
As a rule, the first invasion — that resulting from oospore germina-
tion— is on a limited scale, though it is possible to imagine weather con-
ditions such as would permit of its being widespread. Even if slight,
it will, after seven days' incubation, result in the appearance of a greater
or lesser number of oil-spots, which will (weather, of course, permitting)
provide abundant spores for further and more general invasion.
In France, until recently, dates for spraying were more or less arbi-
trarily fixed. Most of the older text books recommend a first spraying
three weeks before blossom, a second at blossoming time, a third a month
later, and a fourth a month later still. This course has recently been ad-
versely criticised. In the cold French spring, mildew often fails to appear
in May (November here), in which case the first spraying would be
wasted. Fixing the dates according to the development of the fungus is
far more logical.
In Victoria, we have only one year's experience of the fungus; un-
fortunately, a disastrous one. At Mount Ophir, where 95 per cent, of
the crop was saved on the portion of the vineyard which was sprayed,
this work was commenced on the 24th October, and continued with good
results until early in November (about the 5th). Any spraying carried
out later proved quite powerless to save the crop. Should this coming
spring prove similar to the last, it would be safe to await the 20ith
October before spraying. We may, however, have an earlier spring than
last year, in which case oospore germination (the first invasion) might
be advanced somewhat. Earlier spraying than last year would then be
desirable.
Owing to similarity of climate, Algerian experience of mildew should
prove of considerable value to us. In that country, the date of first
appearance varies greatly from season to season. During the past ten
years it has seldom been reported before the. latter part of May (No-
vember here), whilst in some years it has not shown up before June or
even July. Its first appearance in May (or earlier) was in the years
1908, 1909, 1913, 1915, 1916 and 1918. In only two of these was it
observed before the middle of the month, viz., in 1918, quite earlv
May, and 1916, when it was first observed at the end of March (Sep-
tember here) and beginning of April (October here), though early
spraying and timely hot winds (Siroco) prevented serious damage. A
similarly early start is by no means impossible in our climate which,
at least on the Murray, is warmer than most of Algeria. An earlier
outbreak than that of last year may, therefore, have to be reckoned
with in some seasons.
In a general way, and as far as it is humanly possible to predict, it
may be laid down that spraying should be completed by the 20th Octo-
ber"! Needless to say, the closest possible watch should be kept for the
very first manifestations of the disease; but whether it show up or not.
spraying should be proceeded with, and completed by the above date.
10 Sept., 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 575
ORCHARD NOTES.
Spraying for peach aphis will be one of the necessary works this
month. Lime sulphur is the spray to be used before the vegetative buds
burst.
As soon as the petals have dropped, any of the nicotine sprays should
be used. If tobacco water be used, this may be made as strongly as
possible, not making the spray any weaker than 1 pound of stems to 10
gallons of water. Where Black Leaf 4°, Nikoteen, or any other com-
mercial preparations are used, the directions on the package should be
followed.
Repeated sprayings will be necessary so long as any live insects
remain.
The time has also arrived when spraying is needful for the pre-
vention of all fungus diseases, such as shothole or scab, black spot, leaf
rust, leaf curl, «fec. In the case of these pests, " prevention better than
cure " is the invariable rule ; and to delay beyond the correct period
the application of the necessary sprays is to court disaster. For black
spot of the apple and pear, the spraying should be performed as soon
as the earliest flowers are opening. For shothole and scab the time
to spray is before the flower petals expand ; and the spraying may be
repeated, if necessary, after the fruit has set.
For rust and leaf curl the spray should be applied before any sign
of the trouble appears on the foliage ; thus, if the fungus were present
during the previous season, it will be necessary to spray early to combat
it successfully.
The basis of all the successful fungicides is sulphate of copper or
bluestone. Bordeaux mixture (a mixture of bluestone, lime, and
water, known as the 6.4.40 formula), is used; the materials and quan-
tities being 6 lbs. bluestone, 4 lbs. lime, and 40 gallons water.
Another spray, and in some locations equally successful in its re-
sults as the Bordeaux mixture, is the copper-soda spray, the propor-
tions being 6 lbs. bluestone, 8 lbs. washing soda, and 40 gallons of
water. In each case the materials should be separately dissolved, and
then evenly and simultaneously mixed in a third vessel.
The excellent results attained at the Drouin experiments, as detailed
by Messrs. Laidlaw and Brittlebank, in their black spot experiments,
show that black spot of apple may be readily combated. A full report
appeared in the Journal for last month, and this should be studied by
tho.se who intend spraying for black spot.
REMINDERS FOR OCTOBER.
Live Stock.
Cattle. — Except on rare occasions, rugs may now be used on cows at night
only. Continue giving hay or straw, if possible, to counteract the effect of green
grass. Be prepared for milk fever. Read article in Y ear-Book of Agriculture,
1905, page 314. Give calves a dry shed and a good grass run. Continue
giving milk at blood heat to calves. Be careful to keep utensils clean, or
diarrhoea will result. Do not give too much milk at a time for the same reason.
Feed regularly with regard to quantity and time. Give a cup of limewater in the
milk to each calf, also place crushed oats or lucerne hay in a trough so that they
CRP eat at will.
Sow maize for summer feeding and ensilage, also Japanese millet for grazing
during dry summer months. Mow surplus grass for hay. If cut when the grass
576 J ourn-al of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
or trefoils are in bloom, grass hay will be as good fodder as any serial hay. If
top-dressed with phosphatic or farm yard manure, good returns will be obtained
from grass hay; it has also the great advantage that mice will not work in it.
Cut 1 acre for each cow in the herd; it will keep until the next drought if pro-
tected from the weather.
Pigs. — Supply plenty of bedding in warm, well-ventilated styes. Keep styes
clean and dry, and feeding troughs clean and wholesome. Sows suckling young
should be well fed to enable them to produce plenty of milk. Give young pigs
pollard and skim milk in separate trough as soon as they will take it, and keep
them fattening from the start to get them off as early as possible. Give a table-
spoonful of bone meal, or half that amount of mineral phosphate, per 100 lbs.
live weight in food daily. If pigs are lousy dress them with kerosene emulsion
or sulphur and lard, rubbing well into the crevices of skin, and disinfect styes.
Pig breeding and feeding should be very profitable for a long time to come, and
it should be safe to launch out now.
Sheep. — Shear as early as the weather Avill permit, and avoid the usual exces-
sive dust in travelling to, and yarding at sheds. Burr and seeds also collect
on the fleeces if shearing be left until late in the season, particularly with
lambs. Shear all lambs intended to be held over — they thrive better and make
more growth through the ensuing summer and autumn. Fleeces from well-
bred sheep should be skirted with care, the better the class of wool
the greater the necessity. From fleeces that have become dry and earthy
on the backs, remove only the merest stains; there is little advantage in skirt-
ing these. It is better management to have ample tables and extra hands
skirtiag closely than to hastily tear off unnecessary wool and then employ men at
other tables to sort "broken fleece," ''flrst, " and "second " pieces, &e. All
stains must be removed from ewes ' fleeces, and pizzle stains from the bellies of
wethers. Keep separate all coarse fleeces from the finer sorts, and in merinos
the yellow and mushy from the shafty and bright. Skirt all hairy thighs from
crossbred fleeces. Avoid sending wool to market in long, round-sided bales,
known as ' ' sew-downs. ' ' Press in a box-press, forming square sides. Brand
bales neatly, on one side only, and not with sheep-branding oil, tar, or paint.
Stencil plates and branding ink can be obtained on application to the respec-
tive brokers.
At first signs of scour drench with turpentine and oil. This preparation is
now procurable in emulsion form, and thus the fear of choking is removed.
If discharge be dark and accompanied with mucus, yard over night, drench
on an empty stomach, repeat again in about fourteen days, and in some cases
a third dose will be necessary. Change to new pasture if possible, or give
a little grain, whole oats for preference.
Poultry. — The bulk of incubation should cease this month — late chickens
are not profitable. Devote attention to the chickens already hatched; avoid
overcrowding. Feed with dry mash. Also add plenty of green food to ration,
ordinary feeding to be 2 parts pollard, 1 part bran, and a little animal food
after the first fortnight. Feed ground grain, such as wheat, hulled oats, maize,
and peas, which should be fed in hopper to avoid waste. Grit or coarse sand
should be available at all times. Variety of food is important to growing
chicks; insect life aids growth. Remove brooders to new ground as often as
possible; tainted ground will retard development.
Cultivation,
Fakm. — Plant main crops of potatoes in early districts and prepare land for
main crop in late districts. Fallow and work early fallow. Sow maize and
millets where frosts are not late, also mangolds, beet, carrots, and turnips. Sow
tobacco beds and keep covered with straw oi hessian.
Orchard. — Ploughing and cultivating to be continued, bringing surface to
a good tilth, and suppressing all weeds. Spray with nicotine solution for peach
aphis, with Bordeaux mixture for black spot of apple and pear, and with
arsenate of lead for codlin moth in early districts.
Vegetable Garden, — Sow seeds of carrot, turnip, parsnip, cabbage, peas,
French beans, tomato, celery, radish, marrow, and pumpkins. Plant out seedlings
from former sowings. Keep the surface well pulverized.
Flower Garden. — Keep the weeds down and the soil open by continued hoe-
ing. Plant out delphiniums, chrysanthemums, salvia, early dahlias, &c. Pre-
pare ground for digging and manuring for autumn dahlias. Plant gladioli
tubers and seeds of tender annuals. Spray roses for aphis and mildew.
10 Sept., 1918. |
■fnxtrnal of Agriculture , Victoria.
(Subterranean Clove-)
TWO GREAT CLOVERS
SUBTERRANEAN CLOVER. Most nutritious herbage grown.
Splendid for £.razing. Grows in dry sandy soil and gravelly pastures, and
sows Itself when once it gets a start. This can be claimed for no other
Clover. Cattle may run or graze upon this Trifolium all the year round without
harming it. Land sown with this Clover will annually reproduce a crop from its
buried seed pods for many years. Clean Seed, 5/- per lb. ; 4/6 per lb. in
14 lb. lots or more.
STRAWBERRY CLOVER— The great Tarwin Meadow Clover. Has
rapidly come to the front of late years. A very valuable variety for damp
lands, producing immense quantities of fattening herbage. Greatly relished
by stock. it is quite distinct in appearance from other varieties, being of a
trailing habit. Very rapid grower. When once established it quickly covers
up vacant spaces. Clean Seed, 15 - per lb.
LAW, SOMNER
PTY.
LTD.
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston St., MELBOURNE
Established 18SO Telephone— Central V29
Nurseries — Orrong Road, ARMADALE, adjoining Toorak Railway Station
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Wyuna Experimental Farm
Poultry for Settlers
The 1918 Special Matings for Prolific Layers include
WHITE LEGHORNS
1. Pure Cosh (World's Record Strains) —
Hens, full sisters to the mothers of the Burnley winners which estab-
lished the world's record for six birds by laying 1 ,699 eggs in twelve
months, mated with a Moritz Cockerel of the same strain as the
pullet which created a world's record at Bendigo with a total of 315
eggs for one year. Prjce, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
2. Pure Moritz
A consistently successful strain in competitions in all the Australian
States, holding the world's record for single test.
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
3. Pure Subiaco
The most successful strain in the Commonwealth,
Price, £2 2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
4. Hens, bred from birds mentioned above,
with an average of 269 eggs for twelve months ; mated to a cockerel
of the same strain as that of the world's record winner 1916-17
(315 eggs). Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 eggs)
All the birds specified above were hatched from eggs laid under the trap-nesting and
single-testing system. Each egg in the various settings will be from a hen with records.
5. Trap-Nested Hens, average 240 eggs, mated to
Cosh Cockerel Price, £1/1/- per Setting
A limited number of Cockerels and Pullets bred from strains
specified above are available for sale. Price, £2/2/- & £1/1/- each
Note.— W. N. O'Mullane's Champion Burnley Pen (1914-15), which established
the still unbeaten world's record of 1,699 eggs, was the progeny of a hen hatched
from a Wyuna setting. This pen realized £7S
10 Sept., 191S.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. xix
RHODE ISLAND
^^^^ REDS ^^^^
Pure Dalrymple— Imported Laying Strains
1. Hens, S i n g 1 e - t e s t e d
Average 246 eggs, mated with the sire of the Hawkesbury
Single Pen winner (278 eggs)
Price, £2/2/- per Setting (16 Eggs)
2. Direct Progeny from Single-tested Hens
with records of 283 and 246 eggs, mated to a cock sired
by an imported bird.
Price, £ 1 / 1 /- per Setting (16 Eggs)
A limited number of Cockerels
Bred from birds specified above, are available for sale
Price, £2/2/- and £1/1/- each
Applications, accompanied by cheque, postal order or notes,
should be sent to the Farm Manager, Wyuna.
To allow fot" infertile eggs, sixteen eggs will be
forw^arded for each setting. No guarantee of
fertility or replacements will therefore be made.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
1 10 Sept., 1918.
10 Sept., 191S.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
r
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
To Intending Vinegrowers !
Phylloxera
i\ :: Resistant :: ::
Stocks
Limited numbers of Resistant Vines are obtainable from the
Department of Agriculture at the following prices for each
description of plant
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Grafted), per i.ooo (packing extra)
Supplied from July to September, 1919
£6
RESISTANT ROOTLINGS (Ungrafted), per i.ooo (packing extra) £1 10/-
Supplied from July to September, 1918
RESISTANT CUTTINGS, per 1,000 (packing extra)
15/-
Supplied in July and August, 1918
Applications must be made on the official order forms which may be obtained from
The Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne
or from the Principal, Viticultural College, Rutherglen
Full particulars concerning the distribution, explaining the conditions which must be
complied with by applicants, are obtainable on application to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE
Jovrnal of Agriculiurr, Victoria. [10 Sept., 1918.
TWO IMPORTANT SALES
During Show Month
SALE OF LAND
GREAT SUBDIVISIONAL LAND AUCTION
Pakenham Orchards Estate
PAKENHAM. At 3.30 p.m. On the Property.
Saturday, 1 4th September
Orchards Orchard Farms Orchard & Farm Land
14, 20, 40, and 60 Acre Blocks
2 Lots have Houses, 4 Large Barns. Will be Sold for Removal.
EXCEPTIONALLY EASY TERMS
lO^o Deposit — Balance over 7 years at 6% Illustrated Plans Posted Free
AUCTIONEERS—
COGHILL & HAUGHTON, 79 Swanston Street, Melbourne, &c.
SALE OF STOCK
Saturday, 2 1 st September
AT 2 P.M. ON THE PROPERTY
DISPERSAL SALE OF MR. T. M. ORR'S
Sunnybrook Jersey Herd
Includmg Twmkies, Defender, Spring 5th, Clara Louise, Ethe! M,
Lily, Margaret, Modesty, Pride of Sunnybrook, Vanity Fair.
FED. DRAUGHT HORSES
Hunter and Ponies, Southdown Rams.
Also Building Material, Corrugated Iron Tanks, Baths.
Farming Implements, Corrugated Iron, &c.
CATALOGUE FROM AUCTIONEERS—
COGHILL & HAUGHTON, 79 Swanston Street, Melbourne, &c.
By Authority: H. .T. GnEFN. Aotine OoTernment Printer. MpUrourne.
Maize Products
((
Polly" Feed and Oil Meal
All Cattle and Poultry Like It
"POLLY" BRAND FEED is just Maize, with the germ and the surplus
starch removed, toasted, and made appetising, then disintegrated into powder,
and put up for ready mixing and immediate use. Is rich in Protein, viz.,
20 per cent, guaranteed.
COWS fed on "Polly" Feed will yield 20 per cent, more milk.
HORSES thrive better on "Polly" Feed because the heavy and indigestible
starch proportion is removed, and the Feed is muscle and bone forming.
" POLLY " FEED does not weevil or germinate, and it does not turn rancid
with age.
Maize Products "Oil Meal"
lMa.ize Oil IVIeslI is toasted and tasteful, does not germinate or turn
rancid with age or storage. Ready for use as a mash at a moment's notice.
CALVES thrive on "OIL MEAL" better than any other.
POULTRY of all kinds do better with "OIL MEAL" than with any other.
Fattening Pigs — For fat bacon nothing is more successful for Weight
and Flavour.
Maize Oil Meal differs from our "Polly" Brand Feed in that the
latter is cheaper and produces bone and muscle, whereas Maize Oil Meal
produces Bone, Muscle, Fat, and a Glossy and Beautiful Coat.
"Maize Oil Meal" "Polly" Brand Feed
Put up in lOO lb. bags. Every bag guaranteed.
Write for prices and further particulars.
Note. — Visitors to Royal Show are invited to call and obtain at our booth-
Dairy Machinery Pavilion— FREE SAMPLES and literature.
MAIZE PRODUCTS Pty. Ltd.
Office and Works — ^— — . Footscray, Victoria
Telephones : Footscray 367-368
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
Facilities are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers in an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Telephones :
Office: 10383 Central. Superintendent and EnKineer-in-CIuurge : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street, Melbourne.
Telephone 9380 Central.
INDIGENOUS FIBROUS PLANTS
Vol. XVI. OF VICTORIA. Part 10.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 6/-.)
Sow TEFF GRASS
ENSURES FINEST SUMMER FODDER
Brunning's Teff absolutely unequalled; can be cut 8 to
10 weeks after seeding. Often two cuttings are yielded.
Specially suitable for districts with good Summer rainfall,
such as Gippsland. Considered by leading farmers to be
the finest Summer Fodder either for grazing or hay.
ILLUSTRATED LEAFLET "J. A.," "SUMMER FODDERS,"
AND SAMPLE POST FREE
SUDAN GRASS
Thoroughly drought resistant ;
yields more heavily than Millet ;
absolutely unbeatable for the
North and North-western parts
of Victoria. Write for sample.
SORGHUMS
Brunning's Sorghums produce
valuable Summer Fodder. Now
is the time to sow. Imphee, or
Planter's Friend, is very scarce.
Book your order To-day.
F. H. BRUNNINC Pty. Ltd.
VICTORIA SEED HOUSE 64 ELIZABETH ST., MELBOURNE
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OE AGRICULTIIHR,
VICTOR,!^^, J^Ty&T:RA.lL.XA^.
CONTENTS.— OCTOBER, 1918.
I'Alil',
Agi'iculture and Agricultural Education in Canada ...
A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc 511
Copper Fungicides t(u- Vine Diseases ... ... ... F. de Cas'ella 592
Indigenous Fibrous Plants of Victoria ... ... J. W. Audas, F.L.S. GOO
The Residual Effect of Superphosphate .., ... ... George S. Gordon 610
Herb Growing ... ... ... ... ... E. E. Pe^cott 617
The Suntiower : Its Cultivation and Utilization ... J. W. Audas, F.L.S. 620
Turkey Breeding ... ... ... ... ... ... A. Hart 626
The Carrying Capacity ... ... ... ... ... E. W. Murphij 629
Hints on Weed Control ... ... ... ... H. W. Darey, F.E.8. 631
Drenching Sheep
W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc. 633
A \Vork Bench for the Amateur ... ... ... ... ... ... 634
Orchard and Garden Notes ... ... ... ... ... ... 636
Reminders ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• ... ''38
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the .Journal of the Department of Agriculture of Victoria are
protected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republish any matter are at liberty to do so, provided the .fournal and author are
both acknowledged.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per aimum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
.5s. for the United Kingdom and Foreicrn Countries. Single copy, Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various publications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be siip[)lied by the latter.
Journal of Agriculture^ Victoria.
[10 Oct., 1918.
SUNLIGHT I
OIL- cake:
A Better Result.
MR. 5HANAHAN. of Coleraine, writes:—
Dear Sirs,
I am enclosing cheque for Oil-Cake. It took
me a long time before I could get thie cows to
eat it, but they got to like it by degrees, and the
result is entirely satisfactory. I really do not
know of a substance that could give a better
result. I reCret very much that I did not have it
earlier, and I feel sure I would have doubled my
supply of cream. One of my cows was nearly
dry, and was not giving more than a pint of milk
per day. Now she is giving 1 4 gallons. Certainly
some of the result is due to the increased
supply of grass, but from the time I got her to
eat the Oil-Cake she steadily improved and is
continuing on the improve.
Please send me 2cwt. more as the last lot
is nearly used up.
Yours faithfully.
(Signed) JOHN SHANAHAN.
For Post Free Book—
"Science in the Dairy"
By L. A. SAUNDERS.
Late Editor "Australian Field,"
Write to Lever Brothers Ltd., Box 2510, G.P.O., Melbounu
jUNLlGHt
Oilcake
Guaranteed Pure
See that the name "Sunlight" is
branded on every cake
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T. A. J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Cannody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Knioht.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Kenyon, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. O. //. P. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. 7/. T. Ea^terbxj.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cameron, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. G. liaxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T. A. J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
Dr. S. S. Cameron and others.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Meeking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. ir. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. G. Tvmer.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1913-14. W. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
11. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
P. R. Beuhni'.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1914-15. If. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. .§. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. If. ^-1. y. Robrrtson, B. V.Sc.
34. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1916-17. If. A. y. Robertson, B.V..Sc.
35. SUMMER BUD, or YEMA GRAFT OF THE VINE
F. dc Castella.
36. EVAPORATION OF APPLES.
39. POTATO CULTURE. J. T. Raimay.
.\lso Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring
I'.ees, Feeding; Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
inK, Some Vintapre Considerations, Spring Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato, Fruit
Tree Diseases and their Treatmert.
10 Oct., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture^ Victoria.
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
Inducting Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. >V. JONES.
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
Inspedion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Avply JOHN D. READ.
Springliurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture.
Melbourne.
JERSEY BUTTER
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON, "Banyule," Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 190S
448 Pages 200 Illustrations 2 Coloured Plates
rinfli ^« fid • nan«>r ?« fill Postage .- C. cloth 2^d.. paper 2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d..
l^lOin, OS. Oa. , paper, ^S. Oa. paper Sd.; B. and F.. doth U. 6d.. paper. U. 4d.
Journal of A ijrirKlf ii re ^ Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
^^ NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. McALPINE.
government vegetable pathologist.
With Appendices by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologin).
on Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTerameal
Entomolozist), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
23S Page* (Cloth). 58 Full Plate*. Prirp ^ /■ Postage : Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealand. M.;
176 Illustrations. IIILC, KJ / British and Foreian, 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, coverine Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director •!
Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria. Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and W. Percy Wilk.inson.)
"WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postafjc : C, IJd. ; N.Z., .5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, Ad. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id. ; X.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., (Jd,
NEW METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION "WITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By 1'. Viala and L. Ka\uz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postagr : C, lid. ; X.Z., od. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON WINE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gay on.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, |d. ; X.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage:
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. : B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
— By D. McAlpine, Government Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Poilage: C, 2d.: N.Z., 8d.; B. & F.. Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Pos/age .- C, 2id. ; N.Z., 9d.; B. & F., Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. Postage; C. Id. ' N.Z.,
3d.; B. & F., 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C, I?,d. :
N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage .- C. 2d.; N.Z.,
8d. : B. & F., Is. 4d.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque covering price and postage to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from heyond the Commonwealth to he made by Post Office Order.
10 Oct., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
ii
BILLABONG Centrifugal
PUMPS
For raising large quantities of Water
for Irrigation and other purposes.
This Centrifugal Pump embodies many
notable features — a result of our long
experience in Pump manufacture. It
is made at our Melbourne Works of
also made with good quality materials and by expert
End Suction : : : Pump Engineers : : :
The efficiency of our pumps taken under actual test is 15\ per cent. This, we
consider, for a stock line of pump, altogether above the average.
Specifications Q/"^ ^^^AX^. , Advt^
and Prices E°"^ i#l/r/|^^«' son 1 Free
on Application "■•"'""■"'"■i^;^^^^Pjrx^^^Jr'^.....,, j
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Pluming, &c., &c.
Melbourne and Sydney
■^
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
: Propy. Ltd.
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and'CORNINA MANUFACTURERS
ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR ^ BOX 53.
GRAIN TO US. ^ G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
il
Journal of Agriculture^ Victoria.
[10 Oct.. 191!
Balance — pa}' as you earn. Expert will
erect, start, and prive week's trial. These
are the conditions on which you purchase a
"Tangye" British Built
Oil Engine
It combines simplicity with the utmost
efficiencj'. Every part is simple, strong,
durable, and easilj' accessible. Because of
its low cost of operating, the ease of starting
and running- it, its strength and durability,
it is the engine that every progressive farmer
should buy. Starts on petrol, and switches
instantly on kerosene. Lampless type, mag-
neto ignition. Works all day without atten-
tion. 60 purchased by N.S.W. Government.
Stationary and portable 2 to 28 H.P. in stock.
Get large Catalog " T."
Over
4,000
Australian
Farmers
Swear by
The "Lister" British Built
Petrol Engine
as the most compact, simple, durable, atrong,
efficient and reliable power for all farm work.
Every Lister is fitted with
High Tension Magneto and
Special Carburetter
and is so simple in construction that you can start
and run one without previous experience. No other
farm machine pays for itself in such a short time.
Immediate deliveries can be had from stocks.
Runs easily and smoothly. Expert will erect, start,
and give week's trial. £10 down. Balance easy.
Write for Catalog.
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
Agents for Doncaster Hand and Motor Spray Pomp, Vineyard and Potato Sprayers,
"Harbas" Spraying Oil, "Harola" Lime Solphar Solution.
116 Sturt Street
South Melbourne
Dip Famine Rumor Unfounded
Many flock owners may have been scared because of rumors of a "Dip Famine" —
but such a possibility is without any foundation. A shortage of imported dips need
have no effect on dip supplies whatever, for Australia now produces in
POWDER SHEEP DIP
AN ARSENICAL DIP OF THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE QUALITY-
chemically and physically equal to the best dip hitherto imported — and which
CAN BE SUPPLIED TO MEET ALL AUSTRALASIA'S NEEDS
" Vallo" dipped flocks are already speaking eloquently as to the reliability
of this compound — proving by their wool yield, wool quality, and all-
round improved conditions that "Vallo" Powder Sheep Dip is not only
effective, but longest lasting in its destructive action against Ticks, Lice,
and other sheep infesting vermin ; reduces Fly Strike to a minimum,
and makes a sheep clean and impervious to contagion from "dipping"
to next shearing.
Manufactured by A. VICTOR LEGGO & CO.. Arsenic Mines.
Southern Cross, W.A., and Queensland ; Works, Yarraville and Bendigo ;
Head Office, 497-503 Collins Street. Melbourne.
Distributors for Victoria and Tasmania —
A. VICTOR LEGGO & CO., Melbourne
10 Oct., 1918.]
J()itrn(tl of Agriculture^ Victoria.
USE
i K-F.MP».gt Improved
Sheep-Branding
FOR
BRANDING
YOUR
SHEEP
LIQUID
It has been proved by hundreds of Woolgrowers, amongst
them some of the largest squatters in Australia, to be an un-
qualified success, and to do everything that is claimed for it.
BLACK AND BLUE (in Cases)
Containing Two
4-gal. tins - -
6/6
per
gal.
Or Eight 1-gal. tins
- 7/6 per gal. -
AGENTS
DALGETY & Co. Ltd.
MELBOURNE
& GEELONG
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Office—
LONDON
Melbourne Office —
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Butter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Account
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Chief Agents in Victoria for the PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
"IRON AGE"
Tools mean
Profitable
Cultivation
(Over 30 Varieties)
"IRON AGE" ONE-HORSE CULTIVATORS, HARROWS, PUSH WHEEL
PLOWS, WHEEL HOES, SEED AND FERTILIZER DRILLS, ETC.
"IRON AGE" COMBINED DIAMOND TOOTH
HARROWS AND CULTIVATORS
No. 1. Fig. 106.
For sugar beet, strawberries and other small fruits, and miscellaneous farming. A favorite
because of its fiigh frame, clean cut construction, and adaptation for many P«J/»/v OC /
crops and two kinds of cultivation, as a harrow, and as a cultivator * llvCj U %M j
K"^*^ Proprietary Limited
For Tools for the Farm, Home, and Workshop
554-66 and 582-88 Collins St., MELBOURNE
CREDIT FONCIER
r
^
Loar
UP
In
A
and from 1^ per ce
in 2J\ years.
Loans granted
BMde freehold at a
N
Loans may be
charge if paid off wi
Forms may be
by writing to —
The Inspe
IS on Fc
TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATI
sums from £50 to £2,0'
t 6 per cent. Intere
nt. in reduction of principal, whic
on Freeholds, or Crown Leasehc
ny time on payment of the balanc
D Charge for Mortgage De(
paid off on any half-yeeirly pay day
thin the first five years, but no pen
obtained at any Branch of the Sta
ctor-General, The State Savi
JZABETH STREET. MELBOUR^
^rms
ON
30
St
ti pays off the loan
Ids which could be
e of Crown Rents.
, subject to a small
alty after five years.
te Savings Bank, or
ngs Bank,
J
10 Oct., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Bonedust, Superphosphate,
And Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
DELIVERED AT RAILWAY STATION, FOOTSCRAY, OR ON WHARF, MELBOURNE
BONEDUST :: :: ::
MANUFACTURER
J. COCKBILL,
OFFICE: 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME, FOOTSCRAY. Telephone 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES, SHEDS, &C.
INDELBBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL OUTSIDE PAINTING
Wholesale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
-FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS-
Obtainable
from all
Storekeepers
BROOKS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insuranee
Society Ltd.
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Guarantee, Plate
Glass, Personal Accident and Sickness,
Eaplsyers' Liability, Workmen's Compen-
sation. Pnblic Risk, Motor Car, and Barglary.
INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Oct., 1918.
vy.T/v-
"^^sm^-
Nine Years
Practical Tests
The Renowned
"BLUE BELL"
Arsenate of Lead
Secure your orders at once.
F. W. PRELL & CO., 31 Queen St., Melbourne
SOLE VICTORIAN AGENTS
The Electrolytic Refining and Smelting Company of Australia Limited
COPPER
OUR product is eqnal to the best
imported brands on the market and
we GUARANTEE THE PURITY
ORDERS are being booked for the
(Bluestone)
We are Mannfactnrert of E.S.A. HIGH
GRADE COPPER SULPHATE (Blaestoae)
(or SPRAYING and PICKLING PURPOSES
and also for ELECTRICAL PURPOSES
coming season.
SULPHATE
The
Manaier
FULL INFORMATION as to PRICE and DELIVERIES will be supplied ON APPLICATION to—
The Electrolytic Refining & Smelting Company of Australia Ltd.
^i^.^«^.».a PORT KEMBLA, N.S.W. — ^—
LESLIE SALT LICKS
A NEW FOOD FOR SHEEP, COWS, AND HORSES
Leslie Salt Licka which supersede rock salt are composed of pure sterilized
salt, totfetlier with lime, a small proportion of Epsom salts, and other
scientificany blended ingredients. They are the finest conditioner and
animal medicine known, and will do more to prevent disease than any
medical treatment. 2/- per block ; or 22/6 per case of 12 blocks (plus
freisrht to country centres). Order from saddler, produce merchant, black-
smith, butter factory, g-eneral store, or any of the followinjr ajrents : —
Gippsland and Nortiiern Selling and Ins. Co. Ltd., Melb. ; J.imes McEwan
and Co. Pty. Ltd., Melb. ; Price, Griffiths & Co., Melb. ; J. Partram & Son
Pty.Ltd., Melb. ; Lyall&Son, Nth. Melb. & Geelong ; New Zealand Loan and
Mercantile Co. Ltd., Collins & King-sts., Melb. ; or Alex. Mair & Co., Melb.
"THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
10 Oct., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON
"THE FINEST
WAGON EVER"
PATENT
STEEL
WHEELS
Patent Felloes.
Renewable Carron
Boxes & Oil Gaps.
The only Steel
Wheel that has
Btood the Test.
BEWARE OF
MITATION8
Wbeels Guaranteed (or 3 years against Breakag*, Ac.
AUSTRALIA'S WAGON.— Irrigationists, Orchardists, Farmers.
This Spring Wagon to carry 2 tons, £29. IJ tons, £27.
Wheels, 36* and 32' dia. i' Tyres. Table, 9J x 5J feet. Pole or Shafts. Weighs 10 owt.
Ordinary Block Wagon to carry 3 tons, £29. 2 tons, £27. Weighs 10 ewt.
That Wheel* art guaranteed and will last for all time.
Hightr WhetU if needed, and Wagons built to carry any weight up to tO tona,
TRACTION TRAILERS A SPECIALTY.
TABLE TOP — Truck body, and all clastet of little Wagons for Farm and Station work.
WaKons Shipped to all PorU in Australia. WRITE FOR CATALOG TO-DAY.
R. J. L. HILDYARD,
:: :: BRUCE STREET
KENSINGTON, VICTORIA
GjcIotic:::;
A ^^^^^^^^^^^^^__.^.^^**'**^ GET OUR
'-' ^^^^^■^^^^^^^ CATALOGUE
Fig. 233. Ornsmenul
Handiate. 4 ft high
Fig. 211 Ornamental
HandKate- 4 ft. hieb
Fig. 188b OmsmeDUI
HandRate 4 ft- high
CYCLONE PTY. LTD. *-^^ZVtVoVnn*r^
JovnutJ of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Oct., 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE TEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAT BE ENROLLED AT ANT TIME
Alternative Courses —
(a) Diploma Course
(b) One Year's Course.
Three Years.
Total Feet —
£25/-/- per annum.
The college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Dookie, 1 ,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS. — Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Farmers.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM, 2,336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raising, Dairying.
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit, &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS, Esq., Secretary, Council of Agricultural Education,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
2 S*^ t .T^^,')!
* ■ ■ ARE YOU SATISFIED "
WITH YOUR EYES ?
Your eyes are under a constant strain all day; they are your
most valuable possession, and neglect in the early stages
may lead to eye strain. EYESIGHT TESTED.
WE ARE CERTIFIED OPHTHALMIC OPTICIANS
F.I.O.,
D.B.O.A.
LONDON
'PHONE 6778
for an appointment.
Estab.
32 Years
DAIRY & INCUBATOR THERMOiMETERS
KEPT IN STOCK.
E.WOOD
EQUITABLE BUILDINGS
^95 Elizabeth St., Melb
LIVERPOOL. SYDNEY.
10 Oct., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If I OU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
I
WILL YOU GIVE IT ?
Journal of Acp'iculUtre, Victoria.
[10 Oct., 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN. Chairman and Manaxing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD. Esq.. LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE. Eiq.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN. E.q. DAVID HUNTER. E«i.
Tills Company Acts as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trusts* sf
Settlsments, and Agent for Absentees under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices— 1 13 Queen St. (Corner of Little Collins-st.), Melbourne
la
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VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
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Orders can now be supplied and full information obtained from
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AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
10 Oct., 1918.]
Journal of Atjrictdture, Victoria.
Do You Want Lime?
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Burnt and Unburnt
Artificially Dried —
Very Finely Ground
Ready for Drilling
QUICKLIME for SPRAYING
We pack this in special Lever Lid Air-tight Tins which keep the
contents fresh. These tins can be easily opened and closed again.
IVe are also Agents for —
RUDD'S CONCENTRATED RENNET
For Cheese Makers. Guaranteed made only from Calf Veils.
Testimonials from pleased users are reaching us daily. Order early
to avoid disappointment.
The same strength as imported Rennet, and only half the price.
J. H. RUDD & CO. 115 William St
(Snccetsors to the Merchandise Department of John Sanderson & Co.) iVl Hi l_i D V^ \J Ix IN Hi
"BULLDOG " Burnt & Unburnt
(carbonate) Agrlcultural Lime
For Orchards, Crops, and Pastures
Its use is strong-l.y recommended by all experts, and those who have
had practical experience. Any quantity supplied at shortest notice.
For applying to land we recommend our "Ajax" Lime Spreader
Rales and full particulars from Distributors —
cuRDiE's RIVER T, CLJRPHEY Pty. Ltd.
Telephone— Central 2807 22S Coppin Street, Richmond, Victoria
I'.iAiiE Ma]:k
BURNT LILYDALE LIME
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Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should try it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Immediate. The demand for Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Lilydale Lime.
ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide,
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, p J-etor.. OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works— Cave Hill. Lilydale. Tel. Lilydale 4. . Tel. Central 5726.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Oct., 1918.
Deering and McCormick Binders
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Binders are all more or less alike in general construction. Upon
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However, when it comes to actual tests in the field under varied
conditions, there is a difference. There are many features that
have an influence on the efficiency of a binder.
No two seasons are alike. The condition of the grain to be
harvested varies each season. Some seasons the grain may be in
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difficult obstacles that a binder is required to overcome. This is
the real test of a binder, and it is in this test that Deeriug and
McCormick Binders show their real worth.
Deering and McCormick binders will successfully harvest grain in
every condition, whether it be short or tall, even, down, tangled,
or full of green undergrowth.
Deering and McCormick binders are simple ; all complicated and
unnecessary parts have been eliminated and the entire mechanical
operation brought down to a practical basis.
Lightness of draft and ease of operation of Deering and McCormick
binders are the result of correct design, proper construction and
the equipment of roller bearings which reduce friction to a
minimum.
Owners of Deering and McCormick binders appreciate the features
which make them simple, light of draft, dependable, and easy to
operate.
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TH6 JOURNAL
OF
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VICTORIA. ";!'^'-'
Vol. XVI. Part 10. 10th October, 1918.
AGRICULTURE AND AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION
IN CANADA.
Letter from Mr. A. E. V. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc, to the Director of
Agriculture.
Canada's chief occupation is agriculture. Fifty per cent, of lier
annual production comes from field crops, from animals, cheese, butter,
fruits, and vegetables ; 40 per cent, in the f onn of manufactures ; and
10 per cent, from the mines, forests, and fisheries. Over half of Canada's
invested capital is in farm lands, and more than half of her people are
engaged in the agricultural industry.
Canadians take pride in reminding their visitors that the Dominion
has an area of one-third of the British Empire, and that it is larger than
the entire United States and Alaska combined. A large 'portion of
northern Canada, however, is unsuitable for agriculture, or for occupa-
tion, owing to the extreme cold.
The great agricultural wealth of Canada lies in the crops garnered
from the long stretches of prairie extending from the Great Lakes to the
Rocky Mountains.
Between two and three thousand American settlers, bringing their
household good and equipment, stream across the American border every
month to try their fortunes on these flat, treeless prairies, attracted by
the lower priced, rich, black, fertile lands of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and
Manitoba.
In these prairie provinces you see settlements and townships in the
making. The soil has been waiting for the advent of settlement for ages.
No clearing problems face the settler, for the prairie soil needs but to be
stirred and broken to give forth abundant crops. Pioneer farming —
more or less continuous cropping — is the usual rule in the prairies, but
in the older settled parts crop-rotation systems are being developed. In
the older provinces of the east agriculture has reached a high standard.
The province of Ontario is pre-eminent among the Canadian provinces in
15043.
578
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
population, industry, education, agriculture, mining, and economic
development. Of its total area of 260,000,000 acres however, only
12,500,000 acres are under cultivation ; 100,000,000 acres are still Crown
lands.
Ontario's field crops in 1917 were valued at £52,000,000. Ontario's
principal crop is oats, of which 111,000,000 bushels were produced in
1917. Her principal stock industry is dairying; 126,000,000 lbs. of cheese
were produced in 1916. The population of the province is about
2,500,000.
The three prairie provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba
are approximately equal in area, each being about 160,000,000 acres.
Only the southern portions of these three States have been brought under
cultivation.
These are the three great wheat provinces of Canada. The wheat belt
is 1,000 miles wide, and extends from the Great Lakes to the foot of the
Terminal Elevator at Vancouver.
(Capacity U million bushels— Cost £140.000.
Rocky Mountains. The soil in this belt is chiefly a dark loam, rich in
organic matter, and fertile. The land is gently undulating, and practi-
cally treeless. The southern portions of Alberta and Saskatchewan are
subject to dry spells — which we, in Australia, would dignify by the term
'' drought."
Saskatchewan is the principal grain-producing province of the
Dominion. In 1917, 263,000,000 bushels of wheat, barley, oats, rye, and
flax were produced in Saskatchewan, of which 130,000,000 bushels was
wheat. Saskatchewan leads the way in the number of elevators and
capacity; 710 railway stations had 1,782 elevators, with a capacity of
52,943,000 bushels. Each small railway station has from three to seven
elevators, according to the amount of business transacted. In many cases
these are owned by private companies. In other cases farmers' co-opera-
tive organizations control the elevators. In western Canada, elevators
10 Oct.. 1918. 1 Agricultural Education in Canada.
579
are provided at 1,300 centres. The elevator capacity, including the ter-
minal at Fort William and Port Arthur, is 164,899,333 bushels.
Saskatchewan's average wheat yield for six years was 18 bushels
per acre. The province has produced nearly 800,000,000 bushels of wheat
in the past seven years — a fine tribute to the fertility of the soil.
There are drawbacks, however, even in the prairies. The temperatures
fall far below freezing during the winter months, and a system of heating
the homestead is essential on every prairie farm. Then the prairies
give one the impression of great loneliness — unending flat stretches,
practically treeless, and situated at least 1,000 miles from either the
Pacific or the Atlantic seaboard.
The prairies are essentially great grain fields. Live stock have not
made their appearance in any considerable numbers. In Saskatchewan,
for example, despite the enormous production of grain in 1917, there
were only 2,801,593 head of all forms of stock — horses, cattle, sheep,
and pigs.
Group of Farmers attending short courses on Stock Judging and Cattle
Feeding — Ontario Agricultural College, Guelph, Canada.
Still, the Saskatchewan farmer will tell you he is doing well. In
1917 the total value of production for Saskatchewan was £80,000,000
for a total population of 687,000 people; an average production per
inhabitant of £123. The Saskatchewan people have acquired the habit
of asking strangers where can such production be equalled on this globe?
The only retort left the wondering visitor is that one deserves tp be
recompensed for the rigorous winters and the loneliness of the prairie.
The grain crops of the prairies are, of course, handled in bulk. ISTo
other system of handling would suffice to deal with the enormous volume
of grain traffic. Wheat, barley, oats, and even flax are handled alike.
In Southern Alberta irrigation has developed rather rapidly. The
rivers from the Rocky Mountains have been harnessed, and the water
diverted to the fertile plains below.
1 2
•&80 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918
The Canadian Pacific Railway Company has constrncted 5,000 miles
of irrigation canals, and have an irrigable acreage of 643,000 acres.
The cost of their irrigation works exceeds £2,000,000,
The Alberta Irrigation Company has 130,000 acres of irrigable land,
on which it has spent £300,000.
The Southern Alberta Land Company, with a capital of £1,100,000.
is providing facilities for irrigating 153,000 acres. These are the three
principal land companies operating irrigation enterprises.
The Canadian Pacific Railway Company conducts a large experi-
mental farm and several branch demonstration farms to carry out irri-
gation investigations for the information of its settlers.
A few words regarding Canada's total production may be of interest.
In 1916 the following crops were produced: —
Bushels.
Oats . . . . . . 410,000,000
Wheat
Barley
Potatoes
Plax
Buckwheat
262,000,000
42,000,000
63,000,000
8,250,000
6,000,000
Tons.
14,500,000
Hay
There were 38,000,000 acres under crop in 1916. It is interesting to
note the large amount of oats produced, compared with other cereals.
The flax-seed crop, too, is worthy of note. Flax is widely grown on the
prairies, and does particularly well on new land. It is cultivated
throughout the wheat areas, and is treated much like the wheat crop.
While in crop production Canada greatly exceeds xlustralia, Australia
has the advantage in live-stock production. The number of live stock
in Canada in 1916 was as follow: —
Cattle .. .. .. 8,000,000
Pigs . . . . . . 3,619,000
Horses . . . . . . 3,412,000
Sheep . . . . . . 2',369,000
In Australia the number of live stock in 1915 was as follow: —
Sheep .. .. .. 69,257,189
Cattle .. .. .. 9,931,416
Horses .. .. .. 2,377,920
Pigs .. .. .. 753,693
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION IN QUEBEC AND ONTARFO.
Under the British North America Act 1867 legislation regarding
education was left exclusively to the provinces, subject, however, to the
maintenance of privileges of such separate schools as existed at the time
of Federation. Under this Act Quebec, which was overwhelmingly
French-speaking and Roman Catholic, continued to give instruction in
French, and under the control of the Church.
Apart from this, it may be said ithat a common type of education is
being developed from one side of the Dominion to the other. This is owing
to the fact that the settlers who went first to the West were Canadians,
and carried with them to the West the institutions of the East. As in
10 Oct., 1918.] Agricultural Education in Canada.
581
.a o
<! o
O „r
.;5 J3
America, the elementary
and high schools are all
maintained by the local
school district. There is
no centralized system of
school control such as we
have in Australia.
The majority of the
funds required for equi|p-
ment and maintenance of
the elementary and high
schools is raised by local
effort. The provincial
Governments, however,
make small contributions
by grants in aid.
The Agricultural Col-
leges of the Dominion
have been founded, how-
ever, almost entirely by
State aid. For many
years the only agricul-
tural college in Canada
was the Ontario Agricul-
tural College, founded at
Guelph in 1874. Now
there is an agricultural
college in every province,
and in nearly every cas.e
it is part of the Statd
University.
The newer prairie pro-
vinces— Manitoba, Al-
berta, Saskatchewan — ■
have built magnificent
agricultural colleges as
part of the State Uni-
versity.
In Quebec there are
three agricultural col-
leges. They are the Oka
Agricultural Institute,
the College at St. Anne
de la Pocatiere, and the
Macdonald College at St.
Anne de Bellevue. The
two former are Roman
Catholic Colleges, and
are affiliated with Laval
University, Montreal.
The latter, Macdonald
College, is controlled by
the Board of Governor?
582
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
of McGill University, Montreal. It gives a four-year course for the
degree of B.iS.A.
I visited tlie Oka Agricultural Institute and the Macdonald College,
Quebec. The Oka Institute is controlled by the Order of Trappist
Monks — a curious brotherhood — the laymen of which have to take the
vow of eternal silence.
The institute has a large area of land, and recently the Government
of Quebec erected a four-story building capable of accommodating 200
students. Over 150 students were taking a four-year course of agri-
culture for the degree. The working monks (120), in their quaint
mediaeval robes, with a sprinkling of " fathers " with white hoods, and
the towering monastry in the background, made a curious setting for an
agricultural college. There was very little experimental and research
work undertaken at the Institute. The work in the poultry and horti-
cultural departments, however, was decidedly good.
At Macdonald College may be seen one of the finest groups of build-
ings, and one of the best laid-out colleges in ISTorth America. It is but
View of Buildings, Ontario College of Agriculture, Guelph, Canada.
ten years old, and is destined to play an important part in the agricul-
tural development of Eastern Canada. The College was founded,
erected, equipped, and endowed by Sir William Macdonald, a wealthy
merchant of Montreal, at a cost of £1,500,000, for advancement and
dissemination of knowledge with special reference to the needs of the
rural population. The property consists of 700 acres of good farming
land, 20 miles from Montreal. It has within it three schools — -
1. School of Agriculture.
2. School for Teachers.
3. School for Household Science.
The staff consists of 24 professors and lecturers in agriculture, ten
in the school for teachers, and six in the school of household science.
Two courses are provided, a two-year course, very practical in
character, and specially arranged to meet the needs of farmers' sons
who purpose returning to the farm, and a four-year course for the degree
of B.S.A.
10 Oct., 1918.] Agricultural Education in Canada.
583
The courses for the first three years are rigid and fixed. In the
fourth year the student has choice of four courses: — (1) Animal
husbandry; (2) cereal husbandry; (3) horticulture; (4) general agri-
culture. The average attendance in the regular courses are — Agricul-
tui-e, 180 ; teachers' course, 160 ; household science, 80. The students
taking the four-year course must be eighteen, have matriculated at
McGill, and must have worked on a farm for a year. A considerable
amount of experimental work in horticulture, stock feeding, production
of new varieties of cereals, and vegetable gardening is being undertaken.
The total cost of maintenance of the college is over £40,000 per annum.
Ontario. — The Ontario Agricultural College is located at Guelph,
It is under the direction of the Department of Agriculture of Ontario.
The Guelph College is the oldest college in Canada, and is one of the
first agricultural colleges established in North America. For many
years Guelph had a chequered career. As recently as 1903 the farmers
Cereal Husbandry Building, Ontario Agricultural College, Guelph, Canada.
would not support it liberally with funds. In 1905 the college was
reorganized, the standards of instruction raised, and a system of exten-
sion work was commenced for the benefit of the farming community.
The result has been little short of miraculous. To-day the college has
the enthusiastic support of the farming community, the Provincial
Government, and the Dominion Government. It receives over £60,000
for salaries and maintenance from the State Government, and last year
it received over £20,000 from the Federal Government. The remarkable
change in the attitude of the farming community and the public during
the last twelve years has been due to the gradual recognition of the
sterling worth of the institution, and of its capacity for service to the
agricultural community. This recognition has been hastened by three
things — (a) Government financial support, which has given the college
an opportunity to secure a staff of capable specialists in all branches of
agriculture and animal husbandry; (h) the policy of holding numerous
short courses in the winter months, so that farmers may get in touch
with the college men, and. appreciate the worth of their teaching; (c)
584 Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
the results of the experimental work bj members of the staff — particu-
larly Dr. C. A. Zavitz, who, by patient experimentation and research
over a period of 35 years, has produced varieties of oats and barley
which have practically supplanted all others in Ontario. He has also
obtained from his permanent experimental plots results which are
influencing the method of cultivation of every type of farm crop in
Ontario.
During the past winter thirteen short courses, ranging from two
weeks to three months, were conducted at Guelph. These included
courses on stock and seed judging, poultry raising, horticulture, cow
testing, farm dairying, cheese making, beekeeping, drainage and farm
surveying, business and marketing.
Some idea of the nature of the experimental work may be gained
from the fact that over 2,500 plots, exclusive of small plant-breeding
plots, were harvested separately, and exact records of grain and straw
production were obtained. The illustration on page 581 gives a view of
experimental plots.
In addition, there are two courses on agriculture, each of five weeks'
duration, for elementary and high school teachers. These are held every
year. The courses begin to-day, and the enrolment was 320. These
short courses are very technical and practical. The attendance at
Ontario Agricultural College has been greatly reduced by the war, and
many of {he men in the upper classes have been drafted. Still, here are
the attendances for 1918 : —
Kegular course in agriculture . . . . . . 197
Courses in domestic science . . . . . . 176
Courses for public school teachers . . . . 265
Short courses —
Farm power . . . . . . . . 154
Seed and stock judging . . . . . . 137
Horticulture . . . . . . . . 57
Dairying . . . . . . . . . . 56
Agriculture . . . . . . . . 46
Rural leadership .. .. .. ..114
Poultry . . . . . . . . . . 31
Drainage . . . . . . ■ • . . 13
Total . . . . . . 1,246
In addition, several thousand farmers visited the college in January
to see the results of the experimental plots of Dr. Zavitz. As at
Macdonald, and at nearly all American Agriculitural Colleges, there is a
course on domestic science and household arts maintained at Guelph.
The theory is that you can't keep the man on the farm unless you can
keep his wife on the farm, too. That is the reason why we find 176
girls and women, from seventeen upward, coming to the college to learn
how to make a farm home comfortable, and how, by labour-saving
devices, to minimize drudgery in the farm home, and make it a place
worth living in. Neither at Macdonald nor at Guelph, however, have
they progressed as far as the colleges in the United States. Here four-
year courses in domestic science arc given, and the girls get a sufficient
grounding in the sciences and applied arts at the universities to warrant
10 Oct., 1918.] Agricultural Education in Canada. 585
ca B.S.C. degree being given. Even universities of such liigli standing
as Cornell, Columbia, and Illinois have big schools of domestic science,
and give a B.S.C. degree. It is related that Dr. Scliurman, president
of Cornell, when the first proposal to introduce a domestic science course
at Cornell was mooted, exclaimed at a faculty meeting, " What ! Does
that mean that we must have cooks on the faculty?" But Dr. Schurman
and others now recognise the wonderful work which is being done by
domestic science graduates in improving farm homes, in promoting
community betterment, and in saving infant life by the dissemination of
ithe principles of hygiene. The buildings and equipment at Guelph are
very fine — and the campus reminds one of a corner in the Melbourne
Botanic Gardens.
The regular courses in agriculture at Guelph are interesting. A two-
year course for an Associate Diploma, and a four-year course for the
degree of B.S.A. of Toronto University, are given. The first two years
are alike in both courses, and the objective is to give the student as much
technical knowledge of agriculture as possible, combined with English
and science work.
In the third year the subjects are almost entirely science subjects.
In the fourth year the students specialize in one of six branches: — (1)
Agriculture; (2) Bacteriology; (3) Biology; (4) Chemistry and Physics;
(5) Horticulture; (6) Dairying.
There are many interesting features regarding Guelph College which
I should like to deal with, especially Dr. Zavitz's experimental work —
but I shall reserve these details for a later occasion. The college is
doing fine work, and compares favorably with the American Agricul-
tural Colleges.
THE DEPARTMENTS OF AGRICULTURE.
The Dominion Department of Agriculture.
The Federal Government has established a large and influential
Department of Agi'iculture, which disburses annually considerably over
£1,000,000. Each province has a Provincial Department of Agricul-
ture, with rather considerable powers. There is a marked difference in
the manner in which the agricultural forces of Canada and the United
States are organized. In the United States practically all the educa-
tional, investigational, and extension work in agriculture is carried out
by the Agricultural College and the University, and to the State Depart-
ments of Agriculture are intrusted the purely regulatory activities in
agriculture, such as the control of diseases in stock, crops, &c.
The reason is jirobably found in the organization of the States.
Under the American Constitution, the Governor of a State is elected by
the people for a term of four years, and once elected he administers the
State laws through executive officers, whom he nominates. There is no
Cabinet of Ministers responsible to Parliament, as we have in Australia.
Consequently, such activities as are included in research, instruction,
and extension work in agriculture has in the States been handed over to
a stable form of administration — the Agi'icultural College — which is
responsible to the people in the Legislature in so far as it is dependent
on Parliament for supply. The other functions of a State Department,
inspectional police work, and regulatory activities have remained with
586 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
tlie State in the temporary charge of the nominee of the Governor. In
Canada the British and Australian practice is followed. Both the
Dominion Government and the various Provincial Governments have a
Cabinet of Ministers, who hold office as long as they can retain a majority
in Parliament. The Ministers, therefore, must frame a policy, and as
agriculture is the basis of the country's wealth, vigorous policies for
developing the agricultural resources have frequently been brought for-
ward, and large Departments of Agriculture have arisen to carry out
these policies.
First, as regards the Dominion Department of Agriculture. The
expenditure for 1916-17 was approximately £1,100,000, made up as
follows : —
Salaries . . . . . . . . . . £108,000
Maintenance . . . . . . . . 770,000
Expenditure under the Agricultural Instruction
Act . . . . . . . . 230,000
Contingencies . . . . . . . . 20,000
£1,12'8,000
This is a very considerable sum to be disbursed by a Federal Govern-
ment on agriculture for a population of approximately 8,000,000 people.
In addition to this, each province maintains a Provincial Department
of Agriculture. Ontario voted £190,000 for its Department of Agricul-
ture this year.
One interesting item in the Federal appropriation is the Agricul-
tural Instruction Act, $1,100,000 (£230,000). This Act was passed in
1913. It established the principle of Federal aid in agricultural educa-
tion and instruction in Canada —
" For the purpose of advancing the farming industry by instruc-
tion in agriculture, and for the purposes authorized by the Act, the
sum of $10,000,000 (£2,080,000) shall be appropriated and paid out
of the Consolidated Revenue for ten years beginning in March,
1914.
Seven hundred thousand dollars (£145,000) to be paid in 1914,
rising to $1,100,000 (£230,000) annually in 1918, and thereafter.
The money is to be apportioned as follows : —
(1) A sum not exceeding $20,000 (£4,000) per annum, be
voted to assist the work of veterinaiy colleges estab-
lished in provinces.
(2) Twenty thousand dollars (£4,000) to be paid to the
Government of each province.
(3) The balance to be allotted and paid to the Governments
of the provinces in the proportion of the populations
of the province at the last census. The payments to
be made subject to an agreement between the Minister
and the Government of the province as to the terms,
conditions, and purposes."
Such are the main features of a statesman-like Act, which promises
to put new life into agricultural education in Canada.
10 Oct., 191S.] Agricultural Education in Canada.
587
The framers of the Act were of the opinion that education and
instruction for the farming community might best be classified under
four heads : —
(1) The teaching in the public school of the first principles of
the sciences related to agriculture.
(2) The teaching of more advanced agriculture in the agricul-
tural colleges and universities designed more particularly to train
teacher investigators and community leaders.
(3) The carrying on of extension work involving the instruction
of farmers by making them familiar with the results of scientific
investigation and research.
(4) The amelioration of the conditions of rural life, particularly
so far as women and children are concerned.
The effects of the Act are already manifest. In some provinces no
agricultural instruction worthy of the name was carried out prior to the
passing of the Act. Now agricultural investigation, teaching, and
extension work in every province has been given new life.
View of Dairy Buildings and Silos — Dominion Experiment Farm, Ottawa,
Canada.
Dominion Experiment Farms.
The most important branch of the Federal Department of Agricul-
ture is the system of Dominion experiment farms.
These were established under the Experiment Stations Act 1886. At
the present time there is a central experiment station at Ottawa, on which
the greater part of the investigational work is done, and 22 branch
stations in the various provinces of the Dominion.
The vote for the Dominion experiment farms, for maintenance (ex-
clusive of salaries, &c., on the civil list) is over £200,000 for the fiscal
year of 1918.
The function of these stations is twofold : — -
(1) Investigational and experimental work — the discovery of new
facts and new knowledge in the field of agriculture, horticulture, and
animal husbandry. (2) The dessemination of agricultural informa-
tion amongst the farming community by bulletins, press notices,
demonstrations, and by co-operation with the various provincial
departments.
588 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
The work of tlie farms has included experiments and studies relating
to the breeding and feeding of live stock, the production of butter and
cheese, field crops, natural and artificial fertilizers, cereals, grasses,
forage plants, trees, plant diseases and injurious insects.
The more strictly scientific side of the work is carried out at the
Central Farm at Ottawa, and is organized in thirteen divisions: — (1)
Field husbandry; (2) annual husbandly; (3) horticulture; (4) cereals;
(5) chemistry; (6) forage plants ; (7) botany; (8) poultry; (9) tobacco;
^
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■HIMHI
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View of Horticultural Department, Dominion Experiment Farm, Gueiph,
Canada.
Breeding resistant varieties of timothy at tbe Dominion Experimental Parm,
Ottawa.
(Note contrast in the different strains of timothy.)
(10) economic fibre; (11) illustration stations; (12) apiculture; (13)
extension and publicity.
It is impossible to mention in detail the many important results
obtained by these experiment farms. Suffice it to say that through
them Canada is in possession of a body of exact knowledge of all
branches of agricultural industry, accumulated and tested in each
climatic division of the Dominion for a period of thirty years. Such
knowledge, specific in character, enables Canadian farmers to follow
practices demonstrably certain to lead to an increased output.
10 Oct., 1918.] Agricultural Education in Canada.
589
Of the more outstanding results might be mentioned the work of the
Cereal Division. The late Dr. Saunders, Plant Breeder and Dominion
Director of Experiment Farms, evolved new varieties of grain possessing
productiveness, early ripening habit, and good baking strength.
Preston, Huron, and Stanley are all vigorous, early-maturing, and
prolific wheats, and have enabled the wheat belt to be pushed further
north; but the variety that has achieved the greaitest success is Marquis
wheat, which is equal to the old Redfife in baking qualities, ripens five
to ten days earlier, and is superior in productiveness to any other grown
in the Dominion.
In the United States wheat belt, I found this wheat extensively grown,
and officers of the United States Department assured me that the intro-
duction of Marquis wheat has added tens of millions of bushels of wheat
to the harvest of America, to say nothing of Canada. Marquis has done
even more for Canada than Farrer's Federation did for the wheat belt
of Australia, and Australian farmers knoAV how indebted they are for
Federation wheat.
Group of Buildings, Manitoba Agricultural College, Winnipeg, Canada.
New varieties of fruits, particularly apples and pears, have been
evolved by cross-breeding by the Dominion Horticulturist (Mr, Maconn),
which have proved themselves more resistant to cold than any now being
grown. Such work is of great moment in a country where winter cold
is the limiting factor for tree growth.
Remarkable results have been obtained, too, in breeding hardy strains
of grasses and forage plants.
A recent development has been the creation of an economic fibre
division, which, wdth equipment for retting, breaking, scutching, and
working up fibres, tests the value of fibres grown throughout the
Dominion,
During my stay at the Central Farm at Ottawa a Farmers' Field
Day was held, and, despite the inclement weather, over 600 farmers
attended the various demonstrations.
Other important branches of the Federal Department which I in-
vestigated were: —
(1) Live-stock division, appropriation . . £125,000
(2) Health of animals division, appropriation 86,000
(3) Pure seeds branch, appropriation . , 35,000
590 Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
(4) Entomology and administration of Destruc-
tive Insects Act, appropriation . . 30,000
(5) Dairy division, appropriation . . . . 32,000
(6) Fruit division, appropriation . . . . 2'5,000
The Provincial Departments of Agriculture are maintained in addi-
tion to those of the Federal Government, but the advantages the
Federal Experiment Stations have is that they are under one control, and
the tests made at the Central Farm can be duplicated and tested out
at each at the twenty-two branch stations. The officers of the Federal
Department naturally, therefore, learn to take a broader and more com-
prehensive view of agricultural problems, and are able to plan work
of nation-wide application.
Administrative Building, Manitotia Agricultural College, Winnipeg, Canada.
THE ONTARIO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE.
The Ontario Department of Agriculture is located at Toronto. Its
■permanent head is called the Deputy Minister of Agriculture. The
main activities of the Department are: —
1. District Representatives — corresponding to the county agents of
the United States.
Ontario was the first province in the Dominion to adopt the Dis-
trict Representative plan of organizing the extension activities of the
State. In 1907, the Ontario Government appointed specialists in agri-
-culture — graduates of the agricultural college — to six of the important
agricultural districts of the province. To-day there are forty-seven
specialists appointed as District Representatives, one in each county of
the province. The salaries of these men range from £310 to £420 per
annum, plus travelling expenses.
The Provincial Government pays the salary of the District Repre-
sentatiA^e and the remainder of the office expenses. In the United States
the counties contribute from £300 to £500 towards the expense of the
■county agent. The work of the District Representative is similar to
10 Oct., 1918.] Agricultural Education in Canada. 591
that of the county agent in the United States. No representative is put
into a district until the farmers ask for it and the County Council agrees^
to put up 500 dols. per annum for expenses. As forty-seven counties;
out of sixty-eight in Ontario have county representatives, it indicates
that good work has been done by this organization. The main purpose
of the District Representative's office is to act as a clearing house for
the dissemination of agricultural information. He attends as many
meetings of farmers' societies, gets to know their needs and endeavours
to supply their wants. This year there has been a tractor drive in
Ontario, and 155 tractors have been placed on farms during the past
three months. The Dominion Government bought 1,000 of these
tractors and allocated 200 to the Ontario Government.
Each District Representative conducts short courses in agriculture
for farmers' sons. The courses extend over four weeks. The repre-
sentative attends all the farmers' clubs in the county, assists in giving
demonstrations on farms throughout the county.
I visited one of the county agents at Brampton. He had just put
on a " Save the baby campaign." He had arranged with the four local
doctors to hold a free Baby Clinic for two days. The mothers brought
their babies and children up to three years of age to the town for free
medical inspection and examination. The death rate for infants in
Ontario is 104 per 1,000. As a result of the free clinic over 300 babies
were brought into the medical officers during the two days. I visited
the clinic at the end of the second day. There was a large hall filled
with interesting exhibits on the management and feeding of infants,
prepared by the Health and Medical Departments of the Government,
and demonstrations were given by competent nurses and science teachers
on the preparation and types of food for infants and young children.
Then there were some interesting educational work in the hall. " Being a
baby is a dangerous business. A soldier in Erance is safer than a baby
in Brampton." " A new-born baby has less chance of living a year than
a man of eighty." Such were the types of placards bringing under the
notice of the people the high infantile mortality in Ontario.
An amusing model was an automatic procession of babies bearing,
on their backs signs such as the following: —
" We want sensible mothers."
" We want good water."
" We want pure milk."
" We want fathers who think." — &c.
In chatting with the local doctors I found that many of the children
were suffering from preventable ailments. One doctor said 90 per cent,
of these cases would not come before them except at a free clinic, such
as this.
Of course a " Baby Clinic '' has not much to do with agriculture,
but if the saving of a horse is worth, say, £50, what is the saving of a
future farmer of Ontario worth ? Figure it out, and I think you will
find that the good done by that Baby Clinic would be sufficient to pay
the cost of the salary of that enterprising District Representative many
times over. It was a novel " stunt," and made possible by the co-
operation of the Agricultural and Public Department and the local
doctors.
(To he continued.)
592 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
COPPER FUNGICIDES FOR VINE DISEASES.
By F. de Castella, Government Viticulturist.
Fungicides are either preventive or curative. The latter can onlj'
be used with success for the control of fungi, the mycelium of which is
external to the tissues of the plant, such as Oidium, or Powdery Mildew
of the vine {Uncinula spiralis), against w^liich sulphur dustings are the
standard remedy, whilst spraying with weak solutions of potash per-
manganate, liver of sulphur, &c., give good results in colder weather. In
the case of most fungi, and more particularly Downy Mildew and Black
Spot of the vine, the mycelium develops in the interior of the tissues
of the plant. These can only be controlled by preventive treatment;
the entry of tlhe fungus into the tissue of the plant must be rendered Im-
possible by spraying with some fungus poison in such quantity that
every rain or dew drop may dissolve sufficient of it to prevent the ger-
mination of any fungus spore which may fall into it. In other words,
prevention of spore germination protects the tissues of the vine from
infection.
Many fungus poisons have been suggested, among which silver, mer-
cury, cadmium, and alkaline polysulphides (lime-sulphur, &c.) naay be
mentioned; but copper has so far proved the most efficacious, and is
to-day by far the most widely used of preventive fungicides. Copper
may be employed for this purpose in various forms, each of which has
its advocates; the oldest copper fungicide is undoubtedly Bordeaux Mix-
ture or Copper-Lime, which is still the best known and most widely used.
It is, therefore, the form which must first be considered; subsequently,
some of the substitutes which from time to time have been proposed, and
more or less extensively used, will be described. The most important
of these is copper-soda or Burgundy Mixture, which is well known to
most of our orchardists and potato-growers. Though an excellent fungi-
cide, present-day difficulties in the way of procuring the carbonate of
soda necessary for its preparation deprive it of much of its importance.
In spite of its undoubted qualities, it is in no wise superior to Bordeaux
Mixture; there are, indeed, sound reasons for preferring the latter, as
will be shown subsequently.*
Bordeaux Mixture.
The origin of this standard fungicide may be briefly stated. In
many vineyards in the Bordeaux district of France, where fences or
walls are often absent, it has long been customary to sprinkle the outer
rows fringing the roads with a mixture of lime and bluestone, in order
to protect the fruit from marauders. The resultant pale blue markings
of the foliage serving the same purpose as a notice " Poison laid here."
When Downy Mildew first ravaged the vineyards of France in the early
eighties of last century, it was soon noticed that these outer rows suffered
far less from the disease than vines which were not so treated. Thus
was discovered, quite accidentally, the efficacy of copper for the control
of Mildew and otlher fungi.
• The main reasons for preferring ' ' Bordeaux " are that it adheres better, is less depressing on
vegetation and burns the foliage less. It also deteriorates much less rapidly after a;>ixing. In warm
VI eather the precipitate of copper-soda soon becomes granular an d loses its power of adherence.
10 Oct.. 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 593
From the first haphazard sprinklings to the methodical use of logic-
ally-prepared Bouillie bordelaise (literally Bordeaux pap) or Bordeaux
Mixture, was a simple evolution carried out by French vine-growers
under the guidance of Millardet and other scientists. It is indeed
strange that French viticulture should thus, at the very beginning of
the fight against Mildew, have had the good fortune to accidentally hit
upon the copper fungicide, which is still the most efficient and generally
useful, and which has not been displaced as first favorite after nearly
40 years of experimentation.
Bordeaux Mixture fills all the requirements of a perfect fungicide.
An entirely soluble substance would be washed oif by the first heavy
shower ; its application would need constant renewal in a wet season.
The precipitate of Bordeaux Mixture, however, is practically insoluble,
though not entirely so. Part of it is slightly soluble, and under the
action of the carbonic acid of the air further portions are gradually
rendered more or less soluble, so that the " reserve of copper " which
adheres to the green organs of the vine after a spraying continuously
makes available quantities of soluble fungus poison, minute it is true,
but sufficient to prevent spore germination. It is held by most authori-
ties that two to three parts of copper sulphate in 10,000,000 parts of
water is sufficient to inhibit the germination of Mildew spores.
The sediment of Bordeaux Mixture also possesses considerable power
of adherence; this is sufficient to resist, in a marked degree, its removal
by rain. Once it has been allowed to dry on the vine, it is only after
continuous and violent rains that the spray substance is washed oif;
storm showers are far more potent in this respect that ligfht, misty rain.
The nature of the precipitate, its solubility, and its power of adher-
ence vary considerably according to the method of preparation, and in a
certain measure to the presence of some substances wdiicli may be added.
It follows that several modifications have from time to time been made
in the mode of preparation, and there are at the present time numerous
distinct recipes in practical use.
The formula first recommended by Professor Millardet in 1885 was
very strong; it contained 8 per cent, of copper sulphate and 15 per cent,
quicklime (40 lbs. copper sulphate and 75 lbs. quicklime to 50 gallons
of water). It was soon found that a much weaker mixture afforded
almost equal protection. The proportion of copper sulphate was first
reduced to 3 per cent., and later to 2 and even to 1 per cent., the quan-
tity of lime being even more considerably reduced, only sufficient of this
last substance being employed to neutralize the acidity of the copper
sulphate as shown by test papers.
What may be termed Standard Bordeaux Mixture, which has for
some years past been recommended in the majority of French, viticul-
tural hand-books, consists of 2 per cent, copper sulphate crystals and 1
per cent, quicklime of good quality. In other words, 2 lbs. of copper
sulphate and 1 lb. quicklime to every 10 gallons of water. The copper
sulphate is dissolved in about 8 gallons of water ; the lime is slacked and
made into a milk in one gallon of water. The latter is poured into the
former — on no account should this order be reversed — with constant
stirring, and the bulk make up to 10 gallons by the addition of a little
water. Since lime varies greatly in purity, it is generally recom-
mended to be guided by test paper rather than by the weight of lime
594 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
used, and to cease adding the milk of lime as soon as the paper shows
the first signs of an alkaline reaction. If the lime be of poor quality,
more than one pound may be required to neutralize 2 lbs. of copper
sulphate ; with chemically pure lime, considerably less than one pound
would be required. The proportion of lime required thus varies greatly
according to its quality. Quicklime changes rapidly on exposure to
air; it first becomes slacked, and subsequently carbonated. 100 lbs.
of pure quicklime after becoming slacked would weigh 135 lbs. ;
when completely carbonated it would weigh 178.6 lbs. Air-slacked lime,
provided it be not carbonated, is just as suitable as quicklime, though
more of it must be used. Once lime has become carbonated it is no
longer fit for the preparation of Bordeaux Mixture ; with it, the chemical
reactions which take place are different, and the precipitate varies con-
siderably in its nature. Amongst other substances, it contains carbon-
ate of copper, a substance which has a severe action on the green tissues
of the vine. Hence it is that Bordeaux Mixture prepared with faulty
lime (too old), even if this be used in the proportion shown to be neces-
sary by test paper, often burns the foliage of the vine.
In France, all authorities are agreed that 2 per cent, of copper sul-
phate crystals is the standard strength for Bordeaux Mixture; it is
considered unsafe to place reliance on anything weaker, especially in
the case of severe Mildew outbreaks. The recent high price of copper
has led to weaker mixtures having been somewhat largely applied during
the past couple of years in France. Though satisfactory protection has
sometimes been obtained with 1^ per cent., and even with 1 per cent.
Bordeaux, the results of a reduction in strength have often led to grave
disappointment. Indeed, in the disastrous Mildew visitations of 1910
and 1915 in France, an increase of the copper sulphate strength to
3 per cent, was often recommended and applied with most satisfactory
results. If the copper percentage be reduced below the standard men-
tioned above,' the duration of protection is correspondingly reduced.
With the standard strength, the vine is provided with a " reserve of
copper " such that, even though fairly heavy rain may fall, sufficient
remains on the green organs to prevent spore germination and conse-
quent infection.
Chemistry of Bordeaux Mixture.
This is not nearly so simple as was formerly thought. In many of
the older text books the reaction which takes place when lime is added
to copper sulphate solution is stated to be as follows: —
CUSO4 + Ca(0H)2 = CaSO, + Cu(OH)i
(Copper Sulphate) (Lime Hydroxide) (Lime Sulphate) (Copper Hydroxide)
According to this, the lime and copper merely change places. In reality
the transformations which occur are far more complex.
When lime is added to copper sulphate solution both substances
undergo change; the lime takes part of the sulphuric acid from the
copper sulphate to form lime sulphate or gypsum, but so long as the
lime is not in excess there is no copper hydroxide formed. The pre-
cipitate consists of copper in the shape of basic sulphates — in other
words insoluble sulphates of copper which contain more of- the metal
than ordinary copper sulphate (bluestone). The greater the amount of
10 Oct., 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 595
lime added the higher the basicity of the copper sulphate which is pre-
cipitated. Sulphate of lime is, of course, also precipitated, but being
an inert substance it need not be taken into consideration.
If one takes a solution of 10 lbs. copper sulphate in 50 gallons of
water, for example, and lime milk be added progressively, busic sulphates
Avill be precipitated, with compositions approximately as follows: — *
3.5CuO, SO3 — so long as the quantity of lime is less than 1.685 lbs.
4CU0, SO3 Tetracupric sulphate — when the quantity of lime used
reaches 1.685 lbs.
5CuO, SO3 Pentacupric sulphate — ^with 1.8 lbs. lime.
lOCuO, SO3 Decacupric sulphate — with 2.02 lbs. lime.
5CuO, CaO, SO3 Double sulphate of copper and lime — with 2.25
lbs. lime.
If the quantity of lime be still further increased, double sulphates
of lime and copper are formed richer in lime than the one mentioned
above; finally, double hydrates of copper and lime make their appear-
ance.
These salts are not precipitated in a state of purity for each quantity
of lime used; it is really a mixture of several of them, the one w'hich
predominates being as set out above.
To Pickering! is due the credit of having first investigated the
chemistry of Bordeaux Mixture. More recent French investigators are
in agreement with his conclusions, so far as the composition of the
different substances contained in the final mixture is concerned; as re-
gards the fungicide value of each, or rather their preventive power,
there is less concordance. Pickering was of opinion that Tetracupric
sulphate is the most valuable of the different basic copper sulphates,
and that every endeavour should be made to obtain a precipitate in
which this salt would predominate. This would mean a slightly acid
mixture; in practice Bordeaux Mixture is nearly always alkaline.
He recommended Woburn or Lime-water Bordeaux, made with lime
water instead of milk of lime. Owing to the slight solubility of lime,
Bordeaux made in this way must necessarily be far weaker in copper
than the standard 2 per cent, strength. Pickering held that, owing to
the greater efficacy of Tetracupric sulphate, the weaker mixture would
have equal fungicide power to Bordeaux prepared in the usual way, a
contention which has not been borne out in practice. Lime-water
Bordeaux, after extensive trial, has been found very inferior to 2 per
cent. Bordeaux made with milk of lime; its use cannot, therefore, be
recommended. J
It is true that what is called Woburn Paste has been placed on the
market in England. This consists largely of Tetricupric sulphate, and
merely requires mixing with water before use; it can therefore be used
in any strength desired. Though a good fungicide, it does not appear
superior in any way to ordinary Bordeaux. The greater solubility of
Terticupric sulphate seems to be a defect rather than an advantage;
* L. Sicard — Progres Agricole, 20th September. 1914.
• See reports of the Woburn Experimental Fruit Farm (Sth-llth) bv the Duke of Bedford and
Spencer TJ. Pickering.
t It has even been recommended to reduce the proportion of copper sulphate as low as 10 ozs.
to 50 gallons of spray mixture. See article on " Lime-water Bordeaux " in Journal for November, 1910,
by Mr. D. McAIpine.
596 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
though perhaps more active at first, it is removed by heavy rain sooner
than the precipitate of ordinary Bordeaux, thus rendering the duration
of its protection insufficient.
Bordeaux Mixture may thus be acid, neutral, or alkaline. Copper
sulphate is an acid salt. Its acidity may be neutralized by various
substances ; in the case of " Bordeaux " lime is the alkali used. If
chemically pure quicklime (slaked and made into a milk with water)
be progressively added to a solution of copper sulphate it will be found
that if 10 pounds of copper sulphate are present in the solution this
will maintain its acid reaction until 1.685 lbs. of lime have been added.
At this point the mixture becomes neutral. If the addition of lime be
continued, it will not be until the total quantity of pure lime reaches
2.25 lbs. that the mixture shows an alkaline reaction. It is thus evi-
dent that a neutral mixture is obtained by using quantities of lime vary-
ing between tihese two limits. It is really the nature of the precipitate
which differs; the nearer the quajitity of lime used approaches to the
figure 2.25 lbs. the greater the basicity of the precipitate. If more
than 2.25 lbs. of lime are employed an alkaline " Bordeaux " will be
obtained.
It is thus evident that the standard Bordeaux Mixture used in France,
viz., half as much quicklime as bluestone, must, with lime of anything
like good quality, always result in an alkaline mixture. Even when
the quantity of lime is gauged by test paper instead of by weighing, the
resulting mixture will inevitably be alkaline, for the reason that milk
of lime is a mixture of solid particles with water, and not a true solu-
tion. Even with thorough stirring the action of the lime takes trme;
each minute grain becomes surrounded by a vesicle or bladder of basic
copper sulphates, lime sulphate, &c., with a result that the lime con-
tinues its action for some considerable time after the test paper indi-
cates the first signs of alkalinity. Even if slightly acid when first
prepared " Bordeaux " usually becomes distinctly alkaline later on
owing to the neutralizing action continuing.
Physical Nature of the Precipitate.
This is probably of equal importance to the chemical composition,
since it has an important bearing on the adherence of the " Bordeaux,"
w'hich varies very considerably according to the mode of preparation.
It is for this reason that it is so important that the line should be poured
into the copper sulphate solution, and not the copper into the lime milk.
In the former case the vesicles mentioned above are a characteristic
feature of the precipitate ; in the latter case they do not occur — the pre-
cipitate, though light, is granular, and on drying is much less adherent
to the green tissues of the vine.
The Galloway or American method of preparing " Bordeaux," in very
general use by Victorian orchardists, certainly gives a mixture of very
high quality, with a fine, light precipitate which adheres well. It con-
sists in making a dilute solution of sulphate of copper and a dilute milk
of lime. These two are intimately mixed by running them separately in
equal quantities at a time into a third vessel. The main feature of the
method is that dilute solutions are made to react on one another; the
10 Oct., 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 597
precipitate thus obtained is much lighter than when concentrated sohi-
tions are mixed together.
By mixing concentrated milk of lime in small quantities at a time
into very dilute copper solution practically equal results can be obtained
so far as the fineness of precipitate is concerned, but only on the one
condition that stirring be very thorough. This has been abundantly
proved by experiment. The formula given below is more convenient
than the Galloway method, as it does not necessitate the employment of
so many vessels to contain the bulky dilute solutions ; with it, only one
such is required. Provided that stirring be sufficiently thorough the
resultant '' Bordeaux " will be quite equal to that obtained by the Gallo-
way method. It also presents the advantage that good results can be
obtained with lime not of first class quality. With the Galloway method
the lime must be weighed, and with any but quite pure quicklime, weigh-
ing is a most unreliable means of ascertaining the true quantity of
lime employed. Gauging the lime by means of test paper is in such
a case to be preferred. It is, nevertheless, always well to employ the
best lime obtainable. Lime which has been partially carbonated gives
a " Bordeaux " which may burn the foliage badly.
Acid V. Alkaline " Bordeaux."
This is the most important point on which opinions differ. Beams
of paper have been written and high authorities may be quoted on both
sides in, what may be termed, the battle of green versus blue. Acid
" Bordeaux " has a greenish tinge, whereas if it be alkaline the mark-
ings left on the leaves of the vine are of a light sky-blue colour.
Theoretical considerations concerning the greater efficacy of Tetra-
supric sulphate notwithstanding,'" the blue partisans seem to be holding
their own in the practical field. Alkaline " Bordeaux " seems to possess
greater adherence and to afford at least equal protection in the
opinion of some of the leading French authorities to-day. Advocates
of acid " Bordeaux " admit the durability of action of the alkaline form,
but consider it to be less active when first applied than that which con-
tains a considerable amoimt of the slightly soluble Tetracupric sulphate.
Into all the details of this interesting controversy it is impossible to go
here. It will suffice to say that the conclusion arrived at by Professor
Ravaz as the result of extensive field trials carried out during the past
two years with numerous different fungicides is that alkaline mixtures
have proved themselves quite equal to acid ones. There appears to be
remarkably little difference between the practical value of the two.
One great advantage of alkaline " Bordeaux " is that it is possible to
increase its wetting or spreading power by the addition of casein, a
substance which cannot be used in connexion with an acid mixture,
by which it would be curdled.
Wetting Power.
If a vine leaf be dipped into soapsuds it will on withdrawal be found
to be thoroughly wetted, whereas if dipped into pure water large portions
of it usually remain dry. Various substances have been recommended
* Tetracupric sulphate is most abundant in slightly acid " Bordeaux."
598 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
for increasing this wetting power, amongst others soap, gelatine,
saponine, and casein. Numerous soap mixtures (containing copper, of
course) have been recomanended, but have since been abandoned, mainly
owing to the depressing action of the soap on the vegetation of the vine.
Gelatine is an excellent substance for the purpose, but it can only be
added to acid " Bordeaux " and, as will be gathered from the above,
this is rather difficult to prepare. Saponine is not obtainable in Aus-
tralia.* Casein, on the other hand, is easily procurable; it is a by-
product of the dairying industry, and is worth about a shilling a pound.
The quantity necessary to confer wetting power is one ounce for every
ten gallons.
This substance is somewhat difficult to incorporate with Bordeaux
Mixture, to which it should not be directly added, as it would merely
float on the surface and form lumps. It should be separately dissolved,
the solution or emulsion thus obtained being added to the spray
mixture.
The proper quantity of casein — 5 ozs. for 50 gallons of spray — may,
after thorough mixing with a couple of handfuls of slacked lime in
powder, be worked into a smooth cream with a little water, this being
further diluted to ^ gallon (a dipper full) of an emulsion rather than
a solution. Very little of the lime is dissolved; the greater part of it
remains in suspension. The whole is then poured into the 50 gallons
of spray mixture through a fine sieve, with thorough stirring. Casein
may also be dissolved in 10 per cent, soda carbonate (ordinary washing
soda) solution — 1 lb. to 1 gallon water. Rub to a smooth paste with a
little of the solution, more being added to make up ^ gallon of emulsion.
The most convenient way to dissolve casein, however, is by means
of an ordinary egg-beater. The 5 ozs. casein, mixed with about its own
weight of dry slacked lime, is merely added to the ^ gallon of water
on the surface of which it floats. On turning the handle of the egg-
beater, the casein is rapidly sucked into the liquid, with which it becomes
thoroughly incorporated and soon dissolves. It may also be dissolved
in similar manner in 10 per cent, soda carbonate, in which case it is
unnecessary to first mix it with lime.
Addition of Sulphur to Bordeaux.
Copper fungicides are almost useless against Oidium, for which
sulphur is the standard treatment. A sulphuring may be saved by
incorporating sulphur with Bordeaux Mixture, the composition of which
is not afl^ected in any way thereby. The usual quantity is from 7 to 10
lbs. of sulphur to 50 gallons of spray mixture. The finer the sulphur,
the less of it will be required ; it is possible that with precipitated sulphur,
which is in a very fine state of division, considerably less than 7 lbs.
would suffice. Sulphur is somewhat difficult to mix with Bordeaux.
In France, special so-called " wettable " sulphurs are obtainable. Treat-
ment with oleic acid (1 lb. dissolved in a quart of methylated spirit to
1 cwt. of sulphur) renders it wettable. The oleic acid solution should
be mixed witli the sulphur in much the same way as bluestone solution
is used for pickling wheat. The sulphur may also be worked into a
* It is possible that a similar substance might be extracted from the prickly pear.
10 Oct., 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 599
smooth cream with a weak solution of glue — ^ oz. to a gallon of water —
which is then added to the spray mixture. In the case of Bordeaux
with Casein, it is quite easy to incorporate the sulphur with the casein
solution with the assistance of the egg-beater as described above.
PRACTICAL DIRECTIONS FOR MAKING BORDEAUX MIXTURE.
The following is simpler than the Galloway (American) method. Provided
stirring be veiy thorough at each addition of lime, and after final dilution, an
equally good spray mixture will result. The present method is to be preferred
if the lime be not of first class quality: —
Materials. — Copper sulphate, 10 lbs.; fresh quicklime, 5 lbs. (about); water,
50 gallons. If the lime is of poor quality, or air-slaked, more than 5 lbs. will
be required; if pvire and fresh, less will suflBce.
Utensils. — A 60-gallon hogshead with one head removed (pegs should be in-
serted inside to show the 10 and 50 gallon levels) ; two or three kerosene tins
for boiling water in; a tub or tin to slake the lime — ^capacity about 10 gallons;
an earthenware jug or jar — capacity 1 gallon; a dipper — enamelled or painted
in-side and out; a fine sieve; some phenolphthalein testing paper (this can be
obtained from any chemist; it consists of strips of white filter paper wetted
with a 5 per cent, solution of phenolphthalein in methylated spirit and allowed
to dry) ; a stirring device, such as a stout broom handle, to which is fixed a
small piece of board.
Operations., — Dissolve the copper sulphate in 5 gallons or so of hot water;
make up to 10 gallons with cold water. A stock solution of copper sulphate
( 1 lb. to 1 gallon of water ) may be made up. This will keep indefinitely. Ten
gallons of this stock solution should be taken for each cask of mixture. Remove
1 gallon of this solution in the earthenware jug or jar, and place it to one side.
Add about 20 gallons of water to the copper sulphate solution in the cask (this
need not be measured ) . Slake the quicklime by adding small quantities of water
at a time. When slaked, add water sufficient to make about 6 or 8 gallons of
milk of lime Pour this lime milk through the sieve into the bulk copper
sulphate solution, with brisk stirring until neutralized. Neutralization is
shown Ijy the phenolphthalein paper turning pink. Stop adding lime milk as
soon as the test paper turns faintly pink. (The test paper can with advantage
be pinned to a small stick to avoid touching with fingers wetted with lime
water, which would result in misleading indications). Add 1 gallon of copper
sulphate to the solution previously withdrawn. Stir thoroughly. The more
thorough the stirring the better the mixture. Make up to 50 gallons -with
water, and stir again. The mixture is now ready for use. It should be used
fresh, only sufficient for the day's requirements being made up at one time.
Copper sulphate solution must not be handled in iron or tin vessels unless
these have been very thoroughly painted or tarred both inside and out; wood
or enamel vessels are to be preferred.
High-grade quicklime is now obtainable, packed in airtight tins. With this
weighing may be resorted to — 2i lbs. will completely neutralize the 10 lbs.
copper sulphate required for 50 gallons of spray mixture.
" Bordeaux with Casein.- — The " wetting " or spreading power of the mixture
can with advantage be thus increased. 5 ozs. casein will suffice for 50 gallons
of spray, which must be sufficiently alkaline to redden phenolphthalein paper.
If this does not occur add more lime. 5 ozs. casein mixed as described above
is sufficient for 50 gallons of Bordeaux.
600 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 191S.
INDIGENOUS FIBROUS PLANTS OF VICTORIA.
By J. \V . Aiidas, F.L.S , F.K.M .S.j Assistant, National
Herharinin, Melhoume.
The continuance of the war has aroused a wide-spread interest in
the uses and commercial value of many of the natural products of
Australia, and the recently-formed Commonwealth Bureau of Science
and Industry intends to experiment with plants of various kinds
in order to ascertain if they have any economic value. As the shortage
of shipping gradually be,comesj more acute we shall be compelled to seek
locally for many articles which hitherto have come from overseas, or at
any rate, to look for substitutes. Endeavour should therefore be made
by everybody interested to ascertain by investigation What commercial
value our trees and plants possess before permitting further areas of
them to be wantonly destroyed. Extensive tracts of country have been
cleared which formerly bore the richest and most varied vegetation.
The brush forests so general along our coasts are fast disappearing with
the advance of settlement. It is advisable therefore to bring under
notice a few plants which would yield strong and durable fibres suitable
for a variety of purposes.
The economic value of most of the diversified vegetation of the Com-
monwealth is little known, and it is only from the timbers that any
financial benefit worth speaking of has been derived. There are many
plants in the Victorian flora admirably adapted for the manufacture of
fibres. Experiments were carried out from time to time by the late
Baron von Mueller, Government Botanist, and the late W. R. Guil-
foyle. Director of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens, the results of which
show the economic uses to which some of our plants could be put. The
following Genera can be specially recommended, viz., Acacia, Euca-
lyptus, Melaleuca, Plagianthus, Pimelea, Rulingia, Commersonia,
Casuarina, Brachychiton, Bedfordia, Lavatera, Linum, Xanthorrhoea,
Dianella, Juncus, Lomandra, Typha, Carex, Gahnia, Cyperus,
Heleocharis, Schoenus, Scirpus Livistona, Liepidosi>erma, and other
sedges, besides Stipa, Dichelachne, Poa, Arundo, Tetrarrhena, Imperata,
and other grasses.
Fibres can be made from: —
1. Bark of Acacia dectirrtns, Willd. " Early Black Wattle."
2. Bark of Acacia moUissima, Willd. " Late Black Wattle."
3. Bark of Acacia peniiinervis, Sieb. " Hickory Wattle."
3a. Leaves of Amperea spartioides, Brongn. " Broom Spurge."
4. Leaves of Arundo Phragmites, L. " Common Reel."
5. Leaves of Bedfordia salicina, D.C. "Blanket Wood."
6. Bark of Brachychiton populneus, R.Br. " Kurrajong."
7. Stems of Carex paniculata, L. " Panicle Sedge."
7a. Stems of Carex pseudo-cyperus, L. " Galingale Sedge."
8. Stems of Carex tereticaulis, F. v. M. "Round Sedge."
9. Branchlets of Casuarina quadrivalvis , Labill. " Drooping
Sheoke."
10. Branchlets of Casuarina suberosa, Otto & Dietrich. " Black
Buloke."
11. Branches of Commersonia Fraseri, J. Gay. " Black Fellows'
Hemp."
10 Oct., 1918.] Indigenous Fibrous Plants of Victoria.
601
12. Stems of Cyperus lucidus, R.Br. " Shining-leaf Rush."
13. Stems of CirpervH vof/inatus, R.Br. " Sheath-leaf Rush."
14. Leaves oiDianella'lonrfi folia, R.Br. "Long-leaved Flax
Lily."
15. Leaves of Dianella rtvoluta, R.Br. " Spreading Flax Lily-''
16. Leaves of Dianella tasmanica, Hk.f. " Tasman Flax Lily."
17. Stems and leaves of Dichelachne crinita, Hk.f. "Long-hair
Plume Grass."
18. Bark of Eucalyptus amygdalina, Labill. " Common Pepper-
mint." ,j
10. Bark of Eucalyptus capitellata, Sm. " Brown Stringybark.
20. Bark of Eucalyptus corymhosa, Sm. " Bloodwood."
21. Ba^vV oi Eucalyptus glohulus, 'LBhxW. "Blue Gum. "_
22. Bark of Eucalyptus \joniocalyx, F. v. M. "Mountain Grey
Gum."
23. Bark of 'Eucalyptus leucoxylon, F. v. M. "Yellow Gum."
24. Bark of Eucatyptus longifolia, Link. " Woollybutt." _
25 Bark of Eucalyptus macrorrhyncha, F. v. M. "Red Stringy-
bark."
26. Bark of Eucalyptus obliqua, L. Herit. "Messmate Stringy-
barlT."
27. Bark of Eiicalyptus rostrata, Schl. "River Red Gum."
28. Bark of Eucalyptus Stuartiana, F. v. M. " Apple Box."
29. Leaves of Gahnia psitiacoruvi, Labill. " Giant Saw Sedge."
30. Leaves of Gahnia Eadula, Benth. "Black Saw Sedge."
31. Stems of Heleocharis acuta, R. Br. " Common Spike Rush."
32. Stems of Juncus Com.?nunis, E. Mey. " Common Rush."
33. Stems of Ju?icus maritimus, Lam. " Shore Rush."
33a. Stems of Juncus prismatocarpus, R. Br. " Branching
Rush."
34. Stems of Juncus pallidus, R. Br. " Pale Rush."
34a. Stems of Juncus pauciflorus, R. Br. "Few-flowered Rush."
35. Stems and leaves of Lavatera plebeia, Sims. " Austral Holly-
hock."
36. Stems and leaves of Eejyidosprrma elatius, Labill. " Tall
Sword Sedge."
37. Stems and leaves of ' Le2ndosperma gladia-tum, Labill.
" Coast Sword Sedge."
38. Stems and leaves of Lepidosperma longitudinale, Labill.
" Swamp Sword Sedge."
39. Stems and leaves of Linum marginah, Cunn. " Wild Flax."
40. Leaves of Livistona australis, Mart. " Cabbage Tree Palm."
41. Stems and leaves of Jjomandra {Xerotes) longifolia, Labill.
" Long Mat Rush."
42. Bark of Lyonsia straminta, R. Br. " Twining Silk Pod."
43. Bark of Melaleuca squarrosa, Don. " Scented Paper Bark."
44. Bark of Pimelea axiflora, F. c. M. "Tough Rice-flower."
45. Bark of Pimelea liqustrina, Labil. " Tall Rice-flower."
46. Stems and leaves of Poa caespitosa, Forst. " Tufted Meadow
Grass."
47. Stems and leaves of Schoenus hrevifolius, R. Br. " Short-
leaved Bog Grass."
602 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
48. Stems and leaves of Scirpus maritimus, L. " Salt-marsh
Club Rush."
49. Stems and leaves of Stipa semiharhata, R. Br. " Fibrotis
Spear Grass."
49a. Stems and leaves of Sty pand/ra caesjritosa, R.Br. " Tufted
Blue Lily."
50. Leaves of Ti/pha angusti folia, L. " Bulrush."
51. Leaves of Xanthorrhoea australis, R. Br. " Southern Grass
Tree."
52. Leaves of Xanthorrhoe.u hastilis, R.Br. " Spear Grass Tree."
53. Leaves of Xanthorrhcca minor, R.Br. " Small Grass Tree."
54. Stems and leaves of Urtica incisa, Pois. " SciHib Nettle."
55. Stems of Tetrarrhena juncea, R.Br. " Wire Grass."
56. Stems of Imperata arundinacea, Cyr. " Blady Grass."
Fibres from Barks.
The best fibre-yielding barks are those of th& Eucalypts, the most
important being Eucalpytus obliqua (L'Herit), " Messmate Stringy-
bar " ; order, Myrtaceas ; distribution, Victoria, JNTew South Wales,
South Axistralia, and Tasmania. Paper prepared from the bark of this
tree would be suitable for packing, printing, and even writing purposes,
as well as for mill and paste boards. The pulp bleaches readily, and
the bark is extremely thick and bulky, and separates very easily,
qualities which, in early settlement days, gave it a use as thatch for
rural dwellings, &c. The area within Victoria almost exclusively
wooded with stringybank forests extends over many thousands of square
miles. The bark of other Eucalypts may likewise be converted into
paper, the whole thick stratum of the bark being used, which, owing
to its loose nature, yields readily to mechanical application, and is
easily acted on by caustic soda for conversion into pulp.
Eucalyptus globulus, Labill, " Blue Gum " ; order, Myrtaceae ;
distribution, Victoria, 'New South Wiales, and Tasmania. The well-
known Blue Gum of Victoria abounds in valleys and moist declivities of
wooded mountains from Apollo Bay to beyond Wilson's Promontory,
extending here and there gregariously to the Pyrenees and the Buffalo
Ranges. Its bark is suitable for the manufacture of packing and,
probably, printing paper.
Eucalyptus amygdalina, Labill, "Common Peppermint"; order,
Myrtaceae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
and Tasmania. The Common Peppermint is abundant throughout the
greater part of Victoria. Its foliage is more oily than that of most of
its congeners, and its inner bark is adaptable for the preparaton of
coarse paper.
Eucalyptus gonlocali/x, F. v. M., "Mountain Grey Gum"; order,
Myrtaceae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and South Aus-
tralia. The Mountain Grey Gum of Victoria, called in some districts
the " Spotted Gum," is found chiefly in the fertile ranges of Gippsland.
The foliage is rich in volatile oil, and the bark is suitable for the
making of packing papei-, but is not adaptable for the manufacture of
writing-paper.
10 Oct., 1918.] Indigenous Fibrous Plants of Victoria. 603
Eucalyptus coryrnhom., Sm., "Blood Wood"; order, Myrtacese;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and Northern
Australia. The Bloodwood occurs in the eastern parts of Gippsland.
Paper from the bark of this Eucalypt is remarkable for its great firm-
ness, and consequently makes a very strong wrapping paper.
Eucalyptus longifolia. Link, " Woollybutt " ; order, Myrtaoeee ;
distribution, Victoria and New South Wales. The Woolly Butt is found
in the eastern extremity of Gippsland, and supplies bark suitable for
paper making.
Eucalyptiis Stioartiana, F. v. M., "Apple Box"; order, Myrtaoese;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
and Queensland. The Apple Box is abundant in many parts of this State,
and its bark furnishes good material for paper making and paste boards.
Eucalyptus rostrata, Schl., "River Red Gum"; order, Myrtaceae;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland,
Northern Australia, and Western Australia. " The River Red Gum " is
found throughout the greater part of Victoria, and its timber is of
great commercial importance. The bark-fibre is useful for making the
coarser kinds of paper.
Euclapytus macrorrhyncha, F. v. M. "Red Stringybark " ; order,
Myrtacese; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and South Aus-
tralia. The Red Stringybark is widely distributed throughout Victoria.
Its thick fibrous bark is extensively used for roofing huts, sheds, &c., and
the bark is adaptable for the manufacture of all kinds of coarse paper.
Besides those above-mentioned, many other Eucalypts would be
found to bear a bark suitable for paper making.
Acacia penmnervis, Sieb., "Hickory Wattle"; order, Legumi-
nosea; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, and Queens-
land. The Hickory Wattle is a tree of small size, found chiefly on the
granite ranges in Gippsland and north-eastern parts of Victoria. It
yields a bark suitable for coarse paper making, and from that of many
other species of this large genus a substantial packing paper can be
produced.
Melaleuca ericifolia, Sm., " Swamp Paper Bark," or the so-called
"Swamp Tea Trea" ; order, Myrtaceee; distribution, Victoria, New South
Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, and Queensland. The Swamp
Paper Bark is abundant in moist places and stagnant waters near the
coast and inland. It is clothed with a bark adaptable for the making
of blotting paper, and probably filtering paper. It is worthy of note
that many species of this genus yield barks alike in appearance, and
formed of innumerable membraneous layers.
Brackyclntnii, populneus, R.Br., " Kurrajong " ; order, Steru-
liacese ; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. The
Kurrajong is found on the Hume River, and on the granite ranges of
the Snowy River and its tributaries. It produces a bark with strong
fibre, and was used by aboriginals for making fishing nets.
Pimelea ligustrino, Labill, "Tall Rice Flower"; order, Thyme-
leaceee; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, and
Tasmania. The Tall Rice-Flower is common in dense humid forests
chiefly in tlie eastern parts of the State. It yields a fibre of great
strength.
Pimelea axiflora, F. v. M., " Tough Rice Flower " ; order, Thyme-
leacese; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania. The
604 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
Tough Rice-flower is widely distributed throughout the State, and fur-
nishes an excellent fibre oi great strength. It is often used for boot
laces, and for tying up parcels or bunches of flowers.
Flar/ianthus pulchellus, A. Gray, *"' Hemp Bush"; order, Malvaceae;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, and Tas-
mania. The Hemp Bush is usually found near the banks of creeks,
&c., and produces a fibre soft, glossy, and long, suitable for warp yarn,
either by itself or as a mixture.
Rulingia poniiosd, R. Br., " Kerrawan " ; order, Sterculiacese ; dis-
tribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. The Kerrawan
is found in the north-eastern parts of Victoria, and yields a very useful
fibre.
Commersonia Fraseri, J. Gav, " Blackfellows Hemp"; order,
Sterculiacese ; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queens-
land. The Blackfellows Hemp is found on the Genoa River and valleys
under Genoa Peak. It yields a fine fibre suitable for matting auu
cordage, and for the manufacture of a good quality paper.
Fibre from Foliage.
Casuarina stricfa, "Drooping Sheoke " ; order, Casuarineae ; distri-
bution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, and
Western Australia. The Drooping Sheoke is a common tree of the
coast of Victoria. It has a stringy foliage which can be converted into
an excellent pulp for packing paper, and even printing paper and mill-
boards.
Casuarina suberoifa, Otto & Dietr., " Black Buloke "; order, Casua-
rineae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tas-
mania, and Queensland. The Black Buloke, widely distributed in Vic-
toria, is an erect tree producing foliage containing the same properties
as the last mentioned species.
Bedforclia salicina, D.C., "Blanket Wood"; order, Compositae;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania. The Blanket
Wood is found chiefly in moist situations in the south and eastern parts
of the State. It yields a white flock resembling scoured wool from the
under part of the leaves, and paper could be made from it.
Lavatera pltbeja, Sims, "Austral Hollyhock"; order, Malvaceae;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, and Western Australia. The Austral Hollyhock is a
perennial shrub, and is found in considerable quantity along the
Murray and many of its tributaries, being besides scattered over several
different parts of the State. It grows luxuriantly in tx'acts of
country which appear almost useless for other purposes, and has been
successfully tried for oakum rope and paper making. If required for
the latter purpose, the shrubs should be pulled up by the roots, and
hung up in bundles to dry. When sufiiciently dry, they should be
chopped up small, and treated with a diluted solution of caustic alkali
to remove the gummy matter which they contain. After bleaching the
material should be treated in the same way as rags which are intended
for paper making.
Linum marginale, Cunn., "Wild Flax"; order, Linace^ ; distribu-
tion, Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, South Australia, and
Western Australia. The Wild Flax is abundant throughout this State,
10 Oct., 1918.] Indigenous Fibrous Plants of Victoria. 605
and although a smaller plant than the true flax, nevertheless it yields a
fibre of splendid quality. It wasi used by the natives for making fishing
nets and cordage.
Livistona australis, Mart., "Cabbage Tkee Palm^'; order, Pahnse;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. The Cab-
bage Tree Palm is found in the eastern extremity of Gippsland. The
foliage is used for baskets and hats, the latter very much resembling the
celebrated panama.
Urtica incisa, Poir, "Scrub Nettle"; order, Urticacese; distribu-
tion, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, and
Queensland. The Scrub Nettle delights to hide itself in the moist and
densely shaded fern gullies and ravines in the sub-alpine localities of
Victoria and Tasmania. Its stems and leaves yield useful paper-making
material.
Amperea spartioides, Brongn., ''Broom Spurge"; order, Euphor-
biaoese; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, and Queensland. The Broom Spurge isi of a dwarf shrubby
habit, and grows abundantly in the eastern portion of Victoria. It
yields a useful fibre material.
Scirpus maritimus, "Salt-marsh Ctus Rush "j order, Cyperacese;
distribution, Victoria, Kew South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, Northern Australia, Western Australia, Europe, Asia,
Africa, America, and New Zealand. The Salt-marsh Club Kush is a
plant almost cosmopolitan, occurring frequently in more or less brackish
waters, and yielding a fibre which would produce paper sufficiently firm
to stand the impressions of type.
Scirpus lacustris, L., "Lake Club Rush"; order, Cyperacese; dis-
tribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, Western Australia, Europe, Asia, Africa, America, and New
Zealand. The Lake Club Rush grows in moist parts nearly all over
the world. Being of gregarious habit the plant is readily collected.
The paper produced from it is remarkably good, and adaptable for either
printing or tissue paper, as well as for writing paper. It is also used
for making seats of chairs, and by coopers for caulking casks.
Scirjn/s nodosus, Rottb., "Knotted Club Rush"; order, Cyper-
acese ; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tas-
mania, Queensland, Western Australia, Africa, America, India, and
New Zealand. The Knotted Rush, a tufted perennial plant with creep-
ing rhizomes, is plentiful along the coast of Victoria, where :t tends to
bind drifting sand. It forms a good paper plant, but as a fibre plant
for other purposes it is of little use.
Ci/perus vaginatus, R. Br., "Sheath Leaf Rush" ; order, Cyperacese;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland,
Western Australia, and Northern Australia. The Sheath Leaf Rush is
one of the most widely and most copiously distributed of the rush plants
of Australia. It has a tough fibre, and consequently can be manufac-
tured into very tenacious paper. The raw material is available in con-
siderable quantities on periodically flooded river flats, swamp localities,
and other moist places.
Cyperus lucidus, R. Br., " Shining-leaf Rush "; order, Cyperaceae;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, Northern Australia, and Western Australia. The Shining-
606 Journal of Agriculture. Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
leaf Rush is a tufted water plant widely distributed over Australia.
The fibre is obtained by the boiling process.
Heleocharis acuta, R. Br., " Tall Spike Rush "; order, Cyperacese ;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, Northern Australia, Western Australia, America, New
Zealand. The Tall Spike Rush is common in moist places over a con-
siderable portion of Victoria. It is exquisitely adapted for the making
of good printing and tissue papers, and fairly good writing-paper.
Lepidospernui (jladiutum, Labill, "Coast Sword Sedge"; order,
Cyperacese; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, Western Australia. The Coast Sword Sedge is found every-
where on the maritime shores of this State, wliere it tends to bind the
shifting sand. It has been subjected to successful tests of paper fabrica-
tion, the article produced therefrom being of stron? texture. A manu-
facturer in England who has tried the paper-making qualities of this
plant reports that there is no doubt whatever that it will make good
paper. It may be cut down annually, and will spring up year after year
from the same roots. If allowed to remain on the ground for ten or
fifteen days after cutting, exposed to the action of the weather, and
turned over occasionally, it will become partially bleached.
Lejndosperma lonf/itudin/ile, Labill, "Swamp Sword Sedge";
order, Cyperaceae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South
Australia, Tasmania, and Western Australia. The Swamp Sword Sedge
is one of the tall sword rushes very abundantly distributed on marshy
land of the south-eastern portion of Victoria. It is a good paper-
producing plant under somewhat similar treatment to that suggested for
Coast Sword Sedge.
LtpidoHperma elatius, Labill, "Tall Sword Sedge"; order,
Cyperaceae; distribution, Victoria, Soutji Australia, and Tasmania.
The Tall Sword Sedge attains a height of from 5 to 8 feet, and is very
common in forests and damp soils in the eastern and southern portions
of the State. Like most of the genus it yields a good paper pulp.
Juncus communis, E. Mey, " Commox Rush " ; order, Junceae ; distri-
bution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, and Western Australia, Europe, Asia, Africa, America,
Polynesia, and New Zealand. The Common Rush is a cosmopolitan
species, and may be obtained in enormous quantities in moist places
throughout the whole of the extra tropical parts of Australia. It makes
excellent material for printing tissue,
J uncus pallidum, R. Br., "Pale Rush"; order, Juncege ; distribution,
Victoria, New South Whales, South Australia, Tasmania, Queensland,
Western Australia, and New Zealand. The Pale Rush, like the Com-
mon Rush, has a very wide geographical range, being plentiful in
marshes and moist sandy tracts n^ar the sea coast. It also makes mate-
rial for a good paper stock.
Juncus paucijiorus, R. Br., "Few-flowered Rush"; order,
Juncese; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tas-
mania, and Queensland. The Few-flowered Rush is abundant through-
out the State. It is supposed to be an excellent paper material, and
furnishes also a fibre of considerable strength.
Juncus prismaticarpiis, R. Br., " Braxching Rush " : order,
Juncese; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, Queensland, and Western Australia. The Branching Rush
10 Oct., 1918.] Indigenous Fibrous Plants of Victoria.
60^
is a dwarf flat stemmed species seldom more than from 18 inches to 2
feet in height. It is abundant in swampy ground near the sea coast,
and may prove valuable as a paper plant.
Schoenns hrevifolius, K. Br., " Short-leaved Bog Rush"; order,
Cyperace^; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, Queensland, and Western Australia. The' Short-leaved Bog
Rush is a tufted perennial, very plentiful along the coast, especially the
south-eastern portion of the State. It furnishes good paper material and
a fibre of considerable strength.
Carex paniculata, L., "Panicle Sedge"; order, Cyperaces; distri-
bution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Queens-
land, Tasmania, and Western Australia. The Panicle Sedge is found
generally throughout the State in low-lying swampy grounds, and along
river and creek courses. It yields a fibre suitable for paper and mill-
boards.
Carex ijseudo-cype.rus, L., " Galingale Sedge"; order, Cyperaceae;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, and Western Australia. This species of sedge is very com-
mon throughout Victoria in swampy and moist places, and yields a strong
fibre, which is prepared by boiling for twelve hours, and then scraping
the leaves.
. Lomnndra (Xerotes) longifolia, R. Br., "Long Mat Rush"; order,
Liliacece; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, and Queensland. The Long Mat Rush is a perennial plant
dispersed throughout the State on dry and moist soils. It furnishes a
valuable pulp, which can be utilized both for printing and writing paper.
It is, however, scarcely as readily collected as many of the other plants
just referred to.
Stypandra caespitosa, R. Br., "Tufted Blue Lily"; order,
Liliacese; distribution, Victoria. New South Wales, Queensland, and
Tasmania. The Tufted Blue Lily is a hardy herbaceous perennial found
in the eastern and southern parts of the State. It yields a strong fibre,
and is readily prepared by a boiling process.
Typha angustifoJia, L., " Bulrush"; order, Typhaceae; distribution,
Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Queensland,
Northern Australia, Western Australia, Europe, Asia, Africa, America,
Polynesia, and New Zealand. The Bulrush is a cosmopolitan aquatic
perennial, and is identical with the common, narrow-leaved species of
Britain and other parts of the globe. It is very plentiful in Victoria
on the banks of streams and fresh water swamps. The pulp of the
weighty foliage is easily pressed into good printing, tissue, and writing
paper, and a fibre of fair strength can be manufactured from the
leaves .
Xanthorrhij^.a minor, R. Br., "Small Grass Tree"; order,
Liliaceae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
and Tasmania. The Small Grass Tree is a stemless, liliaceous plant ex-
tending on temporarily inundat-ed flats, with heathy sub-soil almost un-
interruptedly over many square miles of the Western Port districts,
Gippsland, and otlier Victorian localities. There are occasionally lines
of many miles extent scarcely interrupted by any other vegetation.
The broad rigid tufts app7-jach each other to the exclusion of gradual
suffocation of most other plants of the locality. The harsh foliage.
60S Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
available in such very large quantities, can }>e readily converted into an
excellent printing paper, as well as good writing paper.
Xanthorrhaa nustraUs, R. Br., "Southern Grass Tree"; ordei,
Lilliaceee; distribution, Vi/Ctoria and Tasmania. The Southern Grass
Tree is widely dispersed throughout the State, and may be had in
abundance. It prefers sandy soil, and is found in profusion on coastal
plains almost anywhere l>etween the South Australian border and Cape
Howe. The leaves of th!s species of grass tree afford a very good fibre,
but it is somewhat difficult to prepare on account of the quantity of
silica autj r'asin which the leaves contain. Resin obtainable from the
base of the leaves, and from the trunk, is in demand as a colouring for
varnishes, for the manufacture of sealing wax, for dyeing purposes, and
also for the large percentage of picric acid which it contains. The stem
sometimes attains a Tieight of 10 or 12 feet, and is crowned with a dense
lieau of bru.sh-like leaves. The flower scajie is often 8 feet or more in
length.
Xanthonh(jb<i /lasti/ts, R. lir., " Si'EAR Grass Tree"; order,
Liliaceae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.
The Spear Grass Tree is confined in Victoria to the eastern extremity of
Gippsland, and as a fibre-plant is quite equal to the preceding species.
Jj'ui'lhella UiHiiianica, Hook, f., " Tasman Flax Lily " ; order,
Liliaceae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania.
The Tasman Flax Lily abounds in tlie densely shaded fern gullies of
the eastern parts of Victoria, where it grows abundantly, and frequently
it is found overhanging banks of mountain streams. It is a good fibre
plant, and supplies splendid paper stock. Tiie fibre of this plant was
used by the natives for making baskets.
DlaneUa tasmanica, J look, f., " Takman Flax Lily''; order,
Liliaceae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, and Queensland. The Long-leaved Flax Lily is an
herbaceous perennial which bears an inflorescence of sky-blue flowers,
and when in fruit its shining blue berries render it very attractive and
showy. It produces a strong filire of fine, silky texture, which could
be made into twine and fishing lines.
Diaibrlla revoluta, R. Rr., " Spkkading Flax Lily"; order,
Liliaceoi; distribution, Vicloiia, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, Queensland, and Weslern Australia. The Spreading Flax Lily
is very plentifully distributed lliroughout the State, and thrives well in
sandy soils. It produces a fair fibre, which is obtained by boiling and
scraping the leaves.
hniicrdta (triindinucea, Cyr., " Bladv Grass"; order, Gramineae;
distribution, Victoria^ New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, Northern Australia, and Western Australia, Europe, Asia,
Africa, America. Polynesia, and New Zealand. The Blady Grass is a
showy cosmopolitan grass, uually found in wet undrained land or sour
soils in the moist parts of Victoria. Its strong, broad leaves are often
used by brickmakors for a thatch to protect bricks when wet, and it is
recommendecT for binding river banks and loose coast sands. It has
been suggested that it might \tv. found useful for paper making.
Arnndo Phrtu/initrft, " !>," "Common Reed"; order, Gramineae;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania,
Queensland, Western Australia, Europe, Asia, Africa, America, Poly-
nesia, and New Zealand. The Common Reed is a tall, cosmopolitan
10 Oct., 1918.] Indigenous Fibrous Plants of Victoria. 609
perennial grass, growing plentifully along the borders of banks of
streams, where it tends to bind the earth with its extensive creeping
root-stocks. This rush was formerly much availed of by the natives
of Victoria for making bags or baskets.
Tetrarrhena juncea, R. Br., ""Wire Grass"; order, Gramineje;
distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania. The Wire
Grass is a climbing plant often growing to a height of 15 feet or more
among the oranches of shrubs and small trees in the uplands of the
State. It furnishes a pulp suitable for the manufacture of packing and
writing paper.
Dichelachne crinlta , Hook, f., "Long-hair Plume Grass"; order,
Gramineae; distribution, Victoria, New Sdrth Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania,^ Queensland and "Western Australia. The Long-hair Plume
Grass is widely diffused over extra tropical Australia, and occurs also in
New Zealand. This grass yields material for a tenacious paper, espe-
cially fit to be used for a thin packing or wrapping paper.
Stipa semiharbata, R. Br., " FiBRors Spear Grass"; order,
Gramineae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, Queensland, and Western Australia. The Fibrous Spear
Grass is to be found almost everywhere throughout south-eastern Aus-
tralia and Tasmania. It produces material for substantial paper, bi.t
less than that of the preceding kind.
Poa caespifosa, G. Forster, "Tufted Meadow Grass"; order,
Gramineae; distribution, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia,
Tasmania, Queensland, and Western Australia. The Tufted Meadow
Grass is a coarse perennial, and grows in large tussocks on moist flats
and swampy lands. It affords a good fibre of fair quality, and makes
an excellent paper stock.
The foregoing list is, of course, by no means complete. My object is
simply to direct attention to a portion of our flora having a commercial
value, in order that those who are interested in the manufacture of a
few articles, for which we now look to overseas countries, may know the
plant which will furnish the chief constituents. No doubt from many
other Australian plants materials for paper making could be obtained,
and the suitability of several of the local grasses and seaweeds for the
weaving of rope, &c., was tested longr since by our aborigines.
At the traetof ploughing competition for a shield presented by the
Food Production Department in England, Herefordshire was the winning
county in March, with a total of 154^ acres ploughed. The winning
team- from 24th August to 5th April ploughed 662 acres, besides doing
threshing and other work. Their average for period of thirty-one weeks,
including stoppages through wet weather, works out at 21^ acres per
week. During March forty tractors in Herefordshire ploughed
2,584 acres.
15043.— 2
610 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
THE RESIDUAL EFFECT OF SUPERPHOSPHATE.
By George 8. Gordon, Field Officer, Werrihee Research Farm.
It is generally recognised tliat tlie soil over the greater portion of
Victoria is more or less deficient in those natural phosphates which are
required if maximum yields are to be obtained. In some districts, when
the first few crops have further depleted the virgin soil of this element,
profitable crops can no longer be grown without the use of farm-yard
manure or artificial fertilizers — generally superphosphate. On the aver-
age farm the quantity of manure available, and the labour necessary for
distributing it, are limited, while the smaller quantity required per acre,
easy distribution by means of the grain and fertilizer drill, together
with the handsome profit earned on the outlay, has in the past few years
caused a great increase in the demand for such fertilizers as super-
phosphate, Thomas' phosphate, basic phosphate, bonedust, &c., all of
which contain the essential plant food — phosphorus — in different forms.
The following figures from the Victorian Year-Booh for 1913-14
show a gradual increase in the use of artificial fertilizers from 1901 to
1913:—
Manure
Used.
Year.
Farmers Using.
Area used on.
Natural.
Artificial.
Acres.
Tons.
Tons.
1901
11,439
556,777
153,611
23.535
1902
18 537
1.099.686
206,676
36,630
1903
19 921
1.205 443
207.817
41,639
1904
20,167
1,521.946
190,903
45,i'40
1905
21,586
1,791 537
210 507
54,674
1906
23 072
1,985148
205 906
60,871
1907
23,733
2 018 079
232 334
62,337
1908
24 437
2,053.987
235,492
64,715
1909
26 690
2,407.331
197,446
77,579
1910
27.845
2 714,854
203 884
86,316
1911
26.159
2 676,408
205.739
82,581
1912
29,524
3,029,418
222,253
94,010
1913
30,610
3,401,013
219,423
105,612
" The area on which manure was used represented only 7 per cent,
of that under crop in 1898," comments the Government Statist; "but
since then the proportion manured has rapidly increased. In 1901 it
was 19 per cent.; in 1903, 36 per cent.; in 1904, 46 per cent.; in 1905,
56 per cent.; in 1909, 66 per cent.; in 1911 and 1912, 74 per cent.; and
in 1913, 77 per cent. During 1913 the quantity of manure imported
into Victoria from oversea countries was 87,536 tons, and its value
£231,757. Seventy-seven per cent, of the quantity, representing 74 per
cent, of the value, consisted of rock phosphates imported from Ocean
Island.''
It is sometimes said that little progress is being made here in agricul-
tural practice, but the rapid increase in the demand for superphosphate
proves that in this branch, at least, an advance has been made. Besides
being of direct advantage to the farmer, the manufacture of superphos-
10 Oct., 1918.] The Residual Effect of Superphosphate. 611
phate has become a valuable industry, supporting a number of workmen,
who, in turn, help to create a better demand for farm produce. The
increased production following on the use of fertilizers also suggests the
possibilities of other discoveries by which greater yields may be won
from the soil, and offers encouragement to those interested in the
advancement of the science of agriculture.
On the occasion of his visit to Werribee with the members of the
British Association for the Advancement of Science, in 1914, the late
Dr. T, S. Hall said, " The agricultural problems in Australia awaiting
investigation are enormous, and for the solution of these problems the
experience of the Old World is of little value. There is great necessity
for experiments being conducted towards the development of a system
of farming that will meet local soil and climatic conditions."
While the progressive farmer has become fairly well acquainted Avith
the benefits accruing from the rational use of superphosphate, and desires
further knowledge regarding its effect on the soil, there are many
" beginners," and probably some sceptics, who still require enlighten-
ment on the elementary facts relating to its application and on the scope
for greater and more profitable use of fertilizers than obtains at
present.
Experiments at the Werribee Research Farm.
If the inquiries made from time to time at the State Research Farm,
Werribee, afford any indication of the points about which advice is
required, the following would probably be amongst the most
important : —
1. What is the "best'' quantity to apply?
2. What is the effect of the continuous (from year to year)
use of superphosphate ?
3. What is the " lasting " or residual effect of superphos-
phate, and does it " leach " out of the soil, " revert," or
become unavailable as a food for plants?
Such pertinent questions indicate a keen desire for knowledge on the
subject. The first question has been dealt with from time to time in
this Journal, and may be tested on private farms ; reliable theories,
together with some information, based on practice, can be advanced in
regard to the second question, but until the last few years little or
nothing had been done in Victoria to settle the important matters raised
by the final question of the residual effects of superphosphate on succeed-
ing crops, pasture, &c. Though it is known that crops do not always use
the whole of the plant food contained in the fertilizer applied to them,
in practice it is not often possible to obtain definite or reliable informa-
tion, especially of a comparative nature, regarding the residual value or
effect of the fertilizer on succeeding crops. The varying seasonal con-
ditions and ordinary farm practice generally prevent the observer
arriving at a conclusion more definite than an " expression of opinion "
that the result was beneficial or otherwise; and as a field experiment to
test the matter necessarily extends over a long period, and entails con-
siderable labour and expense, the investigation comes within the province
of the Experimental Farm. The State Research Farm at Werribee
was established to undertake such work as this, and amongst the many
2
612 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
experiments wliich are being carried out there, one, knoAvn as tlie Perma-
nent Fertilizer Test, has been conducted for the past five years with the
definite object of elucidating problems connected with the use of ferti-
lizers. The records of grain yielded by the various plots in this field
have already been published, and, as time advances, the effect of the
different fertilizers is becoming accentuated, and the opportunity for
making reliable observations is thereby increased.
In order to assist in arriving at a correct judgment of these observa-
tions and results, the following brief description and history of the land
and scheme of working is given : —
The soil in the field in which the plots are located is a shallow light-
red to grey loam, overlaying clay, with basaltic rock coming close to the
surface in places. Prior to the establishment of the Research Farm in
1912 it was cultivated for many years chiefly for growing hay, and at
'.he commencement of these tests was deficient in humus and in an
exhausted state.
The area was pegged out as an experimental field in 1913. The
plots are each a quarter of an acre in extent, and (with the exception of
Fig. 1. — Showing effect of the third application of i cwt. of superphosphate
per acre on the third experimental crop compared with the adjoining
unmanured plot.
two which are cropped each year) are set out in duplicate in order that
they may be sown on fallow or in rotation with a leguminous crop, one
section being in crop and the other in fallow or green crop each year.
Observations Regarding Residual Effect.
During the period 1913-18 there have been some striking differences
in the growth of the self-sown crop which came up on the various plots
in the autumn, and was allowed to grow till fallowing time (August-
September). These growths give an indication of the residual effect of
the different fertilizers, and, being side by side in the same field, and a
complete history of previous treatment being available, there is a good
opportunity to obtain reliable information. While the results are
interesting and considered worthy of publication for the information of
those using, or contemplating the use of, artificial fertilizers, it should
be remembered that it is too early to be dogmatic on the different points,
and, as time goes by, it may be necessary to revise some of the conclusions
now arrived at.
10 Oct., 1918.] The Residual Effect of Superphosphate.
613
Several sections in different locations on each of .the undermentioned
plots were cut on 19th July and again on 7th Septemher, 1917, in the
self-sown crop which followed the 1916 harvest. The average weight of
the samples from each plot was obtained, and the weight of the crop
calculated per acre. These particulars are recorded in Table I. here-
under and the treatment previously given to these plots is shown in
Table II. :—
Table No. 1.
Showing Weight per Acre of " Self-sown " Wheat Crop
(in green state).
Plot
Fertilizer Applied Per Acre to Wheat Crops in
Calculated Weight of Self-sown
Crop per Acre.
Number.
1914 and 1916.
On 19th July,
1917.
On 7th Sep-
tember, 1917.
4a
5a
10a
6a
7a
15a 1
14a
Nil
Superphosphate, h cwt.
Superphosphate, 1 cwt.
Superphosphate, \h cwt.
Superphosphate, 2 cwt.
Superphosphate, h cwt.
Thomas' Phosphate, i cwt, .
Thomas' Phosphate, I cwt. .
cwt.
0-3
4-1
6-5
10-0
13-2
j- Not recorded
cwt.
0-5
12-9
17-8
22-9
34-8
9-4
2-6
Table Wo. 2.
Recording Rainfall and Previous Treatment.
Year.
Rainfall.
Treatment.
inches.
1913
16-45
A crop of peas and beans grown and cut for silage, and the
land then'summer fallowed
1914
13-22
Sown with Federation wheat (cut and thrashed)
1915
15-55
Bare fallow
1916
28-79
Sown with Federation wheat (stripped)
1917
20-10
Bare fallow. Prior to ploughing, the samples shown in Figure
No. III. were obtained
1918
Sown with Yandilla King wheat
Note. — -The yields from the wheat crops grown in 1914 and 1916 show that on this soil superphosphate
was the most profitable fertilizer tested.
These weights, in the table above, show a gradual rise from almost
nil on the unmanured plot up to 13.2 cwt. per acre on 19th July, and
34.8 cwt. on 7th September, on the plot which received 2
cwt. of superphosphate per acre. Similar results were apparent
this year, though in a somewhat less marked degree. It will be
noticed that the yield of the self-sown crop is in almost direct pro-
portion to the amount of water-soluble phosphoric acid supplied
to the previous crops. Fig. N"o. II., taken just before the self-sown crop
was ploughed in on 17th September, gives some idea of the differences in
growth on a few of the plots, but it is more clearly seen in Fig. No. III.
In this illustration each small sheaf or bundle represents the average
614
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
growth on one square yard of each plot at the time the samples were
taken on 7th September. The phosphoric acid in Thomas' phosphate
(which is now practically unobtainable owing to the war) being in a
less soluble form, the result from this fertilizer is not nearly so
HIH
— 1
El ■- , ''faM
-1
^^^^^RVk-** ' ^"^^^^l^^^^^^^^l
^^^^1
■■K;
■'
H^^^H
^H^^l^&
BB|- Plot 4. Ml^^^^^PP^^H
B piVt 5
^^B No Manure ^^QjWPPlJlMMl
^^^^^M
ijjg
iM SUPtHPMOSI'tM
n icwT PER ACHL
m^
^HR^MHI
IHPSI
^Ri
^m.
'•«S^^^ '"■
*"'"' . —. <
■ w«i*Pi .
- ■-
Fig. 2. — Showing the variation in growth of self sown crop on a few plots.
5 cwt. 12-9 cwt. 17-8 cwt.
22-9 cwt. 34-8 cwt. 9-4 cwt. 2'6cwt.
rig. 3.— Self-sown Wheat.
(Each sheaf represents the average yield from one square yard.)
pronounced as that from superphosphate. It will also he seen that the
phosphoric acid contained in the latter has apparently neither leached
out in the wet season experienced at the end of 1916, or reverted to a
10 Oct., 1918.] The Residual Effect of Superphosphate. 615
form unavailable to the rootlets of the wheat plant. Water soluble
(mono-calcie) phosphoric acid is the form in which this plant food is
readily available for the use of plants, and is, therefore, the most valuable
to the fanner. On reference to the guaranteed analysis on the tags
attached to bags containing superphosphate, it will be seen that by far
the greatest part of the phosphoric acid which the fertilizer contains is
soluble in water, and consequently immediately available to the plants.
Its ready availability is demonstrated by the increased vigour and
growth of the crop to which it is applied, practically from the appear-
ance of the plants over ground. This point is well illustrated by the
growth on the unmanured plot No. 4 (Fig. I.) as compared with that on
the adjoining plot, which received only ^ cwt. of superphosphate per
acre. Both plots were sown with Yandilla King wheat on 19th June,
and the photograph was taken on 17th iSeptember following.
When applied to the soil, water soluble phosphoric acid quickly
reverts (combines with lime, &c., in the soil) to forms less soluble, and
t
Fig. 4. — Green Manure Trials — Feeding off Cape Barley with Sheep.
therefore less available to plants, but probably this reversion does not
occur till the phosphoric acid has become dissolved in the soil moisture.
Assuming such to be the case, the plant food would be distributed through
the soil, and in such a fine state of subdivision that, although reverted,
it could still be utilized by the plants. In any case, the variation in
growth shoAvn in Fig. No. II., which is brought into sharp relief by
Fig. No. III., and the weights recorded in Table No. 1, clearly indicates
that there is a considerable amount of plant food still fairly readily
available after the fertilized crop has been harvested.
Cash Value of Residual Benefit.
Close to the field where the results specified above were obtained is
another experimental field, in which different crops are annually grown
and fed off with sheep. The sheep are carefully weighed " in " and
" out " of the plots, in order to estimate the grazing value of the crop
on which they are pastured. No wheat is grown for this purpose, but
616
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
if the results from barley (whicli is of about the same feeding value) are
compared with the yields of self-sown wheat in Table No. 1, the mone-
tary value of the latter can be approximately assessed.
The average return for the past four years from the first " feed "
each year on the Cape barley crops referred to is as follows: —
Weight of crop per acre. Sheep Days.* Increase in Live Weight.
55.9 cwt. . . 313.7 . . 170.7 lbs.
Thus 1 cwt. of green barley would support a sheep for 5.6 days and
increase its live weight by 3 lbs. Assuming that the grazing value of
the self-sown wheat is equal weight for weight to that of barley, and
calculated at the rate of 2d. per lb. for the live weight increase and |d.
per day for the wool (both reasonable charges under prevailing condi-
tions), the cash value of the wheat on the different plots would be as
shown in Table ISTo. III.
Table No. III.
.Estimated Cash Value of Residual Benefit.
On basis of weight of crop on July 19th, 2d. per lb. live weight increase, Jd. per
day for wool, and assuming that wheat is of equal grazing value to the barley specified
above.
Weight of
Increase
Plot
Fertihzer Applied to Wheat Crops in 1914
Self-sown
Cash Value,
per Acre Due
Number.
and 1916, per Acre.
Crop
per acre.
per Acre.
to
Fertilizer.
cwt.
£ s. d.
£ s. d.
4a
Nil
0-3
0 0 2i
5a
Superphosphate, J cwt.
4-1
0 2 6i
0 2 4
10a
Superphosphate, 1 cwt.
6-5
0 4 0
0 3 9|
6a
Superphosphate, H cwt.
10-0
0 6 2
0 5 llj
7a
Superphosphate, 2 cwt.
13-2
0 8 U
0 7 Ul
On basis of weight of crop on September 7th, 2d. per lb. live weight increase, ^d. per
day for wool, and assuming that wheat is of equal grazing value to the barley specified
above.
4a
Nil
0-5
0 0 3J
5a
Superphosphate, -J cwt.
12-9
0 7 Hi
0 7 8
10a
Superphosphate, 1 cwt.
17-8
0 10 llf
0 10 8i
6a
Superphosphate, H cwt.
22-9
0 14 1*
0 13 10
7a
Superphosphate, 2 cwt.
34-8
1 1 5^
1 1 2
15a 1
Superphosphate, ^ cwt.
^ 9 '4
0 5 9^
0 5 6
Thomas' Phosphate, h cwt.
i
14a
Thomas' Phosphate, 1 cwt.
2-6
0 1 li
0 1 3|
On the basis of the weights recorded on 7th September, Table No. III.
shows that on three out of the four plots which received superphosphate
only, the residual effect on the self-sown wheat crop was, in one year,
sufficient to pay for the superphosphate applied to tivo crops of wheat.
However, under practical working conditions the crop would probably
have been stocked before this date, and the following figures worked out
on the average weight of the two samplings would be more reliable as a
• The term ' ' sheep days " means the number of sheep multiplied by the number of days they were on the
plot, e.g., ten sheep pastured for twenty days, or twenty sheep pastured for ten days, equals 200 sheep
days. Thus 365 sheep days per acre is equivalent to one sheep to the acre for the whole year.
10 0(
1918.]
Herh Growing.
617
guide to what might be expected on farms with soil and climatic condi-
tions similar to those at Werribee : —
Estimated
Mean Cash Value
Plot
Superphosphate Applied per Acre to Crops in
Cost per Acre
of
Number.
1914 and 1910.
at
Residue per Acre
£5 per Ton.
on One Self-sown
Wheat Crop.
£ s. d.
£ s. d.
4a
Nil ..
54
Superphospliate, \ cwt. . .
0 5 0
0 5 0
10a
Superphosphate, 1 cwt.
0 10 0
0 7 3
6a
j Superphosphate, H cwt.
0 15 0
0 9 lOf
7a
Superphosphate, 2 cwt. . .
1
1 0 0
0 14 6J
While these figures speak for themselves, there are other factors to
be taken into consideration. For instance, in dry districts the applica-
tion of an excessive amount of fertilizer may force such a rank flaggy
growth in early spring that all the available moisture is used, with the
result that the crop wilts and grain " pinches " at the ripening period.
On the other hand, a rational use of fertilizers enriches the soil moisture
with plant food, and enables the plant to obtain a greater proportion
from a given quantity of water absorbed. It is evident that in calcu-
lating the returns from the use of fertilizers, not only the immediate
benefit to the crop should be taken into account, but also its residual
effect on succeeding crops. Thus, the residual effect of heavy dressings,
which do not show such a large immediate net profit as lighter ones, may,
over a period of two or three years, warrant their use. The growth
from the plots illustrated in Fig. Til. occurs at a time when it is
particularly useful for fattening early lambs. The results generally
have a direct bearing on the returns from mixed farming where grazing
enters into rotation with cropping, as they prove that the benefit derived
by fertilizing the grain crop will be continued to the pasture which
follows. This pasture, besides being greater in yield, will be of better
quality, and will, in part, be returned to the soil, as manure, by the
stock which it carries.
HERB GROWING.
By Edward E. Pescott, F.L.S., Government Pomologist.
In response to an inquiry as to the possibility of developing the
herb-growing industry in Victoria, the following statement was recently
made by a representative of a large wholesale house in Melbourne : —
" We buy weekly 3 cwt. of herbs, for which we pay Is. 6d. per lb, every
ounce of it being imported from overseas."
Such a statement, from so reliable a source, is evidence enough that
there are ample opportunities for the establishment of herb growing as
a remunerative occupation.
Local dealers prefer home-grown herbs, and there is, apparently, a
permanent market, especially for thyme, sage, marjoram, and basil.
Soil and aspect are the first considerations in establishing the herb
garden. Almost any type of soil is suitable, but it will be well not to
618 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
choose one too rich, otherwise the herbs will make a rank growth, and
the oil or flavour content will not be so extensive. The best results
are obtained from land of a limey formation. Manuring is not neces-
sary, and should generally be avoided, for it usually promotes too rank
a growth. Thrifty and sturdy development of the herbs is more to be
desired than coarse, weedy growth.
As protection from the cold westerly and northerly winds and also
from the hot northerly winds is needed; an easterly or a south-easterly
aspect would be the best.
If the soil be at all heavy and likely to remain wet during the winter,
or if the subsoil be of stiff clay, the herb garden, not on a good slope,
must be drained. This protects the plants from stagnation and
possible rotting m winter; and as it also increases the winter soil-
temperature, it allows for a quicker " get-away " of growth in early
spring. Thus plants growing in an area where drainage has been
considered, will start to grow earlier in the spring, and will, in conse*
quence, produce a greater quantity of herbage in the harvesting season.
It is possible to grow most herbs from seeds, and these should be
planted either in early autumn or early spring. Autumn sowing is,
perhaps, preferable, as stronger and sturdier plants are then available
for the coming spring.
Quicker, and some experts consider better, returns are to be obtained
from planting out cuttings. In that case, the cuttings should be planted
in early autumn. Koot division from stools of such plants as thyme
would again give much quicker results. The planting should be done in
rows, keeping the rows at certain distances according to cultivation
requirements.
If the plots are small, and hand cultivation the method, then the dis-
tance between the rows would be from 9 to 12 inches. If the area
be large, and cultivation with horses resorted to, then the distance would
be from two to three feet.
The distance between each plant should be from 9 to 12 inches in
small areas, and greater distances in big areas.
It is an interesting and, at the same time, a most valuable factor in
herb growing, that these economic plants are not subject to devastating
pests. Grown under healthy conditions in suitable soil, and in a sunny
position, they are not attacked either by insect pests or fungus diseases.
Thus spraying, which is an important work with most economic plant
life, is unnecessary. Further, the plantations need not be wire netted
to keep out rabbits and hares, for they will not eat herbs. If stock
should stray into the herb garden, they might do a little damage by
trampling down the plants, but they certainly will not eat them. Indeed,
it is an advantage to turn stock, especially sheep, into the plots at certain
seasons, so that weeds may be kept down.
Every endeavour should be . made to keep the plots clean, so as to
insure the herbs being free from extraneous growth when harvested.
From early spring until harvesting time, and even afterwards, the
ground must be kept well tilled, either with the hoe or the horse culti-
vator. Weeds are notorious plant food and moisture robbers, and chick-
weed, capeweed, sow thistle, and dozens of other such plants, all thrive
in cultivated areas. If they obtain a foothold, they work their way
among the herbs, and when harvesting commences they, too, are garnered
10 Oct., 1918.] Herb Growing. 619
with the herbs. Thus adulteration is the result, the herbs tainted
with the flavours of the weed, and the sample, of course, decidedly
inferior. It is too late to separate the weeds from the herbs after the
crop has been cut ; so that cultivation will be a stringent occupation in
the herb garden.
With most herbs cutting should be done when the plants are in full
flower. It would seem that at that time the principle or flavour for
which the herbs are grown is at its highest stage of development or
content.
The whole plant should be cut, a sickle or reaping hook being the
most convenient implement to use. If the plants be cut almost down to
the ground, they will readily make recovery, and be full of herbage next
season. To attain this recovery, cultivation should immediately and
regularly follow the cutting, so as to induce a good growth.
After cutting, the subsequent management of the crop requires both
care and experience. First the herbs must be dried. The ideas of kiln
drying and of sun drying must be abandoned, as excessive heat and
sunshine will evaporate the oil or flavour content of the plant.
The crop should be dried in open, well-ventilated sheds, where, spread
out on clean floors or on clean tarpaulins to a depth of "not greater than
a foot, it may be turned over daily with a hay fork, so that it may dry
quickly and not ferment or go mouldy.
"When thoroughly dry, it is flailed or threshed, so that the leaves are
separated from the stems. Thoroughness is here necessary, for all the
foliage should be removed.
Then the crop should be sifted, and perhaps sifted again, till the fine
" herb " portions of the plant are separated from the stems and twigs.
The finely-sifted herbage is then packed in bags or packages for the
market. After sifting the stems should be burnt.
In imported samples it is often found that the stem portion of the
crops have been crushed and finely broken up and included with the dried
leaves. This is a great mistake, for in the stems and twigs there is no
oil content ; so that to add those to the marketable article will certainly
much reduce its value.
If the grower is determined to produce only first class dried herbs,
his venture will be more profitable than if he raises an inferior grade
article. Further, his crop will have a readier sale if put up in clean-
looking and attractive packages.
Lastly, I would urge upon intending growers that the necessity of
creating a market first is a matter of urgency. Inquiries at wholesale
places of business, either from butchers, or butchers' suppliers, will soon
show the demand and the prices offered; thus growers will be able to
estimate probable returns from the beginning.
There is another aspect of herb growing which may be considered —
that of growing and selling the herbs green and fresh, in bunches. It
would seem that there is only a limited sale of these, and the prospect
of a good income from this form of herb growing is not a good one.
Certainly, almost every seed and plant store has a constant sale for
bunched herbs; but the demand is very small, as compared with the
requirements of the wholesale and retail butchers, and it is to these that
the grower must look for purchasers.
630
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
THE SUNFLOWER.
ITS CULTIVATION AND UTILIZATION.
By J. W. Audas, F.L.8., F.R.M.S., Assistant, National Herharium,
Melbourne.
Tlie sunflower (Helianthus annuus) belongs to the natural order
conipositse, and, in its native habitat, North America, it fre-
quently covers large areas. It is a tall, showy, and large-
flowered annual, familiar to all as an ornamental plant, but
it is not without commercial importance, and numerous varie-
ties have been developed. The best kinds to cultivate are those
which produce a simple large head, 10 or 12 inches in diameter.
Although the sunflower may be grown to perfection in many parts of
Victoria, it has not so far been included in the general list of farm crops,
but there is no reason why such a useful plant should not be cultivated
advantageously in our State. It requires a fair amount of moisture,
and should be successfully grown on irrigation farms; rich calcareous
soils, or soils containing a large percentage of potash, are very suitable
for its growth. Before sunflower cultivation could be put on a satisfac-
tory commercial basis, the establishment of a mill for extracting the oil
from the seed would be necessary. To encourage this useful and much-
needed industry some capital would be required for plant, &c., and with
the present enhanced value of oil, such an investment should return a
handsome profit.
During recent years, the sunflower has been widely grown in Russia,
Germany, Austria, Italy, Turkey, Egypt, and France, and, to some
extent, in China and India, as well as in the United States, and the areas
under cultivation are gradually being expanded. In Russia it is esti-
mated that more than 1,000,000 acres are annually devoted to this crop.
In South Africa, according to the Cape of Good Hope Agricultural
Journal for 1908 (32, 85), 26 trials were made in 1907 with satisfactory
results in all but three cases, and it was concluded that no reason existed
for not extending sunflower cultivation on a commercial scale. In
Queensland the plant is said to thrive well on the Darling Downs and
on the eastern coast lands. Successful trials have also been made
recently at the Moumahaki Experiment Station in New Zealand
(Journal of Agriculture, New Zealand, 1915.11.233). In the United
States numerous trials have been successfully carried out, but sunflower
seed does not appear to have been produced there on a commercial scale.
At the New Hampshire Experimental Station, according to Piper, three
varieties gave the following yields of heads to the acre : — Russian,
23,958 lbs.; White Russian, 19,360; and Grey, 20,812. At the Ontario
Agricultural College three varieties have been grown continuously for a
period of years, the resulting yield being as follows : —
Average
Diameter of
25 Heads,
10 Years.
Average
Heielit,
13 Years.
Average Yield to tlie Acre.
Varieties.
Heads,
13 Years.
Whole Crop,
13 Years.
Grain,
12 Years.
Mammoth Russian . .
White Beauty
Black Giant
inches.
7-29
7-38
7-08
inclies.
100
87
107
tons.
5-97
5-60
6-32
tons.
18-05
16-18
22-36
bushels.
74-7
74-4
72-0
10 Oct., 1918.] The Sunflower. 621
According to the latest American census tlie total area of cultivated
sunflower was 4,731 acres, whicli yielded 63,677 bushels of seed ; Illinois,
with 3,979 acres, produced most of the crop, viz., 49,064 bushels.
Cultivation and Harvesting.
In growing sunflowers for oil production, those varieties producing
medium-sized seeds in thin shining husks are the best to sow, as seeds of
the very large-growing varieties are pithy inside, and absorb a large
portion of oil when pressed. The latter kind, however, make excellent
feed for poultry and cattle. The three principal varieties of sunflower
now cultivated are : —
1. Those having large white seeds and producing a good percent-
age of oil.
2. A smaller black-seeded kind, the seeds of which are sweeter and
regarded as best for eating in Russia.
3. An intermediate sort, with striped seeds, which is an excellent
oil producer.
The seeds may be grown any time between October and January,
about 8 lbs. to the acre being required. The Russians, who cultivate the
sunflower extensively, sow the seed generally after a crop of wheat has
been harvested from the land. The land intended to be planted should
be thoroughly ploughed in the autumn and left until the next spring,
when the seeds should be sown. On some of the rich black lands from
four to six crops are grown without resting the land. It is stated in
Russia that the stalks and leaves of one crop, if left on the land, will
manure the soil sufiiciently to yield six more crops consecutively, without
additional fertilizing. The roots of the stalks soon rot in the ground,
and leave about one ton of manure per acre in the soil. In the warmer
parts of Australia, two consecutive crops could be grown on the same
land, provided that the soil is suitable. To obtain the best results, sun-
flowers should be sown in drills 3 feet apart to admit of cultivation, and
when the plants are about 9 to 12 inches high they may be thinned out
to a distance of 12, 18, 24 inches, according to the variety. In light
soils it is advisable to sow the seed 2 to 3 inches deep, so that it may
obtain sufiicient moisture to permit it to germinate; in heavy soils it
should not be sown too deeply. In favorable weather germination will
readily take place, and the seedlings will soon appear above ground.
When the plants are well discernable in the rows, it will be advisable
to put a scarifier over the ground to prevent the growth of weeds. This
operation should be occasionally repeated until the plants are about
18 inches high, and from then they will require little or no attention
until harvest time. When the seeds have become quite ripe they are so
thickly set that as many as 1,000 or 2,000 find place in a single head.
They are slightly wedge-shaped, and vary in colour, some being quite
black, whilst others are grey or white-streaked with black. When
matured, the heads should be cut off the stems, and laid on a floor or any
clean, hardened surface which is exposed to the sun. The seed heads
should not lie too thickly, and they should be turned over occasionally
and protected from rain and heavy dews. In ordinary summer weather,
not many days will be required to dry the heads sufiiciently to enable
the seed to be separated from them. After the seeds have been
thoroughly dried and cleaned by winnowing, &c., they may be stored in
62-2
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
a cool, diy place until marketed. It is essential tljat they should be
thoroughly dried before storing, otherwise they will not keep well, and
will tend to become mouldy. Experimental growths made in this State
show that an acre of well-cultivated sunflowers will yield from 50 to 60
bushels of good seed, from Avhich could bo obtained as many gallons of
oil of a quality little inferior to that of olive. Sunflower oil is a clear,
pale, yellow, limpid oil, with scarcely any smell and a mild, pleasant
characteristic taste. The oil is highly valued for its dietetic as well as
illuminating properties.
Value as a Stock Food.
The nutritive value of sunflower oil-cake as feed for cattle is recog-
uised. The dry method of sprinkling the meal upon roots, straw, or
chaff is, on the whole, preferable. The oil-cake of sunflower is so hard
that the cattle find difficulty in chewing the larger pieces, and for this
reason it is considered advisable to grind it before use into a fine meal, in
order to make it more digestible. It is recognised as a suitable food for
increasing the supply of milk in milcli cows, and it is used also with
horse feed with good results. Decorticated sunflower seed-cake forms
a nutritious food for live stock, although containing a rather high per-
centage of fibre. The cake made from undecorticated seed is naturally
less valuable, the fibre percentage being high. Analyses of the two
kinds of cake, according to Smetham (Ann. Eoy. Lanes. Agric. Soc.
1914), are shown in the following table, compared with cakes used in
Britain : —
h^
2 2
■a tJ
■E.2
Per
Per
Per
Per
Per
Per
cent.
cent.
cent.
cent.
cent.
cent.
Sunflower-seed cake, undecorticated
7-10
19-01
7-43
28-93
30-03
7-50
1:2-42
95
Suuflower-seed cake, decorticated . .
7-75
38-38
8-68
22-46
16-03
6-70
1:1-11
140
Linseed cake, English made, average
11-16
29-50
9-50
35-54
9-10
5-20
1:1-94
133
Cotton-seed cake, decorticated, from
Atlantic Ports
7-40
42-37
10-16
25-86
7-06
7-15
1:1-16
157
Cotton-seed cake, undecorticated.
English made
13-75
24-62
6-56
29-28
21-19
4-60
1:1-67
107
Cocoanut cake, English . .
8-5
24-5
8-3
38-8
12-8
61
1:2-42
122
Palm kernel cake, English
12-0
18-5
5-5
50-0
10-0
40
1:3-39
110
Sunflower seed-cake is produced in large quantities in South Russia,
and is principally exported to Denmark, where it is a popular cattle
food, and also to Sweden, France, and ISTorway. That large quantities
of the cake are sent to important cattle-rearing countries should be
sufficient to show that sunflower seed-cake is worthy of trial. The cake
is well adapted for dairy cows in quantities of about 3 to 4 lbs. per day;
larger quantities would be likely to impart an unpleasant flavour to
the butter.
Sunflower Silage for Dairy Cows.
An interesting experiment was carried out at the Agricultural Experi-
ment Station, Bozeman, Montana, in the spring of 1915 (Bulletin
ISTo. 118). A small area was seeded to Giant Russian Sunflowers.
Under irrigation the yield per acre was approximately 36 tons of green
10 Oct., 1918.] The Sunflower. 623
material. The crop was tested in a limited way as a soiling feed for
dairy cows to supplement the pastures, and also as ensilage. Encour-
aged by satisfactory results obtained, some 3 acres were seeded to sun-
flowers in the spring of 1916. They were planted in rows 28 inches
apart at the rate of 2'0 lbs. per acre. The crop was cultivated, not
irrigated. A portion of the field was cut and fed to dairy cows as a
supplement to the pasture during the latter part of the grazing season.
The sunflowers so used were first run through a feed cutter. The cows
ate the green sunflowers readily, consuming from 40 to 90 lbs. per
head daily, kept up the milk flow, and apparently did well on the feed.
The green sunflowers were fed in comparison with green corn, and the
results indicated that the sunflowers and corn were of equal feeding
value pound for pound. Only about 5 per cent, of the sunflowers were
in bloom, so there was no seed or grain in either case.
The remainder of the crop was harvested after the first hard frost,
and yielded 22 tons per acre. The percentage of bloom was approxi-
mately the same as stated above. An ordinary ensilage cutter was used
in filling the silo. The ensilage was in first-class condition when the
silo was opened in March, and in practically all cases it was eaten with
relish at first feeding. In a few cases it required several days to
accustom the cows to the change from the oat and pea ensilage. In
order to determine the relative value of ensilage made from sunflowers,
two lots of cows were fed. Each lot contained seven cows, as nearly
equal as possible in breed, age, weight, condition, period of lactation,
pregnancy, milk production, and fat test. Lot 1 received grain and
clover hay, and lot 2 grain, clover hay, and sunflower ensilage. The
grain fed was a mixture of oats, 5 parts; malt sprouts, 2 parts; and
bran, 3 parts. The clover used was choice alsike. At the end of
28 days the lots were reversed, and lot 1 was fed with grain, clover hay,
and sunflower ensilage, and lot 2 grain and clover hay for 28 days. This
change was made to eliminate as far as possible variations due to indivi-
duality among the cows. A preliminary feeding period of seven days
was given at the beginning of each period of the experiment in order
to accustom the animals to the change of feed. Individual weights were
taken three days from the beginning, and at the close of each period,
and the averages of these weighings were taken as the initial and final
weight. Individual records of milk produced' and fat tests were used
in order to determine the production. In order to simplify the discus-
sion of results, the data obtained from lots 1 and 2, while fed grain and
clover hay, are combined in one table. Likewise, the data obtained
while they were fed grain, clover hay, and sunflower ensilage are
combined.
Table 1, giving the data for the period when only grain and clover
hay were fed, shows that fourteen cows gained a total of 155 lbs., or
an average of 11 lbs. per cow, during the 28-day period. The fourteen
head consumed 5,140 lbs. of grain and 8,243 lbs. of clover hay, which
is practically a daily average of 13 lbs. of grain and 21 lbs. of clover
hay per cow. The total production during the period was 13,084.6 lbs.
of milk and 542 lbs. of fat, a daily average of 33.37 lbs. of milk and
1.382 lbs. of butter fat per cow.
The data presented in table 2, covering the period when grain, clover
hay, and sunflower ensilage were fed, show that fourteen cows gained
6-M
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. \ 10 Oct., 1918.
a total of 81 lbs., or an average of approximately 6 lbs. per head
during 28 days. The fourteen head consumed a total of 5,134 lbs. of
grain, 4,778 lbs. of clover hay, and 13,182 lbs. of ensilage, which is a
daily average per cow of approximately 13 lbs. of grain, 12 lbs. of
hay, and 34 lbs. of ensilage. The total milk production was 13,464.8
lbs, and 571.92 lbs. of butter-fat, which is an average of 34.35 lbs. of
milk and 1.459 lbs. of butter-fat per head daily.
Table 1.
Data for Lots 1 and 2 while on Ration of Grain and Clover Hay.
(Result in Pounds.)
Average
Total Feed Eaten.
Daily Feed
Mi'k.
Fal
Eaten.
Initial
Weight.
Final
Weight.
Total
Daily
Total
Daily
Grain.
Hay.
Grain. Hay.
!
28 days.
Average
28 days.
Average
1
802
817
327
414
11-6
14-7
625-4
22-33
39-18
1-399
9
827
845
287
497
10-2
17-7
624 0
22-28
32-75
1-169
;5
1,220
1,248
476
684
17-0
24-4
1,432-4
51-16
47-63
1-701
4
1,189
1,230
441
689
15-7
24-6
1,212-1
43-29
53-81
1-921
5
1,219
1,280
441
692
15-7
24-7
1,170-5
41-80
41-78
1-492
6
1,144
1,137
357
461
12-7
16-4
808*5
21-73
33-37
1-192
7
1,034
1,034
293
554
10-4
19-7
903-3
32-26
33-39
1-192
8
826
816
280
470
10-0
16-7
639-2
22-82
39-09
1-396
9
713
700
168
371
60
13-2
428-3
15-29
21-91
0-782
10
1,149
1,144
474
669
16-9
23-8
1,314-9
46-60
54-85
1-958
11
1,151
1,134
448
670
160
23-9
1,099-7
39-29
43-09
1-538
12
1,309
1,324
392
710
140
25-3
987-5
35-26
32-04
1-144
1.3
1,259
1,281
336
690
12-0
24-6
783-4
27-97
25-37
0-906
14
1,161
1,168
420
672
15-0
24-0
1,055-4
37-69
43-74
1-562
Total ..
15,003
15,158
5,140
8,243
13,084-6
542-00
Average for
One Cow
1071-6
1082-7
367-1
588-7
130
21-0
934-6
33-37
38-71
1-382
Table 2.
Data for Lots 1 and 2 while on Ration of Grain, Clover Hay, and
Sunflower Ensilage.
(Result in Pounds.)
Total .Feed Eaten.
Average Daily
Feed Eaten.
Milk.
Fat.
Cow No.
Initial
Weight.
Final
Weight.
Grain.
Hay.
Silage.
Grain
Hay.
Silage.
Total,
28 days.
Daily
Average
Total,
28 days.
Daily
Average
1
833
838
308
260
795
11-0
9-2
28-3
590-0
21-07
50-35
1-798
2
855
860
252
273
765
9-0
9-7
27-3
597-7
21-34
31-04
1-108
3
1,249
1,232
476
388
1,227
17-0
13-8
43-8
1,343-1
44-39
5901
2-107
4
1,238
1,268
420
389
1,248
15-0
13-8
44-5
1,132-2
40-43
47-54
1-698
5
1,275
1,260
420
388
1,251
15-0
13-8
44-6
1,066-6
38-09
39-68
1-417
6
1,125
1,138
336
279
822
12-0
9-9
29-3
733-9
26-21
27-05
0-966
7
1,061
1,068
306
331
1,085
10-9
11-8
38-7
809-3
28-90
33-03
1-179
8
822
825
301
367
431
10-7
13-1
15-3
712-0
25-42
41-46
1-180
9
735
701
213
216
235
7-6
7-7
8-3
483-1
17-25
22-79
0-814
10
1,151
1,155
450
397
1,117
16-0
14-1
39-8
1,574-5
56-23
56-27
2-009
11
1,142
1,145
469
382
996
16-7
13-6
35-5
1,229-5
43-91
46-96
1-677
12
1,282
1,303
427
390
1,130
15-0
13-9
40-3
1,119-4
39-97
44-78
1-599
13
1,217
1,242
336
327
1,077
12-0
11-6
38-4
924-1
33-00
30 01
1-071
14
1,145
1,176
420
391
1,003
15-0
13-9
35-8
1,149-4
41-05
41-95
1-498
Total . .
15,130
15,211
5,134
4,778
13,182
13,464-8
571-92
Average for
One Cow
1080-7
1086-5
366-7
341-2
941-5
13-0
121
33-62
961-77
34-35
40-851
1-459
10 Oct., 1918.]
The Sunfloivdr.
625
Table 3 gives a brief summary of tlie entire experiment. The figures
show that fourteen cows, while receiving the ration of grain and clover
hay, gained on the average 5 lbs. more per head in 2'8 days than while
they received the ration containing sunflower ensilage. The grain ration
was the same throughout the entire experiment, and an average daily
feed of 34 lbs. of sunflower ensilage effected a daily saving of 9 lbs.
of clover hay per cow. There was a slight increase in production while
the cows were receiving the sunflower ensilage. This increase amounted
to 0.98 of a pound of milk and 0.077 of a pound of butter-fat. This
difference was too small to be of significance, except as indicating that
there was no reduction in milk or butter-fat production due to the feeding
of sunflower ensilage in place of a part of the clover hay in the ration.
The data presented indicate that under the conditions of this experiment
1 lb. of choice clover hay is equal to 8| lbs. of sunflower ensilage.
Table 3.
Summary op Experiment.
Lot One.
Lot Two.
—
Grain and Clover
Hay.
Grain, Clover Hay
and Sunflower
Ensilage.
Number in each lot . .
14
14
Days on test
28
28
Average initial weight
1,072
1,081
Average final weight . .
1,083
1,087
Average gain for period
11
6
Average daily grain per head . .
13
13
Average daily clover hay per head
21
12
Average dailv sunflower silage per head
34
Average daily milk per cow . .
33-37
34-35
Average daily butter fat per cow
V
1-382
1-459
The milk from cows fed with sunflower was sampled and tested for
flavour, but no objectionable flavours or change in the milk could be
detected.
Uses of the Sunflower Plant.
A fair quantity of ensilage may be prepared from the whole plants,
but the stems and leaves alone would be less nutritive. The
dry stems contain nearly 5 per cent, of their weight in potash, and if
chopped up fine and used as manure they would be a useful source of
potash, in addition to supplying humus and a small amount of phos-
phoric acid and nitrogen to the soil. The fibre of the stalk yields a
fairly tough, opaque, parchment — like paper of fair quality. Bj treat-
ing the stems of the plant in the same way as European flax, a very fine
fibre, nearly as fine as silk, is produced. The entire mature plant in a
fresh state has the following composition (Bulletin of Imp. Ins., vol.
XIY., 'No. 1, 1916) :—
Per cent.
85.21
Moisture
Fat
Crude proteins
Carbohydrates, &c
Fibre
Ash
1.03
1.70
6.14
4.00
1.92
626
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
Uses of Sunflower 5eed.
The oil obtained by expression from tbe seeds is the most important
product of the sunflower, and is valuable for many purposes. The chief
industrial uses of the oil are for woollen dressing, in paints, illumination,
and candle and soap making; for the latter purpose it is superior to
most oils. When properly treated it is used on the most delicate
machinery as a lubricator. Cold pressed oil from seed of good quality is
almost tasteless, and the better grades of oil are consequently suitable
for use in the manufacture of butter substitutes, for culinary purposes,
and as a salad oil. Druggists use the refined oil in perfuming linaments,
salves, and hair lotions. It may also be used in the making of demulcent
and soothing emulsions. Roasted and ground, the seeds are used as a
substitute for coffee, and a fine sweet bread may be made from the flour
of the seeds. In parts of Russia the seed is preferred for consumption,
as the peanut is treated here. In some parts of Europe a bouillon is
made of them which is used as food for infants. The seeds usually
consist of about equal proportions of husk and kernel; the husk being
tough, fibrous, and rather absorbent, should be removed before expressing
the oil. The weight of a bushel of sunflower seed varies from 25 to
35 lbs., according to the quality of the seed, but 30 lbs. may be taken
as a fair average.
The composition of the seeds and kernels is shown in the following
table (Wiley, loc. cit. 27) :—
Moisture
Fat ..
Crude proteins
Carbohydrates, &c
Crude fibre
Ash . .
The sunflower is a good bee plant, and when in bloom yields a large
amount of honey and pollen. Few economic plants are more valuable
than the sunflower, and it would appear to deserve greater attention for
commercial purposes than has so far been accorded it in the Common-
wealth.
Seeds.
Kernels.
Per cent.
Per cent.
4.43 .
. 4.89
27.08 .
. 45.21
14.97 .
. 26.85
20.94
. 16.06
29.17
. 2.67
3.41
. 4.32
TURKEY BREEDING.
Hints to Beginners.
By A. Hart, Chief Poultry Expert.
Though turkeys can be reared in any part of Yictoria, they are very
susceptible to cold, and consequently thrive best in the northern districts,
where, in addition to the advantages of warmer weather, there is an
abundance of insects, and, in many places, of thistles. Turkey rearing
can be carried on most easily and profitably on large farms, for if given
a free range of a wide, rich pasture, the birds will find most of their own
10 Oct., 1918.] Turkey Breeding. 627
feed. Probably tbey will mature best on heavy soils, especially in iron-
stone districts. The rearing of turkeys should be found a profitable
adjunct on a farm where lucerne is grown, for if allowed to stray in a
lucerne crop they will not require much hand-feeding. The turkey is a
rather unsociable bird, and will do better if reared apart from other
kinds of poultry.
The breeds recommended are Black Norfolk and the American
Bronze. Though the Black Norfolk is not raised here to any extent, it
probably would be found the better kind for trade purposes. The young
birds mature quickly, and are fit for the market when two months
younger than those of other breeds. They are small in bone, and their
flesh is very fine in texture, and they are much sought after in the
London markets. The American Bronze is the only variety of turkey
now common in Victoria, most of the other breeds having been allowed
to die out. This turkey, however, is really too large and coarse for the
table. Gobblers from 20 to 28 lbs. in weight are the most suitable for
stud purposes, and, further, are the best to insure fertility in the flock.
Probably hundreds of turkeys are lost every year owing to farmers
running small hens with gobblers 30 to 40 lbs. in weight.
When commencing turkey-raising, the male stock should be taken
from second-season birds, and the hens should be of not less than 12 lbs.
in weight. There should be one gobbler for every eight or ten hens.
Housing, etc.
It is essential that a high, dry spot be selected for the roosting-place.
Heavy saplings make the best perches, and they should be. placed about
5 feet from the ground. If more than one perch is erected, they should
be about 2 feet apart, and care must be taken to have the various perches
at an uniform height. The roosting-places should be covered by
thatched roofs, or, at least, sheltered by trees. In a district where there
are foxes the erection of a fence around the roosting-place is necessary.
The area to enclose may, of course, vary according to circumstances, but
it should be at least 100 feet long and 2'5 feet wide, so that the birds
may be able to move about during the time between leaving their perches
and being released for the day. Wire netting will probably be found
the most suitable material for the fence, which, to be serviceable, must
be not less than 6 feet high. A barb wire projecting 6 inches outwards
should be run along the top. It would be advisable, where possible, to
sow the enclosure down with rape, to provide green feed for the adult
birds and protection from the sun for the young ones.
If it is intended to breed turkeys in a large way, a shed should be
erected for them, ISTo fixed size of shed can be laid down. It should,
however, be about 3 ft. 6 in. wide and about 3 feet high in front and
2 ft. 6 in. at the back. The shed should be subdivided into 4-ft. com-
partments, with a 2-ft. door to each, the remainder of the front of the
building being covered with 2-in. mesh wire.
Care of Sitting Turlceys.
A turkey hen can be induced to sit at any time by giving her a table-
spoonful of port wine, and then placing her in a barrel or packing-case
with a sack thrown over the entrance. When broodiness develops the
628 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
bird should be transferred to a nest on the ground. The best nnaterial
of which to make nests is pine needles, as these will not harbor vermin
as straw does. The nest should be protected from the hot sun and the
rain and cold winds. The sitting hen should be removed from the eggs
once a day, so that she may be fed and have a dust bath, the latter con-
sisting of wood ashes, sand, and sulphur. It would be well to dust both
the sitter and her nest occasionally with some material that will destroy
lice. The powder known as '' Pestend," which consists largely of tobacco
dust, is recommended. If the hen be treated properly she will bring
out two or three hatches if required. Better results will be obtained if,
during the last five days of incubation, the eggs are placed in an
incubator instead of being left under the hen.
Treatment of Young Turkeys.
The chicks do not require any food the first day they are hatched.
On the second day they should be given some rice that has been boiled
in milk. The best way of feeding the rice is as follows : — After boiling
dry it off with raw oatmeal, and mix with it some fine chaffed green
stuff, such as lucerne, milk thistles, rape, or cape-weed, and hard-boiled
eggs in the proportion of one for every ten chicks. Add a teaspoonful
of powdered charcoal, and give to the chicks in a crumbly condition. If
possible, new milk should be given to the baby chicks for the first two
days at least.
"When they are a fortnight old they may be fed on a mash, as follows,
which is also suitable for the adult birds: — One part pollard, two parts
bran, and one part ground wheat, mixed with soup made from liver,
rabbits, &c., chaffed green stuff being added later. This mash should be
fed to the chicks in a crumbly state at least four times a day.
When the birds are about ten days old, eight of the leading flights
should be pulled from each wing. The object of this operation is to
help to conserve the strength of the chicks' bodies, as a certain amount
of blood is required to support the growing flights. This operation will
give extra strength to the growing birds for five or six weeks, and it
should always be carried out, for in its first few weeks the turkey is
very delicate, and needs every possible attention. During this period
the chicks must be carefully protected from cold, bleak winds, and on
no account should they be given their liberty unless the weather is
favorable.
Spring onions or shallots make fine feed for young turkeys, and
will hasten their growth and improve their health. From the time they
are hatched turkeys should have a regular supply of charcoal, and a
little fine sand should be given to the young chicks. Milk curds, either
by themselves or mixed with pollard and bran, are essential if the best
results are to be obtained.
When the gobblers are fourteen or sixteen weeks old they should,
where practicable, be caponized. Otherwise they should be separated
from the breeding flocks, so that strong chicks from the stud birds will
be insured for the following season.
10 Oct., 1918.] The Carrying Capacity. 629
THE CARRYING CAPACITY.
GRASS ON THE WESTERN PLAINS.
By E. W. Murphy, Dairy Supervisor.
The development of primary production, at all times a national
necessity with us, should now be stimulated more than ever. Therefore,
any suggestion to increase the carrying capacity of our pastures deserves
attention. There is undoubtedly room for improvement in this respect,
especially in those districts where complaints of the stock being very
unthrifty are commonly heard, and in which considerable losses have
occurred. " All flesh is grass," but all grass does not produce good flesh
nor all soils yield good grass.
Varied experiences in different parts of Victoria developed in myself
a strong interest in the relation between soils and grasses, and almost
everywhere I believe that grass, as a crop, is very much neglected.
It was strange, indeed, to hear Western plainsmen complain bitterly
of " too much grass." Strong store sheep put on paddocks waving with
grass, instead of growing fat, become poor and weak. Yet on pastures
in the Gippsland hills and gullies, which at a glance appeared somewhat
similar, the flock thrived splendidly. In the first case, however, an
examination showed that the feed consisted of harsh native grasses, while
in the Gippsland districts it was cocksfoot, cow-grass, and red and white
clovers, thus showing that the trouble was due to the quality of the feed.
To double the number of blades of grass was said to be a work deserv-
ing high praise. On many thousands of acres in the Western Districts
the number is ample, but the quality unsatisfactory. Our native grasses
are, of course, very adaptable to soil defects, i.e., lack of phosphoric acid
and of lime, but where both these requirements are absent, the pastures
are certain to be poor in quality. If a farmer has by any means
encouraged the spread of a deep-rooting plant, yielding an adequate
amount of essential digestible nutrients, fertility will then be brought
from the subsoil and spread on the surface by the stock, and a new lease
of life given to the farm.
False hopes have been raised by extolling a new grass " which will
grow anywhere." If the worth of the plant is based on its depth of
rooting or its power to assimilate plant foods from more or less refrac-
tory compounds, it is worthy of attention, but if it will grow equally
•veil with or without certain elements, it will surely lead to disappoint-
ment. Paspalum dilatatimi is adaptable, and grows well in many parts,
hence the divergence of opinion among graziers regarding its feeding
value. If allowed, it grows upright like oats, but if cropped closely
the stems will grow along the ground, so that, notwithstanding adverse
circumstances, the seeds may still be matured.
Where the complaint of " too much grass " is heard, there has
generally been long-continued stocking, causing the predominance of
shallow feeding grasses of inferior composition. In all stock farniine;,
unless foodstuffs are brought in or mineral fertilizers employed, the
fertility of the soil must decrease. Overstocking, in the first place, kills
out the most nutritious herbage, and long-continued stocking renders the
surface soils suitable only for comparatively worthless grasses. J^eces-
sarily, the time required to deplete the soil will vary according to its
original endoAvment.
630 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
The greater portion of the body of a plant comes from the atmo-
sphere, and the supply is boundless. The mineral matter can only come
from the soil, and if one element be deficient there arises a constitutional
weakening that renders the plant liable to disease. Dr. E. B. Forbes
says, " No one who is interested in plants, or animals, or people can
afford not to know how these dead ashes of the earth become involved in
those wonderful processes which we know and experience as life."
The health and vigour of grass depend upon complete nutrition. Soil
conditions most favorable for grass also embrace those most favorable
for that form of life which plays a very important part in the fixation of
nitrogen from the air. We may often notice how the nice sheeny grass
about a homestead bears close grazing, whilst a little further away the
pasture is lighter in colour, much longer, and neglected by the stock.
The concentration of plant food about the centre makes all the differ-
ence. Here it may be overstocked, yet the grass does not die out. A
farmer once told me that he had no faith in top-dressing, and explained
that he had top-dressed 20 acres, and there was less grass on that area
than elsewhere in the paddock. This was certainly so, but it was because
the cattle had grazed the top-dressed portion of the farm and neglected
the other part, notwithstanding its long, abundant grass.
A worthy farmer should aim at obtaining the maximum returns,
while every year making his farm better than he found it.
The exploiter of the soil has found by experience that his stock will
thrive better if he burns the old grass. The reason is that the fire
destroys various enemy pests, and the ashes give a supply of desirable
mineral elements, and the young, tender shoots are more digestible.
Firing the grass may be wise as a temporary expedient, but if carried
out too often it will bring in its own revenge.
Life involves unceasing resistance or warfare against the invasion by
lower forms of life. Acidity of the soil favours the increase of fungi,
and prevents the growth and activity of the nitrifying bacteria. The
cells of the plant growing on the depleted, sour soil have a low resistance,
and the fungi are allowed to spread on the grass. On such areas troubles
of many kinds appear — paralysis, liver disorders, worms, and inflamma-
tory conditions. The immediate cause is some micro-organism or
parasite, but the underl;y'ing cause is bad management — the result of
permitting the animals " too much inferior grass."
Milch cows will not thrive on these faulty native grasses. If a
liberal ration of some food high in essential minerals, such as lucerne,
linseed meal, bran, or crushed grains and a suitable mixture of salts be
added to the ration, they will do better, but still there is the danger of
paralysis being caused by action of the fungi which infest the grass.
Fencing off surface catchment waters and providing well or bore water
has made a marked improvement on many farms and on some runs.
Research has been carried out in South Africa by Sir Arnold Theiler
with a view to ascertaining the cause of Lamziekte, which occurs among
stock on sour veldts. Results, so far as grass is concerned, discount the
importance of the " Shortage of Vitamine " theory. The experimenter
believes the cause to be the accumulation in the animal system of grass-
toxins. He aims at promoting oxidation, but his treatments so far, he
admits, are only experimental. It is, he says, a question rather for
the farmer than for the veterinarian. The food supply must be
10 Oct., 1918.] Hints on Weed Control. 631
improved, and the extensive system of stock raising give way to more
intensive forms.
Wherever practicable, old grass land should be turned over so as to
bury pests, and bring up a practically new supply of mineral nutrients
for the grass, and then lambs will frolic again where they had ceased to
thrive. The growing and feeding off of green crops, and the use of a
basic phosphate, will effect a surprising improvement in the whole-
aomeness of the run, and greatly increase the " carrying capacity."
In a district with a heavy rainfall, where the soil is of a close,
impervious nature, drainage must be considered. In cultivated
paddocks, where no heed is paid to the natural slopes, and where the
lands are flat-ploughed and badly finished, adverse soil conditions are
certain to arise. Fairly narrow lands, well crowned, with the finishes
cleaned out, to which a basic phosphate has been applied, have given
decided satisfaction on some holdings near the foot of the Grampians.
When a soil is water-logged, the development of acids and grasses is
detrimental to the grass, even after the water has sunk below the level
of the roots, while such conditions may favour the growth of toxic
plants.
In any country where the grass is unsatisfactory, I would urge the
following treatment : — Harrow it, and top-dress it with 2 cwts. per acre
of phosphate. If sour, lime it, or, at least, use a basic phosphate.
Drain as far as practicable. Introduce good plants, and regulate the
grazing so that they will not be eaten out.
HINTS ON WEED CONTROL.
By H. W. Davey, F.E.S.
Weeds are often referred to as plants out of place. They certainly
are plants that intrude themselves where they are least wanted, and their
persistence and power to hold their own in competition with other plants
is well known to most people.
In spite of all that has been written and spoken as to the great losses
suffered by agriculturists through weeds, little is done to eradicate them.
Weed seeds are. often introduced as impurities among other seeds,
and, through carelessness, these are sown with the good seed, and so a
weed is introduced to land previously free from that particular plant.
Seeds are also spread in many other ways, the chief agencies probably
being travelling stock, birds, irrigation water, trucks in which stock have
been carried, stable manure, chaff and hay, and threshing machines, the
latter being the most likely to carry weed seeds from one farm to another.
To enable one to successfully cope with a weed a knowledge of its
life period and habits is necessary, inasmuch, for instance, as while an
annual plant may be eradicated by not allowing it to seed, a perennial
plant cannot be got rid of in this way.
Cultivation is a great factor in the control of most weeds, and
especially so in the case of annuals.
In fallowing land, we have a means of killing weeds and their seeds,
as can be seen by the millions of tiny plants that are destroyed every
time the cultivator breaks afresh the crust of the soil. These seedlings
632 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
die on exposure to sun or wind, and each fresh cultivation of the soil
brings more seeds within the influence of warmth and air, thus inducing
germination, and further cultivation is then necessary to destroy these
late growths. On the other hand, if cultivation be not carefully carried
out it may spread such plants as Canadian Thistle and St. John's Wort,
for small pieces of the roots of such weeds are each capable of forming
new plants, and the harrows, in dragging these about, may easily start
a fresh patch.
Seeds deeply buried often remain dormant for very long periods, so
that deep plowing sometimes buries many seeds too deeply in the ground
for germination to take place immediately, but they will germinate when
subsequent plowings bring them to, or near, the surface.
Cultivation for the suppression of perennial weeds must be frequent
enough to stop the formation of leaves, thus preventing the elaboration
of crude sap sent up by the roots, and then the plant will be gradually
suffocated and will die. Plowing should be of varying depths, so that
all the roots may be brought to the surface to enable wind or sun to dry
them out.
One of the chief means of controlling weeds, especially perennials, is
to stop the development of seeds. This may be achieved in many ways,
such as by mowing the plants, hand-pulling, or by digging them out.
Heavy stocking with sheep or goats when the plants are young is often
effective. The planting of strong-growing crops to smother weeds has
also proved useful. Where it is found impracticable to employ these
methods, chemicals can be used effectively to destroy all growth above the
ground. Small patches of very persistent weeds can be killed by
covering them with heavy mulchings of straw, sheets of bark, sheets of
heavy paper, or, in fact, any material that will exclude all light from
them, it being impossible for any plant containing chlorophyll in its
leaves to exist in total darkness.
The best time to attack weeds by mowing them is just before they
come into full bloom. This is especially so with annuals and biennials,
as at this time their roots are more or less exhausted, their reserves
having been fully drawn upon to enable them to reach the flowering-
period.
In the case of perennials this exhaustion is not so pronounced; still
the check administered by destroying all top growth at this stage, either
by mowing or by the application of chemicals, is severe, particularly so
when the latter means are adopted. Chemical sprays should be applied
during warm weather, care being taken to see that all parts of the plant
above ground are touched by the mixture. Special attention must
always be given to insure that the collar of the plant receives its full
share of the material.
There is no royal road to weed control, but if land-owners decided
on concerted action much could be achieved, for the hope of success lies
more in practical work than in thinking over such matters. They should
always be alert to prevent weeds spreading from their strongholds into
clean country. This can only be effected by vigilance and promptitude
in combating fresh patches as soon as they make their appearance. If
nothing is done to check them, they will shortly increase to formidable
proportions, and the cost of their eradication later on must be propor-
tionately increased.
JO 0(
1918.]
Drenching Sheep.
633
DRENCHING SHEEP.
W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc, Chief Veterinary Officer.
The drenching of a large number of sheep is a somewhat lahorioiis
operation, and consequently the work is often postponed to some indefi-
nite date.
The acoompanying illustra-
tion, from the Journal of
Agricultu?-al Research, shows
a device which was con-
structed by Mr. Maurice C.
Hall, formerly Assistant Zoo-
logist in the Bureau of
Animal Industry, U.S.A. The
gradations on the glass tube
have been adapted to suit
Australian conditions.
A solution of the medica-
ment to be used is placed in
the small water-tight keg. Near
the bottom is a small tap, to
which is attached one end of a
length of rubber tubing; the
other end is attached to one
of two glass tubes passing
through a cork in the bottom
of a glass cylinder. Another
rubber tube, which terminates
m a metal or wooden nozzle,
is attached to the second tube
in the cork. The glass cylinder
is graduated into ^-ounce and
1 -ounce divisions. Close to
the bottom of the cylinder two
pinch controls are placed on
the rubber. By pinching the
control on the rubber tube
coming from the keg the
cylinder fills with the medi-
cine; by closing this control
and pinching the other, the
solution flows from the cylin-
der in any dose required.
The nozzle is held in the
^ sheep's mouth by one man,
and the controls are operated
by another.
By catching the sheep and bringing them to the administrator, Mr,
Hall found that he could dose 100 sheep in an hour.
If the apparatus were erected close to or over the race of the
drafting yards, a greater number could be dosed, for it would only be
necessary to raise the head of each sheep slightly, insert the nozzle, and
deliver the dose.
634
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
Whatever medicine was being used could easily be diluted so as to
make either i or 1 ounce doses — the latter for preference. The contents
of the keg should be frequently stirred to insure an even mixture, and
thus avoid danger of overdosing.
An arsenic drench gives very favorable results in the treatment of worms
in sheep, and may be conveniently prepared as follows: — Boil together
slowly in a quart of water for half-an-hour 1 oz. of arsenic and 2 oz. of
carbonate of soda. Then add sufficient water to bring the total quantity
up to 3 gallons. Allow to stand, and later pour off the clear solution or
strain it through a plug of cotton wool. The solution will then contain
1 grain of arsenic in each 1 oz. of solution.
The dose for a grown sheep is up to 2 oz. ; the dose for a 9 months old
lamb is up to li oz. ; the dose for a 6 months old lamb is up to 1 oz.
A WORKBENCH FOR THE AMATEUR.
The accompanying detail drawing shows la design of a portable
workbench suitable for the amateur woodworker. This bench can be
made easily by any one who has a few sharp tools and a little spare
time. If the stock is purchased from the mill ready planed and cut
to length, much of the hard labour will be saved. The following piece*
should be ordered: —
4 legs, 3 by 3 by 36.
2 side rails, 3 by 3 by 62^ inches.
2 end rails, 3 by 3 by 20 inches.
1 back-board, 1 by 9 by 80 inches.
1 top board, 2 by 12 by 77 inches.
1 top board, 1 by 12 by 77 inches.
2 crosspieces, 1| by 3 by 24 inches.
1 piece for clamp, 1^ by 6| by 12 inches.
1 piece for clamp, 1^ by 6^ by 14 inches.
4 guides, 2 by 2 by 18 inches.
1 screw block, 3 by 3 by 6 inches.
1 piece, li by 4^ by 10^ inches.
10 Oct., 191.S.]
Workbench for the Amateur.
635
Make the lower frame first. Cut tenons on tlie rails and mortise
the posts, then fasten them securely together with f by 5 in. lag screws,
as shown. Also fasten the 1^- in. by 3 in. by 24 in. pieces to the tops
of the posts with screws. The heads should be counter-sunk or else
holes bored in the front top board to the crosspieces by lag screws
through from the under side. The screws can be put in from the top
for the 1 in. thick top board.
Fasten the end pieces on with screws, counter-sinking the heads
of the vice end. Cut the 2 in. square holes in the 1^ in. by 4^ in. by
10 in. pieces for the vice sides, and fit it in place for the vice sides.
Also Cut square holes in the one end piece for the end vice top boards
to fit over them. Fasten slides, as shown. Now fit up the two clamps.
Fasten the slides to the front pieces with screws. Counter-sink the
heads of the screws, so they will not be in the way of the hands when
the vice is used. The two clamp screws should be about 1^ in. in
Details
or
'pj A Work Bench
diameter. They can be purchased at a hardware store. A block should
be fitted under the crosspiece to hold the nut for the end vice. After
you have the slides fitted put them in place, and bore the holes for the
clamp screws.
The back board can now be fastened to the back with screws, as
shown in the top view. The bench is now complete, except for a
couple of coats of oil, which should be applied to give it a finish and
preserve the wood. The amateur workman as well as the pattern-
maker will find this a very handy and serviceable bench for his work-
shop.
As the amateur w^orkman does not always know just what tools he will
need, a list is given which will answer for a general class of work.
This list can be added as the workman becomes more proficient in his
636 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
line and has need for other tools. Only the better grade of tools should
be purchased, as they are the cheapest in the long run. If each tool
is kept in a certain place, it can be easily found when wanted: —
One bench plane or joiner, 1 jack plane or smoother, 1 cross-cut
saw (24 in.), 1 rip-saw (24 in.), 1 claw hammer, 1 set gimlets, 1 brace
and set of bits, 2 screwdrivers (3 and 6 in.), 1 countersink, 1 compass
saAV, 1 set chisels, 1 wood scraper, 1 monkey wrench, 1 2-ft. rule, a
marking gauge, 1 pair pliers, 1 nail set, 1 pair dividers, 1 pocket level,
1 6-in. try square, 1 oilstone, ISTos. 1, 2 and 00 sandpaper.
—Producers' Reviev) (Perth), 20th July, 1918.
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Pomologist.
The Orchard.
Cultivation.
Orchard ploughing should now be finished, and the main work for
the next few months will be an endeavour to keep the soil surface loose,
friable, and well opened. The consolidation of the surfaces must be
avoided, as a hard, compact surface means the loss of much soil
moisture, by capillary attraction. So that after rains, heavy dews, the
spray pump and other traffic, it will be as well to run the harrows over
the surface of the soil, so as to keep the surface well broken and to
maintain a good earth mulch. If the harrows are not sufficient to break
the clods, a spiked or heavy roller should be drawn over it, and then
harrowed. If the weather is at aU dry it is advisable to plough only
as much as may be harrowed in the same day. By immediately
following up the ploughing with harrowing a minimum amount of
moisture is lost by capillarity.
Green manure crops should now be ploughed under, and should they
be very abundant in growth, a roller should be run over them and
ploughed with a coulter attached. Any of these means will serve to get
the crop underground, which is a desideratum.
In addition to the retention of soil moisture, cultivation of the
orchards will suppress the weeds which rob the trees of food and
moisture. The suppression of weeds is an important work in the spring
and summer, and they should be rigorously hoed or cultivated out.
Speaying.
Spraying for all pests and diseases is, at this time of the year, an
important work in the orchard. Bordeaux spraying for the black spot
of apples and pears, for scab and shothole in peaches and apricots,
for the leaf curl of the peach and rust of the plums and peaches, should
now be completed.
Where there are indications that previous sprayings have not been
thoroughly successful, a weak lime sulphur spray should be given.
Wherever they are present, nicotine sprays should be given to
combat the peach aphis, and the pear and cherry slug. For the latter
pest, arsenate of lead should not be used if the cherries are within a
10 Oct.. 1918.] Orchard and Garden Notes. 637
month of ripening. Arsenate of lead is so tenacious, and thus it is
likely to remain on the fruit until it is ripe, when it would he dangerous
to the consumer. Thus, while this property of remaining on the fruit
for a considerable time is of great value in the Codlin Moth spraying,
it is quite of the opposite value when used for the pear and cherry
slug. Either tobacco water or hellebore is useful for the eradication of
this pest, as these substances do not remain long on the trees, and they
are quite as effective as arsenate of lead.
Codlin moth spraying, too, will be in evidence this month. Owing
to the early season, it is possible that the development of the moth will
take place earlier. It is generally assumed that the appearance of the
moth is coincident with the bursting of the flowers. This is not always
so — the moths frequently come slightly later than the blooming period.
Owing to the rapid expansion of the fruit, it is well to follow the first
spraying with a second in a week or ten days' time. Arsenate of lead
is still the spray for the Codlin moth, nothing having been found to
supersede it.
Vegetable Garden.
A good tilth, and a well-pulverized soil, are the main soil necessities
in the vegetable garden this month. Frequent cultivations will keep
in the soil moisture, and will obviate the necessity for surface waterings.
At the same time, it should be remembered that the vegetable gardeii
requires more water than the flower garden, owing to the quick growth
of the plants. Quickly-grown vegetables are more tender and more
luscious than slowly-grown ones : thus a good water supply will need
to be maintained. "Weeds are great moisture-robbers, and they should
be kept out of the vegetable garden at this time of the year.
Late plantings of tomatoes may now be carried out ; all early-planted
plants should be fed, staked, and the laterals pinched back. A little
bone-dust or superphosphate may be given, but these are not equal to
animal manures, if the latter are available. Chemical manures should
only be given in limited quantities, 6 or 7 cwt. per acre would be a
heavy dressing, and this works out at nearly 3 ozs. per square yard.
Vegetable growers may easily try this for themselves, and it will soon
be seen that 3 ozs. scattered over a square yard of surface will appear
to be a very light dressing.
French beans, carrot, parsnip, celery, radish, peas, and turnip seeds
may now be sown. Seeds of cucumber, melon, and pumpkin family
may now be sown in the open ground. All seedlings may be trans-
planted on favorable days, and it will be well to sprinkle the tops as
well as to water the roots.
Asparagus beds may be top-dressed with manure, and kept well
weeded. Such weak growths that are not gathered for eating should
be cut out of the beds.
Celery trenches will require attention at this time of the year; and
to in.sure good, quick growth, frequent waterings will be necessary.
Flower Garden.
Flower gardens are troubled with many pests at this time of the
year. Rose aphis is one of the most prevalent; frequent applications
of tobacco water will keep this pest in check. The hot winds should
638 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
not be waited for so as to rid the garden of the pests, because a great
deal of damage is done before the hot winds come. They should be
sprayed in any case.
Rose mildew will also need combating. This may be done by dusting
the bushes with sulphur while they are wet with the morning dew.
The ground may also be sprinkled, as the fumes check the fungus.
Leaf-rolling or leaf-eating insects will need to be sprayed with
arsenate of lead or Paris green.
The surface should be kept well hoed so as to conserve the moisture,
especially after the frequent waterings that should be given.
Chrysanthemums may be planted in soil that has been dug over two
or three times, and each time digging in manure. The soil must not be
too rich, but must be well drained.
Bulbs that have lost their foliage may be lifted, but do not cut the
foliage, as this means loss of sap and energy.
Asters, zinnias, salvias, balsams, amaranthus, celosias, &c., lobelia,
bedding begonia, iresines, alternantheras, &c., may now be planted out
for summer and autumn flowers.
REMINDERS FOR NOVEMBER.
LIVE STOCK,
Horses. — Continue to feed stable horses well; add a ration of greenstuff.
Rug at night. Continue hay or straw, chaffed or whole, to grass-fed horses.
Feed old and badly-conditioned horses liberally. If too fat, mares due to foal
should be put on poorer pasture. Turn out workers due for a spell at grass. In
view of sand trouble this year horses which have been paddocked all the winter
should not be put to work until properly conditioned and any sand accumulation
got rid of. A course of three or four bran mashes, after a twelve hours' fast,
followed by 1 to li pints of linseed oil, is helpful. Repeat in two or three days,
if necessary. Colts to be gelded should be operated on before hot weather sets in.
Cattle. — Except on rare occasions, rugs may now lie used on cows at night
only. Continue giving hay or strav.-, if possible, to counteract the effect of green
grass. Be prepared for milk fever. Read article in Year-BooJc of Agriculture,
1905, page 314. Give calves a dry shed and a good grass run. Continue
giving milk at blood heat to calves. Be careful to keep utensils clean, or
diarrhoea will result. Do not give too much milk at a time for the same reason.
Feed regularly with regard to quantity and time. Give a cup of limewater in the
milk to each calf, also place crushed oats or lucerne hay in a trough so that they
can eat at will.
Pigs. — Supply plenty of bedding in well-ventilated styes. Keep styes
clean and dry, and feeding troughs clean and wholesome. Sows may now be
turned into grass run. Sows suckling young should l)e well fed to enable them
to produce plenty of milk. Give young pigs pollard and skim milk in separate
trough as soon as they will take it, and keep them fattening from the start to
get them off as early as possible. Give a tablespoonful of bone meal, or half
that amount of mineral phosphate per 100 lbs. live weight in food daily. If
pigs are lousy dress them with kerosene emulsion or sulphur and lard, rubbing
well into crevices of skin, and disinfect styes. Pig breeding and feeding
should be very profitable for a long time to come, and it should be safe to
launch out now.
Sheep. — Prepare for dipping. Ascertain exact contents of bath before mixing.
Powder or paste dips have the most lasting effect, particularly where lice
have been bad. Hold sheep in the bath not less than half a minute; if badly
10 Oct., 1918.] Reminders. 639
infested, longer. Submerge heads twice, but allow them to rise quickly — jnost
deaths after dipping are due to gross carelessness in holding sheep under too
long, the dip wash being taken in on to the lungs. Dip rams, full grown sheep
first, while bath is full, lambs last. Yard slieep over night. Dip while empty, and
avoid fouling the drainer. Commence early in the day, and allow sheep
to dry before nightfall. Avoid travelling long distances to and from baths, and
dipping sheep while overheated. Do not roughly throw sheep in. Avoid filthy
baths; this increases a dead tip in hot areas.
It is unsafe, and against instructions, to use powder dips in increased strength.
Sheep badly lice-infested should be dipped directly off shears, and again in six
weeks' time.
When constructing new dips, remember moderate-sized ones are most econo-
mical, just as efficient, and can be more easily emptied as they become fouled,
and if they are near water can be quickly filled.
Poultry. — Provide plenty of green food and shade. Watch for vermin;
spray crevices of perches and houses with crude carbolic acid, 1 in 50. Keep
water clean and cool, and out of the sun. One packet of Epsom salts should be
given to thirty birds through the mash. Remove all male birds from the flock.
Infertile eggs are preferable when pickling, or when placed in cool storage.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Plant main crop of potatoes. Cut hay and silage. Weed early
potatoes. ' Sovsr maize and millets. Weed tobacco beds, and water, if dry.
Orchard. — Ploughing, harrowing, and cultivating to be continued. Weeds
to be kept down. Secure, pinch, and spray grafts with water. Spray frequently
for codlin moth, pear and cherry slug, and peach aphis. Plant out citrus trees.
Vegetable Garden. — Hoe and mulch surface. Suppress weeds. Water where
dry and hoe afterwards. Disbud and pinch back tomato plants. Sow celery,
French beans, peas, lettuce, cucumber, melon, &c., seeds.
Flower Garden. — Water and mulch. Cultivate and keep down weeds. Thin
out weak wood from roses. Prune early all flowering shrubs that have finished
flowering. Lift and store bulbs. Plant out chrysanthemums. Liquid-manure
herbaceous perennials.
Vineyard. — Field grafts require careful attention in the way of removal of
suckers and scion roots. (See articles in last and current issues.) Keep a
sharp look out for Downy Mildew, and commence spraying on the appearance
of the first symptoms of the fungus. Even if the fungus is not visible, spraying
should be concluded by the beginning of November in the north, and a week
later in the cooler districts. (See Journal for September, and also current
issue.) Cultural work, such as scarifying and hoeing, should be actively pushed
forward, so as to provide as good a " mulch " as possible during summer. Proceed
with tying up, stopping and topping. Avoid excessive topping, summer pruning
being usually more injurious than useful in warm, dry climates. Cincture Zante
currant vines after flower caps have fallen. Apply second sulphuring just before
blossoming, wherever Oidium was prevalent last year.
Cellar. — Same as last month.
JERUSALEM ARTICHOKES.
The attention of allotment holders, gardeners, and small cultivators
generally is drawn by the Food Production Department in England (says
Farmer and Stochhreeder) to the value of the artichoke, both for pur-
poses of human food and for feeding to pigs.
Recent investigations by the Koyal Society Food ("War) Committee
show that the artichoke, eaten in moderation, is an excellent human food.
640
Journal of Agriculture , Victoria. [10 Oct., 1918.
and that its food value as measured in calories is superior to that of
the potato. The composition of artichokes and of potatoes is as
follows : —
Artichokes
Potatoes
Proteins.
Total Carbo-
hydrates.
Ciilaries
per lb.
2-6
1-8
16-7
14-7
365
310
The artichoke gives large crops. An average yield from field cultiva-
tion is about 10 to 12 tons, but in gardens and allotments it should be
considerably higher. Estimates of yield obtained by the Royal Society
Food (War) Committee give figures so high as 20 tons per acre on garden
ground.
Other advantages possessed by the Jerusalen artichoke are that it
is not subject to disease, and will grow in almost any soil and situation
provided that there is an abundance of light and air. It succeeds best
on a deep friable sandy loam.
For planting, medium-sized tubers should be chosen, or larger tubers
may be cut into pieces, each with two or three eyes. The white tubered
varieties are generally preferred to the pink, as they are of a better
shape.
Planting should be done during spring. The tubers may be planted
in shallow trenches or dibbled 4 to 5 inches deep in soil which has been
previously well worked. The usual distances at which to plant are
3 feet between the rows, and 1 to 1^ feet between the sets. The planting
should be closer in poor soils and wider in rich soils. Fourteen pounds
of tubers will plant a rod of ground.
The only cultivation necessary is hoeing to keep down the weeds and
the drawing of a little earth to the stem. The surface of the soil should
be stirred during dry weather.
The tubers do n6t suffer from frosts, and may be left in the ground
and lifted as required; or, to get over the difficulty of digging the
tubers in frosty weather, they may be lifted and stored in sand in a cold
shed or cellar, or they may be clamped like potatoes in the open. They
should not be exposed freely to the air, for if so exposed the tubers
become soft very quickly.
The fork should be used in lifting, and care should be taken to remove
all the tubers, otherwise they will grow in the following year.
For use as pig food, artichokes when fed to small pigs should be
cooked, but sows will take them raw.
Under field cultivation, and after the crop has been lifted, pigs
turned into the field will clean the ground by picking up the small tubers
left in digging, and a further advantage of thus turning in pigs will be
the increased fertility of the ground.
10 Oct., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Mangel —
Long Red
Mammoth
SOW
Mangels
NOW
MANGELS are one of the
most valuable root crops.
They may be sown any
time between July and December,
or even later if good heavy rain falls.
Sow Now in order to ensure the
best crops. 4 lbs. is sufficient for
an acre.
Giant Half Sugar and Yellow
Globe, 4/- per lb. Mammoth
Long Red, Mammoth Long
Yellow, Golden Tankard, and
other varieties, 3/6 per lb. Cheaper
in quantities. Very scarce, so be
sure to order promptly.
OW is also the best time to sow Japanese Millet
(recleaned Victorian), the wonderful Sudan Grass,
Maizes, all varieties of Sorghums, and Amber Cane
Write for special price list and other particulars
PTY.
LAW, SOMNER [S
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston St., MELBOURNE
Established 18SO Telephone— Central 729
Nurseries — Orrong Road, ARMADALE, adjoining Toorak Railway Station
L.R.W.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria, [10 Oct., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
The New Stores at Victoria Dock
have a capacity of 600,000 cubic feet insulated,
and are capable of holding 300,000 boxes
of butter, or 200,000 cases of fruit, or
270,000 carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chambers
direct into the ship's hold. Electric motor power totals 880 H.P.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected wtth the Cool Stores by direct lines ; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable products are provided.
Expert Officers are connected with every Branch, so that
any one requiring information regarding the production, preparation, and
shipment of produce can rely upon being promptly supplied with up-to-
date information upon all matters.
10 Oct., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture^ Victoria. xix;
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT
COOL STORES
FSiCilltieS are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their ow^n account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers in an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Telephones :
Office: 10383 Central. Superintendent and Eogineer-in-Charge : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture.
Produce Offices. 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telephone 9380 Central.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Oct., 1918.
7^
Wonderful
Yield of
Perfecl
FruH
SR 2
GARGOYLE Prepared Red Spray-
ing Oil is responsible for more
good fruit crops than any other
spray on the market.
Neither Scale, Aphis, Red Spider, nor
other insect pest can live where
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying Oil is
used It is so thorough — so searching.
It is ENDURING, too, and pelting
rain will not wash it off.
If you are looking forward to a big
yield of clean fruit, you must spray with
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying Oil—
the spray that invigorates— the spray
that thinking Orchardists everywhere
have proved and adopted.
Ask your storekeeper for
PREPARED RED
SPRAYING OIL
Vacuum Oil Company Pty. Lid.
10 Oct., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
"NEPTUNE" SPRAYS
Can be depended upon by every Fruit Grower
:: :: who is desirous of having clean trees :: ::
They are as follows : —
NEPTUNE "A" Prepared Spraying Oil
Contains more than 85% of Good Red Mineral Oil,
and is most effective against Green or Black Aphis,
Mussel Scale. Red Wax, Red Mite, and White Wax.
It emulsifies easily with cold water, without the addition of soap.
NEPTUNE Lime of Sulphur Solution
Double strength — an excellent spray for eradicating
Black Spot, Mildew, ' San Jose Scale, Shot Hole,
Curly Leaf, &c. You can spray with a one to fifty
solution, even when the trees are m full bloom.
Arsenate of Lead
Can be used with perfect safety, will not scorch the
foliage, and is Death on all Parasites, such as Codlin
Moth, Pear Slug, Black Spot or Scab, and Beetles.
NEPTUNE Resin and Soda Wash
NEPTUNE Bluestone
Send for Pamphlets and Prices,
NEPTUNE Oil Compy. Limited
lO Queen Street, Melbourne
When replying, please mention "The Journal of Agriculture. "
Journal of Afjriculture, Victoria.
[10 Oct., 1918.
10 Oct., 1918.1
J oil mat of Ai/ricutture, Victoria.
xxm
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
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A LIGHTING SYSTEM THAT HAS ALL THE ADVANTAGES
OF ELECTRICITY AT ONE-TENTH THE COST OF INSTAL-
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The Gloria System is the most advanced type of Air Gas
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Write for Complete Information and Catalogues.
The Gloria Light Co. of Australasia,
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FITTED IN YOUR OWN HOME ON
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"Polly" Feed and Oil Meal
All Cattle and Poultry Like It
"POLLY" BRAND FEED is just Maize, with the germ and the surplus
starch removed, toasted, and made appetising, then dismtegrated into powder,
and put up for ready mixing and immediate use. Is rich in Protein, viz.,
20 per cent, guaranteed.
COWS fed on "Polly" Feed will yield 20 per cent, more milk.
HORSES thrive better on "Polly" Feed because the heavy and indigestible
starch proportion is removed, and the Feed is muscle and bone forming.
" POLLY " FEED does not weevil or germinate, and it does not turn rancid
with age.
Maize Products "Oil Meal"
Maize Oil IVIeal is toasted and tasteful, does not germinate or turn
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CALVES thrive on "OIL MEAL" better than any other.
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Write for prices and further particulars.
MAIZE PRODUCTS Pty. Ltd.
Office and Works ^^^— Footscray, Victoria
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VICTORIAN
RAIL>VAYS
PICTURESQUE VICTORIA
Summer Excursions
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FIELD DAY AT WERRIBEE
Vol. XVI. RESEARCH FARM.
Part 11.
[Rej^istered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 6/-.)
FARMERS! Sow SWEET CLOVER
(Melilotus
DEFY
DROUGHT
Brunning's
SWEET CLOVER
produces
Valuable Fodder
The Book that is essential
on every Farm —
SWEET CLOVER
AND ITS UTILITY"
Price, 1/1 Post Free
Sweet Clover is not a weed ; it lias been proved a valuable
and useful plant, makes rich pasture, excellent hay, or
first-class silage. Will not bloat cattle or sheep. Recom-
mended by dairy farmers as a wonderful milk producer.
Write to Dept. "A." SAMPLE & PRICE ON APPLICATION
PREPARES THE SOIL FOR LUCERNE.— The marvellous soil
improving qualities of Brunning's Sweet Clover will make it one of the
most important plants in VICTORIA.
GROW
Brunning's "STANDARD"
Quality Lucerne
ENSURES BEST RESULTS
WHY?
(1) Seed Triple-Machine Dressed.
(2) Absolutely Free from Dodder and
all other noxious weeds
(3) 98 per cent, germination assured.
(4) Seed packed in Sealed betgs, each
28 lbs. nett.
Write To-Day Special Leaflet **A" and Sample Post Free
F. H- BRUNNING P»ty. Ltd.
VICTORIA SEED HOUSE 64 ELIZABETH ST., MELBOURNE
THE JOURNAL
OF
THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTUIIE,
\7"IOTOE,I^^, ^.XJSTE. A.I-.I A..
CONTENTS.— NOVEMBER, 1918.
Farmers' Field Day at Werribee ...
Apple Culture in Victoria
American Agriculture
The Hearing of Duck.s
Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases
641
J. Farrell 648
A. E. V. Bichardson, 31. A., B.Sc. 658
... A. Hart 669
F. de Casiella 674
A Contribution to the Study of Hereditary Unsoundness in
Horses W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc. 679
The Weevil Pest of Grain ... ... ... ... .. ... 695
Orchard and Garden Notes ... ... E. E. Pescott, F.L.S. 701
Reminders ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 703
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Article.s in the Journal of the Department of Agriculture of \'ictoria are
protected by tiie provision.s of the Cop\'right Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republisli any matter are at liberty to do so, provided the Jouiiial and author are
both ackiioicledfffd.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per annum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
OS. for the United Kingdom and Foreign Countries. Single copy. Threepence.
Subscriptions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Alelbouxiie.
A complete list of the various publications issued b\' the Department of Agriculture
will be supplied hv the latter.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
1
SUNLIGHT!
OIL- cake: I
A Better Result.
MR. 5HANAHAN, of Coleraine, writes:—
Dear Sirs,
I am enclosing cheque for Oil-Cake. It took
me a long time before I could get the cow.% to
eat it, but they got to like it by degrees, and the
result is entirely satisfactory. I really do not
know of a substance that could give a better
result. I regret very much that I did not have it
earlier, and I feel sure I would have doubled my
supply of cream. One of my cows was nearly
dry, and was not giving more than a pint of milk
per day. Now she is giving 1 i gallons. Certainly
some of the result is due to the increased
supply of grass, but from the time I got her to
eat the Oil-Cake she steadily improved end is
continuing on the improve.
Please send me 2 cwt. more as the last lot
is nearly used up.
Yours faithfully,
(Signed) JOHN 5HANAHAN.
For Post Free Book—
"Science in the Dairy"
By L. A. 5AUNDLR5,
Late Editor "Australian Field,"
Wrile to Lever Brothers Ltd., Box 2510, G.P.O., Melbourw
sunlight
Oil cake
Guaranteed Pure
See that the name "Sunlight" is
branded on every cake
PAMPHLETS
New Series
^
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CONSTRUCTION.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T.A.J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Carmody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J.Knujht.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. Eenyon, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
10. SILOS AND SILAGE. O. 11. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. //. T. Easterby.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cameron, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING. Q. Baxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T. A. J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. R. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
Dr. S. S. Cameron and others.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES.
E. Meeking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1912-13. W. A. N. Robertson, B. V.Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. v. Richardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS ON PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. 0. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1913-14. W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S.A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. R. Bealine.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1914-15. W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. It". A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
34. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1916-17. W. A. jV. Robertson, B.V.Sc.
35. SUMMER BUD. or YEMA GRAFT OF THE VINE
F. de Castella.
36. EVAPORATION OF APPLES.
39. POTATO CULTURE. J. T. Ramsay.
I Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring
Bees, Feedinff Cows for Milk Production, Sulphit-
inc, Some Vintage Considerations, Spring Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato, Fruit
11 Nov., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Ill
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
IncliKTing Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.V.C.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. W. JONES.
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm.
GEELONG.
Ihspe(5lion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springliurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended for a time to overtake orders.
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture.
Melbourne.
JERSEY BUTTER
^^ BULLS ^^
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON, "Banyule," Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 1905
448 Pases
200 Illustrations
2 Coloured Plates
Cloth, 3s. 6d.; paper, 2s. 6d. ^:r^'r■'t^^t'^^^i^!:'i^'t
1;V
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Xov., 19 1».
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
NOW AVAILABLE
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. McALPINE.
government vegetable pathologist.
With Appendic«« by
W. Laidlaw. B.Sc. (Biologin),
oD Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTemmeal
Entomologist), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
23S P«e» (Cloth). 58 Full Piste..
176 Illustrations.
Pvi/>A C^ / Pottage: Commonwealth, 2d.; New Zealaixl.Bd.;
rriCe, O/- British and Foreign. 1/4.
Applications accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque, covering Price and Postage, to be forwarded lo The Director at
Aiirlculture, Melbourne, Victoria. Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and IV. Percy JVilkinson.J
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, Is.
Postage: C, Ud. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, Is.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, id. ; N.Z., '2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOILING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, Id.; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEW METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION W^ITH* AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage: C, Id.; N.Z., 2d.; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES : THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 28. Paper, Is. Postage: C, IJd. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON W^INE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage:
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
By D. Mc Alpine, Gocernment Vegetable Pathologial.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Postage: C. 2d.; N.Z.. 8d.: B. & F., I
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C, lhA.\ N.Z., 9d.;
4d.
B. & F., Is. 6d.
2s. Postage: C, Id. i
N.Z..
lid.:
N.Z..
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA.
3d.; B. & F.. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C
N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage: C, 2d.;
8d. ; B. & F., Is. 4d.
Applieations accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque covering price and postage to be forwarded to
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by Post Office Order.
11 jSTov.^ 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
BILLABONG Centrifugal
PUMPS
For raising large quantities of Water
for Irrigation and other purposes.
This Centrifugal Pump embodies many
notable features — a result of our long
experience in Pump manufacture. It
is made at our Melbourne Works of
also made with ?>^°^ quality materials and by expert
End Suction ; ; ; Pump Engineers : :
The efficiency of our pumps taken under actual test is lb\ per cent. This, we
consider, for a stock line of pump, altogether above the average.
Specifications
Expert
on^^P^Jation ^^^It ^/^ Mi/K^^^ ^^'^
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Flumlng, &c., &c.
Melbourne and Sydney
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
Propy. Ltd.
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and'CORNINA MANUFACTURERS
ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR ^ BOX 53.
GRAIN TO US. ■^ G.P.O., MELBOURNE.
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
Separators for large and
small dairymen
Whether you have one or two cows, or whether you are dairying
in a big way, choose the separator that guarantees best returns.
"Favorite" Cream Separator
Specially built for household use— it is easy to clean and runs easily—only
two parts in bowl— your wife or youngsters can look
after it quite easily. Skims clean--strongIy made.
Fine skimming capacity guaranteed. Order at once and
save. All future stocks are carrying heavy increases.
No. 1—11 Gallons per hour
„ 2— IS Gallons per hour
Pay £1 Down
£1 Monthly
The "Viking" Cream Separator
Renowned for its greater cf!pacity--Famous for its lower price--not onl.v does the
Viking save in first cost but it cuts out losses by preventing any waste in cream.
Skims to a trace. Beautifully constructed, self-balancing bowl, shaped places-
cleaning is easy, because no awkward corners. Various sizes. 15— 27--50— 80--
lirSfur! Terms- £1 Down. £1 Monthly.
A Month's Free Trial with every Separator. If not fully satisfied, send it back
and we'll pay freight.
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
All Duplicate Parts stocked, also duplicate for "Lister, ""Rex," "Perfect,"
and " Favorite " Separators. Repairs and bowl balancing a specialty.
Expert advice and assistance Free. Send for Special Separator Catalog.
114 Sturt Street
South Melbourne
Dip Famine Rumor Unfounded
Many flock owners may have been scared because of rumors of a "Dip Famine" —
but such a possibility is without any foundation. A shortage of imported dips need
have no effect on dip supplies whatever, for Australia now produces in
POWDER SHEEP DIP
AN ARSENICAL DIP OF THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE QUALITY-
chemically and physically equal to the best dip hitherto imported — and which
CAN BE SUPPLIED TO MEET ALL AUSTRALASIA'S NEEDS
" Vallo' dipped flocks are already speaking eloquently as to the reliability
of this compound — proving by their wool yield, wool quality, and all-
round improved conditions that "Vallo* Powder Sheep Dip is not only
effective, but longest lasting in its destructive action against Ticks, Lice,
and other sheep infesting vermin ; reduces Fly Strike to a minimum,
and makes a sheep clean and impervious to contagion from 'dipping*
to next shearing.
Manufactured by A. VICTOR LEGGO & CO., Arsenic Mines,
Southern Cross, W.A., and Queensland ; Works, Yarraville and Bendigo ;
Head Office, 497-503 Collms Street, Melbourne.
Distributors for Victoria and Tasmania —
A. VICTOR LEGGO & CO., Melbourne
11 Nov., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Vll
USE
FOR
BRANDING
YOUR
SHEEP
KEMP'S »"^p^^^^^
Sheep-Branding
LIQUID
It has been proved by hundreds of Woolgrowers, amongst
them some of ihe largest squatters in Australia, to be an un-
qualified success, and to do everything that is claimed for it.
BLACK AND BLUE (in Cases)
Containing Two
4-gal. tins - -
6/6
per
gal.
Or Eight 1 -gal. tins
- 7/6 per gal. -
AGENTS
DALGETY & Co. Ltd.
MELBOURNE
& GEELONG
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Office
LONDON
Melbourne Office
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Butter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Account
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S WIRE CUTTER
Cliief AtenU in Victoria for tbe PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
vm
Journal, uj AyricuUure, Vicloiia.
[11 Nov., 1918.
Its double-acting
The same spray
with
half the labour
The Auto-Spray, No. 5
May be used for spraying trees, vines,
flower gardens, potatoes, and any field
crops, and for handling whitewash and
disinfectants.
Made entirely of brass, doing away with all
danger of corrosion.
Operator can get any variety of spray
necessary ; either solid stream, long
distance, or fine spray.
As shown - - 55/-
Without Reservoir - 32/6
erson's:
Proprietary Ltd
For Farm and Orchard Tools,
554-88 Collins St., MELBOURNE
CREDIT FONCIER
Loans on Farms
UP TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATION
In sums from £50 to £2,000
At 6 per cent. Interest
and from 1| per cent, in reduction of principal, which pays off the loan
in 27| years.
Loans granted on Freeholds, or Crown Leaseholds which could be
make freehold at any time on payment of the balance of Crown Rents.
No Charge for Mortgage Deed
Loans may be paid off on any half-yearly pay day, subject to a small
charge if paid off within the first five years, but no penalty after live years.
Forms may be obtained at any Branch of the State Savings Bank, or
by wntmg to —
The Inspector-General, The State Savings Bank,
ELIZABETH STREET. MELBOURNE.
11 :N'ov.. 191S.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Bonedust, Superphosphate,
And Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
DELIVERED AT RAILWAY STATION, FOOTSCRAY, OR ON WHARF, MELBOURNE
BONEDUST :: :: ::
MANUFACTURER
J. COCKBILL,
OFFICE: 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. Telephone 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES, SHEDS, &C.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL OUTSIDE PAINTING
IVholesale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
-FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS-
Obtainable
from all
Storekeepers
BROOKS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insupanee
Society ltd.
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, FidelitT Gaaraotee, Plate
GlaM, Personal Accideit and Sickneii,
EHpIaTCri' Liability, Workmen's Compen-
sation. Pablic Risk, Motor Car, and Bartlary.
t:^*^m^:r.'r ^r^itt^^
INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
Nine Years
Practical Tests
The Renowned
"BLUE BELL"
Arsenate of Lead
Secure your orders at once.
F. W. PRELL & CO., 31 Queen St., Melbourne
SOLE VICTORIAN AGENTS
The Electrolytic Refining and Smelting Company of Australia Limited
COPPER
OUR prodnct is eqaal to the best
imported brands on the market and
we GUARANTEE THE PURITY
ORDERS are being booked for the
— ^— ^ coming season.
(Bluestone)
We are Mannfactoreri of E.S.A. HIGH
GRADE COPPER SULPHATE (BInestone)
for SPRAYING and PICKLING PURPOSES
and alto for ELECTRICAL PURPOSES
SULPHATE
FULL INFORMATION as to PRICE and DELIVERIES will be snpplied ON APPLICATION to—
Manager '^^^ Electrolytic Refining & Smelting Company of Australia Ltd
^-M^i.^_^.^i» PORT KEMBLA, ■^' '^ *"
LESLIE SALT LICKS
A NEW FOOD FOR SHEEP, COWS, AND HORSES
Leslie Salt Licks which supersede rock salt are composed of pnre sterilized
salt, tos^ether with lime, a small proportion of Epsom salts, and other
scientifically blended ingredients. They are the finest conditioner and
animal medicine known, and will do more to prevent disease than any
medical treatment. 2/- per block ; or 22/6 per case of 12 blocks (plus
freiirht to country centres). Order from saddler, produce merchant, black-
smith, butter factory, general store, or any of the following agents : —
Oippsland and Northern Selling and Ins. Co. Ltd., Melb. ; James McEwan
and Co. Pty. Ltd., Melb. ; Price, Griffiths & Co., Melb. ; J. Bartram & Son
Pty.Ltd., Melb. ; Lyall&Son, Nth. Melb. &Geelong ; New Zealand Loan and
Mercantile Co. Ltd., Collins & King-sts., Melb. ; or Alex. Mair & Co., Melb.
If
THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
11 Nov., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
zi
Australias
Wagon
Hildyard Steel Wheel Wagons at the Front. They are now fitted
with twin roller bearings, 33 per cent, saved in draft. More durable
than ever. Less wear and tear. No boxes to crack. We guarantee
them. The rollers run in oil in dustproof races. They are now perfection,
and we can supply to carry all weights as usual for wool, wheat, or farm.
Ordinary axles supplied if preferred.
J. J. Jordan (Ardlethan) says:— "The 5 ton 36 in. and 40 in. dia. wheel
wagon you supplied me runs splendid. I am putting 60 bags of wheat on 2
horses. That proves its light draught."
SEND FOR CATALOG NOW
HILDYARD WAGON WORKS
KENSINGTON, MELBOURNE, VIC.
it
Clone
Wft WMl
GET OUR
CATALOGUE
Fig. 233. Omamenul
Handgate. 4 ft high
Fig. 211 OrnamenUl
Handgate 4 ft. high
CYCLONE Pty. LTD.
46* SWAN8TON STIIBBT
MILBOURNB
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE YEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAY BE ENROLLED AT ANY TIME
Total Fees —
£25/-/- per annum.
Alternative Courses —
(a) Diploma Course .. Three Years.
(b) One Year's Course.
The college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Dookie, 1 ,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champion
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS. — Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Fanners.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM, 2,336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing. Fat Lamb Raising, Dairying,
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit, &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS, Esq., Secretary, Council of Agricultural Education,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted in all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are eligible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointments in the
Commonwealth and State Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full particulars apply —
The DIRECTOR. Veterinary School, PARKVILLE, VICTORIA
11 JN'ov., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Can you do it ?
Every
Nof — and if you have a Sharpies Suction-feed
Separator you don't have to, for it skims equally
clean whatever speed you turn. But with every
other separator you must turn the crank at just
exactly the speed stamped on it, or you will lose
cream — every time! The wonderful Sharpies
Suction-feed varies the milk feed in direct pro*
portion to the separating force — never more milk in
the bowl than it can perfectly separate.
All other separators have a fixed milk feed. Thus when
turned below speed much of the milk runs out without
being perfectly separated, and some gets into the cream,
making it thin and uneven. Thousands
cf actual tests have proven that 19 out of
20 persons do turn too slow most of the
time, and that everybody turns too slow
some of the time. Get a
SHARPLES
Famous
Suction-Feed
SEPARATOR
"Skims clean
at any Speed
the only separator that :
— skims clean at widely varying speeds
— gives the same thickness cream regardless of Speed
— skims your milk quicker when you turn faster
— has only one piece in bowl — no discs, easy to clean
— has knee-low supply tank and once-a-month oiling
Sharpies is positive insurance against carelessriess
and its consequent cream waste, because it skims
clean at any speed. A speed indicator, which
rings a bell when you turn an old-style fixed-feed
separator below speed, is really an acknowledge-
ment of the vast superiority of Sharpies, which
automatically prevents losses from irregular turn-
ing instead of simply announcing them. Call at
my store and I will be glad to demonstrate to you
this and the other superior features of the Sharpies.
NEWELL & CO.,
KING ST.,
MELBOURNE
Sole Agents for Victoria and Lower Riverina
Genuine Sharpies Repairs and Oil carried in stock
■■■■■■■BBHBHSHBHI
ZA3SH
BBBBBBE
XIV
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 '^OY., 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Managing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD, Esq.. LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE, Esq.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN, Esq. DAVID HUNTER, E«q.
This Company Acts as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trustee of
Settlennents, and Agent for Absentees under Pow#er of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices — 113 Queen St. (Corner of Little Collins-st.), Melbourne
=^
"1000 TREES & STUMPS
GRUBBED OUT"
Thus writes Mr. J. Sutherland, Parwan.
i a.^ very well pleased with the Grubbers, as they are doinsr very good w-ork. With mine I have
close on 1,000 trees and stumps frrubbed out. I have done all this work myself without any assistance.
So I consider the Grubber has more than doubly paid for itself."
Pllll The "MONKEY WINCH" will save time, labour and money on
particularf your land clearinKi is always ready, and can be worked in
from^ the very rouehest country and in any class of timber.
TREWHELLA BROS. pty. ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
from a Vidlorian Deposit.
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11 Nov., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
XV
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Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 l^OY., 1918.
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OF
VICTORIA.
Vol. XVI. Part 11. 11th November, 1918.
FARMERS' FIELD DAY AT WERRIBEE.
It was said many centuries simce, " Skill is of greater avail to the
Avoodiman than strength," and the march of events in recent times has
given the words a deeper meaning. Every year agriculture is demanding
a higher efficiency. Land has increased in price, wages have risen, and,
owing to the attraction of the city, labour is diffi(*ult to obtain. Conse-
quently, if the farmer of to-day is to be successful, he must adopt more
scientific methods than the farmer of the last generation. The large
underlying questions concerning the growing of crops and the rearing of
flocks and herds must be carefully considered, and efforts made not only
to control diseases and insect pests, but also to meet the demands imposed
by our uncertain climate. Some of the problems are, perhaps, elemen-
tary, and can be solved by individuals or by a few farmers working in
coujunction, but many of them involve long and difficult experiments, and
it was to deal with these that the Werribee Research Farm was estab-
lished.
In 1913 an invitation was given to representative farmers and others
to visit the farm, and every year since it has been the custom to hold a
field day during Show week, so that the public may have an opportunity
of seeing some of the experiments that are being carried on in the ferti-
lization, cultivation, and rotation of crops, the cross-breeding of wheat,
oats, and barley, (Src.
This year the field day was held on the 27th September, and over 400
— mostly farmers — accepted an invitation to visit the farm. The journey
to Werribee was made b}' special train, and local residents met the visi-
tors at the railway station, and conveyed them to the farm gate, where,
in the unavoidable absence of Mr. Oman, Minister of Agriculture, they
were welcomed by the Director of Agriculture (Dr. Cameron).
The visitors were shown over portion of the plots where, experiments
are being made in the raising of new wheats and barleys, in testing the
value under Victorian conditions of cereals that have been found success-
ful in other countries, and in the results from the use of different manures
16848.
642
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 ISTov., 1918.
in varying quantities. They were able to see at a glance the present
results of the various rotation of crops, the permanent fertilizer plots,
and the advantages of fallowing over continuous cropping. Very keen
interest was shown in the lucerne fields, where the methods of cultivat-
ing and irrigating the crop formed the subject of a demonstration by
Mr. Richardson, after which he was submitted to a fire of questions
relating to every phase of lucerne culture.
During the walk round, the flocks of sheep with which cross-
breeding experiments are being made were seen, and supplied a subject
for a " talk " by the Director.
The permanent irrigated grass paddocks were visited, and here
there was a practical demonstration in the methods of irrigation. On
the way back, a stable manure spreader, capable of distributing at rates
varying from 2 to 20 tons per acre, was seen in operation.
On the return to the farmstead, some of the guests took the oppor-
tunity of having a look round the cow sheds and other outbuildings, while
Visitors listening to a lecture on the cultivation of lucerne.
a few made a visit of inspection to the cottage which has been erected
for the accommodation of returned soldiers who are being trained in
farm work.
When afternoon tea had been partaken of, Mr. C. E. Merrett, Presi-
dent of the Royal Agricultural Society, in moving a vote of thanks to the
Government for its invitation to the fann, said : — " I think we would be
wanting in gratitude if we did not express our grateful thanks to the
Government and to the Department of Agriculture for having to-day
given us facilities to see what has been done and is being done on this
experimental farm. I do want you farmers, when you go back to your
farms, to spread the doctrine of what the Department is doing, in order
to advance agriculture. It must be obvious to everybody that it is of
the utmost necessity that there should be a greater production per acre,
and a greater return from each dairy cow, if we are going to make the
most of this country. Therefore, we must take advantage of the oppor-
tunities that the latest methods of agriculture and herd-testing afford.
11 Nov., 1918.] Farmers' Field Day at Werrihee. 643
There is one thing I would ask of you, and it is that, on your return, you
should tell what is being done on this farm, and influence your fellow
agriculturists and fellow dairymen to come down here and see for them-
selves. I want you to pass a most hearty vote of thanks to your Govern-
ment for what they have done in the interests of agriculture, and also to
say how glad we are to see the Treasurer present to-day." (Applause.)
The Hon. W. M. McPherson, M.L.A., in acknowledging the vote of
thanks, said : — " I can assure you that it is a very great pleasure indeed
for me to be here to-day. I have never before had an opportunity of
visiting this farm, and I have to acknowledge that my visit has been a
great eye-opener to me. I am spoken of as belonging to an economy
Government, and that is so. I want you to realize, however, that the idea
of the Government is not to cut down expenditure, but to see that every
shilling and every pound that we spend returns its full value to the
citizens of this State. (Hear, hear.) There is no doubt that there
are Government economies that can be made that will not impair the
efiiciency of the State. I have been told by Mr. Eichardson to-day that
the value of the agricultural products of Victoria is something like
£40,000,000, and that the net amount of expenditure on our Agricultural
Department is only about £40,000. I venture to say that there are some
other Departments that could economize somewhat, and that some of
the money expended by them could be better spent on such work as I
have seen to-day. There is no doubt that the past Government did well
in sending Mr. Richardson to America. I am one of those who believe
that our younger men cannot see or learn too much of what is being
done by other countries, and in my own business I have sent men abroad
for information. It is right for our State servants to go abroad and
see what other people are doing, and bring information back, and
let you gentlemen apply it. I say that all that we spend in this
way is very well spent. I am not an expert in agriculture, but I do
claim to be able to recognise a well-conducted, well-equipped, and well-
designed place when I see it, and I say emphatically that I have seen
such a place to-day. (Cheers.) I congratulate those who are in charge
of this farm. I thank Mr. Merrett for his remarks, and I will go to
the Government and do what I can to see that an experimental farm
such as this receives every encouragement. When I took ofiice, I ordered
that balance-sheets should be prepared of State activities, and, when the
balance-sheets of this and other experimental farms were presented to me,
it was pointed out that there were certain losses on them, and I said
that I would not have the matter represented to Parliament in that way.
The cost of these educational institutions should not be regarded as a
loss to the State. The purely commercial side should not be the only
one to be considered. Every farmer must make his living on his farm,
and the commercial side of farming should be inculcated in our young
farmers. We want that, plus a knowledge of scientific farming, and this
farm is here to help to give the farmers that knowledge. I hope the
results of the farm will be beneficial to the farmers — I am sure it will. If
fate should decree that I occupy my office for another year — one cannot
be at all certain of such a thing — I hope to come down here again
and look over the place, and spend more time in doing so."
After apologizing for the absence of the Minister of Agriculture, Mr.
A. R. Robertson, M.L.A. (Honorary Minister), said: — "I would like to
l2
644
JournoJ of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
take this opportunity, as member for the district, of heartily welcoming
the visitors from this and other States, and also many members of Par-
liament whom I see here, representing different sides of the House.
Their presence shows a desire on their part to take an active interest in
work of this kind. In carrying out the experiments on this Research
Farm, I feel that we are harnessing science and practical utility together.
It is very gratifying to me, as I am sure it is to you, to know that the
net cost of the farm amounts to less than £2,000 a year. It is gratify-
ing to the Department, and to everybody, to know that the
people of the State take such an interest in coming here, not only to-day,
but at other times, snatching time from their other business, in order
to see the experimental work that is being undertaken. I wish to con-
gratulate the Department, Dr. Cameron, and Mr. Richardson, on the
splendid results attained on this farm, and I hope that all members of
Parliament who have been here to-day will do their best to assist valu-
able work of this kind. We feel we can do but little unless we get the
support of the people in the country to encourage us to go on with the
work of improving the prospects of our primary industries." (Cheers.)
A talk on sheep by Dr. Cameron, Director of Agriculture.
The Hon. J. Cameron, M.L.A., in expressing his appreciation of the
work of Dr. Cameron and other members of the Department, said he took
a personal interest in the Werribee Research Farm because he had recom-
mended that the Government should use a piece of the Werribee Estate
for experimental work. " In making the recommendation to my col.
leagues," remarked Mr. Cameron, '' I said that the rainfall approxi-
mated to that of the Goulburn Valley, and that the soil was similar,
so that the conditions of both districts were identical." He asked that
a hearty vote of thanks be accorded to Dr. Cameron and his staff.
The vote of thanks was acknowledged by the Director of Agriculture,
who said : — " On behalf of the staff of the Department of Agriculture,
and particularly of the officers connected with this farm, I want to offer
you my sincere thanks for your remarks. It is indeed very gratifying to us,
who, I will confess, have laboured very hard in the establishment of
this farm, to have such a fine evidence of the good will and appreciation
of the farmers of the State as that we have had to-day. I mention the
11 Nov., 1918.] Farmers' Field Day at Werrihee.
645
fanners of the State first,
because I think they are
themostimportant. Iliave
also listened with very
great gratification to the
remarks of the members
of Parliament who have
spoken, and particularly
to those of the Honor-
able the Treasurer. You
can readily understand
why I was so gratified to
hear the latter. The
officers of the Depart-
ment have very great
confidence indeed in the
beneficial influence that
this farm, will exercise
on the agricultural in-
terests of the State, and,
incidentally, therefore,
upon the wealth of the
State. Their one effort
is in that direction. I
am also appreciative, and
I am quite sure that this
will be indorsed bv all
the officers of the Depart-
ment, of the remarks
made by Mr. McPherson
as to the exercise of true
economy. I do not be-
lieve in starving any
work that is likely to
prove beneficial, and I
am glad to learn that
the views of the members
of Parliament present
to-day concur with mine.
When wei h-d the first
f.armers' field day — five
years ago^ — I issued a
challenge to the farmers
of the State then present.
T asked them to point out
anything of a non-prac-
tical kind that was being
done^ — ^any useless expen-
diture. I am gratified
to be able to say that,
from that time to this,
my challenge has not
646
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 ISTov., 1918.
been accepted, and I do
not think any work has
been done on the farm
that has not been in the
interests of the agricul-
tural community. I
thank you for your at-
tendance here, for the
interest you have taken,
and for the appreciative
remarks I have heard.
Mr. Menzies, M.L.A.,
having been called upon
to address the visitors,
said : — "I was very
pleased indeed to hear
the Honorable the Trea-
surer express the views
he has respecting
economy, which is a word
in great vogue in Vic-
toria to-day, and I
gather, from what he has
said, that, after all,
what is required is to see
that you should receive
some return for the
money that is being ex-
pended. Now, I do not
know the feelings of the
farmers generally, but I
can just give you the im-
pression that has been
formed in my mind.
Wei have only been able
to cover very little of
what we should like to
do in connexion with the
work of these farms. I
want to see this Govern-
ment, or any other,
realizing, as we do, the
basis upon which we have
found our national
wealth and our national
greatness. Unless we
get that foundation laid
broad and deep, God
help the secondary in-
terests. I believe I am
expressing the views of
other members of Par-
11 Nov., 1918.] Farmers' Field Bay at Werrihee. 647
liament, as well as my own, when I say that what we want more
than anything else is that we should have a re-adjustment of our expen«
diture. What we have looked upon to-day, which is a direct charge
upon the State, means an actual loss of only £1,700. What we want
to recognise is this — that there should be a re-adjustment of our in-
terests and the relative importance of Departments, and I venture to
say that, if this were done, we should not have a niggardly or a grudg-
ing attitude towards agricultui'e, and, instead of spending a paltry
£40,000 a year, we might be spending ten times that amount with
advantage. I am a member of the Agricultural Council, and w© acknow-
ledge our indebtedness to Mr. Richardson for the information he
has given us, and the fresh outlook he has put before us as a result of
his recent visit to America. I should like to see all the farmers of
the State come here and see for themselves the result of the many e^iperi-
ments that are being carried on in their interests."
The following extract is taken from a report on Farmers' Experi-
ment Plots, published in the Agricultural Gazette of New South Wales
for October, 1918 :—
Trials with Oats.
Algerian is widely known as one of the best all-round varieties.
Complaints have been made against this variety in the far Western
areas that, where it has been hurried to maturity by hot weather, it
develops a bitterness and becomes unpalatable to stock. This same
feature is noticeable in Tartarian oats, and in such cases an early oat
such as Sunrise should be grown. Where grown, Algerian produced
the highest yields of grain, but this was probably due to the late season
experienced. Sunrise exceeded Algerian in hay yield.
Guyra, an Algerian- White Ligowo crossbred, is a most promising
variety. It seeds well, producing a nice plump grain that may prove
suitable to the oatmeal manufacturers, who at present import the
plumper Victoria-grown oat, usually Algerian. Guyra has not the
length of straw of Algerian, but makes good hay.
Lachlan, another Algerian-White Ligowo cross, is intermediate in
length of straw between Guyra and Algei'ian. Is earlier than Guyra.
The same notes as for Guyra apply to this variety, apart from the dif-
ferences mentioned.
Sunrise. — A selection from Algerian ; is the earliest oat we have. At
Nymagee it shed its grain very freely when ripening. Before harvesting
a rainstorm occurred, and the ground was almost covered with the grain
which had been shed. This feature was not pronounced when grown
elsewhere. It is a good hay oat with white seed, and is assured of a
good future.
Bronui Calcutta is too weak in the straw to receive much considera-
tion from the farming community. At Orange it lodged extensively,
being the only variety to lodge.
Potato oat produces plump white grain, but owing to its readiness
to take flying smut is not so well liked as Algerian.
648 Journal of Agriculture, Yictoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
APPLE CULTURE IN VICTORIA.
(Continued from page 462.)
By J. Farrell, Orchard Supervisor.
Gnarl of the Qravenstein Wood.
Before passing on to the study of the pests and diseases of apple
trees and their fruit, it might be well to consider the matter of the
undesirable irregularity which appears in the wood of most Gravenstein
trees. This objectionable development is commonly known as the
" gnarl," or twisting of the wood. The Gravenstein has long been
regarded as one of the best and most profitable of apple trees under
cultivation in Victoria. This should be a sufficient incentive for all
those interested in its cultivation to endeavour to find a means by which
the twisting habit may be prevented, or, at least, minimized.
The gnarled wood is produced by the premature hardening of a
lengthy section or sections of the cambium, thus preventing sap activity
in these parts. Depressions, which run with the length of the affected
stem or branch, are thus formed. The free passage of the sap promotes
strong growth in the healthy portions, causing elongated protuberances
to apj)ear. These depressions, interspersed with the elevations running
longitudinally in the surface of the wood, give it a corrugated appear-
ance. This peculiar habit of growth, although generally regarded as
being exclusively confined to the Gravenstein, is occasionally noticed in
trees of the Missouri Pippin variety. Gnarl in the latter usually
supervenes on variety degeneration and general debility, whereas robust
specimens of the former are most liable to its attack.
A high percentage of Gravenstein trees become affected, and tlie
twisting of the wood usiially commences early in the life of the trees. In
many instances, after a few years' growth, the stem is so extensively cor-
rugated, and the sap flow so seriously interrupted, that the whole super-
structure collapses for Avant of plant nutriment. When the main arms
or sub-leaders only are affected, the stem being healthy, the case is not
so serious, because corrugations of the virulent form can bring about
the destruction of individual branches only. Scientific pruning will
often obviate the production of those undesirable sections or replace
them by others of more befitting character.
Plate 178, Figs. 1 and 2 show specimens of three-year-old Graven-
stein wood, and the cross sections cut from the ends of each depict
the corrugations even more clearly than do the long sections. When
trees suffer from ordinary hardening or tightness of the bark, they are
said to be bark-bound. This impediment is often relieved by making
longitudinal incisions in the bark with a grafting knife or other suit-
able instrument, thus enabling the sap to become more active. Experi-
ments have proved, hoAvever, that this treatment of the gnarled wood,
instead of bringing about an improvement, rather exaggerates the
evil. The specimen illustrated in Fig. 2 (b) shows that the bark did
not respond to the incision in the depression, while it opened freely on the
swelled parts (a) and (c). This incision was made when the wood was
two years old, and the photograph was taken the following year.
11 Nov., 1918.
Apple C'uHure in Victoria.
649
Annually the corrugations or sectoral inequalities in the wood of
affected trees become more pronounced in consequence o£ the high and
increasing ratio of growth in the raised parts as compared with the
depression. When the stems become badly affected, they are contorted
into many shapes, but the most serious condition exists when the wood
becomes flattened. While in this state the trees are liable to break
down with the weight of their fruit, or they may have their stems
broken by the wind, or the tree may be blown down bodily.
The illustrations in Plate 179 will enable the reader to better
understand how this impediment m the Gravenstein wood develops.
These cross-sections were taken from the stem of a badly affected
Plate 178. — Sections of affected wood from a Gravenstein tree,
three years old.
fourteen-year-old tree. They were 10 inches apart, and the corruga-
tions irregular, as the illustrations shoAV. When the stems and branches
make nonnal growth, the annual rings of wood, when viewed in cross
sections, describe almost perfect circles. The wood of every sector of
each annual ring is of uniform development and equi-distant on the
medullary lines from the pith. Now compare the cross-sections in the
illustration with the formation described. The inner circle in Fig. 1
650
Journal of Agriculture,, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
Plate 179.— Cross-sections from a badly-afCected Gravenstein tree,
fourteen years old.
11 Nov., 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
651
circumscribes the wood formed during the fifth year of the tree's growth,
and (a) denotes the point at which the gnarl commenced when the
tree was three years old. The next circle shows the extent to which
development would have taken place under normal growth, and defines
the course of the gnarling during that time. The outer circle only shows
approximately the diameter of the stem, because the full action of the
Plate 180. — A limb from a badly-affected two-year old Gravenstein tree.
sap in any particular sector, while blocked in others, causes the forma-
tion of thicker layers of wood in that direction. Hence the diameter of
this circle is proportionately greater than it would be had natural
development taken place. The inner circle in Fig, 2 shows the dia-
meter reached by the wood rings of this section at the end of the
eighth year, and the indentations denote that the gnarling commenced
652 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Xov., 1918.
after the sixth year. The distance between the next circle and the outer
one represents the difference between the radius of the circle circum-
scribing this specimen and that enclosing Fig. 1.
In consequence of the sap ceasing to flow in the cambium of the
depressions, the bark of these portions, although becoming partly
devitalized from the time of infection, usually retains its natural
colour, but becomes coriaceous, and adheres firmly to the wood.
.Further experiment and observation will probably reveal the
cause of the discontinuance of sap circulation in the affected
cambium. With most diseases, a diagnosis is necessary before
a remedy can be obtained. In 'the case of the gnarl, however, the
fairly satisfactory remedial or preventive measures known at present to
exist can generally be adopted.
When trees become affected while young like that illustrated in
Plate 180, no time should be lost in removing and replacing them with
others propagated in such a manner as to render them less liable to be
attacked. In this specimen, photographed at two years old, (a) shows
the point where the bud was inserted in ithe l^orthern Spy stock, and
the portion of stem between (b) and (c) commenced to gnarl the first
year after the yearling whip-growth was planted. Owing to the violent
twisting in the wood, this tree would probably have been broken down
by the wind before reaching the age of six years.
Experiments and observation have shown that by careful bud and
scion selection, and by the employment of suitable stocks when propa-
gating trees, predisposition to unfruitfulness and ordinary variety
degeneration may to a great extent be corrected. Much success has
been achieved during recent years by working on these lines.
A considerably higher percentage of Gravenstein trees develop this
impediment when worked on Northern Spy in the ordinary way than
when grown on their own roots or on seedlings. Nevertheless, owing
to tlieir susceptibility to woolly aphis, these stocks cannot be recom-
mended for general use.
A more practical method of coping with the gnarl is to plant some
strong growing variety, such as Emperor Alexander, on Spy stocks, and
hard pruning for the first two or three years will insure the production
of trees of broad and substantial framework. Then the last yearling
growths may be budded over or top-grafted with Gravenstein to com-
plete the building of the trees. A. tree ^constructed in this manner,
the stem, main, and secondary arms constituting the intermediate stock
being immune from gnarl, offers a solid foundation to.ihe Gravenstein
superstructure, of which only individual branches could suffer by sub-
sequent attack. Then, to further reduce the possibility of perpetuat-
ing the twisting habit of the wood, only buds and scions of trees free
from gnarl should be employed.
Insect Pests and Fungus Diseases.
There is no phase in the general routine work of the orchardist's
business in which more knowledge of details is required and thorough-
ness of individual attention practised than in the case of sprays and
spraying. These remarks especially refer to apple-growing, on account
of the many insect pests and fungus diseases which infest apple trees
11 Nov., 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 653
and their fruit, because of the comparatively extensive area under cul-
tivation, the various classes of soils, and climatic conditions generally-
involved. Some seasons are more favorable to the development of
pests and diseases than others, and though the trees be assisted by
scientific pruning and good cultural treatment until they arrive at the
fruit-bearing age, profitable crops will not be harvested unless careful
spraying be practised. It is often necessary to spray trees for woolly
aphis, black spot, &c., even before the fruit-bearing stage is reached.
The orchardists now realize the advantages of spraying thoroughly,
and, notwithstanding the present high prices of spray materials, the
suppression of pests and diseases is being satisfactorily carried out.
The power-pump being a labour-saving appliance, as compared with
the one originally operated by hand, has proved a great boon to the
orchardists; it is also more efficient and economical than the old device.
Its greater efficiency consists in being capable of driving a powerful
agitator, which maintains the mixture in proper solution, and by pro-
ducing a fine mist or driving spray as occasion requires. Working
under these conditions, the operator is enabled to apply the spray where
required, and to use it economically. Power-pumps are now exclusively
employed in the larger orchards, while many are also used in the smaller
ones.
Insect Pests and their Treatment.
To cope successfully with orchard pests by the application of suit-
able spray mixtures at the right time and in an efficient manner, it is
essential that the orchardist should possess a fairly good knowledge of
the life history of the particular insects against which he has to contend.
A study of entomology sufficiently comprehensive to enable him to
thoroughly understand the different stages, and to know the times of
changes in the life cycles of these insects, would still better equip him
for the work of destroying them.
The officers of the Orchard Supervision Branch of the Department
of Agriculture, realizing the importance of maintaining a high standard
of efficiency in the different fruit-growing centres, have for many years,
by means of lectures, demonstrations, and by visiting the orchards, &c.,
done all that is possible under the circumstances to promote the study of
insect pests and their treatment. During the early days of orchard-pest
suppression, the life history and habits of these insects not being as well
known as now to the fruit-growers, they were advised to regard the pests
as belonging to two groups, and to treat them accordingly. One group
comprises the jaw-feeders, such as codlin moth, painted apple moth, &c.,
which were then destroyed by poisoning their food with paris green, for
which arsenate of lead has been substituted. The other group consists of
insects which live by suction, such as woolly aphis, red spider, &c., and
were destroyed by bringing some caustic material, such as kerosene
emulsion or tobacco wash, into contact with their bodies. This simple
method of grouping the insects has proved satisfactory, because it
contains the two basic principles which underlie the practice of spraying.
These principles will always hold good in the case of insects working in
the open, but they cannot be made to apply to such pests as the root
borer underground or the fruit fly in the larval stage operating in the
fruit.
654 Journal of AgriculUire, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
CoDLiN OR Codling Moth (Cydia (Carpocapsa) pomonella).
This pest was responsible for the destruction of such large quantities
of apples during the years just prior to 1904 that it was feared apple-
growing on commercial lines would have to be abandoned. Paris green
was the spray used then, and, from an average crop', 35 to 50 per cent,
of sound fruit was regarded as a fairly good return. With the
introduction of arsenite of lead, about 1906, the quantity of sound fruit
increased to fully 80 per cent. The use of arsenate of lead commenced in
1907, and the results obtained since then by the judicious use of this
mixture have been so highly satisfactory that, in many instances, 98
per cemt. of sound fruit has been harvested. Owing to the efficiency
of arsenate of lead, the bandages formerly employed to act as traps in
which to catch the grubs have been dispensed with, and the work of
destroying natural harbors, such as loose bark and crevices in the trees,
has ceased to be regarded as important in orchards that are kept
thoroughly sprayed.
Several brands of arsenate of lead were on the market a few years
ago, and, although analyses showed that they contained almost equal
quantities of poisonous matter, some were proved ito be more effectual
as insect destroyers than others, consequently only a few of the best
brands are oiow available. Provided the powdery residue or deposit
of two sprays remaining on the foliage and fruit after the air has dried
off the moisture be equally poisonous, the more adherent and cohesive
one will be the more efficacious as an insect destroyer. These properties
enable the powder, while maintaining the union of its own particles,
to stick to the tree, and, having once dried, it is not afterwards seriously
affected by rain. The powder thus retains its position on the tree for a
considerable time, and expands with the growth of the leaves or fruit,
as the case may be. The superiority of arsenate of lead over
arsenite is due to the deposit of the former being a powder as described,
while that of the latter is a thin film, which cracks and drops off as the
fruit expands, and is more easily washed away by rain.
In order to determine the times to apply the first and subsequent
sprays for the codlin moth, it is necessary to understand its life history,
and to know its methods of attacking the fruit. It hibernates in the
larval stage under loose bark or in other crevices in the tree, and occa-
sionally in the soil near the butt of the tree. A certain number pupate
in early spring, and emerge from the chrysalides as moths about the
time the petals of the flowers are falling. The females commence to lay
their eggs a few days later on the young fruit clusters, often before their
calyxes close, and on the leaves near them. We know that a certain,
sometimes a high, percentage of grubs enter the fruit through the calyx
end, therefore it is reasonable and logical to conclude that the best
time to apply the first spray is after the petals of the flowers have
fallen, but before the calyxes close. When the first spray is applied
at this time, the residue of the mixture adheres to the nectar remaining
in the nectary, and, when the sepals close up, the poisonous matter
practically lines the cavity of the calyx. ISTot alone are the first-hatched
grubs prevented in this way from entering the fruit, but, as arsenic
retains its effectiveness for a considerable time, subsequent attacks would
also be repulsed, with considerable loss to this enemy of the fruit-grower.
The illustrations in Plate 181 depict three stages of the young fruit
of the Duchess of Oldenburg variety after the fall of the petals. Pig. 1
11 Nov., 1918.]
Apple Culture in Victoria.
655
shows the condition of the flower when the first spray should be given.
In Fig. 2, the sepals have partly closed, and it would be practically im-
possible to spray, the calyxes of fruit having arrived at the condition
of Fig. 3.
The calyxes of some varieties, like the Kymer, illustrated in Plate
182. Fig. 1 (a), remain partly open during the development of the fruit,
and, in spraying these, a certain amount of the poisonous matter is
admitted. But a deep and tightly closed calyx, like that of the Moss'
Incomparable, (b), excludes the spray. Fig. 2, (a) and (b), shows the
Moss' Incomparable cut in halves, and the arrows point to the arsenical
deposit in the calyx. The colouring has been intensified so that it might
show clearly in the illustration.
Arsenate of lead at the rate of 4 lbs. to 100 gallons water makes an
effective spray. When a nozzle of the Cyclone type is employed, and
Plate 181.-
-Three stages of the young fruit of the Duchess de
Oldenbury variety.
fairly high pressure attained, the desirable misty spray is produced.
The tree may be sprayed all over, but the nozzle should be directed
particularly towards the fruit clusters. Spraying should continue until
all the fruit has been covered with spray, and discontinued before drip-
ping commences. When dripping occurs, most of the heavier matter
which forms the residual poisonous deposit is lost. The second spray
may be applied about three weeks later, and further applications as
occasion requires. Careful observation will reveal the extent of egg-
laying, and this should be made the chief factor in determining the time
for the later sprays. The eggs are laid on the fruit and on the leaves
around it, and the young grubs hatch out in from seven to ten days,
according to the weather conditions. The egg is about the size of a small
pin's head, flat, and of a silvery-white colour. It becomes somewhat
conical as the young grub develops, but assumes a rather convex shape
when the larva escapes from under the shell. The illustration, Fig. 1, (c),
656
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 iSTov., 1918.
is a photograph of a fertile egg on an apple, and is magnified to approxi-
mately thirty times its natural size. Extra vigilance is needed betweeoi
the middle of January and the middle of February, because experience
has taught that during that time large numbers of eggs are laid on the
fruit, and a spray j^romptly applied prevents a violent attack by the
grubs. This spray, besides saving the fruit, destroys many grubs that
would otherwise hibernate to the following spring.
Plate 182.-
-Fig. 1. Samples of Rymer and Moss's Incomparable.
Fig. 2. Halves of a Moss's Incomparable, showing arsenical
deposit in the calyx.
A very minute quantity of poison is sufficient to destroy the young
grub, which, on hatching out, frequently crawls to some sheltered part,
and thence enters the fruit. The calyx is often selected as an ingress to
the apple, and when the first spray is given as recommended, entry
by this channel is prevented. Then, when judiciously applied, the
deposits from the second and subsequent sprays cover the clean surface
areas created by the expanding fruit, and protect it from being attacked
by the later broods.
11 Nov., 1918.] Apple Culture in Victoria. 657
Light-Brown Apple Moth (Caraecia postvittana).
The habits of this insect are somewhat similar to those of the codlin
moth, therefore, by spraying as recommended for the latter, the former
will also be effectually dealt with.
Painted Apple Moth {Tela anartoides).
This pretty little moth, the hairy caterpillars of which often do
considerable harm to the foliage of apple trees, is well. known to the
orchardists. In consequence of the gregarious habit of these insects,
individual trees are usually selected for attack, and the epidermis of the
leaves is quickly eaten off, the skeletons being left intact. The insects
rarely do much damage during the time of spraying for the codlin moth,
but later in the season, when this ceases, the pest becomes more virulent.
An application of the arsenate of lead at the rate of 1 lb. to 30 gallons
of water when the young caterpillars are noticed will be found efficacious.
PiNARA Moth of the Apple {Pinara nana).
The larvae of these insects, which are not very .numerous, feed on the
leaves and buds at night. During the day the caterpillars are difficult
to detect, owing to the colouring of their bodies being almost similar
to that of the bark to which they attach themselves. Instead of eating
only the epidei*mis like the painted apple moth, the pinara grubs devour
the whole leaf, but only minor damage is done if the codlin moth sprays
be regularly applied.
Apple Root Borer (Leptops Jiopei).
This insect, which is indigenous to Australia, is one of the most
■easily recognised, formidable, and destructive of the pests against which
the fruit-growers have to contend. In badly infested areas, large num-
bers of the beetles emerge from the ground during early spring, and
the females commence to lay their eggs in the leaves. As the young
grubs hatch out they fall to the ground, and find their way to the roots.
into which they tunnel, thus injuring the bark, and interrupting the
natural flow of the sap. The branches of trees affected in this way
commence to die from the top downwards, and this condition is gene-
rally kno^nl as the " die-back." The presence of the borer is further
evidenced by the production of sucker growths near the base of the
leaders. When a diseased branch system is cut hard back with a view
to re-establishing and invigorating it, healthy growth is usually
obtained, but tlie tips of the young leaders commence to die back again
after about five years of healthy growth. Trees in this condition are
also unsuitable as stocks; the grafts may do well for a time, but they
also become affected after a few years. Little success has attended
attempts made to destroy the grubs on the roots by the use of bi-sulphide
of carbon. However, as the beetles eat the leaves, good results have been
obtained by spraying the trees with arsenate of lead, and great numbers
have been collected from the trees and caught by means of traps.
(To he continued.)
658 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
AMERICAN AGRICULTURE.
Address Delivered at Horsham by Mr. A. E. V. Richardson,
Agricultural Superintendent.
(From the Horsham, Times.)
A social smoke niglit was held on Friday evening at the Masonic
Hall under the auspices of the Horsham Agricultural Society, when
nearly 200 representative men of the Wimmera assembled. Mr. P.
Learmonth, president of the society, occupied the chair. Amongst the
guests were Mr. F. G. Clarke, M.L.C., Minister for Lands; Mr. D. S.
Oman, M.L.A., Minister for Agriculture; Mr. Arthur S. Rodgers,
M.H.R. ; Mr. James Menzies, M.L.A. ; Mr. Mclver, Chairman of the
Closer Settlement Board; Mr. J. Weldon Power, Victorian Wheat Pool;
Mr. A. E. V. Richardson, Superintendent of Agriculture; and Mr. J.
F. Guthrie, Geelong manager for Dalgety and Co. Ltd.
After the loyal toasts had been honoured, the president said they had
gathered that evening to listen to some very important statements by
the Ministers for Lands and Agriculture, both of whom had visited the
Horsham show with the view of obtaining first-hand knowledge of
conditions prevailing in the Wimmera. They would also be favoured
by the Victorian Superintendent of Agriculture with his impressions of
the United States of America and the lessons suitable to Australian
agriculture which he had gained on his travels. He would not trench
upon Mr. Richardson's time by any further words of introduction of one
who was so well and favorably known amongst farmers.
Mr. Richardson's Address.
Mr, A. E. V. Richardson, Superintendent of Agriculture for Vic-
toria, said he was pleased to have the honour of meeting so many
gentlemen interested in agriculture, and would be glad to give them
some of his impressions of the United States of America.
War Efforts of the Americans.
On his visit to the greatest democracy of the world he had been greatly
impressed with their wonderful preparations to make the world safe for
democracy ; in the stupendous efforts they were making for providing for
men, munitions, and equipment, building of ships, production, and con-
serving and sending of food to the Allies. During the past fifteen months
America had sent 1,750,000 of soldiers of the very best picked men from
twenty-one to thirty-one years of age. She is arranging to send
4,000,000 by next spring, and is prepared to send 10,000,000 more to
bring this war to a close. Under the direction of Mr. Schwab, who gave
up a salary of 200,000 dollars to work for one dollar per annum for the
nation, stupendous efforts are being made to build ships. The ship-
building programme contemplated the production of five ships of 5,000
tons each a day; or one ship every five hours. By the 1st January
next America will be building at the rate of 8,000,000 tons of shipping
per annum. That is " going some." Then, as far as the food conserva-
tion is concerned, the whole nation went on a voluntary rationing basis.
11 Nov., 1918] American AginciiUure. 659
He saw no wheat bread during his visit. The loaf was composed
mainly of substitutes, such as maize, barley, and rice. Through this
voluntary rationing, Mr. Hoover, the food controller, was able to send
90,000,000 bushels of wheat in a very critical time to the Allies. Their
sacrifices enabled them to provide a large surplus for exportation. A
Bill was passed for the appropriation of £15,000,000 a day for war
service expenditure. In the matter of money, munitions, food, men, and
ships they are doing all that the Allies expected them to do, and a great
deal more. Ho one could fail to be impressed with the capacity of the
American people, their enthusiasm for the war, and their faith in their
country. After spending six months over in America he was satisfied
that we have a wonderful country in Australia. He had spoken at a
great many public meetings in the United States, and found that most
of the people had never given Australia much thought. The prevailing
notion was that it was an island in the Southern Pacific, with an
uncertain rainfall and very frequently suffering from drought. He had,
however, travelled through the United States when there was a drought.
Texas had suffered from a prolonged drought, the Rocky Mountain
States had experienced practically a crop failure, and the Govern-
ment had agreed to provide monetary assistance to farmers in these
States. But they did not advertise their droughts in the United States.
Similarly in Southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, the southern prairie
provinces in Canada, they were suffering from a drought similar to the
Victorian drought of 1914. When he asked the Canadians why he had
seen no reference to it in the papers they said they got 2,600 settlers
crossing the border every month from the United States with their
household goods, farming equipment, and capital, and they did not want
to cut off that precious system of immigration by crying stinking fish.
It would be well for us if faith in the resources of our country were
as strong.
CoMPAKISOISr WITH AuSTEALIA.
With respect to this small island in the Southern Pacific, he
had been able to explain to them that it was big enough to accommodate
forty-eight States of the Union, and leave a strip all round the entire
continent sufficiently wide to drive a Ford car. An interesting feature
for comparison is the population. The whole of our population could
be accommodated in one of their cities. While their's numbers
110,000,000, our population is no more than two-thirds of that of the
city of New York. The result of this was that the American farmer
enjoyed a good home market. Consequently the level of prices was
higher there than in Australia, and there was a ready sale for every-
thing raised by the fai^mers. The centre of their country was remark-
ably rich, and some of it not unlike the soil of the Horsham plains, but
the rainfall came in the summer time, and consequently they grew maize
instead of wheat. One-third of the country possessed a rainfall of from
30 to 60 inches; another third 15 up to 30; and the arid regions from
0 to 15 inches per annum. There was a great contrast between central
Australia and central America; the latter was watered by the great
lakes and the Mississippi and Missouri river systems, and possessed a
good rainfall, populous cities, and thriving agriculture. One great
advantage we had in Australia was climatic. Practically the whole
region corresponding to our agricultural country was frozen over in
660
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. \U Tn^ov., 1918.
11 Nov., 1918] American Agriculture. 661
winter time, and the temperature ranged from 10 to 30 degrees below
freezing point. For four months in the year they have to house their
stock, but this had compelled them to feed their stock, and they had
consequently developed a system of feeding stock which had proved
highly profitable. The most prosperous rural eommunities in the States
were those which devoted the largest share of attention to live-stock
farming. America maintained 45,000,000 sheep, 60,000,000 cattle, and
68,000,000 pigs on the same area as Australia. Unkind nature had com-
pelled them to conserve fodder for winter feeding, and an American
farmer always kept on hand one or one and a half years' supply.
Transportation.
With respect to transportation, facilities in the United States were
very strongly developed. A place like Horsham would have three or
four railways catering for its traffic, and the efficiency of the railway
systems was high; but railways could not do everything; therefore the
road system was as important as the railway system. The country
system of road-making had proved a failure, because money borrowed
to build roads was wasted unless money were provided for their main-
tenance. The Federal Government of America has appropriated
85,000,000 dollars, to be supplemented by an equal amount by the
States, to be expended over a period of five years. The State and
Federal Governments co-operate in the building of the roads, and the
State Government has to create a State highway commission, under
whose control the main roads of the State are centred, in order to
secure the benefit of Federal appropriation. Another feature of tbieir
transportation is bulk handling. East of the Rocky Mountains wheat
is handled in bulk, west of the ranges in bags similar to the Australian
method. The great advantages of bulk handling were saving of bags,
saving in labour, saving in time, and it permits proper grading and
cleaning of the grain and brings the careful farmer a substantial pre-
mium. Elevators were built at an approximate cost of 2s. a bushel for
terminal elevators and Is. a bushel for country elevators; while storage
charges were very reasonable. Generally speaking, the elevators were
filled three or four times during the year. An interesting feature was
the size of the farmsteads. In the eastern States they averaged 80
acres, in the middle west 160 acres, and in the west 240 to 320 acres,
averaging smaller holding than in Victoria. The State of Iowa, two-
thirds of the size of Victoria, grew 324,000,000 bushels of maize, and
maintained last year 10,000,000 pigs and 3,000,000 dairy cows; while
the diversification of their agriculture was marked.
Diversified Agriculture.
Here in Australia we follow a one-crop system. "Wheat is our main
crop, and if anything goes wrong with our wheat production the financial
system of the country is interfered with; but in America wheat, oats,
barley, and sugar are all staple crops, and it is not a one-crop country.
They grow 3,0"00,000,000 bushels of maize and 1,000,000,000 bushels of
oats, 80 per cent, of which is fed to stock and 800,000,000 bushels of
wheat, and have 2,000,000 acres in flax. We in Australia import annually
£500,000 worth of flax products, all of which can be raised in Victoria.
Sugar to the amount of 800,000 tons is made from beet, millions of acres
are laid down in lucerne, and millions of tons of lucerne hay are made.
662
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Xov., 1918.
Sugar beet was introduced by tbe Mormons, who transported all the
material of tbeir sugar factories on ox waggons, over 1,000 miles, from
St. Louis, some 70 years ago, to Salt Lake City. In the State of Utali
they say three things conquered the desert — Brigham Young, irrigated
sugar beet, and lucerne. America was neither a one-crop country
nor a one-stock country, because the Americans had developed
all types of stock, and now own 60,000,000 head of cattle,
68,000,000 pigs, and 45,000,000 sheep. It has extensive irrigation
schemes that has made the desert bloom like the rose. There are over
4,500,000 acres under irrigation. A word or two about the live-stock
G-eneseo Belle Polkadot.
A Holstein giving 20,816 lbs. of milk, and 732.9 lbs. butter fat; half-sister
to the world's record milk cow, Tilly Alcarta. (State Agricultural College,
Iowa. )
industry. Wherever you get a country where most of the feed is rough-
age grass or hay you find sheep predominant and grazing cattle. The
United States produce far more grain in proportion to roughage than
Australia; therefore pigs and dairy cattle predominate. Barley is the
crop that struck him as being able to stand in the same relation to the
stock industry as maize in America. They have a curious system of
selling stock by live weight. They have commission agents represent-
ing farmers and buyers representing the big packing plants. As soon as
a sale is made the stock are run over a weighbridge and sold on live
weight. The advantage is that the farmer knows exactly how much
maize and how much lucerne hay or other foodstuffs is necessary
to produce a pound of pork or beef, and he further knows
by the price of maize whether it will pay him to sell his
maize as maize or feed it to pigs and sell it as pork. There
are no local slaughter-houses, all the stock being slaughtered at
11 Nov., 1918] American Agriculture. 663
the big primary markets. xVll the sheep, cattle, and pigs are brought
into these central slaughter-places and sent back in refrigerating cars.
The great advantage is that the packing companies are able to sell
carcasses of cattle for actually less than they pay to the fai'mers for
them ; this is because of the high value of the by-products. They make
£5 a head out of the by-products of all the cattle slaughtered in Chicago.
With respect to the breeds of cattle, he had found that in the United
States they had special types of cattle for special purposes. For beef
they bred the Shorthorn, Hereford, and Aberdeen Angas. When trans-
ported long distances the law required that they should be provided
with water, and cattle and sheep fed with hay, and pigs with maize.
Stock in America used to be sent to market at three, four, or five years;
but they now find it more profitable to get them to a marketable stage
at two years of age. Wherever you go you find Holstein cows. They
are milk factories. The standard ration for a 1,000-lb. cow is 35 lbs.
ensilage and 15 lbs. of hay, but no cow could keep up a yield of 5 gallons
a day, no matter how much silage and hay she got, because of the bulky
nature of the forage. Therefore the practice is for any cow that gives
over 2 gallons of milk a day to receive 1 lb. of concentrate (bran gluten,
or cotton seed meal, or brewer's grains) for every ^ gallon of milk.
Other types are the Jersey, Guernsey, and Ayrshire. With regard to
pigs, there are two classes — the Duroc-Jersey and Poland China — which
produce the largest quantity of fat, and are known as lard hogs. Less
common are the Berkshire, the Yorkshire, and Tamworth, which are
used for bacon purposes. Our American cousins know how to produce
cheap pork. They regard a pig as essentially a grazing animal that
will make the most economic gain when he is given good pasture, such
as clover or lucerne and grain. They believe in feeding him, and the
pig is allowed to take as much grain and tankage, or meal scrap, which
is a by-product of the meat factory, as he will eat. The feed is placed
in an automatic feeder, similar in principle to those used in poultry
runs. The American says he can trust the pig's appetite. He won't
gorge himself if he is placed in a rape or lucerne paddock and supplied
with a self-feeder containing maize and tankage. Tankage and grain
(maize or barley) is the most economical diet, especially if used
as supplementary to lucerne grazing, and results in production of pork
at a minimum cost. During the early stages the pig is allowed plenty
of exercise and pasture. The low temperature in winter and the un-
certainty of the rains in summer in the western plains make wheat
growing more hazardous than in Australia. American farmers did not
give him the impression of cultivating their land as wellas the average
Wimmera farmer. They plough deeply, but the soil is of a different
character from that of the Wimmera plains. They are, however, very
systematic in their crop rotation. Grain sorghum, one of the best
drought-resisting crops, of which millions of acres are sown annually
in the United States of America, is cultivated in large areas.
As a result of 152 experiments conducted by the United States Ofiicer
on Irrigation Investigation, it had been found that in the western
States of America 15 to 20 inches of irrigation water, in addition to an
average rainfall of 10 inches, was necessary to get profitable crops of
sugar beet. In the Maffra district, of Victoria, where the infant sugar
beet industry is being developed, the rainfall is too uncertain to make
664
'Journal of AgriciiHi(re, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
profitable sugar beet pro-
duction every year. Dur-
ing a period of twenty-five
years, the record showed
that there were eight sea-
sons when the rainfall dur-
ing the growing period of
the crop was between 6 and
8 inches, and that only in
ten seasons out of 25 were
the conditions good enough
to insure profitable crops.
This indicates the necessity
for supplementing the rain-
fall with irrigation ; and
irrigation promises to place
the Maffra area on a sound
agricultural basis.
He had been very much
impressed with the value of
barley for a district such as
this. We could get two
bushels of Cape barley in
an average season for every
bushel of wheat; it being a
hetter drought resister than
wheat. Some varieties of
barley would not stand up
well, and we have not yet
learned as much about its
cultivation as about that of
wheat; nor have we learned
the best method of using it
for stock feeding or graz-
ing for either cattle or
sheep. It makes excel-
lent ensilage, and if grown
for such purpose would
yield from 40 to 50 bushels
in a good season. We have
reached 80 bushels on
Longerenong plots on two
occasions during the last
six years. Barley would
enable us to bring about a
diversified system of agri-
culture. We would have
to get away from our one-
crop system, diversify our
agriculture, and develop
our live-stock interests if we
were to aim at fully utiliz-
ing our agricultural re-
sources.
11 Nov.. 1918 1 American Agriculture.. 665
Agricultural Education.
The people of tlie United States regard educational efficiency as an
essential safeguard to democracy, and hold the view that an efficient
system of agricultural education is an absolute necessity for national
progress. The Federal Government and State Governments spend
enormous sums on agricultural education because it is recognised that
the money spent is returned many times over in increased prosperity.
They are a businesslike and practical people, and have the reputation
of requiring a dollar's worth for every dollar expended. The national
bill for agricultural education in the United States, for investigation
and agricultural extension work, exceeded £12,000,000. Canada is alsov
devoting large sums to agricultural education. The Dominion Govern-
ment expends a million pounds a year on a Federal Department of
Agriculture, and under the Agricultural Instruction Act a sum of
£225,000 a year is provided towards defraying the cost of agricultural
education in the Provinces. Development is the central thought in
educational activity, and the development of American agriculture tO'
its highest possible limit, both as a business and as a mode of life, is
the purpose for which the agricultural institutions were founded and
supported by the people.
It has been said that the added wealth of the State of Wisconsin each
year, as a result of the Agricultural Experiment Station work, is many
times the whole appropriation made by Wisconsin for agricultural
education. Of the seven tests widely used in dairying, six originated
at the Wisconsin Station. The Babcock Fat Test, invented in 1890 by
Dr. Babcock, furnished a simple means of paying for milk on the basis
of quality and detecting fraud. The greatest service of the Babcock
Fat Test is that it makes possible the improvement of dairy cows by
eliminating the unprofitable animals, and gives a scientifically accurate
foundation for dairying. In addition to the Babcock Test, the Wisconsin
Curd Test, the Sediment, Moisture, and Acid Tests are in general use.
The work of the Wisconsin Dairy School has enabled Wisconsin to gain
first rank among the States in the production of butter and cheese. Since
the dairy school was established, the value of the Wisconsin dairy pro-
ducts has increased from 4,250,000 to 16,000,000 pounds a year. More-
over, the su'bstitution of improved pedigree seed of oats, maize, and
barley, evolved at the experiment station, in place of scrub varieties,
has added millions a year to the cereal yields of Wisconsin. Wisconsin,
which is two-thirds of the size of Victoria, now produces 100,000,000
bushels of oats, 70,000,000 bushels of maize, and 23,000,000 bushels of
barley, besides being the leading dairy State of the Union. Each experi-
ment station receives an annual appropriation of £6,000 from the
Federal Government, and this is supplemented by State expenditures to
the extent of £10,000 a year.
The most significant development in agricultural education during
recent years is the growth of the extension of publicity work. The
experiment stations and colleges during the past twenty-five years have
accumulated a mass of exact agricultural information which, if it could
be applied in practice on farms of the country, would immeasurably
increast^ the agricultural output. Consequently an organization has been
created for reaching the last farm and the last farmer. One form of
666
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
extension work is tlie development of the county agent scheme. In the
majority of the 3,000 counties of the States county agents have been
installed. These are highly qualified agriculturists. Their offices,
located at the county seat, acts as a clearing house for the dissemination
of agricultural information among the farming community. The main
problem of the county agent is to reach and give service to the largest
possible number of persons in his county, and to bring about the greatest
possible increase in agricultural efficiency. The less progressive a
farmer is the less he troubles to find out what his neighbours are doing.
Consequently the great aim in any scheme of extension work is to reach
out and get in touch with those who secure but average to poor yields of
crops, and who keep average to, inferior animals, for these are the
sections of the farming community who bear down the average yields
Berkshire Boar, ' ' Epochal. ' '
Four of Epochal's progeny were sold for 10,000 dollars each. A world's record.
of the State. The big work of the county agent is to help the com-
munity to discover itself, to encourage the many to follow the example
of the few, and to introduce new methods, new crops, and new industries.
Agricultural education was a vital necessity for the forward develop-
ment of our agriculture. States which were comparable with Victoria
in size, population, climate, rainfall, and resources were spending five
to ten times as much as we were in agricultural education.
Thus, of all States in the Union, Kansas, perhaps, more closely
resembled Victoria in stage of development and resources. Kansas and
Victoria were the same size, had the same population and rainfall.
N^orth-western Kansas had a rainfall of 8 to 10 inches ; Eastern Kansas
a rainfall of 40 inches. Yet Kansas produced in 1915 180,000,000
bushels of wheat, 170,000,000 bushels of maize, 43,000,000 bushels of
oats, 4,000,000 tons of hay, and maintained 3,000,000 pigs and
11 Nov., 1918]
American Agriculture.
667
4,000,000 cattle. Victoria, in the same year — the best in her agricul-
tural history— produced 58,000,000 bushels of wheat, 1,000,000 bushels
of maize, and 8,000,000 bushels of oats. Her production compared with
Kansas was trifling, and yet Kansas, thirty years ago, was regarded as
beyond the safe limit of cultivation. It was related that, ^ years ago,
prairie waggons used to start from the east coast with a legend " Kansas
or Bust " painted on the side. On the return journey the waggons were
content to put the simple slogan " Busted " on their sides.
Kansas now had over 2,000 students attending her Agricultural
College. The total number at present in Victorian colleges was less
Method of Irrigating Sugar Beets in Colorado.
than 100. Kansas spent £200,000 on her agricultural college last year,
while the total expenditure on agricultural education on the colleges in
Victoria was less than £20,000,
Agricultural Education a Matter of Public Concern.
If the development of agriculture were merely the concern of the
farmers, we might leave them to provide for it themselves, or let matters
rest as they are. But in the final analysis the development of agriculture
is a public question. Our expenditure on the war has already assumed
large and oppressive dimensions. The interest on the increasing loans
will have to be met, and the loan must ultimately be redeemed. We must
668
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
look to increased production from the "soil to meet these burdens. Every
day in the year the farmers of Victoria produce £100,000, or
£40,000,000 per annum. Every bushel an acre added to Victoria's wheat
yields means half-a-million extra income. Every disease, insect, and
fungus we. learn to control saves enormous wealth to the country. Every
contribution to our knowledge of stock feeding, stock management, and
dairying is of direct benefit to the whole community. Hence money
wisely spent on agricultural development is money invested which will
ultimately return a high rate of interest. The amount now spent on
agricultural development is trifling in comparison with the total value
of our agricultural production. History shows that great countries have
always developed their educational institutions in times of adversity.
The American College of Agriculture and the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculturo wore born in the midst of the civil war. When
Irrigating Vegetables for Canning in Southern California.
Schleswig-Holstein was torn from Denmark she sought refuge in agri-
culture. France, after the Franco-Prussian war, developed her educa-
tional systems, and with what result we see to-day.
A long-range policy for agricultural education is required. A long
time is required to realize upon educational work, and continuity of
effort is essential. We therefore need a bold policy which will look
beyond the immediate present and map out the requirements of the
State for the next ten years and make provision for its steady accom-
plishment. (Applause.)
At the conclusion of the prolonged applause which followed his
address, Mr. Eichardson, by means of lantern slide pictures on a screen,
forced home some of the many points in his lecture; giving ocular cor-
roboration of his remarkable statements.
11 :N'ov., 1918.] The Rearing of Ducks. 669
THE REARING OF DUCKS.
By A. Hart, Chief PouUry Expert.
Ducks for Export.
The excellent results obtained in the past from tlie trial shipments
of ducklings sent to Great Britain from Victoria have proved satis-
factory to all parties interested in the export trade. It certainly has
been very encouraging to breeders, and there appears every indication of
a very valuable and extensive business being established in the export
of ducklings and poultry to the London market, provided that the birds
sent are suitable to the requirements of the trade. This point, coupled
with the fact that trial shipments are looked upon by the London dealers
with a certain amount of suspicion, indicates that payable prices will
be obtained when a suitable market is expei'ienced and shipments of
ducklings are regularly made. There is an almost unlimited demand for
both ducklings and chickens in Great Britain, and the enormous quantity
of poultry consumed there every year should certainly be, to a certain
extent, supplied by this and our neighbouring States.
The main requisites towards a successful export trade from Victoria
to Great Britain are as follow: —
1. The breeding of birds which will command the highest value in
the London market.
2. The rearing and fattening of the birds at as early an age as
possible.
3. The killing, grading, and packing to be performed with great care,
so as to insure the poultry being landed in good condition and presenting
a good appearance, and therefore likely to prove satisfactory to the
■consumer.
4. Selecting the proper seasons for shipment of both ducklings and
chickens.
5. A proper supervision at the receiving depot, and the appointnient
of direct agents, who will give the industry their undivided attention,
and thereby minimize the cost of handling and placing on the market.
Any industry that is to be successful has to be established on a sound
basis, and to grow and develop with time and experience. There are,
however, very encouraging prospects offered in the export trade of
ducklings, and breeders have the final result practically in their own
hands. If they begin on correct .lines and produce birds which are of
the requisite quality and condition, it is quite probable that this industry
may assume very large proportions in the near future.
Hints to Beginners.
To obtain the best results in breeding for market it is necessary to
start with pure-bred stock, and for the breeder to set eggs from his own
birds.
Aylesbury drake with Pekin ducks makes a suitable cross for export.
Allow three or four ducks to each drake. This cross matures quickly,
and grows to a large size, with flesh of good flavour, colour, and texture.
Use first season drakes with second season ducks.
See that breeding ducks are comfortably housed in cold Aveather,
so as to keep up the egg supply. A ground floor is the best for ducks.
It should be of clay, well rammed down, and raised a few inches above
the level of the ground.
670
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Xov., 1918.
All ducks should be bedded down with straw, pine needles, shavings,
&c., in the laying season, so as to keep the eggs clean.
Young Aylesbury Duck. Weight, 9 lbs.
A variety of food should be given to the drakes during the breeding
season, as a vigorous condition is necessary to fertilize the eggs.
Breeding pens of ducks should be kept strictly to themselves.
11 I^ov., 1918.]
The Rearing of Ducks.
671
Access to water should be allowed occasionally to breeding ducks if
the best fertilizing results are to be obtained.
Ducks should not be allowed in the water when the weather is very
cold or frosty.
Young Pekin Duck. Weight, 8 lbs.
All duck eggs should be tested on the seventh day of incubation, and
the infertile eggs removed. Xight is the best time for examination.
Infertile eggs may be given to the young ducks.
672 JourvaJ of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
A cheap foster-motlier for young ducks can be made out of a kerosene
ease placed on the flait. Put a flat quart bottle filled with hot water in
the centre of the box. Cover it with brown papei", and then put saw-
dust, chaff, or straw over it. This will provide Avannth for the duck-
lings, but it should be used only where small numbers are being reared,
or where proper brooders cannot be obtained. Young ducks do not .
require quite as much heat as chickens, and can do without mother or
brooder when about four or five weeks old.
Incubators that allow of plenty of moisture to the eggs are the most
suitable machines for hatching duck eggs.
The best green stuff to grow for ducks is maize, which should be cut
young. Silver-beet, thousand-headed kale, lucerne, rape, and all other
green food should all be chaffed and mixed with the soft food.
To start young ducks, and also young ones after moulting, to lay,
use maize meal with a little green cut bone for the winter months in their
morning meal.
The best food for old ducks is two parts pollard, one bran, one
lucerne, and chaff. The chaff should be scalded and steamed in a
covered vessel. All food should be given fairly soft, and fed in " V "-
shaped troughs, with bars over the top so that the birds cannot get
into the troughs and spoil the feed. Care should be taken to mix the
food thoroughly, and to ,see that none is left, as it may become sour
and cause diarrhoea.
If meat soup is available, it should be used to moisten the food.
Animal food is, of course, a great aid to egg production, and ducks can
assimilate a larger percentage of meat food than fowls. All animal food
should be given in a cooked form, and the quantity regulated according
to the discretion of the attendant.
If young ducks are desired to mature quickly, the best food is pollard,
barley meal, bran, rendered fat, and skim milk. Nothing will mature
them quicker than milk. All meal should be scalded, and drinking
water given occasionally. Grive them a little bone meal twice a week
in their morning food. It will promote growth and also prevent leg
weakness.
All grit should be given to ducks in water, using a shallow dish so
that they cannot get their eyes under the water. Grit masticates the
food, and increases condition and also Qgg supply.
Ducks require water to wash in, so as to keep them clean. If the
soft food is allowed to clog about their eyes, it gives them an unsightly
appearance, and renders them more liable to ailments of the head and
eyes.
Young ducklings should not be allowed free access to water until they
are, at least, four or five Aveeks old. Water in a trough with bars over
it should be provided, having the trough a sufficient depth, so that they
can wash their heads and faces.
Ducklings for market should not, however, be allowed in Avater. All
young ducklings, when being fattened for market, should be penned as
even in size as possible, otherwise the smaller ones will not get as much
food as the larger, and their size and growth will be retarded. Lots of
25, or less, should be placed in each pen.
Cottage holders should make the nests on the ground when using hens
to incubate duck eggs.
11 Nov., 1918.] The Rearing of Duels. 673
Thermometers should be tested every season, as they are very liable to
get out of order.
The best age at which to market ducklings is from nine to eleven
weeks, and while they are in their first feather.
Farmers, in sending birds to market, should grade them as near to
age, weight, and condition as possible. Condition and uniformity in
size Tvill always top the market, either in London or locally.
The best months for matured ducks in our local markets are June,
July, and August.
The best months for shipping ducklings from Melbourne to the
London market are November, December, and January.
Indian Runners and Muscovy Ducks.
The breed of ducks known as Indian Runners is now bred in two
colours — ^faAvn and whites. As layers they have no equal, being easily
the best egg-producers of the duck family. They are also hardy and
easily reared, and, although the quantity of flesh on them is not nearly
equal to that on the larger breeds, a well-fattened runner drake is very
fine eating. The fawn runners are the better known, and for this reason
are kept in greater numbers than the "whites. The latter are, however,
very productive layers, and the colour of the skin is somewhat lighter
than the fawn, making the dressed birds more attractive to the eye.
In Indian Runners, as in many other breeds, the type has been
slightly altered through breeders paying too much attention to exhibi-
tion points and neglecting the utility side. But there are still many
flocks of runners, which, although tbey could not score in the show
pen, have retained their egg^producing qualities, combined with fairly
good table properties. For this reason, I would recommend that this
type be kept by the poultry farmer who relies on eggs as a source of
profit. In mating runners, from five to six ducks can be. allowed to each
drake. It is better to err on the safe side by reducing the number of
ducks to five or six, as suggested, as this not only means a bigger
percentage of ducklings, but is also an important factor in the production
of strong, vigorous, and healthy stock. Adult or second-year ducks may
be mated to young drakes.
Muscovy ducks, either reared pure or crossed with Pekins, Ayles-
burys, or Rouens have very deservedly acquired a reputation for table
purposes. They are also good sitters and careful mothers, qualities
which have made them favorites with many poultry keepers. Being
extremely hardy and easily reared, Muscovys are equally suitable for
the house where a few fowls are run, and for the poultry farm. They
grow and fatten very quickly. Being of a quiet nature, they do not
run about much or lose condition by excessive exercise. When fattened
and properly dressed, they are very attractive in appearance, and are in
every way good table birds. From five to six ducks may be mated with
one drake.
Money in Ducklings.
A couple of years since, one Melbourne firm alone exported 10,000
frozen ducks, and this number would probably have been ten times
greater if the quality of the birds sent in to market had been of the
16848.— 2
674 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
desired quality and condition. One point of much value to the pro-
ducer of ducklings and chickens is that all poultry for export are pur-
chased by weight, and this should induce breeders to feed their birds
lit-erally.
Ducklings are more profitable to breeders on a small scale than
chickens, as they are hardier, mature more quickly, and can be marketed
at little more than half the age. For this reason, the rearing of ducks
can be unhesitatingly recommended to those who desire to commence
poultry farming in a small way.
COPPER FUNGICIDES FOR VINE DISEASES.
By F. de Castella, Government Viticulttirist.
(Continued from page 599.)
Bordeaux Mixture — continued.
When operating on a large scale, instead of making up separately
each 50 gallons of spray mixture, as described in last issue (page 599),
it will be found much more convenient to prepare
Stock Solutions
of each of the spray ingredients, viz., copper sulphate (bluestone), lime,
and casein. In this way much valuable time can be saved, it being only
necessary, when making the final mixture, to take a measured quantity
of each stock solution to make up, say, 50 gallons of bulk, or sufficient
to charge a ti'^ction spray pump. A large vat capable of containing
several 50-gallon lots should prove very convenient. More than suffi-
cient for one day's spraying should not be mixed at one time, but it
is evident that a spray pump capable of treating 20 acres per day will
need about 1,000 gallons of spray mixture. If several hundred gallons
be mixed at once, much time will be saved ; it will, of course, be neces-
sary to thoroughly stir the bulk before each withdrawal.
Copper Sulphate Stock Solution. — Take 100 lbs. copper sulphate
and dissolve in water to make up 50 gallons; 5 gallons of this solution
will be required for each 50 gallons of spray mixture. Do not handle
in metal vessels.
In last issue, a 10 per cent, stock solution was mentioned (1 lb. to
1 gallon of water). Copper sulphate being fairly soluble, an even
stronger solution may be made, which will have the advantage of being
less bulky, and consequently more convenient to handle. Copper sul-
phate dissolves in four times in weight of cold water, hence it is quito
easy to prepare a 20 per cent, solution, or, more correctly, a solution
such that every gallon will contain 2 lbs. of the salt. The procedure
will be as follows: — (Take a 60-gallon hogshead from which one head
has been removed; place same on end. Tie 100 lbs. copper sulphate in
a hessian bag and suspend it, in the upper part of the cask, to a cross-
piece of wood, so that it will be just submerged on filling the cask witk
11 Nov., 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 675
water to the 50-gallon level. Solution takes place rapidly; as the crystals
dissolve the liquid bathing them becomes more dense and streams to the
bottom of the cask and is continually replaced by less concentrated and
consequently lighter liquid. Owing to the automatic circulation thus
set up, solution is complete in a few hours; after stirring, the cask will
wntain 50 gallons of stock solution, which will keep indefinitely, and of
which. 5 gallons will be required for each 50 gallons of Bordeaux
mixture.
Stock- Lime Milk. — Take 40 lbs. pure quicklime, make up to 17
gallons with water; one gallon of this milk will be required for each
50 gallons of spray mixture.
The specially selected lime packed in air-tight tins, now obtainable,
will be found very convenient for the preparation of a stock lime milk
of standard strength, such that a definite measured quantity will con-
tain a known weight of lime. It has been shown (p. 596) that 2:^ lbs.
pure quicklime is sufficient to bring about the first signs of alkalinity
in a solution containing 10 lbs. of copper sulphate. The following pro-
cedure will be found convenient : —
Take a tub of about 20 gallons capacity in which the l7-gallon* level
is marked with a peg. Tip the contents of a 40-lb. tin of lime into the
empty tub and slake in the ordinary way by sprinkling several times
with a little water. When thoroughly broken up make up to the 17-
gallon level with water; after stirring a few times a milk will be obtained
of such strength that one gallon will be the correct dose for 50 gallons
of Bordeaux. This milk should be prepared a day or two before use
and should be well stirred immediately before each withdrawal. When
using, dilute with about four times its bulk of water and pour into the
Bordeaux through a fine sieve to get rid of gritty particles; unless thus
diluted it will be found difficult to strain at the above concentration.
When making the Bordeaux, test occasionally with phenolphalein paper
to make sure that neutralization is complete; if the paper does not turn
pink add a litrle more lime milk. This is specially important when
casein is to be added; unless the Bordeaux be at least slightly alkaline
the casein solution would be curdled.
If commercially pure lime be not obtainable, a stock milk may yet
be made up with ordinary quicklime — the fresher the better — exactly
as described above. It will be found, however, that rather more than
one gallon of the resulting milk will be required for each 10 lbs. blue-
stone (50 gallons of Bordeaux),) how much more will depend on the
quality of the lime. When mixing the first 50 gallons of Bordeaux a
record should be kept of the quantity of lime milk needed to induce the
first signs of alkalinity (test paper turns pink). A similar quantity
will naturally be needed for each 50-gallon lot.
Casein Stock Solution. — Take 10 lbs. casein, dissolve with the aid of
either lime or washing soda and make up to 4 gallons with water. One
pint — a pannikin is a convenient measure — will suffice for each 50
gallons of spray. The solution may be made in two different ways.
(1) Mix the casein with about an equal bulk of dry slaked lime.
Take a small basin, fill about three parts full with water, tip the mix-
ture of lime and casein on to the surface of the water. If an ordinary
* strictly speaking it should be 175 gallons. Even the test lime usually contains about 5 per cent,
imparities : the reduction of the " milk " by J gallon will approximately compensate for this.
676 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 I^ov., 1918.
egg-beater be now immersed in the water it will be found on rotating
the handle that tbe lime and casein are entirely sucked into the water
with which they are immediately incorporated. The casein dissolves,
or rather forms an emulsion, after a while, but the greater part of the
lime merely remains in suspension.
(2) Incorporate the casein Avith the aid of an egg-beater, as pre-
viously described, in a 10 per cent, solution of soda carbonate at the
rate of 10 lbs. to 4 gallons. Some confusion exists in connexion mth
the term carbonate of soda, which is really the correct term for washing
soda, and not for baking soda, although the latter is sometimes sold in
grocers' shops under the name of carbonate. The correct term for bak-
ing soda is bicarbonate of soda.
The casein solution should be made up a day or two before use, and
well stirred before each withdrawal. If prepared by the second method
there may be a slight tendency to scorching of the foliage owing to
the presence of small quantities of carbonate of copper in the resulting
Bordeaux; on the other hand, it will tend to render this slightly more
active, inunediately after application, by increasing the immediatelv
available soluble copper.
Choice of Lime.
With the lime packed in air tight tins, previously referred to, no trouble
will be experienced, but with the lime usually obtainable from country
stores attention to certain points is necessary. The fresher the lime —
in other words, the more recently it has been burnt — the better. Fresh
lump or " roach " lime should only be used ; it should be quite free from
powder. Lime deteriorates rapidly on keeping, as was explained in last
issue (pp. 594) becoming first slaked and subsequently carbonated under
the action of water vapour and carbonic acid present in the air.*
If merely slaked little harm will result, it will only be necessary to use
somewhat more of it. The action of carbonic acid, however, is far more
undesirable. Carbonate of lime is of little use for neutralizing copper
sulphate, but the chief objection to lime which has become carbonated
is the presence of much copper carbonate in the resulting " Bordeaux,"
and the scorching of the foliage which frequently results therefrom.
Unfortunately both changes occur simultaneously, so that lime which has
been stored for a while invariably contains more or less of the undesir-
able carbonate. Analyses of lime kept in store hare shown that even
after two months' storage it may only contain 70 per cent, of pure lime,
whilst after eight months' storage the lime content may have fallen so
low as 48 per cent.f
Slaking of Lime and its Subsequent Preservation.
The importance of the proper slaking of lime is well known to
bricklayers and plasterers ; vine growers are less familiar with the sub-
ject, though it is of equal importance in connexion with the making of
Bordeaux mixture. If the lime milk be properly prepared less trouble
will be experienced in the way of spray nozzles clogging. It is in fact
largely owing to greater freedom from nozzle trouble that copper soda
owes its popularity.
* 100 lbs. of pure quicklime, after being slaked would weigh 135 lbs. ; when completely carbonated
its weight will have increased to 178 '6 lbs.
t Millardet and Gayon, 1888.
11 Nov., 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 677
To properly slake lime it should be sprinkled with a little water, but
not completely submerged, and left to itself for half an hour or so.
During this time it swells up considerably, cracks and crumbles, and
finally falls into powder, hissing, and giving off steam, owing to the heat
generated by the reaction. When thoroughly slaked the requisite quan-
tity of water should be added to make the stock milk or cream described
above.
The stock milk can with advantage be prepared sometime before
use ; if too fresh it contains numerous gritty particles usually known
as " core " ; this mainly consists of fragments of lime as yet unslaked.
It is well known by plasterers that freshly prepared " lime putty "
often " blows " after being spread on the walls, owing to the belated
slaking of particles of lime ; similar trouble does not occur if the putty
was prepared some time previously. Once made up, the lime milk will
keep in good condition, at any rate for a few days. It really consists
of lime-water containing an excess of lime in suspension; on resting,
the suspended lime falls to the bottom to form a sediment which is pro-
tected from the air by the supernatant lime-water. It is true this
becomes slightly carbonated on the surface, as is shown by the forma-
tion of a slight glassy film, but the deterioration on the whole is very
slow.
It is possible that the method of treating lime usually followed by
plasterers, may prove a very convenient way of handling lime in
order to have on hand a stock always ready for immediate use, and
which will keep in good condition and reasonably free from carbonate
for several weeks. ''Lime putty " is the name given by plasterers to a
stiff paste of about the consistency of butter, made by mixing freshly-
slaked lime with a sufficient quantity of water. It may vary a good deal
in composition; naturally, the stiffer it is the richer in lime. When of
the consistency usual in France, it is estimated to contain lime equiva-
lent to 20 to 25 per cent, of pure quicklime.* On this basis, the quantity
required for each 50-gallon lot of " Bordeaux " would be from 9 to 11-|
lbs. If lime putty were made up to a definite standard of consistency, a
measured quantity of it could be taken for each 50-gallon lot of spray
mixture. The quantity required could be easily detennined with the
aid of phenolphthalein test paper when making up the first lot. A large
garden trowel would be a convenient measure. For subsequent lots it
would only be necessary to take the requisite number of trowelfuls,
dilute it in a bucketful of water, and mix into the Bordeaux in the
usual way. It would be well to check occasionally, the commencement
of alkalinity, with phenolphthalein paper.
As lime putty appears to keep with very little change for scA^eral
weeks, a fair stock of it could be made up at one time.
Hydrated Lime.
This substance, which is none other than very carefully slaked lime,
is largely used in the United States in connexion with cement manu-
facture, and for other industrial purposes; it is also becoming popular
with plasterers in America.
" Hydrated lime is the powdered product formed by slaking
quicklime with the requisite amount of water. The material, as it
* Ravaz. Progres Agricole, 16th August, 1918 : — " As regards slaked lime in the form of thick
pastes, these contain from 75 to 80 per cent, of their weight of water.
678 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
comes into commerce, is a very finely divided white powder, and if
properly prepared contains no unhydrated particles of lime. For
tliis reason, it is preferable to common lime paste or putty for use
witli Portland cement, because, if properly manufactured, it is more
thoroughly slaked, and is easily handled and measured."*
It is claimed that, if properly prepared, it is very slowly carbonated on
exposure to air.
Though hydra ted lime does not appear to have as yet been used
for preparing Bordeaux mixture, it should prove very suitable for the
purpose, though the cost would, of course, be somewhat higher than
when using quicklime as previously described.
Admitting it to consist entirely of pure slaked lime or calcium
hydroxide (Ca H2O2) with no surplus water, 135 lbs. would be equiva-
lent to 100 lbs. of pure quicklime; in other words, in order to obtain a
'' Bordeaux " just barely alkaline, instead of taking 2^ lbs. to neutralize
10 lbs. of bluestone, 3.04 lbs. would be required. This could easily be
measured instead of being weighed.
Being in a quite impalpable powder, it could be directly mixed in
to the 50 gallons of copper sulphate solution, to which it should he
added in small quantities at a time with very thorough stirring. It
might also be mixed in a bucketful or so of water to form a milk, to
be used as previously indicated.
A sample of hydrated lime, manufactured by a Sydney firm, was
recently brought under the notice of the writer which appeared to be
very suitable for the making of Bordeaux mixture. It is a matter for
vine^growers to decide whether the greater convenience would justify the
increased cost. The price of the h.ydrated lime above referred to was
£20 per ton. Specially selected quicklime in tins costs a little under £12
per ton, and one ton is equivalent to 27 cwt. of hydrated lime. Ordinary
quicklime is cheaper still, and if freshly burnt and carefully used a
thoroughly satisfactory Bordeaux will result.
* Taylor & Thompson ; Concrete, Plain and Reinforced (1917), p. 47.
(To be contimied.)
A FEW of the best varieties ol fruits were raised by scientific cross-
breeding, but many standard kinds were the result of accident. Cox's
Orange Pippin, a leading dessert apple, was raised by a Bermondsey
brewer in his garden at Slough, England, where he had merely sown
apple pips. Blenheim Pippin was " discovered " in the garden of one
Kempter, a labouring man, who lived at Woodstock, Oxfordshire, more
than a century and a half ago. Doyenne du Comice pear was raised in
the garden of the Comice Horticole, at Angers, the original tree first
fruiting in 1849, so that this delicious pear, one of the very best in
cultivation, may be a case in which the seeding resulted from artificial
crossing. But the choicest grape of all, the Muscat of Alexandria, is
believed to have come from the East several centuries ago, when artificial
crossing as a means of raising new varieties can hardly have been prac-
tised in Eastern vineyards. For similar reasons, the best apricot,
MooTpark, must also be attributed to circumstances other than deliberate
cross-breeding.
11 Nov., 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
679
A CONTRIBUTION TO THE STUDY OF HEREDITARY
UNSOUNDNESS IN HORSES.
By W. A. N. Robertson, B.V.Sc, Chief Veterinary Officer.
(Continued from page 478.)
FAMILY 7.
This is the largest family dealt with, there being 871 representatives
tabulated. Of this number, 106, or 12.17 per cent, were found unsound.
The unsoundness recorded is seen scattered through many generations,
there being no line of descent in which it is predominant. The family
may, therefore, be considered a sound one, and an analysis will show
that most of the unsoundness found can be traced through the dams.
The following table summarizes the unsoundness in this family.
The table departs slightly from that of other families, inasmuch as
sub-family 7.3 has been divided into branches 7.311 and 7.312 to 7.36
This is done for the reason that through 7.311 we have the largest
branch of any family recorded.
Table Showing Unsoundness in Family 7.
Sons.
G
GG
GGG
GGGG
GGGGG
Sons.
Sons.
Sons.
Sons.
Sons
Total.
Sires.
•d
. Ml
■d
i
■d
0)
bo
•6
T!
ElC
"d
si,
■d
6
■a c3
Tl
^
S
2
T)
S
X
a
5
1
1
o
1
•til
I'
g
o
a
S
i
c
3
o
c
1
.3
a
X
o
13
S
1
0
w
P Ph
H
P
PM
w
P
f^
H ,
P
£
N
p
P4
M
P
(ii
w
P
PM
7-1 ..
26
3
11-5
25
2
8-0
4
0
5.^
5
9-09
7-2 ..
2
i 50 0
39
2
5-1
45
9
20-0
43
10
23-2
41
7
17-0
5
0
175
?,9
16-5
7-3 ..
7 31
7 311
209
19
90
217
18
8-2
41
5
12-2
467
4"
9-0
7 312 1
to j.
7 36 J
4
1
25-0
8
2
25-0
54
5
9-2
9
1
11-1
■■
75
9
12-0
7-4 ..
17
6
35-3
S"!
K
22-8
??
<^
15-1
f,
n
1
0
99
19
20-6
7-S T
j
to \
3
1 330
3
1
330
1
7
5>
28-5
7-7 J
1
Totals
5
2 40 0
63
10
15-8
115
22
19-1
364
1
41
11-2
277
26
9-3
47
5
10-2
871
106
12-17
The descendants of 7.1 show 9.09 per cent, unsoundness. Most
of this can be shown to have been transmitted through the blood of the
dams, as follows: —
7.12111 was from a mare by a son of 3.1; very unsound line.
7.12102 was from a mare by 2.18. granddam by son oi 3.
7.12108 was from a mare probably by a. son of 3.
7.12182 was from a mare by 7.492, which, though apparently sound,
appears frequently in unsound pedigrees.
The dam of 7.121006 cannot be traced.
680 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 N"ov., 1918.
Through the progeny of 7.2 we find 16.5 per cent, unsoundness, the
descendants of 7.21 showing none, though many mature animals were
seen.
7.22 shows four unsound descendants, of those which can be traced
on the dam's side, 7.2216 and 7.2219 were from the same mare by 1.335
— apparently a sound horse, but of very unsound family ; the dam of
7.22107 was by 3.1, a very unsound line. There is, therefore, pre-
sumptive evidence of the taint having come down through the female
side, for a large number of the progeny examined was 5 years old at
examination ; had the sire been responsible, a greater number would
have been unsound.
7.23 shows more unsoundness in his progeny than any other indi-
vidual of this family. The unsoundness appears to have come through
7.2311, which was from a mare by 4.12, an unsound line — the taint was
probably carried to his sons, and accentuated by mating with mares of
tainted breeding, for we find that —
7.23111 and 7.23112 were by brothers not recorded in these tables.
7.23118 was from a mare by 9.311, an unsound line.
7.231103 was from a mare by 1.031, an unsound sire.
The remaining members cannot be traced through their dams.
Of the other unsound descendants of 7.23, a search through their
pedigrees shows the following : —
The dam of 7.2313 was by a son of 1.
The dam of 7.2314 was by either 4.13 or 4.21, of unsound family.
The dam of 7.231215 was by 21.19, apparently sound; the grand-
dam was by 7.492, already referred to.
The dam of 7.231231 was by 3.3, an unsound line.
The dam of 7.231551 was by 1.031; she was also dam of 7.231103
above.
The dam of 7.23152 was by 4.12, probably unsound; the granddam
was by 3.
The dam of 7.231743 was by 9.51, a tainted line.
The remainder cannot be traced.
7.24 was unsound ; his dam was by the sire of a very unsound family.
Only one of his sons has been found unsound, the others being mostly
3-year-olds. The unsound son was from a mare by 9.31, a sire of un-
soundness, and the granddam by 38, showing that when there is taint
on both sides unsoundness appears at early age.
7.25 was sound as an aged horse,. and a number of his progeny were
4 and 5-year-olds at examination, and found sound, yet one, 7.254, was
unsound at 4 years old; the dam of this horse was by 2.2102, an unsound
horse.
We come next to consider 7.3. This sub-family is dealt with in two
divisions, that through 7.311 being one in which 467 horses have been
examined, whilst from the remaining sons of 7.3 only 75 horses have been
recorded.
None of the sons of 7.311 has been examined, but in 209 of his grand-
sons 9 per cent., or 19 only, were found unsound. Unfortunately, the
dams and granddams of a number of these cannot be traced far enough
to connect with sires in these tables. As far as can be ascertained, they
show as follows: — Ten of the sons of 7.3112 were examined; three were
11 Nov., 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses. 681
unsound. Of these, 7.31124 was from a mare by 3.2 — an unsound horse
— the remaining two cannot be traced. Perusal of the table shows that
the sound sons were of mature age when examined, and thus it is to be
inferred that the sire was sound.
In the progeny of 7.3113 there are two unsound. The dams of
these cannot be traced, but as there are a number of 5-year-olds recorded
as sound, one cannot think other than that the line is a sound one, and
that the unsoundness recorded is nor hereditary on the sire's side.
No unsoundness is foimd in the progeny of 7.3114 or 7.3115. Sixty-
eight descendants of 7.3116 have been examined, and 7, or 10.3 per cent.,
found unsound. In those cases in which the pedigree can be traced
unsoundness on the dam's side is found as under :—
The dam of 7.311610001 was by 1.1021, an unsound horse; the
granddam was by 3.1, of unsound family.
The dam of 7.311610004 was by 7.3112, apparently sound; the
granddam was by 3.
The dam of 7.311610,0009 was by 3.2, of unsound family.
The dam of 7.3116182 was by 7.2311, previously referred to, who
was out of a mare by 4.12,
The dam of 7.3116185 was by 2.526, apparently sound; the grand-
dam not recorded.
The dam of 7.31161032 was by 1.815, which, though sound at ex-
amination, was of unsound line.
Forty-three descendants of 7.3117 are recorded, and only two are un-
sound, viz., 7.311704, from a mare by 4.42111, which appears frequently
in unsound pedigrees, and 7.3117001, which cannot be traced on the
dam's side.
7.31101 was apparently sound; 37 of his progeny show only three
unsound. The majority of those examined were mature horses, and if
unsoundness was present as a factor on the sire's side in this generation,
it would undoubtedly have shown in at least some of the sons. In the
case of the unsound grandsons, the dam's breeding cannot be traced.
7.31102 shows four unsound out of twelve examined. The percentage
is large. This horse has the reputation of being sound. This is prob-
ably so, for the unsound sons were from mares with the following breed-
ing :—
7.311023 was from a mare by 7.2315, apparently sound; the grand-
dam was by 4.12, of unsound line.
The dam of 7.311026 was by 4.1263, a grandson of 4.12.
The dam of 7.311024 was by 7.26 ; the granddam by a son of 3.
The dam of 7.3110204 was by a son of 3.
7.311031 shows one unsound son — he was out of a mare by 4.12; the
granddam was by 7.231.
The next sire to consider is 7.31104, He had 41 sons and 2 grandsons
examined. Three sons were unsound, viz. : —
7.3110408, from a mare by 2.18, the granddam by 9.51, of unsound
line.
7.311043, from a mare by 3.2, of unsound family.
7.31104005, from a mare by 3.12, of unsound family.
As eleven of the sound sons were 5 years old or over, and eight were
4 years when examined, there can be little doubt that the unsoundness
was introduced by the female side through the lines mentioned above.
683 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
The next family worthy of comment is that of 7.311004. Forty-seven
descendants were examined, and six, or 12.7 per cent., were unsound. A
large number of mature horses were examined, and if unsoundness was
a dominant factor on the sire's side, it should have appeared more fre-
quently in them. The inference is that the line is sound, and the intro-
duction of unsoundness is, no doubt, due to other blood. A search of
pedigrees shows that —
7.31100404 was from a mare by a grandson of 22, of an unsound
line, and already shown as a relation of 1 ; the granddam was
by 4.13, of tainted line.
7.311004003 was from a mare by a son of 9.51, an unsound line, re-
ferred to above.
7.311004005 was from a mare by 3,153, sound as a three-year-old,
but of unsound family, and whose only son examined was un-
sound.
7.311004008 was from a mare by 4.12 already referred to; the
granddam was by 22.
7.31100461 was from a mare by 3.101, of unsound line, and
whose only son examined was unsound; granddam was by son
of 1.
7.31100467 was from a mare by 7.31104, and the granddam by a son
of 3.
There is, therefore, sufficient reason for unsoundness appearing in these
members.
The remaining descendants of 7.311 show 10 per cent, unsoundness
in the 74 members examined. The dams of these unsound ones which
can be traced show as follows : —
The dam of 7.31100811 was by 7.231.
The dam of 7.311008102 was''by 4.42111; the granddam by 4.1222.
The dam of 7.31100945 was by 9.312; the granddam by a grandson
of 1.
The dam of 7.31100909 was by a son of 3.1.
The dam of 7.311000142 was by a son of 6a; the granddam by
4.42111.
The dam of 7.311000143 was by 1.0541.
Unsoundness runs through most of these lines, and its appearance in
these horses is not surprising.
Passing now to a consideration of the descendants of 7.312 to 7.36,
12 per cent, unsoundness is recorded, and that the dams are responsible
can be shown in the following cases.
The descendants of 7.312 were all sound.
The descendants of 7,313 were sound with two exceptions, viz.,
7,31331, which was from a mare by a grandson of 1, and 7.31332, whose
dam's pedigree is incomplete.
The unsound descendant of 7.315 was from a mare by a grandson of
1 ; the granddam was by 1,
7.331133 was from a mare by 7.24, an unsound horse; the grand-
dam by 1.33 ; the great-granddam by 38.
7.4 shows 20 per cent, unsoundness in the five generations recorded.
Tl at this was not a dominant factor on the sire's side may be reasoned
11 Nov., 1918.] Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
68b
from the fact that five aged sons of 7.41 were examined and found sound,
and two were unsound. One of these, 7.4101, was from a mare by 9.3,
of unsound family; the other cannot be traced. Of the grandsons of 7.41,
7.4147 was from a mare by 1.15, of unsound blood; the sound ones
were all of mature age.
Three sons of 7.42 were seen, and all were unsound. This unsound-
ness could not have originated from 7.4, for a study of the age of his
descendants shows that 38 were sound at 5 years of age or over. It
may have been introduced through 7.42 himself, whose dam's pedigree
cannot be traced. It is more likely to have come from the dam's side of
the three sons, for two of them, 7.421 and 7.423, can be shown to be by
the same horse, a son of 3.2, of very unsound blood.
It is thus seen that there is every support to the opening statement
that the family, considered from the sire's side, may be regarded as
sound, and that the unsoundness present has been introduced from outside
tainted sources.
•1, not
examined
7-11, not
examined
7 -12, not
examined
7-13 not
examined
7 • 111, not examined
7 • 121 , not examined
I*'-
V
7-131, not examined
FAMILY 7.
■1111, sound, 3
1112, sound, 4
1211, not ex-
amined-
7 -1212, sound, 3
7-1213, sound, 3
7-1214, sound, 3
7-1215, sound, 5
7-1216, sound, 4
7-1217, sound, 5
7-1218, sound, 5 —
7-1219, sound, 4
7-12101, sound, 4
7-12103, sound, 5
7-12105,sound, 5—
7-12106, sound, 5
7-12107, sound, 5
7-12109, sound, 3
7-121001, sound, 5
7-121002, sound, 3
7-121003, not ex-
amined—
7 -121004, sound, 3
7 -121000, sound, 3
7 -121007, sound, 3
7-12104, sound
B.A.P , 4
7-12102. sidebone,3
7,12108, sidebone, 3
7-121006, sidebone,
5
7-1311, sound, 8—
7-1312, not ex
amined —
7-1313, not ex-
amined—
7'1314, not ex-
amined—
712111, sidebone, 4
r7-12181, sound, 4
<! 7-12183, sound, 5
1.7-12182, sidebone,5
7-121051, sound, 3
7,-121052, sound
D.A.P.,3
7 -1210032, sound, 4
7-12]0033,sound,3
7 -1210034, sound, 3
7 -1210035, sound, 6
7 -1210036, sound, 5
7-1210031, sound
D.A.P.,3
7-13111,
7-13112,
713113,
7-13114,
L7-13115,
f 7-13121,
; 7-13122,
I 7-13123,
I 7-13124,
1 7-13125,
(7-13126,
sound, 4
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 5
sound 5
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 4
sound, 3
-7-13131, sound, 4
-7-13141, sound, 4
{'•■
121111, sound, 3
121112, sound
D.A.P., 3
7-131311, sound, 3
.7-131312, sound, 4
684
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
7 -2, not
ex-
amined
7 -21, not
examined
/ 7-211,
not ex-
amined-
Family 7 — continued.
7-2111, sound, 5
.7-2112, sound, 5
7-22, no
examined
7-212, sound, 5 —
7-221, sound, 5 —
7 -23, not
examined
7-2121, sound, 7
7-2122, sound, 4
7-2123, sound, 3
7-2124, sound, 5
7-2125, sound, 4
7-2126, sound, 3
7-2127, sound, 3
7-2128, sound, 4
7-2129, sound, 3
7-21201, sound, 6
7-2211, sound, 5-
7-2212, sound, 4
7-2214, sound, 5
7-2217, sound, 3
7-2218, not ex-
amined
7-22101, sound, 5
7-22102, sound, 5
7 -22103, sound, 5
7-22104, sound, 5
7-22105, sound, 3
7-221001, sound,
3
7-2213, sound
D.A.P.,5
7-22106, sound
D.A.P.,3
7-22108, sound
D.A.P. 3
7-22109, sound
D.A.P.,4
7-2215, sidebone,4
7-2216, sidebonc, 4
7-2219, sidebone, 4
7-22107, sidebone,
5
f 7-22112, sound, 5
{ 7-22113, sound, 3
I 7-22111, sound
L D.A.P.
— 7-22181, sound
D.A.P., 3
7-231, not exara-
amined -
7-2311,
not e
amined — ■■
7-23113, sound, 3
7-23114, sound, 3
7-23115, sound, 3
7-23116, sound, 3
7-23117, sound, 3
7-231101, sound, 3
7 -231102, sound, 4
7 -231106, sound, 3
7 -231107, sound, 4
7-231108, sound, 3
7 -231109, sound, 4
7-2311001, sound 5
7 -2311002, sound, 5
7-2311003, not ex-
amined
7 -2311004, sound, 3
7 -2311005, sound, 4
7-23111, sidebone,3
7-23112, sidebone,3
7-23118, sidebone,
4
7-23119, sidebone,
8
7-231103, sidebone,
4
7-231104, sidebone,
5
7-231105, sidebone,
5
7-231151, sound, 5
7-231152, sound
D.A.P.,5
7-2311022, sound,4
7-2311021, sound
D.A.P.,5
—7 -2311071, sound, 4
-7-23110011 sound
D.A.P. 3
-7-23110031 sound,
3
-7-231121, sidebone,
11 Nov., 1918.]
Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
685
Family 7 — continued.
7.2, not
ex-
amined
— con-
tinued.
7.23, not
ex-
amined
— con-
tinued.
7.231,
not ex-
amined
— con-
tinued.
7-2312, not ex-
amined—
7-2313, ringbone,14
7-2314, sidebone.lO
7-2316, sound, 7
7-2315,
not ex-
amined—
7-2317,
not ex-
amined-
7-2318, not ex-
amined—
7-2319, not ex-
amined—
7-23101, not ex-
amined—
7-23102, not ex-
amined—
7-23103, not ex-
amined—
7-232, f 7-2321,$idebone, {
not ex- W 7-2322, sidebone,
amined I i. ringbone, a
'7-23121, not ex-
amined—
7-23122, not ex-
amined
7-23123, not ex-
amined
-7-23141, sound, 6
7-23151, sound, 5
7-23153, sound, a
7-23154, sound, 7
7-23155, not ex-
amined—
7-23156, not ex-
amined—
7 -23157, sound, 5
7 -23152, ringbone,
('
•23171, not ex-
amined—
■23172, sound, 6
■23173, sound, 6
7-23174, sound, a
23175, sound, 3
23176, sound, 3
■23181, sound, a-
•23191, sound, a
•231011, sound, 10
•231021, sound, 5
•231031, sidebone,
ringbone, 5
•231032, sidebone,
4
7-231211
7^231212
7-231213
7-231214
7-231216
7-231215
-7^231221
-7-231231
, sound, 9
, sound, 5
, sound, 4
, sound, 5
, sound
D.A.P.,5
, sidebone,
4
, sound
D.A.P.,4
, sidebone,
4
7-231532,
< 7-231533,
7-231535
7-231531
f 7-2
\ 7-2
31562
31553
sound, 3
not ex-
amined—
sound, 5
bog
spavin, 4
, sidebone,
5
, sound, 4
, sound
D.A.P.,3
„ sidebone
3
, sound, 3
,. side-
bone, 5
, sound
D.A.P.,3
, sound, 7
, sound, 3
, sound, 3
, sound
D.A.P.,5
, sound
D.A.P.,5
, sound
D.A.P
f 7-231711, sound, 3
(. 7-231712, sound, 3
■{ 7-231741, sound, 3
7 -231742, sound, 3
7-231744, sound, 3
7-231746, sound, 3
7-231745, sound
D.A.P.
7-231743, sidebone,
L 3
7-231551
7-231561
7-231562
-7-231571
7-231522
7-231524
7 •231526
7^231521
7-231523
7-231525
-7-231811, sound, 5
f— 7-2315331,
< sound D.A.P.,
L 3
7 2317412,
sound, 3
7-2317413,
sound, 3
7-2317414,
sound, 4
72317411,
sound,
D.A.P., 4
686
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
Family 7 — continued.
7.2, not
examined
— con-
tinued.
7 -24, side-
bone, a —
7-25,
sound, a
7 • 3 not
examined
7-26, not
examined
7-31 not
examined
7-241, sound, 3 —
7-242, sound, 3 —
7-243, sound, 3
7-244, sound, 3
7-245. sound, 3
7-246, sound, 3
7-247, sound, 2
7-248, sound, 5
7-2401, sound, 5
.7-249, ringbone, 4
7-251, sound, 5
7-252, sound, 5
7-253, sound, 5
7-256, sound, 5
7-257, sound, 5 —
7-258, sound, 5
7-2502, sound, 5
7-2504, sound, 4
7-2505, sound, 4 —
7-2507, sound, 5
7-2508, sound, 5
7-2509, sound, 4
7-25001, sound, 5
7 -25002, sound, 3
7 -25003, sound, 3
7-25004, sound, 3
■7-2411, sound, 5
— 7-2421, ringbone, 7
7-255,
7-259,
7-2501,
sound
D.A.P.,3
sound
D.A.P.,4
sound
D.A.P.,2
7-2503, sound,
D.A.P.
7-2506, sound,
D.A.P.,3
7-254, sidebone, 5
' 7-261, sound, 6
7-264, sound, 4
7-265, sound, 5
7-263, sound
D.A.P.,3
7 -262, bog spavin.
3
—7-311
-7-2571, sound, 3
7-25051, sound
D.A.P.,3
7-25052, sound
D.A.P.,3
7-250011, sound, 5
7 -250012, sound, 7
7-250013, sound, 3
7-250014, sound
D.A.P.,3
-7-250041, sound
D.A.P.,3
not ex-
amined
—7-3111 not ex-
amined
7-311-2
not c!
amined
7-3113, not ex-
amiuod—
—7-31111, sound, 5
f 7-31122,
7-31121,
7-31123,
7-31125,
7-31126,
7-31128,
7-311201
7-31124,
7-31127,
7-31129.
f 7-31131,
sound, 5
sound, 7
sound, 4
sound, 5 ^
sound, 5 '
sound, 3
, sound, 3
sidebone,
3
sidebone,
4
sidebone,
5
not ex-
amined—
f 7-311111, sound, 5
- 7-311113, sound, 4
7-311114, sound, 4
7-311115, sound, 4
7-311112, sound
D.A.P.,4
7-311116, sound
i. D.A.P., 3
—7-311211, sound, 4
f 7-311311, sound, 5
■{ 7-311312, sound, 3
7-311313, sound, 3
7-311314, sound, 3
7-311315, sound, 3
7-311316, sound, 2
7-311317, sound, 5
7-311318, sound, 3
11 Nov., 1918.]
Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
687
Family 7 — continued.
7.3 not
ex-
amined
— eon-
Knued.
7.31 not
ex-
an^ined
— con-
tinued.
7. 311 not
ex-
amined
— con-
tinued ■
7.3113 not
examined
— coTUinued.
I 7. 31131 not
examined
— con-
tinued.
7-3114, not
examined
7-31132,
not exam-
ined
7-31141, not
examined —
7-3113101, sound
7 -3113102, sound, 3
7-3113103, sound, 3
7-3113104, sound, 5
7-3113105, sound, 3
7-3113106, sound, 3
7-3113107, sound, 5
7-3113108, sound, 3
7-3113109, sound, 4
7-31131001, sound, 3
7-31131002, sound, 5
7-31131003, sound, 3
7-31131004, sound, 3
7-31131005, sound, 5
7-31131006, sound, 3
7-31131007, sound, 3
7-311319, sidebone, 4
7-311321, sound, 3
7-311322, sound, 3
7-311323, sound, 3
7-311324, sound, 3
7-311325, sound, 3
7-311326, sound, 3
7-311328, sound, 3
7-311327, spavin, 4
7-311411, sound, 5
7-311412, not examined
-7.31131011, sidebone, 4
7-3115, not
examined
7-3116,not
examined
7-31151, not
examined
7-31161, not
examined —
' 7-311511, sound, 4
7-311512, sound, 4
7-311513, sound, 5 —
7-311514,
L7-311515,
f 7-311611,
311612,
311613,
311614,
311615,
311616,
7-311617,
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 5
sound, 5
sound, 4
sound, 6
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
7-311618, sound, 5 —
7-311619, sound, 5
7-3116101, sound, 3
7-3116102, sound
D.A.P., 5
7-3116103, sound, 5 —
7-3116104, sound, 3
7-3116105, sound, 3
•3114111,
-3114112,
-3114121,
-3114122,
-3114124,
-3114125,
-3114126,
-3114127,
•3114128,
■3114129,
31141201
31141203
31141204
3114123,
7-31141232
sound, 5
sound, 4
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 3
sound, 4
, sound, 3
sound, 3
, sound, 3
sound
D.A.P.,3
, sound
D.A.P., 4
7-3115131, sound, 3
7-3115132, sound
D.A.P.,3
7-3115133, sound
D.A.P.,3
7-3115141, sound, 3
-7-3116141, sound, 3
7-3116181,
7-3116183,
7-3116187,
7-3116188,
7-3116189,
7-3116184,
7-3116186,
7-3116182,
7-3116185,
7-31161801
sound, 3
sound, 4
sound, 4
sound, 2
sound, 2
sound
D.A.P.,3
sound
D.A.P.,3
sidebone, 3
sidebone, 4
, sidebone, 5
7-31161031, sound, 4
7-31161035, sound, 3
7-31161033, sound, 3
7-31161034, sound, 4
7-31161032, sidebone, 3
688
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 19 1«.
•3 no
ex-
amined
— can-
tinued.
■31, not
ex-
amined
— con-
tinued.
••311,
not ex-
amined
— con-
tinued.
•3116
not ex-
amined
— con-
tinued.
Family 1— continued.
7 •31161, not exaniined
continued.
7-3117,
not exd.
—7 •311761,
7 -31162, sound, 13 —
7-31163, sound, 5
f 7-31171, sound, 3
■{ 7 -31172, sound, 3
7 -31173, sound, 3
7-31174, sound, 4
7 -31175, sound, 5
7-31176, sound, 5 —
7 -31177, sound, 3
7-31178, sound, 3
7-31179, sound, 5
7-311701, sound, 3
7 -311702, sound, 2
7-311703, sound, 5
7-311705, sound, 4
7-311706, sound, 3
7-311707, sound, 5
7-311708, sound, 4
7-311709, sound, 5
7 -3117002, sound, 3
7 -3117003, sound, 4
7-3117004, not ex-
amined—
7 -3117005, sound, 6
7-3117006, sound, 3
7-3117007, sound, 3
7 -3117008, sound, 5
7 -3117009, sound, 5
7 -31170001, sound, 3
7-31170002, sound, 4
7 -31170003, sound, 2
7 -31170004, sound, 4
7 -31170005, sound, 2
7-31170008, sound, 4
7 -31170007, sound, 3
7-31170008, sound, 3
7 -31170009, sound, 3
7 -311700001, sound, 3
7-311700002, sound, 3
7 -311700003, sound, 3
7-311700004, sound, 3
7-311700005, not ex-
amined—
7-311704, sidebone, 5
1^7-3117001, sidebone, 4
7-3116106, sound, 3
7-3116107, sound, 5
7-3116108, sound, 3
7-3116109, sound, 5
7-31161001, sound, 2
7-31161002, sound, 3
7-31161003, not ex-
amined
7-31161004, sound, 5
7-31161005, sound, 3
7-31161006, sound, 5
7-31161007 sound, 3
7-31161008, sound, 3
7-31161003, sound, 4
7-311610002, sound, 3
7-311610003, sound, 3
7-311610006, not ex-
amined
7-311610007, sound, 3
7-311610008, sound, 5
7-311610009, sound, 3
7-3116100001, sound, 5
7-3116100002, sound, 3
7 - 3116100003, sound, 3
7-3116100004, sound, 5
7-3116100005, sound, 3
7-3116100006, sound, 3
7-3116100007, sound, 3
7-3116100008, sound, 5
7 -31161000001, sound, 3
7-31161000002, sound, 3
7 • 31161000003, sound, 3
7 -31161000004, sound, 3
7-311610001, sidebone, 4
7-311610004, sidebone, 5
7 - 311610005, sidebone, 7
7-3116100009, sound
( D.A.P.,5
—7-311621, sound, 5
-7-311610031,
sound D.A.P., 3
-31176100061,
sound, &
sound
D.A.P., 3
'7-31170041, sound, 3
7 -31170042, sound, 3
-7-3117000051 sound, 3
11 Nov., 1918.]
Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
Family 7 — continued^
7 . 3 not
ex-
amined
— cyn-
tinued.
7.31 not|7.3H not ex-
examined | amincd — con-
— con- I tinued.
Untied.
7-3118,
7-3119,
not ex-
amined
not ex-
amined—
7-31101,
not ex-
amined—
-7-31181,
7-31191,
7-31192,
not
amined-
not
amined
ex-
ex-
uot ex-
amined-
7-31102,
not ex-
amined—
7-31103, not ex-
amined
■< 7-311011, sound, 5 —
7-311012, sound, 5
7 -311013, sound, 6
7-3110U, sound, 3
7 -311015, sound, 3
7 -311016, sound, 5 —
7 -311017, sound, 3 —
7-311018, sound, 4
7-311019, sound, 3
7 -3110101, sound, 3
7 -311010-2, sound, 4
7-3110103, souni', 4
7 -3110104, sound, 5
7-3110103, sound, 7
7-3110106, sound, 3
7 -3110107, sound, 4
7-3110108, sound, 5
7-3110109, sound, 5
7 -31101001, sound, 5
7 -31101002, sound, 3
7 -31101003, sound, 5
7-31101004, sound, 3
7 -31101003, sound, 5
7-31101006, sound, 5
7-31101007, sound, 5
7 -31101005, sound, 3
7 -31101009, sound, 6
7-311021, sound, 4
7 -311023, sound, 3
7 -311025, sound, 3
7 -311028, sound, 4
7 -3110-29, sound, 3
7-311021 1, sound, 4
7-3110202, sound, 3
7-3110203, sound, 3
7-311022 sidebone, 5
7-31102(1, sidebone, 3
7-3110204, sidebone, 5
7-311024, ringbone, 4
-7-311031, not ex-
amined—
7-311811, spavin, 3
7-311812, ringbone, 4
7-311911, sound, 4
7-311912, sound, 6
7 -311913, sound, 3
7-311914, sound, 5
7-311915, sound, 4
7-311916, sound, 3
7-311917, sound, 3
7-311918, sound, 3
7-311919, sound, 5
/ 7-311921, sound, 5
1.7-311922, spavin, 5
7-3110111, sound
D.A.P., 5
7-3110112, Sidebone, 3
—7-3110161, Sidebone, 3
—7.3110171, sound, 3
7-31104, not px-
aminod —
7-311041, sound, 3
7-311042, sound, 3
7-311044, sound, 3
7-311045, sound, 4
7-311046, sound, 5 -
7-311047, sound, 5
7-311048, sound, 4
7-311049, sound, 4
7-3110401, sound, 3
7-3110402, sound, 4
7-3110403, sound, 3
7-3110404, sound, 3
7-3110405, sound, 4
7 -311010031, sound, 5
7-311010032, sound, 3
7-311010033, sound, 3
7-311010034, sound
D.A.P., 5
7-311010035, sidebone,
3
-7-311010061, sound, 4
f 7-3110311, sound, 4
7-3110312, sound, 3
7-3110314, sound, 3
7-3110315, sound, 4
7 -3110316, sound, 3
7-3110317, sound, 4
7-3110318, sound, 3
7-3110319, sound, 3
7-31103101, sound, 3
(.7-3110313, sidebone, 3
7-3110461, sound, 4
7-3110462, sound, 4
690
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
Family 7 — continued.
7.3 not
ex-
.. mined
— con-
tinueU.
7.31 not
cx-
aniinod
— con-
tinued.
7.3U
not ex-
amined
— c<yn.-
linued.
7. 31104, not ex-
amined-contmued.
7-3110.), not ex-
amined—
7-3110G, not e:
amined
7-31107, not
amined
7-31108, not ox-
amin(;d
7-31109, not c,
amlncd —
7-311001, not ex-
amined—
7-311002, not ex-
amined
7-311003, not ex-
amined
7-3110105, sound, 3
7-3110107, sound, 3
7-311010.), sound, 3
7-3110U)01, sound, 5
7-31101002, sound, 5
7-3110400.',, sound, 6
7-31101001, sound, 3
7-3110100f), sound, 5
7-3110100.H, sound, 4
7-;}110100.t, sound, 5
7-311040001, sound, 5
7-:U1010002,sound,3
7 -31 10 1000.',, sound, 5
7-;5110l0001,sound,3
7 -31 101000.'), sound, 4
7-31101000(1, sound, 4
7-311010007, sound, 3
7-31101000S,sound,3
7 -31104000:), sound, 5
7 -3110100001, sound, 3
7 -:n 10 100002, sound, 3
7-3110l0000i,sound,3
7 -3 110 100001, sound, 3
7-311010000.'), sound, 3
7-31104007, sound
D.A.I'., .')
7-3110408, sidebone, 4
7-311043, ringbone, 3
17-3110100.), ringbone, 5
7-311051,
not ex-
amined-
7-311052, sound, 4-
7-311053, not ex-
amined
7-311054, sound, 4
7-311055, not ex-
amined—
ex-
7-311061, not
amined
7-3110(52, not ex
amined
— 7-311071, not CI
amined-
-7-311081, not
amined —
'7-311001, sound, 5
7-311092, sound, 3
7 -311093, sound, 4
7-311094, sound, 2
7-311097, sound, 3
7-311098, sound, 3
7-311090, sound, 4
7-3110901, Sdunil, 4
7-3110902, sound, 3
7-3110903, sound, 5
7-3110901, sound, 3
7-3110305, S(jund, 3
7-311090<), sound, 3
7-311090«, sound, 3
7-3110309, sound, 3
7-311096, Kound
D.A.I'., 6
7-311095, ringbone, 3
7-3110907, spavin, 4
— 7-3110011, sound, <^—
-7-3110021, not ex-
amined—
-7-»110031, not ex-
—7-3110511, sound, 0
r 7-3110521, sound, 5
7-3110522, sound, 4
7-3110.523, sound, 3
7-3110524, sound, 3
1.7-3110525, sound, 3
-7-3110531,
not
amined
—7-3110551, roarer, 7
—7-3110611 sound, 3
—7-3110627, sound, 3
f 7-3110711, sound, 4
( 7-3110712, sound, 3
-7-3U0811, sound, 3
—7-31100111, sound
D.A.I'., 4
7-31100212, Bound, 3
7-31100213, sound, 3
7-31100214, sound, 3
7-31100215, sound, 3
7-31100211, ringbone,9
-7-81100311, iound, 8
■7.311053H,
sound, 3
-7.311002111.
■oiuul, I
11 Nov., 1918. J
Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
691
Family 7 — continued.
7.3 not
amined
tontinu
ex-7.31 Dotl7.31I not
— examined examined —
id. — continued] continued
7-311004, not ex-
amined—
7-311005, not ex-
amined—
7-311006, not ex-
amined-
7-31iq07, not ex-
amined-
7-311008, not px-
aminod-
•311009, not ex-
amined—
f 7-3110041, sound, 5
■i 7-3110042, sound, 5
7-3110043, sound 5—
7-3110014, sound, 5
7-3110045, sound, 5
7-3110046, sound, 7-
3110047,
•3110048,
3110049,
31100401
31100402
31100403
31100405
31100406
sound, 5
sound, 5
sound, 5
, sound, 5
, sound, 3
, sound, 5
sound, 5
, sound, 5
7-31100407, sound, 5
7-31100408, sound, 3
7-311004001, sound, 3
7-311004002, sound, 5
7-311004004, sound, 4
7-311004005, sound, 4
7-31100409, sound, 5—
7-311004006, sound, 4
7-311004007, sound, 4
7-311001009, sound, 3
7 -3110040001, sound, 4
7-3110040002, sound, 3
7-3110040003, sound, 5
7.31100404, ring-
bone, 4
7-311004003, ring-
bone, 4
7-311004005, tide-
bone, 5
7-311004008, side-
bone, 5
/ 7-3110051, sound, :J
17-3110052, sound, 3
7-3110062, sound, 5
7-3110063, sound, 5
7-3110061, sliiverer, 4
—7-3110071, sound, 5
7-3110081,
not ex-
amined-
.7 -3110082, sound, 3
r 7-3110091,
riot ex-
smined-
7 -3110092, sound, 4
■7-31100431, sound, 3
.7-31100432, sound, 4
f 7-31100462, sound, 3
-i 7-31100403, sound, 3
7-31100464, sound, 5
7-31100465, sound, 3
7-31100466, sound. 5
7-31100461 sidebone, 5
L7-31100467, sidebone, 5
-7-311004051, sound, 4
7-311004072, sound
D.A.P., 5
7-311004073, sound, 3
7-311004074, sound, 3
7-311004071, 8ound4
D.A.I'.,
/ 7-311004091, sound, 6
I 7-311004092, sound, 3
-31100812, sound, 3
•31100813, sound, 5
-31100814, sound, 3
-31100815, sound. 5
-31100816, sound, 5
-31100817, sound, 3
-31100819, sound, 3
•311008101, sound, 5
-311008103, sound. 3
-31 1008104, sound. 3
-311008105, sound, 3
-311008106, sound, 3
■31100811, sidebone, 5
•311008102, sidebone.
.7-31100818, ringbone, i
7-31100911, sound, 3
7-31100912, sound, 3
7-31100913, sound, 3
7-31100914, sound. 3
5-7-31100921, sound, 5
(.7-31100922, sound, 3
692
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
Family 7 — continued.
7.3 not
ex-
amined
— con-
tinued.
7.31 not
ex-
amined
— crm-
tinued.
7 .311 not
examined
— con-
tintied.
7.311009, not
examined
— con-
tinued .
7-3110033, sound, 3
7-31100.34, not ex-
amined-
7-311009.5, sound, 5 —
7.3110096,
7.3110097,
7-3110098,
7-31100901
7-31100902
7-31100903
7-31100904
sound, 3
sound, 5
not ex-
amined-
, sound, 3
iound, 3
, sound, 3
, sound, 3
7-31100941
7-31100943
7-31100944
7-31100946
7-31100347
7-31100942
7-31100948
7-31100949
7-31100945
f 7-31100951
:U100952.
31100953.
7-31100955.
7-31100956.
7-31100957.
7-31100958
7-31100959
7-31100954
, sound, 5
sound, 4
. sound, 5
, sound , 3
, sound, 3
sound
D.A.P.,5
sound
D.A.P.,4
sound
D.A.P.,3
sidebone, 6
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 4
sound, 5
sound, 3
sound, 3
, sound, 5
, sound, 3
, sound
D.A.P.,3
7-312, not
examined
•iUlOOOl,
not exd.-
7-3110002,
not exd.-
7-3121,
not exd
7-313, not
examined —
7-31100905, sound, 3
7-31100906, sound, 2
7-31100907, sound, 4
7-31100908, not ex-
amined—
7-3110099, ringbone, 3
(_ 7 -31100903, sidebone, 5
f 7-31100011, not ex-
^l amined —
7-31100012, sound, 7
7-31100013, sound, 4
7 - 31100014, sound, 5 —
7-31100015, not ex-
amined—
7-31100016, not ex-
amined—
7-31100021, sound, 3
7 -31100022, sound, 3
7-31211, sound, 5
7 -31212, sound D. A. P
6
7-31213, sound, 3
7-31214, sound, 4
7-31215, sound, 4
7 -31216, sound, 5
7 -31217, sound, 3
7-31218, sound, 3
7-31219, sound, 5
7 -312101, sound, 3
7-312102, sound, 6
7-312103, sound, 3
7-312104, sound, 3
7-312105, sound, 3
7 -312106, sound, 3
7-312107, sound, 3
7-3131,
not exd.-
7-3132,
not exd
7-3133,
notexd.-
-7-31100981, sound, 4
7-311009051, sound
D.A.P., 5
7-3110090.52, sound
D.A.P.,4
-7-311009081, sound, 4
-7-311000111, sound, 5
'7-311000141,
sound
D.A.P.
7-311000142, sidebone
7-311000143, sidebone
— 7-311000151, sound, 6
— 7 -311000161, sound, 4
-7-31311, sound
-7-31321, sound, 3
7-31333, sound, 3
7-31334, sound, 4
7-31335, sound, 3
7-31336, sound, 3
7-31337, sound, 5
-7.3110001431,
sound, 4
11 Nov., 1918.]
Hereditary Unsoundness in Horses.
693
Family 7 — continued.
7 '3 not
ex-
amined
— con-
tinued .
7-31 not
exananed
— eon-
tinu*d.
7-32, not
examined
7 -33, not
examined
7 -4, not
examined
7-34, not
examined-
7-35, not
examined
7-36, not
examined
7-41, not
examined-
7-313 not
examined
— continued.
7.314, not
examined-
7-315, not
amined
7-316, not
examined — '
•3133, not examined
— continued.
7-3141, sound, '
7-3142, sound, 4
-7-3151, not e
amined —
-7-3161, sound, 3
7-321, not
examined 7 - 3211, sidebone, 14
— 7-3311, not ex-
amined—
'7-331, not
-s examined
7-332, not
examined -
r 7 -341, ring-
bone, 8
7-342, bog
spavin, a—
7.343, sound
15
7-351, sound,
a —
—7-361, not
examined—
7-362, not
examined
7-411, not
examined —
7-412,
sound a
7-414,
sound, ;
-7-3321, sidebone, a
-7-3421, sound, 3
7-3512, sound, 4
7-3511, sound
D.A.P., 5
7-3611, not ex-
amined—
7-3612, not e
amined —
-7-3621, not e
amined —
-7-4111, sound, 8-
r 7-4141, sound, 4
7-4142, sound 6
7-4145, sound, 4
7-4146, sound, a
7-4148, sound, 5
7-4149, sound, 4
7-41401, not ex-
amined—
7-4143, sound
D.A.P., 5
7-4144, sidebone
7-4147, sidebone,—
7 ■31339, sound, 4
7-313301, sound 5
7 -313302, sound, 5
7-313303, sound, 5
7-31338, soundD.A. P.
3
7-31331, sidebone, 7
(.7-31332, sidebone, 4
( 7 -31411, sound, 4
\ 7-31412, sound, 3
f 7-31512, sound, 5
( 7-31511, ringbone, 6
7-32111, sound, 4
7-32112, sound, 5
7-32113, sidebone, 5
7-33112, sound, 3
7-33113, sound, 3 —
7-33115, sound, 4
7-33116, sound, 3
7-33111, soundD.A.P.
3
7-33114, soundD.A.P.
3
(7-33117, Sidebone, 3
-33211, sound, 7 —
7-36111, sound, 3
7-36112, sound, 5
7-36121, sound, 3
7-36122, sound, 3
7-36123, sound, 3
7-36214, sound, 3
7-36213, sound, 4
7-36212, sound, 3
7-36211, sound, 3
-7-41111, sidebone, 4
7-41421, sound. 3
7-41422, sound, 5
7-41424, sound, 4
7-41423, sound
L D.A.P.,3
'7-41461, sound, 5
{ 7-41462, sound, 4
7-41463, sound, 5
7-41465, sound, 4
^7-41464, spavin, 3
—7-414011, sound, 3
-7-41471, sound, 3
f 7 -331132, sound, 3
i 7 -331136, sound, 4
I 7-331131,
7-331134,
7-331135,
7-331137,
(.7-331133,
Sound
D.A.P., 4
sound
D.A.P.,4
sound
D.A.P., 3
sound
D.A.P., 3
Sidebone, 3
-"■332111, sound, 3
—7 -361111, sound, 5
694
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 l^ov., 1918.
7 7,4 not
examined
— con-
tinued.
]
7.41 not
examined
— con-
tiniied.
7 -42, not
examined-
7-43, not
examined
7-44, not
examined
7-45, not
examined-
7-46, not
examined-
7-47, not
examined
7-48, not
examined
7-49, not
examined-
7-415, not
examined—
7-416. not
examined —
7-417,
sound.
7-418,
sound, a —
7-419,
sound, a
7-4102, not
examined—
7-413, Side-
bone
7-4101, side
bone, a —
•7-
Family 7 — continued.
7-4151, sound, 5
7-4152, sound, 3
7-4153, sidebone, 6
7-4161, not ex-
amined—
7-4162, not ex-
amined^
7-4165, not ex-
amined—
I 7
421, side-
bone, 5
422, side-
bone, 3
7 -423, side-
bone, a
7-431, not
examined
7-441,
sound, 6
7-442,
spavin, 5
7-451,
sound, a —
7-452, not
examined
7-453, not
examined—
f7-462,sound
{ D.A.P.,a
I 7-46J,side-
L bone, 7
-7-471, sound,
a
-7-481,
sound, 4
7-491, not
examined-
492, not
(^ examined
7-4163, sidebone, a
7-4164, sidebone, a-
7-4181, sound, 5
7-4182, sound
D.A.P., 7
— 7-41021, sound, 5
J 7-4131, sound, 3
(. 7-4132, sound, 8
r 7 -41012, sound, 5
7-41014, sound, 4
7-41011, ring-
bon<>, 5
7-41013, bog
spavin, 2
— 7-4311, sidebone, 6
/ 7-4512, sound, 5
t7-4511, sound, 4
' 7-4521, sound, 5
7-4522, sound, 3 —
-7-4531, sound, 5
-7-4711, sound, 5
-7-41611, sidebone, 4
-7-41621, sound, 3
7-41651, sound, 3
7-41652, sound, 4
7-41653, sound, 3
— 7-41641, sidebone, 5
f 7-4911,
i 7-4913,
7-4914,
7-4916,
7-4912,
7-4915,
7-4921,
sound, 4
not ex-
amined—
sound, a — -
not ex-
amined—
sidebone, a
sidebone, 7
not ex-
amined
not ex-
amined—
7-4923, not ex-
amined—
4924, not ex-
amined-
^7.4925, sound 10-
7-45221, sound, 3
7-45223, sound, 6
7-45222, sound
D.A.P., 5
—7-49131, sound, 5
7-49141, sound, 4
— 7-49161, souni, 8
•7-49211, sound 1). A. P.
-! 7-49221,
sound, 3-
7-49222, sound, 6
,7-49223, not examined
7-49231, not ex;-
amined
7-49232, sidebone, a^
7-49233, roarer
/7- 49241, sound, 5 ■
(7-49242, sound, 5
—7. 49251, sound, 3
f 7-492211,
•^ sound, 4
I 7-492212,
sound, 3,
I 7-492213,
L sound, 3
—7-492231,
sound, 4
—7-492311,
sound, 3
-7-492321,
sound, 8
7 -49231 11,
sound; 3
11 Is'ov., 1918.]
Weevil Pest of Grain.
695
Family 7 — continued.
7 '5, not
r7-51.
examined
■i. sound, 4
7-52,
sound, 4
7-53,
ringbone
7-6, not
7-61, not
examined
examined
7-7, not
7-71, not
examined
examined
-7-611, sound,
4
7-711, sound
7-712,side-
1^ bone, a
— 7-7111, sound
D.A.P., 4
THE AVEEVIL PEST OF GRAIN.
Summary of Proceedings of Conference held in Melbourne, '
October 15th, 1918.
The following were present : —
Professor D. Orme Masson, F.R.S., Deputy Chairman of the
Commonwealth Advisory Council of Science and Industry,
in the chair ;
Mr. Love, British Wheat Commissioner;
Representatives of the Australian Wheat Board : Mr. H. G. D.
Darling, Mr. G. C. Boehme, and Mr. H. A. Pitt
(Manager) ;
Representatives of the Advisory Council Grain Pests Com-
mittee: Mr. L. RossELL (Chairman), Mr. W. W. Froggatt
(Government Entomologist, ISTew South Wales) ;
Representatives of the Victorian Wheat Board : Hon. D.
S. Oman, M.L.A. (Minister for Agriculture), Hon. W.
Kendell, M.L.C, Messrs. Baker and Sibbald;
Representatives of the Victorian Department of Agriculture :
Dr. S. S. Cameron, Mr. A. E. V. Richardson, and Mr. C
French (Government Entomologist) ;
Representatives of South Australian Wheat Weevil Committee:
Dr. W. A. Hargreaves (Chairman), Mr. A. M. Lea (Go-
vernment Entomologist), Mr. D. C. Winterbottom (Super-
visor) ;
Dr. W. H, Green and Mr. W. B. Alexander (Secretary).
The Chairman welcomed the delegates on behalf of Senator Russell,
Chairman of the Advisory Council and of the Australian Wheat Board,
who had summoned the Conference. He briefly outlined the position,
pointing out that the Advisory Council, at the request of the Royal
Society of London, received through the Commonwealth Govei-nment,
had appointed a Special Committee to undertake researches. The
Special Committee had outlined a scheme of investigation, and had
suggested that the Australian Wheat Board should provide the neces-
sary funds; but the Wheat Board had been unable to make a grant for
this purpose. It was understood that the Wheat Weevil Committee
696 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 iN'ov., 1918.
in South Australia had carried out important investigations, and the
present Conference had been summoned to consider what further in-
vestigations were necessary, and by whom they should be carried out and
financed, with a view to avoiding unnecessary duplication of effort.
It appeared that the necessary work might be broadly divided into
two : — Experiments on n large scale for the treatment of wheat already
in store, such as were being conducted in South Australia; and more
fundamental scientific researches on the life-history of grain pests and
other matters bearing on the problem.
After discussion it was decided that the press should not be admitted
to the Conference.
Mr. EossELL (Chairman of the Special Committee of the Advisory
Council) outlined the researches that the Committee thought should be
undertaken. He emphasized the necessity for the employment of
research workers who would be able to give their whole time. A central
committee to co-ordinate all work carried out in Australia would obvi-
ously be a great advantage.
Mr. Froggatt gave a review of the various pests which were damag-
ing the wheat, and emphasized the seriousness of the position. lie
considered that the necessary researches would require the employment
of a bio-chemist and entomologist.
Dr. Hargreaves stated that, about a year ago, the position in
8outh Australia having become acute, the Government referred the matter
to the Department of Chemistry, and a Wheat Weevil Committee had
been appointed, of which he was chairman. The first experiments car-
ried out were as to the possibility of poisoning by gases. Hydro-
cyanic acid, carbon 'bisulphide, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide
had been tried, and of these carbon bisulphide was probably the most
efficient poison gas, though it had later been found that weevil could
be asphyxiated by the use of carbon dioxide. Treatment with lime
as advocated by Mr. Barrett had also been tried, but was found in-
efficient. Storage in sand was satisfactory on a small scale, but not
so good on a large scale. The heat treatment was then tried, and
seemed promising. A machine was designed and constructed in the
Department, and proved successful and economical. In connexion with
the heat treatment, over 2,000 experiments had been undertaken to de-
termine the rate of flow of wheat and the rate of heating in pipes of
various temperatures. The conclusion had been reached that most
heating machines work at too high an initial temperature, and that the
pressure of steam is too great. The South Australian machine works
at atmospheric pressure. It was realized, however, that heat treat-
ment was not a solution of the whole difficulty, as it was impossible
to treat all the affected wheat in time. Some experiments made by
Mr. Spafford had then suggested another alternative. He had sealed
up weevily wheat in bottles and found that the weevils died in a fort-
night. In three bottles it was found that the weevils were alive, but
this was traced to incomplete sealing. Variations in atmospheric pres-
sure probably accounted for the fact that the weevils were able to live,
as air would be forced into the bottles. After five days in a sealed
tube the percentage of carbon dioxide was found to be 15 per cent.,
and this was sufficient to kill weevils. These experiments suggested
the possibility of enclosing stacks with a covering of malthoid, m.aking
them as airtight as possible, and then pumping in carbon dioxide.
11 Nov.. 1918.] Weevil Pest of Grain. 697
A detailed account of an experiment carried out at Birkenhead,
South Australia, on a stack of 8,500 bags of very weevily wheat, was
submitted. It was found possible to maintain an amount of from
10 per cent, to 15 per cent, of carbon dioxide continuously. Gas was
generated by passing air over a bed of hot coke in a furnace, the object
being to get as near as possible to a mixture containing 80 per cent, of
nitrogen and 20 per cent, of carbon dioxide with no free oxygen. The
purpose was to displace all the oxygen in the enclosure to render the
oxygen contents too low a percentage to support life. The experiment
was highly successful. No live weevils were found in any part of the
stack, but millions of dead weevils were seen. It thus appears that
weevils can be destroyed without handling the wheat. Though it is
impossible to make the malthoid enclosure absolutely airtight, the con-
tinuous passing in of nitrogen and carbon dioxide makes up for this,
and enables an asphyxiating atmosphere to be maintained.
As regards the future, Dr. Hargreaves stated that he would be
pleased to co-operate with any bodies form,ed to undertake research
in other States, and to supply them with all information as to his
experiments. In reply to a question he stated that larvse and pupse,
as well as adult weevils, were killed by the process, but it was too early
to state whether the eggs were also destroyed. If not, it .would be
necessary to repeat the process a few weeks later, when the eggs had
developed.
Mr. Lea pointed out that the experiments demonstrated two things:
Covering the stacks with malthoid was an absolute preventive, since
flying insects and mice could not penetrate it. Any insects already
in the stack are destroyed by fumigation, and thus the safe storage of
the wheat is assured.
Mr. WiNTERBOTTOM cmphasizcd the importance of the results
achieved, and stated that the data obtained by the Department of
Chemistry ought to be published. He had been giving his whole time
to weevil work for the past fifteen months. It was important to adopt
preventive measures for new wheat; this should begin on the farm.
The danger arising from the mixing of a few bags of old wheat by
farmers with the new season's crop should be strongly emphasized, and
farmers required to deliver all their wheat in the one season, so that
it could be kept separate. One of the main' difficulties was that infec-
tion took place in country sheds. The grain on the floors of the sheds
— where these were of earth — contained weevil. The pest sometimes
appeared to be absent for a long while, and might break out after nine
months. He thought research was required as to the reason for this —
probably atmospheric conditions were responsible; 24 inches of earth
had been removed from the floors of some sheds, and yet weevils
were still emerging. Rats and mice carried grain containing weevils
down to the bottom of their holes, and it was impracticall}^ impossible
to remove weevil from those floors. Impervious floors of lime concrete
should be adopted in all sheds as essential; the superstructure was com-
paratively easily cleaned. Gutters placed round stacks were very
efficient weevil traps, but did not check the flying Rhizopertha. Old
dunnage was another source of infection, but it was found that immer-
sion in boiling water containing 1 per cent, of bluestone was fairly
698 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
satisfactory. "Whitewashing curtains improved their resistance to fly-
ing beetles. He calculated that a 60,000-bag stack could be covered
with malthoid, as explained by Dr. Hargreaves, at a cost of 2.8d. oi<
3d. per bag. This did not include the cost of the floor.
The Chaieman mentioned that the results as to asphyxiating of
weevils were in complete accord with those obtained by Professor
Dendy in England.
Mr. Baker, on behalf of the Victorian Wheat Board, stated that
no independent researches had been carried out in Victoria which had
been free from serious weevil infestation until this year. Machinery
for heat treatment was now being obtained, but in the light of Dr.
Hargreaves' work it would probably be better to proceed with malthoid
coverings.
Mr. Love pointed out that much of the wheat at present stacked
was so badly infested that it would be necessary to clean and recon-
dition it, but he was hopeful that covering with malthoid would pre-
vent further damage. He thought there was a possibility of the eggs
lying dormant, and only developing when the stack was broken down.
Another possibility was that enclosing stacks with malthoid might lead
to a rise in temperature and the wheat becoming bin burnt.
Dr. Hargreaves pointed out that the absence of oxygen would pre-
vent this.
Mr. WiNTERBOTTOM Stated that a stack enclosed in April showed no
such effect after six months. '
Mr. Baker pointed out that heating only took place when moisture
got in through a leaky roof.
Mr. Love, continuing, asked whether the gas treatment destroyed
rodents, and whether the purity of the gas could be maintained or
whether some other deleterious gases might not be evolved.
Mr. Oman, on behalf of Victoria, congratulated Dr. Hargreaves and
his fellow workers on the success of their experiments. The greatest
difficulty hitherto had been how to stop the ravages of the weevil until
the wheat could be reconditioned; this difficulty appeared now to have
been overcome.
Dr. Hargreaves expressed his gratification. Carbon dioxide was
not likely to damage the gluten, but might damage the germinating
power of the wheat, though Barnes and Grove had found otherwise.
So far as his experiments had gone at present, germination was not
affected. He emphasized the necessity for the control of fumigation
operations by a chemist. The carbon dioxide treatment killed rodents
as well as insects, and many dead rats and niice had been found. The
effect of heat was being investigated. There was a possibility that
starch might be hydrolised at 150 deg., though so far no bad effects
had been shown.
Mr. Love, Mr. Pitt and Mr. Rossell added their congratulations
on the results of the South Australian experiments.
Mr. Rossell thought the report from South Australia should be
printed, and that the practical points arising from it should be sent
to the Wheat Boards and made widely known amongst farmers. He
detailed the methods now being adopted in ]Srew South Wales to stack
wheat, which he regarded as fairly satisfactory. He mentioned that
the question of moisture absorption was being investigated by Mr.
Guthrie. He thought inquiries were necessary as to the reason why
11 Nov., 1918.] Weevil Pest of Grain. 699
freshly reaped wheat was unsuitable for milling, and as to the changes
that took place when it became mature. He thought, also, that it
was important to ascertain whether the heat treatment killed the grain,
and, if so, how long it could be kept afterwards without deterioration.
Mr. Lea mentioned that though weevils required a fairly high per-
centage of moisture, Rhizopertha will breed in dry wheat.
The Chairman pointed out that all organic matter is hygroscopic,
the amount of moisture absorbed depending on atmospheric condi-
tions.
Several members confii-med the hygroscopic qualities of wheat from
their own experience.
Mr. Froggatt thought that eggs would not keep long without hatch-
ing, but that the larvae would probably remain dormant for a long
period.
Mr. Lea thought it possible that under adverse conditions eggs
might also remain dormant for considerable periods.
Mr. Froggatt said that in New South Wales distribution of old
bags and dunnage into the country Avas the chief cause of infection.
He recommended treatment with salt water on the sea-board.
Mr. French said that in Victoria trucks were the greatest source
of infection.
Mr. WiNTERBOTTOM mentioned that weevils could live nine days in
sea water.
Mr. Lea said that they could survive five hours in methylated spirit.
The Chairman suggested that two sub-committees should be ap-
pointed to draw up plans regarding present methods of treatment and
future research respectively, and report to-morrow.
Mr. Pitt thought that the Conference could proceed at once. He
thought that the work in South Australia should have financial assist-
ance, either from the Wheat Board or from the Federal Government.
As regards scientific research, he explained that the Wheat Board was
purely a selling organization, and that though it could allocate funds
for the immediate protection of the grain, it would be outside its func-
tions to make a grant for research. This was rightly a question for
the Commonwealth and State Governments. He moved —
That this meeting expresses satisfaction with the steps taken by
the South Australian Weevil Committee for the preserva-
tion of existing stacks of wheat, and is of opinion that its
investigations should be continued; also that financial
assistance for this purpose should be rendered by the Wheat
Board or by the Commonwealth and State Parliaments.
Mr. RossELL seconded the resolution, which was carried unani-
mously.
Mr. Pitt then suggested that the research Avork should be under-
taken by the Advisory Council Avitli funds from the Commonwealth
GoA^ernment, and, if possible, subsidies from State GoA^ernments.
Mr. Lea suggested that there Avas room for a Committee in each
State.
Dr. Hakgreaves thought that the Committees in each State could
be kept in touch Avith one another through the Advisory Council. He
moved —
That Committees to undertake further scientific research on
grain pests be appointed in each of the four wheat-growing
700 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 ISTov., 1918.
States to report to the Advisory Council. The present
Committee of the Advisory Council to be the Committee
for the New South Wales and the South Australia Wheat
Weevil Committee to continue for that State, new Com-
mittees being formed in Victoria and Western Australia.
Mr. BoEHME seconded the resolution, which was carried unani-
mously.
The investigations recommended by the Special Committee of the
Advisory Council were then considered. It was decided that the fol-
lowing work should be carried out in each of the States : —
1. Examination of samples of insect-damaged grain from all
parts of the Commonwealth, with a view to the determina-
tion of the injurious insects present, their comparative
prevalence in different localities, and the extent and nature
of the damage done.
2. Observations and experiments on the life-history of the in-
sects chiefly responsible for dam.age to stored grain and
the conditions favorable to their active multiplication as
regards temperature, moisture and aeration. This would
be work mainly supplementary to investigations, the re-
sults of which have been published in England and India;
but it is essential that it should be done in view of the
differences in Australian conditions.
3. Estimation of the water-content of wheat in various condi-
tions, including the estimation of the percentage of mois-
ture present in the grain when first harvested in various
parts of the Commonwealth.
4. Recording the changes in the water-content of bulk samples
during the maturation and dormancy of the grain; co-
ordination of these changes with atmospheric conditions.
5. Experiments on the degree and rate of absorption of water
in bulk samples of wheat kept at regulated temperatures in
atmospheres artificially charged with moisture. These ex-
periments would be varied so as to test the hygroscsopic pro-
perties of the grain in various stages of maturation.
It was further decided that experiments on the effect of hermetic-
ally sealing wheat and its influence on vitality, be left to the South
Australian Committee, together with investigations as to the effect of
heat treatment on the vitality of wheat and its keeping and milling pro-
perties.
Dr. Green referred to lime treatment, and also to Mr. Barrett's
proposals for the construction of basin silos with tar paved floors.
Mr. RossELL suggested that the effect of lime be investigated further
by the Victorian Committee when formed.
This was agreed to.
With regard to tar flooring, Mr. Rossell stated that wheat in con-
tact with it acquired a taint which rendered it unfit for milling.
A proposal that a pamphlet should be published in simple terms
on the life histories of weevils and other grain insects and methods of
destroying them and preventing infection, and widely distributed to
farmers, was carried umanimously.
After a vote of thanks to the chairman the proceedings terminated.
11 Nov., 1918.] Orchard and Garden. Notes. 701
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
The Orchard.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Pomologist.
Spkaying.
The spray pump should now be in thorough working order, so that
the various spring sprayings may be carried out with as little interrup-
tion as possible. It is always wise to clean out the pump after each
spraying, so that it will be ready for the next mixture. Putting a
different spray in a pump barrel that has not been washed out, very often
causes the formation of a sediment, which blocks the nozzle and inter-
rupts the work.
During November it will be necessary to spray for codlin moth,
peach aphis, pear slug, and various leaf-eating insects. In addition,
black spot of the apple and pear, shot hole, and other fungus diseases
must be kept in check. x\s various sprays are required for all of these
troubles, the necessity of always having a clean pump is evident.
At the present time the best spray for peach aphis is strong tobacco
solution, and the same spray may also be used for the pear slug. Arsenate
of lead is the better spray for thjs latter insect, but it should not be used
when the fruit is approaching the ripening stage ; hellebore may also be
used for the slug with good effect.
As a preventive against codlin moth, the trees should be kept well
sprayed with arsenate of lead. The first spraying should
have been given at the time of the falling of the petals ; the second spray-
ing, owing to the rapid expansion of the fruit, should be given a fortnight
later. After that the grower must use his own judgment as to the neces-
sity for subsequent sprayings. If the moths be at all prevalent, other
sprayings will be quickly necessary.
As the woolly aphis is increasing at this time of the year, it will
mean a saving of a large number of buds if this insect be sprayed.
Nicotine solution, pine spray, or lime sulphur may be used with good
effect.
Cultivation.
The work of ploughing and harrowing should be completed imme-
diately. All crops for green manure should be now under cover, and if
the orchard soil is at all heavy or stiff, the grower should make up his
mind to grow a crop next season, in order that this condition may
be reduced.
The orchard should be kept free from weeds, not only for the con-
servation of moisture, but in order to do away with all hiding places of
the Rutherglen fly, cutworm moths, &c.
General Work.
Grafted and newly-planted trees should be frequently examined, and
given an occasional watering and overhead spraying, in order to en-
courage their growth, and to prevent loss of moisture from the foliage.
702 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
It is also advisable to mulch young trees with light grass, or straw mulch-
ing not too rich in animal manure.
The disbudding of unnecessary shoots and the pinching back or stop-
ping of growths, to prevent their becoming unduly long, may now be
carried out. This work is particularly important on young trees.
Graft ties should be examined, and the ties cut wherever any growth
is being made. Where the grafts are likely to make any long growth,
they should be well staked and tied.
Citrus trees may be planted out, and, after planting, they should be
watered and mulched.
Vegetable Garden.
Tomato plants should 'now receive attention every day; laterals will
require pinching back; crowded bunches and shoots should be thinned;
the plants should be well tied to the stakes, and liberal supplies of water
and manure should be given. One or two more plantings of tomato
plants may still be made, so that there may be strong, sturdy plants
for the production of late fruits. By planting three or four successions
of plants, it is possible to have a good supcply of fruits from December
to June.
Celery may now be sown for winter crops. French beans should be
largely sown. Cucumber, melon, pumpkin, and all seeds of this family
may now be sown in the open.
Where these plants are already growing, the longest and strongest
runners may be pinched back, to throw the strength into flowering and
lateral growths. Watch the plants for mildew, and use sulphur freely
wherever present, especially on the young plants.
Peas, lettuce, radish, turnip, cabbage, and sweet com seeds may be
sown this month. Seedlings from former sowings may be planted out,
and it would be well to dip the whole plant in water before planting.
This greatly assists the young plants while taking hold of the soil in
their new location.
Frequent waterings and frequent cultivation will now be necessary;
and all weeds must be hoed or hand-weeded out; mulching with stable
manure will greatly assist the plants.
A few beds should now be deeply worked, adding a liberal dressing of
stable manure. These plots will then be ready for the celery, cabbage,
and other seeds planted during this month.
Flower Garden.
Continue to plant out the various bedding and foliage plants, corms
of gladoli, and seed of such tender annuals as phlox Drummondi, bal-
sam, zinnia, nasturtium, celosia, aster, cosmos and portulaca.
While seeds planted out in the open germinate and grow fairly well,
it is advisable during the summer months to plant these in sheltered seed
beds, or in a canvas or calico frame. The protection need be on the one
side only, preferably the west or north-west ; the seedlings are then pror
tected during the hottest part of the day. At the same time the shading
should not be sufficient to unduly " draw " them.
The seeds should not be deeply sown, and all waterings should be
light. A little water, often, should be the rule for seedlings. Annuals
11 Nov., 1918.] Reminders. 703
require plenty of room when planted out in the garden. Being quick
growers, they are generally gross feeders, and they must have space to
develop a good root system. Feeding, too, with liquid manure is helpful
when they are reaching the flowering stage.
Dahlias may now be planted out, either from tubers or from young
rooted cuttings. These will give good early summer blooms. For
autumn and show blooms, the planting should be deferred imtil the
middle of December.
Herbaceous and succulent plants should be staked for protection;
included in this section are delphinium, gladiolus, perennial phlox,
rudbeckia, &c. These plants will all benefit from liberal mulchings and
watering with liquid manure when approaching the blooming period.
Spring flowering bulbs, corms, and tubers should now be lifted and
stored.
The soil surfaces will now benefit from frequent hoeings and stirrings.
Constant waterings will be required if the weather be hot or windy,
the cultivation should quickly follow the waterings in order that the
moisture may be thoroughly conserved. Mulching with stable manure
is also beneficial at this season.
REMINDERS FOR NOVEMBER.
LIVE STOCK,
Horses. — All farm horses in constant work at this season should be well fed
■ with last year's chaff or a mixture of old and new, to which a liberal supply of
oats has been added. New chaff or hay alone is not recommended, as it has
not the sustaining powers of old hay, and is liable to give rise to digestive
troubles. Horses require water at frequent intervals; keeping them for a long
time without water, and then allowing them to drink to excess is injurious.
An occasional feed of green stuff will be beneficial. In the event of this
being unobtainable, give at week-ends a bran mash, to which is added five or
six packets of Epsom salts.
Mares which are away from foals for any length of time should have a
portion of milk taken from them before foal is allowed to run with them, other-
wise serious results may accrue to foal. Good results follow an allowance of
chaff and oats to mares and foals running in paddocks, more especially where
feed is short.
At this season the Bot Fly is about, and horses should be frequently examined
for the eggs of this fly. Tlie neck, forelegs, and jaws are the parts where the
eggs are deposited. Either the use of the singeing lamp under affected parts or
the application of kerosene will destroy the eggs.
Cattle. — Provide succulent fodder and plenty of clean water and shade.
Limewash the cowbails, it helps to keep down flies. Provide " lick " in trough,
consisting of salt 20 lbs., bone meal 20 lbs., and sulphate of iron, J lb. Look out
for milk fever. Read up method of treatment in Year-Book of Agriculture,
June, 1905. Have cows' milk weighed, and tested for butter fat. Rear heifer
calves from cows giving satisfactory results. Continue giving milk at blood heat
to calves. Be careful to keep utensils clean, or diarrhoea will result. Do not give
too much milk at a time for the same reason. Give half-a-cup of limewater' in
the milk to each calf. Let them have a good grass run or lucerne, or ^ lb.
704 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [11 Nov., 1918.
crushed oats each per day in trough. Dehorn all dairy calves, except those
required for stud or show purposes.
Pigs. — Sows. — Supply tliose farrowing with plenty of short bedding in well-
ventilated sties. Those with litters old enough may be turned into grass run.
All pigs should bo given a plentiful supply of clean water. Read Bulletin No. 16.
Pig raising and fattening with present price of pollard and bacon should be
highly profitable.
Sheep. — Mate all good young ewes procurable. Fatten and dispose of all
broken-mouthed, inferior-fleet'cd, and very coarse-wooled sorts. Seasons will not
always remain favorable. Where ewe lambs are intended to be held for future
breeding, see that the cross results in shafty, fine to medium grade fleeces,
as well as a shaply frame. Allow rams to remain with the ewes seven weeks,
this period admitting of any ewes coming in season the second time. It is
rarely necessary to join more than 3 per cent, of 2 tooths, 3 jjer cent, of 5 and 6
year olds, or 2 per cent, of 2, 3 and 4 year old rams, unless with young ewes.
If conditions justify it, 4 per cent, of vigorous matured ram:^ with aged coarse
crossbred ewes will bring a greatly increased number of twin lambs. 'Clear wool
and burrs from about the pizzles of rams, and cut hoofs into shape before
mating. Ewes should be of one breed, or as near one cross as possible, to ensure
an even and rapid dropping. Merino and fine cross ewes are in season earliest,
first cross or lialf-l)reds later, and all ewes with a preponderance of British
blood later still. It is useless to join rams with ewes until their proper time
of coming in season. Ewes carry their lambs four months, four weeks, four
days, or roughly, Ave months.
Poultry. — Add a little peameal to morning mash and give less bran. Feed
equal parts wheat and heavy oats at night. Supply plenty of green food — at this
time, lettuce is invaluable. Discontinue salts and condiments. Avoid salt meat
of any description. Put Douglas mixture in drinking water when required.
Keep ample supplies of sand, ashes, «fec., in pens, and moisten same. This
will enable the birds to keep themselves cool and clean. Top off geese, ducks,
and cockerels for the Christmas markets. Hens will do better this month by
having free range. Remove all male birds from flocks, as infertile eggs will
keep longer and command a higher price.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Cut hay in late districts. Cut oats and barley in early places.
Finish planting potatoes. Put in late maize for fodder, also millet and imphee.
Plough fire-breaks where required. Get stackyard and stages ready for hay.
Orchard. — Keep the surface loose and free. Suppress weeds. Spray as
often as necessary for codlin moth and pear slug. Mulch and spray young
trees and grafts with water in the early morning during hot weather.
Vegetable Garden. — Keep the surface hoed, and allow the plants plenty of
moisture. Stake, pinch out, manure, and water tomatoes. Pinch back long
runners of pumpliin and melon family. Sow autumn and winter varieties of
cabbage and cauliflower. Plant out seedlings in cool weather. Sow French
beans. Cease cutting asparagus beds, and top-dress with manure.
Flower Garden. — Plant out dahlias and gladioli for autumn blooming. Lift
and store spring flowering bulbs. Stake, tie, and train growing plants. Sow
zinnias and asters. Layer carnations, camelias, daphnes, &c. Water well and
keep the surface loose. Keep rose beds fairly dry.
Vineyard. — ^Inspect young grafted vines (field or bench) ; suckering and
removal of scion roots should be carefully attended to — ^See Journals for Septem-
ber and October, 1917. Tie up young vines. Beware of cut worms on young
vines — See Journals for July, 1911, and September, 1913. Tj'ing up of bearing
vines, if practised, should be completed early in month. Avoid excessive and
indiscriminate topping, far too frequent in Victoria. Scarify, if soil is not suffi-
ciently loose, and after heavy rain or irrigation. Look out for oidium and repeat
sulphurings on first appearance of disease. Keep a sharp look-out for Downy
Mildew — See article in current issue.
Cellar. — Fill up regularly and keep cellars as cool as possible.
11 Nov., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
xvii
MAIZE— Craig Mitchell Mammoth White
Specially Selected
SEED MAIZE
CRAIG MITCHELL MAMMOTH WHITE— The heaviest cropping
maize both in cobs and green feed yet introduced. 8/- per bushel.
HICKORY KING — A lar^e, white, quick-growing maize. 7/6 per bushel.
ALL GOLD— The best of all yellow seeded maize. 8/- per bushel.
ECLIPSE —This is a heavy stalked, sweet stemmed maize, with a broad leaf.
7/6 per bushel.
FUNK'S EARLY YELLOW DENT— A very early mai«e. 7/6 perbushel-
BOONE COUNTY SPECIAL— A splendid white maize; comes to maturity
early, and stools freely. 8/- per bushel.
GOLDEN BEAUTY— Medium early; suitable alike for heavy and light
soils ; heavy yielder of grain. 8/- per bushel.
SIBLEY A good grower ; plenty of foliage ; will cob and stool well; early.
7/6 per bushel.
LONGFELLOW— A very early maize. 7/6 per bushel.
SUNSHINE NINETY DAY— A good maize for fodder and cobbing.
8/- per bushel.
VICTORIAN NINETY DAY. 7/6 per bushel.
VICTORIAN FLAT RED 7/- per bushel.
LAW, SOMNER
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston St., MELBOURNE
Established 18SO Telephone— Central 729
Nurseries— Orrong Road, ARMADALE, adjoining Toorak Railway Station
xviii Journal of AgricvHure, Victoria. [11 iSTov., 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES
VICTORIA DOCK
The Stores have a capacity of 743,980 cubic feet
insulated, and are capable of holding 372,000
boxes of butter, or 248,000 cases of fruit,
or 335,000 carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Electric motor power totals 900 H.P.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any cliamber In the building, or conveyed from the chambers
direct into the ship's hold.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected with the Cool Stores by direct lines ; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable products are provided.
Expert Officers are connected with every Branch, so that
any one requiring information regarding the production, preparation, and
shipment of produce can rely upon being promptly supplied with up-to-
date information upon all matters.
11 Nov., 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. xix
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES
VICTORIA DOCK .
F^£iCilitiCS are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers in an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
handle, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St.)
Telephones :
Office: 10383 Central. Superintendent and Engineer-in-Charge : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent. Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street. Melbourne.
Telephone 9380 Central.
XX
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[11 :N'ov., 1918.
F
\^Wl^
•<^s=
:"(^ii
-t
A Rain-rGsisling
Spray
GARGOYLE Prepared Red
Spraying Oil is the only spray
that WILL withstand severe
climatic conditions. The heaviest
rains will not wash it off your trees.
To make sure that Black Spot or
other fungus diseases will not appear,
spray Gargoyle Prepared Red Spray-
ing Oil over your fungicidal solution.
It will hold it in place during the
critical time when fungus spores
sprout.
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying Oil
is everywhere recognised as the most
reliable spray for destroying Aphis,
Scale, Red Spider, and all insect pests.
If your Storekeeper does not sell it,
write direct to the
Vacuum Oil Company Pty. Ltd.
Branches throughout Australasia
<S^^&f
IZ
SR 3
l-l II
PREPARED RED
SPRAYING OIL
11 Xov.. 191 S.l
■Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
NEPTUNE SPRAYS
Consist of the following grades—
NEPTUNE RED SPRAYING OIL
Makes a beautiful white emulsion, contains 85% Red
Oil. and will do all that other red spraying oils will
do, and more.
NEPTUNE LIME AND SULPHUR SOLUTION
Is the safest and most powerful fungicide ever dis-
covered. Trees can be sprayed when in full bloom.
ARSENATE OF LEAD ^^MERCURY'^ BRAND
Will not scorch the foliage, and won't wash off.
Death to all parasites.
Write for a Pamphlet giving full information and instructions.
NEPTUNE OIL CO. LTD., J^e^bSuVn^
xxu
Journal of AgricuUnrp. Victoria.
[11 Nov., 1918.
11 Nov., 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
xxui
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kingdom and foreign
countries. Single copy, 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7, 8, and 9 (July, August, and September) out of print; V. (1907), and VI.
(1908), 12 parts each; VII. (1909), 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print ; and VIII. (1910), 12 parts, are at present in stock, and
will be supplied at the foregoing rates. The parts forming the current volume may also
be obtained. A few bound copies of Volumes Vlll. (1910). IX. (191 1), 1 I parts,
exclusive of February, X. (1912), 6 parts, exclusive of January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), II parts, exclusive of June, are at
present available. Price, 5s. per volume. Postage: C. 3^d. ; N.Z., Is. 2d.;
B. & F..2s. 4d.
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp., 200 illustrations. 2
coloured plates. Cloth. 3s. 6d. ; paper. 2s. 6d. Postage: C, cloth 2;ld., paper
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d., paper 8d. ; B. & F. . cloth Is. 6d. , paper Is. 4d.
AUSTRALIAN FUNGL By Dr. Cooke. £1 Is. Postage : C, 56.; N.Z. \0d.;
B. &F.. Is. 8d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2s. 6d.
Postage, 1 d .
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly). I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet, 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention " Monthly " or " Weekly."
By Professor A. J. Ewart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS. POISON PLANTS. AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C. I^d.; N.Z.,5d.; B. &F., lOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II., I Os. Postage : C, 2d.;
N.Z.,8d.; B. &F.. Is. 4d.
By C. French, F.E.S., Government Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts I.. II., III.. IV., V.,
each. Postage: Parts I. and III., C. Id.; N.Z.. 3d.; B. & F., 6d. each.
II. andlV.. C. 4d.: N.Z.. 4d.: B. & F.. 8d. each. Part v.. C, Id.;
4d.: B.&F., 7d.
2s. 6d.
Parts
N.Z.,
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
Journal of AgrlcvJture, Victoria. \\\ Nov.. 191S.
Just Consider This
Australia and her wonderful producing
facilities have been one of the main
inspirations of Germany's world greed
Germany Wants Australia
Germany must Colonize if she Wins this War
Germany can Devastate, as well as Produce
If YOU are a producer, and eligible
for active service, YOU are produc-
ing a bigger casualty list than need be
Your Old-time Mate is Done Up
He Wants Your Help
WILL YOU GIVE
IT?
By Authority: H. J. Green, Actiner GoTernment Printer, Melbourne.
Maize Products
u
Polly" Feed and Oil Meal
All Cattle and Poultry Like It
"POLLY" BRAND FEED is just Maize, with the germ and the surplus
starch removed, toasted, and made appetising, then disintegrated into powder,
and put up for ready mixmg and immediate use. Is rich in Protein, viz.,
20 per cent, guaranteed.
COWS fed on "Polly" Feed will yield 20 per cent, more milk.
HORSES thrive better on "Polly" Feed because the heavy and indigestible
starch proportion is removed, and the Feed is muscle and bone forming.
" POLLY " FEED does not weevil or germinate, and it does not turn rancid
with age.
Maize Products "Oil Meal"
IVIaize Oil IVIeal is toasted and tasteful, does not germinate or turn
rancid with age or storage. Ready for use as a mash at a moment's notice.
CALVES thrive on "OIL MEAL" better than any other.
POULTRY of all kinds do better with "OIL MEAL" than with any other.
Fattening Pigs — For fat bacon nothing is more successful for Weight
and Flavour.
Maize Oil Meal differs from our "Polly" Brand Feed in that the
latter is cheaper and produces bone and muscle, whereas Maize Oil Meal
produces Bone, Muscle, Fat, and a Glossy and Beautiful Coat.
Maize Oil Meal" "Polly " Brand Feed
Put up in lOO lb. bags. Every bag guaranteed.
Write for prices and further particulars.
MAIZE PRODUCTS Pty. Ltd.
Office and Works ^^— ^ Footscray, Victoria
Telephones: Footscray 367-368
VICTORIAN
RAILWAYS
PICTURESQUE VICTORIA
Summer Excursions
The Victorian Railways issue Summer Excursion
Fares to the Seaside, Mountains, Rivers, Lakes,
and Caves, from 1st November till 30th April
MOUNT BUFFALO
Excursion Fares all the year
round
First-Class Special Inclusive
Week Tickets
covering Transport and Accommodation,
at the "Government Chalet," are issued
on Mondays by the 6.15 a.m. train, and
on Fridays by the 4 p.m. Express train,
at £6
Excursionist! wishing to travel by motor from Bright
may do so, weather permitting, on payment at
Bright of 5/- extra.
Special Inclusive Week
Excursion Tickets
including Accommodation. &c.
HEALESVILLE
Rail, Coach Drives, &c., 7 days. £3 3/-
WARBURTON
Rail, Coach Drives, &c., 7 days, £3 S/-
MOUNT BUFFALO
See other side.
Write to the Government Tourist
Bureau for full particulars.
Victorian Government Tourist Bureau
Opposite Town Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne
Full Information supplied in regard to Excursions, Tourist
Resorts, Accommodation, &c. Tickets issued daily
Handbooks, Maps, and Hotel Guides Free on application.
Telephone Nos. 2898
and 2899 Central
GEO. H. SUTTON.
Secretary for Railways.
Vol. XVI. THE BOTTLING OF FRUIT. Part 12.
[Registered at the General Post Office, Melbourne, for transmission by Post as a Newspaper.]
RALIA.
PRICE THREEPENCE. (Annual Subscription— Victoria, Inter-State, and N.Z., 3/-; British and Foreign, 6/-.)
FARMERS! Sow TEFF GRASS
Ensures Plentiful Supply! Finest Summer Fodder!
^^
Leading Farmers declare Brunning's Teff produces finest Summer Fodder either
for Grazing or Hay. Can be cut 8 to 10 weeks after seeding. Write To-day.
Sample and Price by Return,
Sow Brunning's Pure-Bred Seed Maize
Absolute success assured ; specially grown under personal supervision ;
represents a collection of the very best seed for local requirements.
Write To-day. Price and Valuable Leaflet on Application
SORGHUMS
IMPHEE, or PLANTER'S FRIEND— The Favourite— ensures excellent results in Gippsland,
where the more tender sorts will not thrive. Seed is very scarce this season.
Order at once to avoid disappointment.
F. H. BRUNNING Pty. Ltd.
SEED SPECIALISTS 64 ELIZABETH STREET, MELBOURNE
TKE JOUl^NAL
OF
THE DRPAirrMI'^^T OF AGIUGULTUItl^
V"ICTOR,I.A_, j^tj&i::r.a.J-,Xj^.
CONTENTS.— DECEMBER, 1918.
■^(ilC
A Westeru District F;u iii ... ... ... E. W. Murphy 705
Dallying on a Sin:ill .\iea ... ... ... ... W.F.Bcacorn. 710
liottling of Fruit for Home Use ... ... ... ... Mits A. Knight 71."i
IMotor Tractor Trials ... ... ... .. ... ... 727
<_'oi){)er Fungiui.les f )r N'ine Diseases ... ... ... F. de Ca-ldln 7-"^">
The lluthetglen Bug ... ... ... C French 7:iS
Standardized Packing and Uratlinj' of Frait ... .. Fined Meeki y 741
JS'ative Fibre Plants ... ... ... Alfred J. F wart, D.Sc, Fh.D 747
Does Poultry Farming Pay •' ... ■• ■.■ ■• A. V. D. Rintoid ITA
Automatic Feeders for Pigs ... ... ... R. T. Archer 754
Analysis of Artificial Feitilizers .. ... ... ... ... ... 757
Scale of Charges for Freezing, kc , at Government Cool Stores ... ... 763
Victorian Kainfall^Tliird (Quarter, 1918 ... ... ... .. ... 764
Orchard and (iarden Notes ... ... ... ... ... ... 766
Reminders for January ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 767
COPYRIGHT PROVISIONS AND SUBSCRIPTION RATES.
The Articles in the .Journal of the Department of Agriculture of Victoria aie
|)rotected by the provisions of the Copyright Act. Proprietors of newspapers wishing
to republish any matter are at libertj'to do do, provided the Journal and tiulhor are
hath ac.knoidedijed.
The Journal is issued monthly. The subscription, which is payable in advance
and includes postage, is 3s. per annum for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and
5s. for the United Kingdom and Foreign Countries. Single copy, Threepence.
Subscrit)tions should be forwarded to the Director of Agriculture, Melbourne.
A complete list of the various jiublications issued by the Department of Agriculture
will be -■upplie<l by the latter.
II
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
r
SUNLIGHT
OIL- cake:
A Better Result.
MR. 5HANAHAN, of Coleraine, writes:—
Dear Sir?,
I am enclosing cheque for Oil-Cake. It took
me a long time b< lore I could get tfie cows to
eat it. but ttiey g' it to like ii by degrees, and Ifie
result is entirely satislactory. 1 really do not
know of a substance thai could give a better
result. I retret very much that I did not have it
earlier, and I feel sure I would have doubled mv
supply of cream. One of my cows was nearly
dry, and was not giving more than a pint ol m Ik
per day. Nowshe is giving I i galhins. Certarnly
some of the result Is due to the Increased
supply of grass, but from the time I got her to
eat tlie Oil-Cake she steadily improved and is
continuing on the improve.
Please send me 2 cwt. more as the last lot
is nearly used up.
Yours faithfully,
(Signed) JOHN 5HANAHAN.
For Post Free Book —
"Science in the Dairy"
By L. A. SAUNDLRS,
Late Lditor "Australian Field,"
Write to Lerer Brothers Ltd., Box 2510, G.P.O., Melbounu
SUNLIGHT
OiLCAKt
Guaranteed Pure
See that the name "Sunlight" is
branded on every cake
PAMPHLETS
New Series
Obtainable from the Director of
Agriculture, Melbourne,
Free on Application.
1. SILO CGNLTRUCTIGN.
2. HINTS FOR NEW SETTLERS. T. A. J. Smith.
3. APPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT.
P. J. Carmody.
5. CIDER MAKING. J. Kiiijid.
7. CITRUS FRUIT CULTURE. E. E. Pescott.
8. BUILDING HINTS FOR SETTLERS.
A. S. I\ei,yi)n, C.E., and others.
9. TOBACCO CULTURE. T. A. J. Smith.
•10. SILOS AND SILAGE. G. II. F. Baker.
11. THE BEET SUGAR INDUSTRY AND CLOSER
SETTLEMENT. //. T. EaUerby.
12. WORMS IN SHEEP.
S. S. Cameron, D.V.Sc, M.R.C.V.S.
13. CHEESE MAKING (Cheddar). C. S. Sawers.
14. FARM BLACKSMITHING, O. Baxter.
15. BROOM FIBRE INDUSTRY. T. A. J. Smith.
16. THE PIG INDUSTRY. Ii. T. Archer.
19. LIME IN AGRICULTURE.
L)r. S. S. Cameron and others.
20. NUMERICAL SYSTEM OF PACKING APPLES,
E. Meeking.
21. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
—1912-13. »'. A. N. lUibertson. B. V .Sc.
22. WHEAT AND ITS CULTIVATION.
A. E. V. liicnardson, M.A., B.Sc.
23. HINTS OM PACKING AND FORWARDING
FRUIT FOR EXPORT. J. G. Turner.
24. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1913-14. W. A. y. Ruhertion, B.X'.Sc.
25. SUCCESSFUL POULTRY KEEPING, ETC.
A. Hart.
26. TOMATO CULTURE IN VICTORIA. S. A. Cock.
27. SUMMER FODDER CROPS.
Temple A. J. Smith.
29. THE BEE-KEEPING INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA.
F. R. Beuhne.
30. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
— 1914-15. H'. A. X. Rnbertxon, B.y.Sc.
32. CITRUS CULTURE IN VICTORIA. 5. A. Cock.
33. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1915-16. ir. A. A'. Ii.'b->-ts(m, B.WSc.
34. GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATION OF STALLIONS
1916-17. It'. .^• -V. Riibrrtson, B.WSc.
35. SUMMER BUD, or YEMA GRAFT OF THE VINE
/•'. (/.' Ca.-.-tflla.
36. EVAPORATION OF APPLES.
39. POTATO CULTURE. J. T. Ramsay.
Also Leaflets on Foul Brood of Bees, Transferring
Bees, Feedinsf Cows for Milk Production, Sulphi(>-
iPK, Some Vintage Considerations, Spring: Frosts,
Cut Worms, Insect Pests of the Potato, Fruit
Tree Diseases and their Treatmert.
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
ui
STOCK BREEDERS' CARDS.
Winner of Government Prizes,
\nc\wiMg Prize for Best Herd, 1916-17
Miss B. BRUCE REID. G.M.VjC.
Breeder of
Pure Jersey Cattle
Intending Buyers of Jersey and Holstein
Cattle are invited to inspect the herds of
A. "W. JONES,
St. Albans Estate Stud Farm,
GEELONG.
Inspedion of Herd invited at
Blossom Park,
BUNDOORA.
SPRINGHURST JERSEY STUD
Originated by selections from best
imported stock, bred under ordinary
dairying conditions.
See Herd Test Results.
YOUNG BULLS FOR SALE.
Apply JOHN D. READ.
Springhurst. Victoria.
Government Herd of Red Polls,
Research Farm, Werribee.
Sale of Bull Calves
Suspended ioi a time to overtake orders.
1
Particulars from
The Director of Agriculture.
Melbourne.
JERSEY BUTTER
^^ BULLS ^—
Apply-
C. GORDON LYON, "Banyule," Heidelberg, Victoria
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE
FOR 1905
^^S Pages 200 Illustrations 2 Coloured Plates
Cloth, 3i. 6d. ; paper, 2s. 6d. ^°'''''^'«i ^v'°'^^^''' rr', 2<i; i, n.z.. cioth 9d..
» r r » • "•*• paper 8d. ; B. and F., clotb l». 6d., paper. Is. 4d.
■jy Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
^^\ NOW AVAILABLE [^^
Handbook of Potato Diseases in
Australia — and their Treatment
By D. McALPINE,
government vegetable pathologist.
With Appendlce* by
W. Laidlaw, B.Sc. (Biologirt),
on Eel Worms:
and
C. French, Jnr. (GoTernm«M
Entomoloei't), on
Insect Pests of the
Potato.
235 Pmm (Cloth). 58 Full Plate.. Prirp S/- Port««o:Commonwealth 2d.; New Zealand. 8d.;
176 lilu$tralioni. I TltC, %J / British and Foreign. 1/4.
AoDlication. accompanied by Postal Note or Cheque. corering Price and Postage, to be forwarded to The Director tl
Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria. Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to be made by h'ost (Jtbce Urd«.
WORKS ON VITICULTURE
(Translated from the French by R. Dubois
and W. Percy Wilkinson.)
WINE-MAKING IN HOT CLIMATES. By L. Roos. Cloth, la.
Postage: C, IJd. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
FIRST STEPS IN AMPELOGRAPHY. By Marcel Mazade. Cloth, la.
Paper, 6d. Postage: C, id. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
TRENCHING AND SUB-SOIIiING FOR AMERICAN VINES.
Paper, 9d. Postage : C, Id. ; N.Z., 3d. ; B. & F., 6d.
NEW^ METHODS OF GRAFTING AND BUDDING AS APPLIED
TO RECONSTITUTION ^WITH AMERICAN VINES. Paper, 6d.
Postage: C, Id.; N.Z., 2d.; B. & F., 4d.
AMERICAN VINES: THEIR ADAPTATION, CULTURE,
GRAFTING, AND PROPAGATION. By P. Viala and L. Ravaz.
Cloth, 2s. Paper, Is. Postage: C, Hd. ; N.Z., 5d. ; B. & F., lOd.
STUDIES ON W^INE STERILIZING MACHINES. By U. Gayon.
Paper, 9d. Postage: C, ^d. ; N.Z., 2d. ; B. & F., 4d.
MANUAL OF MODERN VITICULTURE: RECONSTITUTION
WITH AMERICAN VINES. By G. Foex. Paper, 9d. Postage :
C, Id. ; N.Z., 4d. ; B. & F., 8d.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, VICTORIA
PUBLICATIONS
Bu D. Mc Alpine, Government Vegetable Pathologist.
RUSTS OF AUSTRALIA. 5s. Postage: C. 2d.: N.Z.. 8d.; B. & F., Is. 4d.
SMUTS OF AUSTRALIA. 4s. Postage: C, Zid.; N.Z.. 9d. : B. & F.. Is. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF CITRUS TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. Postage: C Id.. N.Z..
3d.; B. & F.. 6d.
FUNGUS DISEASES OF STONE FRUIT TREES IN AUSTRALIA. 2s. 6d. Postage: C. lid.:
N.Z.. 5d.; B. & F.. lOd.
SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN FUNGI. 3s. Postage: C. Id.-. N.Z..
8d. : B. & F.. Is. 4d.
Applications accompanied by Postal Not* or Chequs aov»ring price and postage to bt forwarded t*
THE DIRECTOR OF AGRICULTURE, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA
Remittances from beyond the Commonwealth to b* mxide by Post Office Order.
10 Dec, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
u
BILLABONG Centrifugal
PUMPS
For raising large quantities of Water
for Irrigation and other purposes.
This Centrifugal Pump embodies many
notable features — a result of our long
experience in Pump manufacture. It
is made at our Melbourne Works of
also made with %ooA quality materials and by expert
End Suction ; : : Pump Engineers : : :
The efficiency of our pumps taken under actual test is 75J per cent. This, we
consider, for a stock line of pump, altogether above the average.
Specifications rr, ^^ /f^T^TTT^ ^^?V^
and Prices
on Application
Advice
Free
Makers of Windmills, Pumps, Troughs, Fluming, &c., &c.
Melbourne and Sydney
PARSONS BROS. & CO.
Propy. Ltd.
OATMEAL, SPLIT PEAS, and
PEARL BARLEY MILLERS
and'CORNINA' MANUFACTURERS
ARE
BUYERS of OATS, PEAS,
BARLEY, and MAIZE.
■«'
SEND SAMPLES OF YOUR ^ BOX 53,
GRAIN TO US. ^ G.P.O.. MELBOURNE.
VI
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
Separators for large and
small dairymen
Whether you have one or two cows, or whether you are dairyins
in a big way, choose the separator that guarantees best returns.
"Favorite" Cream Separator
Specially built for household use--it is easy to clean and runs easily-only
two parts in bowl-your wife or youngsters can look
after it quite easily. Skims clean—strongly made
Fine skimming capacity guaranteed. Order at once and
save. All future stocks are carrying heavy mcreases.
No. 1
.. 2-
-11 Gallons per hour
-IS Gallons per hour
Pay £1 Down
£1 Monthly
The "Viking" Cream Separator
Renowned for its greater capacity-Famous for its lower price-not only does the
Viking save in first cost but it cuts out losses by preventing any waste in cream.
Skims to a trace. Beautifully constructed, self-balancing bowl, shaped P'aces-
cleaning is easy, because no awkward corners. Various sizes. 15— ^7— 5U— »u—
^^Tholr. Terms- £1 Down. £1 Monthly.
A Month's Free Trial with every Separator. If not fully satisfied, send it back
and we'll pay freight.
Langwill Bros. & Davies Pty. Ltd.
All Duplicate Parts stocked, also duplicate for "Lister, ""Rex," "Perfect,'
and "Favorite" Separators. Repairs and bowl balancing a specialty.
Expert advice and assistance Free. Send for Special Separator Catalog.
114 Sturt Street
South Melbourne
Dip Famine Rumor Unfounded
Many flock owners may have been scared because of rumors of a " Dip Famine" —
but such a possibility is without any foundation. A shortage of imported dips need
have no effect on dip supplies whatever, for Australia now produces io
POWDER SHEEP DIP
AN ARSENICAL DIP OF THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE QUALITY-
chemically and physically equal to the best dip hitherto imported— and which
CAN BE SUPPLIED TO MEET ALL AUSTRALASIA'S NEEDS
• Vallo* dipped flocks are already speaking eloquently as to the reliability
of this compound — proving by their wool yield, wool quality, and all-
round improved conditions that "Vallo* Powder Sheep Dip is not only
effective, but longest lasting in its destructive action against Ticks, Lice,
and other sheep infesting vermin ; reduces Fly Strike to a rtiinimum,
and makes a sheep clean and impervious to contagion from dipping
to next shearing.
Manufactured by A. VICTOR LEGGO & CO.. Arsenic Mines.
Southern Cross. W. A., and Queensland ; Works, Yarraville and Bendigo ;
Head Office. 497-503 Collins Street, Melbourne.
Distributors for Victoria and Tasmania —
A. VICTOR LEGGO & CO., Melbourne
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Vll
TOXA
NO
Danger
of
FIRE!
THE WELL-KNOWN
RABBIT DESTROYER
In 2-Ib. Tins, 4s. per Tin
FELTON, GRIMWADE&CO., MELBOURNE
NEW ZEALAND
Loan & Mercantile Agency
COMPANY LIMITED
Head Offic«
LONDON
Melbourne Office
COLLINS ST. W.
Liberal Cash Advances
Wool, Grain, Skins, Hides, Tallow,
Bark, Stock and Station Brokers
ON COMMISSION ONLY
Butter Shipments Undertaken on Owner's Accoant
Agents for
COOPER'S SHEEP DIP
For Victoria and Riverina
PAGE'S PATENT WIRE STRAINER
and IRONSIDE'S W^IRE CUTTER
Chi«( Aientt in Victoria for the PALATINE INSURANCE CO.
WAIT
& SEE
WHAT
SPLENDID RESULTS
YOU WILL GET
IF
YOU DIP IN
COOPER
VIU
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
Draws 1,500 Gallons per Hour
This special "DEMING" is a LOW-DOWN, DOUBLE-ACTING
FORCE PUMP, with two inch openings for suction and discharge.
Has 5-inch cylinder, sucking water on each stroke of the lever
at 1,500 gallons per hour.
Throws a solid jet of water from a 1-inch hose director 60 feet
with great force.
A splendid pump for all-round use on the land, general pump-
ing, spraying, irrigating, &c.
All parts easily accessible ; you can take the
pump to pieces in a few minutes with an ordinary
screw wrench.
Supplied as illustrated, with connections for 2-inch suction hose, and
I -inch delivery hose, or with fittings for 2-inch iron pipe, both suction
and delivery. Price, 62/6
Al^Phcrsoiis)
p*""^ Proprietary Limited ^«<— — — ^
FOR ALL FARM AND ORCHARD TOOLS
582-88 Collins St., Melbourne
CREDIT FONCIER
Loans on Farms
UP TO TWO-THIRDS OF VALUATION
In sums from £50 to £2,000
At 6 per cent. Interest
and from \\ per cent, in reduction of principal, which pays off the loan
in 21 \ years.
Loans granted on Freeholds, or Crown Leaseholds which could be
make freehold at any time on payment of the balance of Crown Rents.
No Charge for Mortgage Deed
Loans may be paid off on any half-yearly pay day, subject to a small
charge if paid off within the first five years, but no penalty after five years.
Forms may be obtained at any Branch of the State Savings Bank, or
by writing to —
The Inspector-General, The State Savings Bank,
ELIZABETH STREET, MELBOURNE.
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
iz
Bonedust, Superphosphate,
And Other High-Grade Fertilizers. Poultry Bone Grit, Meat Meal, Cattle Lick
DELIVERED AT RAILWAY STATION, FOOTSCRAY, OR ON WHARF, MELBOURNE
BONEDUST :: :: ::
MANUFACTURER
J. COCKBILL,
OFFICE: 407 POST OFFICE PLACE, MELBOURNE
BONES BOUGHT. CONSIGN TO ME. FOOTSCRAY. Telephone 2098.
LINES FOR THE FARMER!
RUBEROID
FOR ROOFS OF COTTAGES,
STABLES, SHEDS, &C.
INDELIBLO COLD
WATER PAINT
FOR ALL OUTSIDE PAINTING
Wholesale
Agents : —
IN ALL CALCIMO COLOURS
FOR INSIDE PLASTERED WALLS
Obtainable
from all
Storekeepers
BROOKS, ROBINSON & CO. Ltd.
'Phone
7419
Central
The Australasian Mutual Insurance
400-2 Collins St.,
MELBOURNE.
Live Stock
Insured
at Lowest Current Rates
obtainable in Australia.
Society Ltd.
OTHER DEPARTMENTS OF BUSINESS.
Fire, Marine, Fidelity Gaarantee, Plate
Glau, Perional Accideat and Sickness,
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wti*B. Pafalic Risk. Motar Car, and Bnrtlary.
i^ INSURE WITH THIS SOCIETY, AND RECOMMEND IT TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
Nine Years
Practical Tests
The Renowned
"BLUE BELL"
Arsenate of Lead
Secure your orders at once.
F. W. PRELL & CO., 31 Queen St., Melbourne
SOLE VICTORIAN AGENTS
LESLIE SALT LICKS
NEW FOOD FOR SHEEP, COWS, AND HORSES
Leslie Salt Licks which supersede rock salt are composed of pure sterilized
salt, toarether with lime, a small proportion of Epsom salts, and other
scientifically blended ingredients. They are the finest conditioner and
animal medicine known, and will do more to prevent disease than any
medical treatment. 2/- per block ; or 22/6 per case of 12 blocks (plus
freisfht to country centres). Order from saddler, produce merchant, black-
smith, butter factory, greneral store, or any of the following a<rent8 : —
Gippsland and Northern Selling and Ins. Co. Ltd., Melb. ; James McEwan
and Co. Pty. Ltd., Melb. ; Price, Griffiths & Co., Melb. ; J. Bartram & Son
Pty.Ltd., Melb. ; Lyall&Son, Nth. Melb. &Geelong ; New Zealand Loan and
Mercantile Co. Ltd., Collins & King-sts., Melb. ; or Alex. Mair & Co., Melb.
cc
THE BEST is CHEAPEST— ALWAYS ! "
LYSAGHT'S
CORRUGATED ROOFING IRON
Obtainable from all leading Ironmongers, Storekeepers, and
Timber Merchants throughout Australia.
^ "Australia's
WAGON"
them,
carry
The rollers run in oil in dustproof races
ill weights as usual (or wool, wheat, or farm
Hildyard Steel Wheel Wagons at
the Front. They are now fitted
with twin roller bearings, 33 per
cent, saved in draft. More durable
than ever. Less wear and tear.
No boxes to crack. We guarantee
They are now perfection, and we can supply to
Ordinary axles supplied if preferred.
J. J. Gardan (Ardlethan) says :—"The 5 ton, S6 in. and iO in. dia. wheel tvagon you snp
splendid. I am putting 60 bags of wheat on 2 horses. That proves its light draught."
u supplied me
Send for
Catalog Nowr
HILDYARD WAGON WORKS, ;^L~b<;~^:?v;c
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
XI
Seed Wheat&Seed Oats Cleaners & Graders
FOR HAND OR POWER
It will pay you to Clean and Grade your Seed
Wheat. Our No. 18 Catalogue, sent Post Free
on request, will explain the Reason W^hy.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
SCHUMACHER Mill Furnishing Works Pty. Ltd.
PORT MELBOURNE
W* WMl
1
GET OUR
CATALOGUE
S
'Q^aS'-^
i
UQ QQ
i
Fig. 188b OrnamenU)
Handgate 4 ft- high
CYCLONE Pty. Ltd. '^^zviVoVn^tr^
Xll
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Duo., 1918.
DOOKIE AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
Provides Special Facilities for Practical and Scientific Agricultural Education
Notable Agriculturists say that this College offers the best
agricultural education and practical training in the world
THE COLLEGE YEAR COMMENCES IN MARCH STUDENTS MAY BE ENROLLED AT ANY TIME
Total Fees —
S.lb/-/- per annum.
Alternative Courses —
(a) Diploma Course . . Three Years.
(b) One Year's Course.
The college contains modern and well equipped laboratory and lecture hall, single bedrooms, recreation and
sports grounds.
Of the 5,913 acres of farm land at Daokie, 1,000 acres were put under crop by students last season; and champioa
prizes were won for sheep and pigs at the last Royal Agricultural Society's Show.
FARM SUBJECTS. — Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Poultry, Fruit Growing,
Butter and Cheese Factory Management, Building Construction for Fanners.
EACH BRANCH UNDER SPECIALLY TRAINED EXPERTS
LONGERENONG AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE
SESSIONS COMMENCE MARCH AND SEPTEMBER
This College is specially adapted for Junior Students from 14 years of age
AREA OF FARM, 2,336 ACRES
MAIN BRANCHES OF FARM WORK.— Grain Growing, Fat Lamb Raising, Dairying,
Irrigation of Fodder Crops, Fruit, &c.
Total Fees — £25 per annum.
Full particulars obtainable from T. J. PURVIS, Esq., Secretary, Council of Agricultural Education,
Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, or the Principals of the Colleges.
THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
VETERINARY SCHOOL
Complete Courses of Instruction are conducted in all Subjects for the Degree of
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (B.V. Sc), and for the License (L.V. Sc).
Veterinary Surgeons possessing the above qualifications are ehgible for registration
under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (Victoria) and for Veterinary Appointments in the
Commonweahh and State Services and in the Army Veterinary Corps.
For full particulars apply —
The DIRECTOR. Veterinary School, PARKVILLE. VICTORIA
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
xui
The faster you turn the Sharpies, the quicker you finish
skimming ! For instance : If by turnmg a Sharpies
at 45 revolutions per minute you get through separat-
ing in 15 minutes, you can get through in 10 minutes
by simply increasing the speed to about 55 revolutions.
The Sharpies is the only separator that can be
"hurried" — a mighty handy thing when you are
hurried.
Now consider the time saved in cleaning the Sharpies.
The bowl is the most simple in existence — just one
piece in it, no discs or blades. Simply run a brush
through it once or twice — and cleaning's done !
Furthermore, the Sharpies requires oihng only
once a month — and in only one place. Just
pour a little oil into the enclosed gear case —
more time saved !
SHARPIES
CSUCTION-FEEO ^
REAM SEPARATOK
— the only separator that skims clean at widely varying speeds.
— the on/y "separator that delivers cream of unvarying thickness — all speeds.
— the only separator that you can turn faster and finish skimming quicker.
— the only separator with just one piece in the bowl — no discs, easiest
to clean.
— the only separator with knee-low supply tank and a once-a-month oiling
system.
Remember that all separators lose considerable cream when turned below
speed — except Sharpies ! The Sharpies gets all the cream no matter
whether you turn it fast or slow. It saves up to Si 00 a year more than
other separators. Cordially welcomed by women, owing to its easy turning
and easy cleaning. Over a million Sharpies users. Write for catalog.
Agents for Victoria— NEWELL & CO., KING ST., MELBOURNE
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
NATIONAL TRUSTEES
Executors & Agency Company of Australasia Ltd.
DIRECTORS :
HON. WALTER MADDEN, Chairman and Managing Director.
EDWARD FITZGERALD. Esq., LL.D. MICHAEL MORNANE, Esq.
HON. DUNCAN E. McBRYDE. M.L.C. HENRY MADDEN, Esq. DAVID HUNTER. E»q.
This Company Acts as Executor or Joint Executor of Wills, Administrator, Trustee of
Settlements, and Agent for Absentees under Power of Attorney.
MONEY TO LEND ON BROAD ACRES AND FARM LANDS
Offices — 1 13 Queen St. (Corner of Little Co!!ins-st,), Melbourne
MONKEY " =^1'>= "WALLABY " JACKS
For
GRUBBING
TREES
and
STUMPS
and
. GENERAL
pi^r HEAVY
W^^ LIFTING
Gar complete illusirated catalog: is free, if yon have one use it, if yon Laven't WRITE US TO-DAT!
TREWHELLA BROS. Pty. Ltd., TRENTHAM
VICTORIA PHOSPHATE
Manufactured by the Heathcote Chemical Co. Pty. Ltd.
{rom a Vi(ftonan Deposit.
CROP GROWN AT BRIDOEWATER WITH "VICTORIA PHOSPHATE."
Orden can now be supplied and Jull information obtained from
Victorian Producers' Co-Operative Compy. Ltd.
AGENTS FOR VICTORIA
589 TO 605 COLLINS STREET WEST. MELBOURNE
10 Dec, 1918.] Jourmal of Agriculture^ Victoria. xv
"BULLDOG" Burnt & Unburnt
(cSTbonate) Agricultural Lime
For Orchards. Crops, and Pastures
Its use is strongly recommended by all experts, and those who have
had practical experience. Any quantity supplied at shortest notice.
For applying to land we recommend our "Ajax" Lime Spreader
Rales and full particulars from Distributors —
T. CURPHEY Pty. Ltd.
Telephone— Central 2807 22S Coppiii Street, Richmond, Victoria
Reoisterkd Tkade Makk
IVorks-
CURDIE'S RIVER
BURNT LIL YD ALE LIME
FOR THE LAND
Farmers who have not used Burnt Lime should try it. The action
of Burnt Lime on the land is Immediate. The demand (or Building
Lime having slackened owing to the War, Farmers have the opportunity
of getting a supply of the well-known Li^ydale Lime.
ANALYSIS go as high as 98% Calcium Oxide.
Apply—
DAVID MITCHELL ESTATE, p„/i.. OLIVER'S LANE, MELBOURNE
Works— Cave Hill. Lilydale. Tel. Lilydale 4. Tel. Central 5726.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
MELBOURNE, VICTORIA. AUSTRALIA
NOJV AVAILABLE
-H BULLETIN 31 0
BEE-KEEPING IN VICTORIA
[Bv F. R. BEUHNE,
^H Government Apicullurist. S=
Comprising 126 pages, divided into 25 chapters (illustrated)
dealing with various phases of Bee-keeping, and specially
adapted to Australian conditions. Suitably indexed.
Price: ONE SHILLING
Postage : Comraonweailh, Id.; New Zealand, 2|d.; British & Foreign, 5d.
Applications, accompanied by Postal Note covering price and postage, to be
forwarded to the Director, Department of Agriculture, Melbourne, Victoria,
XVI
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
RIGHT PLANTING
BRINGS PROFIT
Deering and McCormick Grain Drills are made in five sizes- 9, 11, 13, 15
and 17 coulters— and are interchangeable from disc to hoe, or vice-versa.
If you are growing grain for fun and not for the most profit,
plant your seed any old way. But if you want every pound
of profit you can get, plant your seed right. Use a Deering
or a McCormick Drill. Right planting is more important
than many farmers think. It often means profit where the
other fellow has to take a loss. The local agent who handles
these drills carries the drill best suited to your work. With his
adyice you can choose a drill that will plant your seed in your
soil and plant it so that you have a much better chance of
getting a bumper crop than if 3^ou planted in some other way.
The arguments for Deering and McCormick drills are far too
many to be told here. The local agent will show you all about
feeds, furrow openers, bearings, attachments, etc. He will give
you reasons for buying his drill you cannot ignore. See him
and talk this over with him, or write us and we will tell you all
about the best drill you can buy.
INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER CO. OF ACS. PTY. LTD.
543-555 BOURKE STREET, MELBOURNE
THe JOURNAL
OF
^lie department of Mgricufture
or
VICTORIA
Vol. XVI. Part 12. lOth December, 1918.
A WESTERN DISTRICT FARM.
By E. W. Murphy, Dairy Supervisor.
The valley, with its lively stream flowing westward, seemed a delight-
ful place to the explorer Mitchell and his party when they first came
to it, near where the town of Hamilton now stands. Reminiscent of
homeland scenes, the stream was called the Grange Burn.
After an inten^al of eighty years, the place has no doubt a different
appearance, yet still there are charming landscapes, but in the main
the quality of the pasture has sadly deteriorated, and complaints are
often made of stock being unthrifty.
As the old adage says, " A bad workman quarrels with his tools,"
and so the stockman blames the pasture. A good stockman will study
the soils of his pasture lands and prevent or correct faults, instead of
wasting time in useless complaining. It is not true that any fool can
farm. Farming must be studied and practised in order to insure
success. That success includes the leaving of the soil as good, if not
better, than it was found. If otherwise, the holder is only an exploiter.
Withholding necessary fertilizer is a very shortsighted policy for the
grazier. If land decreases in agricultural value it is a sign that the
method of working it is at fault. Very often a comparatively small
outlay will reproduce the pristine vigour and quality of growth. Wide
areas of these western plains were always weak in phosphate, and
liberal applications of phosphatic fertilizer are required to induce a
growth superior to their original verdure.
In every district an example is set by farmers who get better
returns from their land than do their neighbours. I have heard some
attribute this to luck, but it is due to good management. The majority
of those who are barely making a living on the land are too ready to
believe that their want of success is due to some unknown fault with
the soil, or an unfortunate spell of weather. This certainly involves
less energy of body or mind than is required to study out the real
causes, and improve the management.
17628.
706 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
Going westward from Hamilton down the Grange, one is impressed
by the rich-looking soils and the magnificent red-gums. The growth
of trees and hedges indicates a fairly generous and regular rainfall,
though in some seasons it is not well timed, as the winter and spring
1. — Two-year-old Shortliorn Bull — Grand Duke of Clifton 5tli.
Grand Duke of Clifton 6tti, aged ten months.
are wet and cold, the summer dry and windy. Fortunately there is
evidence that with proper management land in this district can still
uphold its high reputation for the raising of first class stock.
10 Dec, 1918.]
A Western District Farm.
707
Mr. A. J. Simpson has established a Shorthorn stud farm on the
Grange at the junction with the Muddy Creek, where he has been
settled for twenty years. The wonderful quality of his stock speaks
well for his judgment of land as well as of animals. The " Clifton "
Estate comprises some 1,700 acres of land, and the accompanying
illustrations give some idea of superior skill in the management of it.
3. — A few of the Shorthorn Herd.
3a. — " Quality and Size.
The first illustration shows a striking picture of a red and white
two-year-old Shorthorn bull. Grand Duke of Clifton 5th. His grand-
dams were Bolinda Duchess of Derrimut 404th and Bolinda Duchess
of Derrimut 400th, and both of them were by the same sire, Bolinda
Duke of Derrimut 208th.
The white bull in illustration ISTo. 2 is a very fine specimen of his
breed, and was a little over ten months old when this picture was taken.
1 2
'?08 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
The cow standing to the right in the group in illustration No. 3 is
Bolinda Duchess of Derrimut 400th, the mother of the white bull and
the grand-dam of the red and white one. No. 3a shows the same fine
cows in a different position.
The next picture shows an attractive gr©up of yearling heifers. The
foremost calf — probably the best of the group — is from the same dam
as the two-year-old red and white bull shown in illustration No. 1.
These grojvthy youngsters show that feeding as well as breeding has
been on right lines. Beyond the group are the banks of the Muddy
and Violet Creeks and a cultivation field ef nice dark soil. About sixty
acres are sown for oaten hay. Green barley and maize are also grown.
The soil is well suited for maize, but the spring climate is too wet and
cold, and during the growing season the weather is often dry and windy.
Very high prices have been realized for Shorthorn cattle bred by
Mr. Simpson. At the Sydney sales in April last, four bulls under twelve
months averaged six hundred guineas. In addition to the herd, Mr.
pm
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4. — Yearling Heifers.
"Simpson runs a fine flock of Shropshire sheep on his property, and
the Japanese Grovernment has recently procured from him a third lot
of ewes.
The haystacks at " Clifton " are placed well up from the ground-
level, on blocks about 2 feet high, and in order to prevent the encroach-
ments of rats and mice large sheets of iron are placed on top of the
blocks. Gra5s hay is also made from about 30 acres of land — a
practice which should be more generally adopted by graziers. Some
eay that the ordinary grass in this district will not make good hay. If,
however, they will top-dress a small field with barnyard manure and
phosphatic fertilizers, and cut the grass while it is on the green side,
they will find that the quality will be quite satisfactory and_ veiy
handy in a time of scarcity. Being little troubled by rats or mice, it
will keep indefinitely, and stock will need no coaxing to eat it.
In former days some losses were incurred on " Clifton," and Mr.
Simpson realized that the pasture needed attention. A considerable
10 Pec, 1918.] A Western District Farm. 709
amount of farmyard manure is available, and by means of a Mitchell
spreader it is broadcasted on the grasslands. Phosphatic fertilizers and
lime are also used, and the result is very marked. Not only can more
stock be carried, but the old staggy tufts of stale grass disappear, and
thus the danger of fungi which cause paralysis is lessened. To the left
of the flat, seen beyond the marl bed marked X iii photograph No. 5,
the lint between the dressed and undressed parts of the paddock can
be distinguished half-a-mile away, though it is all good land. At one
time lime was brought from Cobden. Later on it was found that there
was a good, readily-available deposit on the spot. The analysis showed
68 per cent, carbonate of lime and 2| per cent, of magnesia. To the
right there is a high bank of the spur between the Muddy and
Grange Creeks. Limestone outcrops on this side, and forms great
cliffs, 80 feet high on the other side overhanging the Grange, and the
stone yields 93 per cent, carbonate of lime. For 1^ miles above
this point there are extensive deposits of limestone and marl, and also,
5. — Muddy Creek Marl Beds.
it is believed, a bed of phosphate in payable quantity. Except what
Mr. Simpson has used, no attempt whatever has been made to turn
this lime to good account, though all about the immediate neighbour-
hood the need of it is very pronounced.
Down stream the cliffs do not extend, though plenty of limestone
crops out on the left bank, and the soil is mostly of a nice dark brown
colour. The right-hand bank is darker, and the rocks are of basalt.
Both banks look well at a distance, and the soil, on close inspection
is attractive in colour and texture. Grass is plentiful, but is of light,
harsh, native growths, and staggers, impaction and cripples in cattle,
and even deaths from paralysis are not uncommon.
"Wheat will not ripen as it used to do, owing to the deficiency of
phosphate in the soil. A farmer complained that even the virgin
paddocks would not grow the crops that could be raised thirty or forty
years ago. He overlooked the fact that grass was a crop, and that
710 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
phosphate in the shape of wool, hides, meat, &c., from his farm had
been going to market for eighty years past, and that available lime
was gradually being washed away from about the grass roots by the
heavy rainfall.
Turning from this faulty management, and taking another glimpse
at " Clifton," the visitor realizes that business capacity is very evident
there, and that a spirit of thoroughness, spelling success, pervades the
place.
DAIRYING ON A SMALL AREA.
W. F. Beacom, Dairy Supervisor.
Some people with limited capital hesitate to engage in the dairying
business owing to the belief that a large area of land is essential to
success. That this idea is erroneous has been repeatedly proved by
quite a number of farmers, who, dairying in a small way, are not only
making a living, but whose work shows a handsome profit that con-
sistently increases.
It frequently occurs that the dairy farmer with a large acreage
is inclined to depend almost wholly upon the natural supply of grass
instead of growing a supply of fodder for his herd. Not until a
drought or an exceptionally long winter is experienced does the farmer
realize how foolish was his oversight in not conserving a supply of
fodder, and then, when the times of stress are past, too often he forgets
the lesson that has been taught him.
It is a very noticeable fact that large dairy herds have a much lower
average than those of small or moderate size. There are many reasons
to which this may be attributed, but improper feeding is the chief
cause of low average returns. The man on the smaller area soon
learns that it is only by cultivating his farm to its utmost producing
capacity that he will be able to make his herd satisfactorily profitable;
for, even with the best of cows, grazing alone will not go far to sustain
a milk supply. The essential factor for success in all small dairy farms
Is, therefore, cultivation, combined, of course, with proper subdivision
of the land, conservation of and careful use of all farmyard manure,
and the exercise of good judgment in the choice of foundation stock.
These suggestions are very comprehensive, and many people find it
difficult to make a beginning on lines which cover the whole of them.
Occasionally, however, a most striking example is found where a
farmer has begun on a small area without any fundamental point
being overlooked, and consequently success has been achieved from the
start.
An instnnce of this recently came under notice when an inspection of
a farm in the Whittlesea Shire was being made. A few years agx). Mr.
William Horn, of Epping-road, Thomastown, who formerly ran a herd
of 60 cows in the Woodstock district, was compelled, by a combination
of circumstances, of which ill-health and scarcity of labour were the
principal contributing causes, to practically retire from dairy farming
on a large scale. Purchasing his present home, surrounding which
there are only 10 acres, he for a little time thought he had actually
finished with dairying, but his 10 acres of land seemed as wasted to
10 Dec, 1918.] Dairying on a Small Area. 711
him if it were used only to run the one cow required to supply sufficient
milk for family use. Consequently, a milking shed was built, more cows
purchased, and Mr. Horn was soon again amongst the wholesale dairy
farmers.
From previous experience he knew the advisableness of commencing
with good stock, and, therefore, his selection of cows for his 10-acre farm
Was most carefully made. Mr. Horn has always believed in feeding
cattle properly, and when stocking his smaller establishment determined
to purchase only large-framed cows, from which he would be able to
turn off big fat cows for slaughtering purposes when their milking
term was finished, should it not be desirable to hold them over for
another season. Big cows and big milkers have, therefore, been his
special fancy, and the^ heavy robust cattle have given splendid returns
on the three feeds per day, which is tiieir regular allowance. For
some time past, thirteen cows have been kept in milk on the farm, and
the daily ration for these is about 2 cwt. oaten chaff, 50 lbs. bran, and
20 lbs. of pollard; this, with 4 cwt. greenstuff, being equivalent to a
Mr. Horn's Dairy Herd.
total of approximately 58 lbs. of food per cow per day. A photograpb.
of the herd on this page will be sufficient to show the condition of
the cattle on this ration at the date of inspection (25th June last), and
this excellent condition is maintained throughout the year. The herd
is always under Mr. Horn's personal supervision, for he and his son
carry out all the work of the farm between them. That they still have
time for other work is shown by the surroundings of the home, for the
vegetable and flower gardens are also both well kept.
The greenstuff, which forms the major portion of the ration already
referred to, is wholly grown on the farm ; in fact, two-thirds of the
10 acres is always under a succession of crops of oats, barley, and maize,
and half an acre is permanently laid down in lucerne. Strange as it
may appear, it is nevertheless a fact that, although there are manv
acres of first class lucerne land in the Whittlesea Shire, Mr. Horn is
one of the very few who have made practical use of this valuable
fodder. The cropping is carried out very systematically, the land beine
kept in good heart by the liberal use of farmyard manure. A good
712
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
supply of farmyard manure is one of the advantages of intense dairy
farming, as its use keeps the land in a high state of fertility.
The illustration on the next page gives an end view of the farm
buildings. The gate opens into a pitched yard with a six-stall cowshed,
well bricked and drained; adjoining this is the feedshed, conveniently
arranged to eliminate unnecessary handling of fodder. Three feeds
of oaten chaff, pollard, bran, and chaffed greenstuff are mixed in a
large bin at one time, to be measured out as required. The dairy is a
weatherboard structure, lined and ceiled, and brick floored, and here
the milk is cooled with well water before being forwarded to the city.
The situation of the farm on the main Epping-road allow.s of the milk
being picked up direct from the farm by the district contract milk-
carter, who delivers to the retailer in Clifton Hill within about an hour
from cooling — a condition of handling which insures the consumer
getting a supply as nearly " direct from the cow " as possible.
A View of the Farm Buildings.
The returns from the farm are always the most important feature
to the farmer, and are the best indications of successful management.
In December last (midsummer) the daily average was 13 quarts per
cow; in July, a midwinter month, the average was 10 quarts per cow,
which is the lowest return obtained throughout the year. The total milk
sold from this farm during last year amounted to 10,676 gallons, or an
average yield of about 821 gallons per cow.
There is a big lesson to be learned from these results. It will be
readily recognised that a very fair margin of profit remains between
the returns from these cows and the money expended on the fodder pur-
chased for them, when it is considered that the average yield of the
dairy cow of this State is under 400 gallons per head. So, even allowing
for the big expenditure on feed by Mr. Horn, there is still a tremendous
amount of leeway to be made up by the average farmer before his profits
can be brought within measurable distance of this thirteen-cow dairy.
10 Dec, 1918.] Bottling of Fruit for Home Use. 713
BOTTLING OF FRUIT FOR HOME USE.
By Miss A. Knight, Fruit Preserving Expert.
Introduction.
The range of women's work is widening almost daily, and one useful
way in which it can be profitably extended is in the production and
preservation of food both for immediate and future use.
The actual food value of most fruits certainly is not high, but the
acids in composition are an agreeable and wholesome solvent of. the
fibrous portions of a meal. The potash salts and other mineral com-
pounds, in which fruits are rich, are needed in order to keep the blood
in a healthy condition, while the fibrous portions give bulk, and tend
to promote a healthy condition of the organs of excretion. "We often
hear it said that " Health is the greatest of all possessions, and is not
quoted in the market because it is without price." Therefore the use
of plenty of wholesome fruit, Avhen it is in season, should be encouraged,
and by preserving it in various ways a good supply for winter use will
help to lighten the food bill, and give variety to the table in winter as
well as summer. It will also provide a palatable dessert, which can be
taken from the pantry shelf and served immediately, without cooking
or other preparation. There are also a large number of simple, dainty
desserts that can be prepared from preserved fruits, many of which are
inexpensive and tasty. The woman who is interested in her home and
home life should be able to conserve all the excess products from the
garden, orchard, or market purchases at a moderate cost, thereby pre-
venting any waste. The home product, when well preserved, is both
attractive and palatable, and many leading grocers have customers who
prefer such goods, causing a constant demand for first-class home-made
preserves.
There are a num.ber of ways of dealing with fruit and vegetables, all
of which come under the heading of " preserves." Each method, of
course, differs^ very much from the other, yet to be able to mnke the most
of what we have, a knowledge of the different methods will be found
to be a distinct advantage, because they can be worked one with the
other, thus reducing the possibility of waste.
This article deals exclusively with the bottling of fruits for home
use, but other preserves Vv-ili be dealt Avith in future issues.
Destructive Organisms.
It is absolutely necessary in the preservation of foods to completely'
destroy all the minute plant organisms, and if those met in the process
of canning or food preserving are not destroyed fermentation or putre-
faction will be set up in the contents after the containers have been
sealed. Consequently, when preserving food, it must be processed until
it reaches a condition in which these minute bodies cannot attack it.
These organisms may be classed, roughly, into three groups — bac-
teria, yeasts, and moulds. In the following brief outline of the structure
and work of these germs it AA-ill be seen that their growth on, or in, the
food will^ completely spoil it, the change they cause being known as
putrefaction or decay, and as the food decomposes acids, carbonic acid
gas, and ©ther useless compounds are formed.
714
Jour
nal of Agriculture, Victoria^_J10^^
10 Dec, 1918.] Bottling of Fruit for Borne Use. 715
Bacteria are less troublesome in tlie preservation of fruit than of
meat or fish, which contain more nitrogenous matter; they are one-
celled, and so small that they can be seen only by the aid of a microscope.
The reproduction of bacteria is brought about by one of two processes,
the geinn either divides into two, making two parts where one existed
before, or else they reproduce themselves by means of spores, and within
24 hours, under favorable conditions, the progeny of one cell may amount
to millions.
Yeasts and moulds are the more common enemy, usually attacking
fruits, while vegetables are chiefly attacked by bacteria, which are
harder to kill than yeasts. The latter are also one-celled organisms,
that grow less rapidly than the former. They reproduce themselves by
a process of budding, and, like bacteria, are invisible to the naked eye,
but they are more easily destroyed by heat than bacteria spores. Yeasts
are said to be killed at a temperature of 160 deg. F., and, as previously
stated, must be destroyed, for should they gain entrance to substances
containing sugar and enough moisture they immediately begin to produce
alcoholic fermentation, and render the commodity unfit for use.
Moulds reproduce themselves by spores. They are very small, light
bodies, easily carried in the air, and, when settling upon favorable
material, speedily germinate. Some impart a mouldy flavour to the
material, but do not usually cause fermentation in either canned or
bottled fruits. It is to destroy completely all organisms, which in this
case are our enemies, that thorough sterilization is necessary, and for
this purpose an exposure for a given period to a temperature of
212 deg. F. will usually suflice. In some instances a lower temperature,
if continued for a longer period, is almost as effective, and is at the
same time less likely to injure the flavour and texture of the more
delicate kinds. There are, however, in some foods more hardy and
resistant bodies, which, being surrounded by a heavy covering, make
them more resistive to heat, and they manage to live and retain their
vitality for a long time, even when exposed to conditions which kill the
parent germ, but with the system of fractional or intermittent steriliza-
tion one is able to overcome this difficulty. This extensive or further
prolonged heating, of course, would not be necessary, nor suitable, for
fruits, most of which require simply a brief heating, but it enables the
canning and bottling of the more difficult vegetables, such as peas, beans,
<S:c., to be successfully preserved in the home where only kitchen ap-
pliances are available, though, of course, where the processing of these
vegetables is done under steam pressure the destruction of such active
agents is rendered possible within a comparatively short time.
Sterilizing Vats.
The principle of sterilizing is the same, whether applied to fruit
bottled for home consumption or canned for market. Commercial
canning and bottling differs from home methods only in minor details, in
which economy of time and labour is of greater consideration. It is
also very necessary that all appliances coming into contact with the
contents of jar or can should be thoroughly sterilized.
Many are surprised when they realize how simple an equipment is
necessary in order to conserve general or surplus products for an occasion
when they are not available in fresh form. Any boiler or cooking
utensil, having a well-fitting lid, provided it is deep enough for the
716
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918,
purpose, may be used as a sterilizer, but the conditions under wbicb
housekeepers are situated at various times make one vessel more con-
venient than another, but it may be said that each has its merits; these,
however, will be more clearly understood if described or illustrated.
Any of the understated vessels may to advantage be utilized for
house and family use for two good reasons — little expense, combined with
first class results. In the first place, one of the most important parts of
the installation — a sterilizing vat — though not made especially for the
purpose — is to be found in practically every kitchen or home in the
form of an ordinary washing copper, clothes boiler, kerosene tin cut
lengthwise, a large tin " billy," fish kettle, or any other such vessel
which is deep enough to permit the jars or other containers to be properly
covered. Of these, the washing copper, having the advantage of being
larger, is perhaps the most convenient, and the only appliance required
to convert it into a satisfactory sterilizing vat is a false wooden bottom
or shelf, a couple of inches less in diameter than the vessel, and made
Suitable sterilizing vessels and false bottoms or shelves.
either of several strips of wood or in one piece. It should te well per-
forated, and have two cleats about 3 inches in height. The sleats should
be nailed on the underside, making the shelf about 4 inches high. The
spaces or perforations will allow the steam to pass through and circulate
around the jars, as the processing is done by steam in the upper section
of the boiler. The object of this stand or shelf is to raise
the bottles slightly above the bottom of the vessel, and enable
the glass jars which rest on it being stood slightly apart,
so that during processing they may not come in contact with
each other, thereby preventing breakages. A lid or cover of some
description is required to prevent the steam escaping too freely; if a
very loose-fitting wooden lid is used, a wet grain bag placed over it would
be a great help, though, of course, a well made cover would not require
it. The stand should be placed in the copper, with sufficient water to
reach just below its surface, the containers, after being filled as
described, placed on the stand with their lids either loosely on or laid
beside them, the copper covered, the Avater brought rather slowly to
boiling point, and the fruit processed for the necessary length of time.
10 Dec, 1918.] Bottling of Fruit for Home Use. TIT
Where a washing copper 13 not conveniently available, or is con,-
sidered too large for the quantity to be treated, any of the other vessels'
mentioned will answer the purpose, and, if not on hand, can be purchased
at small cost. They are all easily handled, and may be used on gas, open
fireplace, kitchen range, or other fire, and would, of course, require to
be fitted with wooden platform, as described, but of a shape to suit the
vessel selected.
Suitable Containers.
The only additional outlay worth mentioning would be that for suit-
able jars or containers. This item of expense is heavy only for the first
year, for, with ordinary care, the jars give many years of satisfactory-
service.
Glass jars of several types for the purpose are obtainable, but any
jar or container which can be made quite airtight will be suitable. It
/ifl
^^^K Vk^^^MJ^i
ill ^^:. "^B -SM
WML 1^., 2^....,-
■i
Miscellaneous Containers.
is advisable to make sure that the lids fit each individual jar; they may
be tested by placing each cover on its jar without a rubber band, and if it
rocks when pressed with the fingers it is defective, but will sometimes
perfectly fit another jar of the same make. The wire clamps should be
tightened, if necessary, each time the jar is used. The screw top jars
are favoured by some preservers, while others find these difficult to screw
and handle while hot.
Most of the zinc top lids have a porcelain or glass setting inside the
lid, which is very necessary, as the zinc should not be allowed to come in,
contact with the contents, because of the acid contained in many fruits-
Gold-lacquered caps are often used; these caps are washed in lacquer^
and claimed to be unaffected by vegetable or fruit acids which come in
contact with it.
Some of the preserving jars are made of a tinted glass, which give
the preserve a dull or darkish appearance, so that it is not so attractive
in appearance, but this is of little importance, as the fruit keeps equally
as well in these jars, provided they are airtight.
718
Journal of Agricidture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
Glass jars demand careful treatment, so as to prevent breakages.
Tlie work must not be carried on in a draught of cold air, nor should
the hot glass come in contact with cold metal, or be splashed with cold
water, &c. ^Care must also be taken when sterilizing bottles for this or
other purposes not to place the jar suddenly into hot water, nor to pour
hot liquids into dry glass jars. These may seem small matters, though
they are of great importance to the beginner, who would probably have
to learn them by experience.
Pickle bottles may also be utilized for bottling small fruits; these
require deep corks, which need to be sterilized, and should fit the bottle
Graded Rhubarb.
Showing method of packing Rhubarb into jar.
very tightly; then, after corking, and while the contents are still quite
hot, cover with weasand or sealing wax; the latter process may be done
by melting a little in a small tin vessel and dipping the top of the bottle
to a depth of, say, half-an-inch.
The Selection and Classification of Fruit.
This is a matter of importance, as much of the success attained in
l)ottling and preserving in general will depend upon a good selection for
10 Dec, 1918.] Bottling of Fruit for Home Use.
719
each piirpose. It is advig-
able always to grade the
fruit carefully, using each
for the purpose for which
it is best suited, some grades
being better adapted to one
form of preservation than
another; for instance,
bottling and canning, pulp-
ing, drying, jams, jellies,
and pickling of both fruit
and vegetables all come
under the heading of " pre-
serves," though, of course,
the selection or grading
and treatment in each ease
is vastly different, and, if
unnecessary waste is to be
avoided, each portion must
be used to the best advan-
tage.
The product to be bottled
or canned should be of that
quality which could be
classed as first grade. It
should be of good colour,
with a firmness of flesh,
free from blemishes, have
a good pronounced flavour.
It should not be overripe,,
as it requires to be suffi-
ciently firm to stand the-
application of heat to-
which it is subjected, and!
still retain the natural
shape. ■
Generally speaking, a
mid-season fruit is prefer-
able to tlie early, the for-
mer being firmer, and
usually of a better flavour.
In order to make the
package attractive in ap-
pearance, the fruit should
be regularly and neatly
packed in the container,
and be of uniform size, so
that the cooking will be
evenly done throughout the
jar, otherwise the smaller
or riper fruits will be over-
cooked.
720 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria, [10 Dec, 1918.
Sterilizing (Steaming Method).
After preparing the fruit it should be packed firmly into jars, using
for the purpose (when required) a flat blunt packing stick made of soft
white wood, taking care not to penetrate the skin of the fruit; often
slight pressure is used to advantage; a good, firm pack avoids excessive
empty space, due to shrinkage after cooking. Just a small quantity
of cold syrup (about a tablespoonful) should then be poured into the jar
with the raw fruit, except in the special cases mentioned later, when the
jar must be filled to the brim with syrup.
The lids should not be fastened down, but simply placed loosely on
each jar, and the sealing levers must not be tightened until after process-
ing. Sterilize for the desired length of time, according to the variety of
fruit, stage of ripeness, size of package, &c. Gently fill each jar to
overflowing with boiling syrup, which should be ready in a kettle, or
some other convenient vessel, then adjust the rubber rings on the jars,
and immediately fasten or screw down the lids, as the case requires.
c.
Jg.
1
s^'^^*
^iJHiflHHLl" y Mii^B^WIft3ilBBW#iF
id
ip'
Another Work Table.
Lift these finished jars carefully out of the vat, and allow them to
cool slowly on a damp folded towel, which is a protection to the bottle.
As previously stated, working in a draught must be avoided, or breakages
with the glass containers may occur.
It is very necessary that the jars, rubbers, lids, or caps should be in
a good sound condition, so that no air can gain admittance. As the
temperature of the contents of the jars gradually reduces, there should
be strong suction, caused by the contraction and cooling of the contents,
and if any leakages of air are observed (these will be indicated by air
bubbles entering the jar around the lid or rubber band), the sealing
levers must be released and the defect remedied before finally sealing.
'Store in a semi-dark pantry, so as to protect the bright colour of
fruits, as they may fade if constantly exposed to bright light.
Preparation.
After grading, wash all fruit thoroughly; where convenient, a spray
of water is desirable, as sand and gi'it are more easily removed in
running than in still water ; this can be managed by attaching to the tap
a small piece of hose or tubing, with a sprinkler on the end, which can
be gently moved about over the fruit, the tap being only partly turned
10 Dec, 1918.] Bottling of Fruit for Home Use. 721
on, as a strong stream would probably damage such soft fruits as rasp-
berries, loganberries, blackberries, mulberries, currants, &c. No fruit
should be left in water for any length of time, but when sufficiently
washed it should be drained, placed in jars, and slowly processed for,
approximately, eight to ten minutes at boiling temperature. Careful
treatment and correct cooking is necessary for berries, as the retention
of shape is important.
Different fruits require different periods of exposure to heat in order
to become thoroughly processed. The periods given below for process-
ing mean from the time the water in the vat reaches boiling point — not
before — and in each instance applies to quart or 2 lb. jars, while the
time necessary for processing larger or smaller containers varies some-
what.
Peaches are usually peeled and pitted, the peeling being sometimes
done by hand, though some housewives, when treating a large quantity,
prefer to put the fruit in a wire basket, or piece of open buttercloth, and
immerse for a few seconds (according to degree of ripeness) in a caustic
soda bath, which breaks or loosens the outer skin or peel without damag-
ing its quality; a 10 or 15 per cent, solution of caustic soda at boiling
temperature is used for this purpose. After immersion, the fruit should
be throwTi into a vessel of cold water, and the skin carefully rubbed off.
Freestone peaches may be easily pitted or stoned by making a clean
cut around the fruit, using a sharp knife, then gently twdsting the two
halves in opposite directions, when they wall easily separate, and the pit
or stone can be readily removed.
Clingstone varieties require the use of a pitting spoon with which to
remove the stones. Several kinds of peaches are very suitable, the
Crawford and Muir being both liked.
The time required for processing a quart jar of peaches is from
20 to 30 minutes at 212 deg. F., according to variety and stage of
maturity.
Apkicots.
These are sometimes bottled whole, but some like to have the stone
removed and the fruit halved. Where economy of space is desired,
halving the larger specimens is advised, but for a showy and attractive
pack many prefer the whole fruit, where the perfect shape can be
retained. The time required for processing apricots of a medium stage
of ripeness packed in 1-quart jars would average 15 to 20 minutes at
212 deg. F. The Moorpark, Hemskirk, and similar varieties are good.
Pears.
It is well to note that pears should be bottled as quickly as possible
after peeling, for if exposed to the air for a lengthy period after peeling
they will quickly turn a dirty brownish colour, due to the action of an
oxidizing enzyme. If for any reason the fruit is allowed to stand after
peeling before processing it is advisable to cover them with water
slightly salted, in order to avoid the oxidation and browning that will
otherwise occur. (Lemon juice or a little citric acid added to the water
will also meet the case.)
722 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
The William Bon Chretien is a favorite pear for bottling, having
white flesh and a fine flavour, and should be treated when ripe. *Thi3
variety of pear is often stored when in its green unripened state, and
allowed to mature; close attention will be necessary in order to select
from day to day those which have reached the exact stage of ripeness
required for preserving. The Kieffers and other varieties preserve well.
Time for processing ripe William or other pears of a similar nature
is from 15 to 20 minutes, though winter varieties require much longer,
and, as a rule, give a deeper colour when cooked.
Nectarines.
This fruit is generally halved, and the stones removed. The fruit
is sometimes peeled, but this is not necessary. Time for processing,
about 10 to 15 minutes.
Plums.
Plums are washed and sorted; stones may be removed or allowed
to remain. Time for processing is about 8 minutes at 212 deg. P., or
20 minutes at a temperature of 160 deg. P.
Quinces.
Quinces should be peeled and divided into convenient sizes and
shapes to suit the preserving jar. Take the same precaution regarding
discoloration as with pears, and prepare only as many as can be cooked
while still retaining their colour and freshness. Process, from 15 to 60
minutes, according to colour of preserve desired. A prolonged cooking
gives a pink to red result; short cooking gives a clear golden colour.
Some prefer the latter, but others the former; both look well; jars of
each colour give variety.
Cherries.
Wash and grade, remove stems without tearing the flesh, pack firmly
into jars, and process for about 15 to 20 minutes. The Plorence and
Margaret Bigarreau and others are generally used.
Gooseberries.
Gooseberries may be bottled when either green or ripe. They are
graded, topped, and tailed with a knife or other convenience. Time
for processing is 8 to 10 minutes at 212 deg. P., or 20 minutes a1
160 deg. P.
Loganberries.
As described for raspberries.
Currants — Red and White.
Wash lightly and remove from the washing water at once. Th«
berries may either be removed from the stem or may be left in bunchea
Time for processing is 8 minutes.
Black Currants.
Black currants require about 10 to 15 minutes processing.
10 Dec, 1918.] Bottling of Fruit for Home Use. 723
Mulberries and Blackberries.
Mulberries and blackberries should also be washed quickly and
removed from the water, drained, sorted, and packed carefully. Time
for processing, 10 to 15 minutes.
Oranges.
Oranges, though not commonly preserved, are very tasty in this form
if bottled in a heavy syrup made of 12 oz. sugar to each pint of water,
and boiled for a few minutes. Having cut the oranges into thick slices,
drop them in and simmer for half-an-hour; then allow them to stand
till cool, and pack the slices neatly but firmly into the jar, strain the
syrup, fill the jars to overflowing, and then place them in the vat as
in the case of other fruit, and heat for about 40 minutes before sealing.
This particular preserve improves by keeping, and should be stored at
least several weeks before using. The syrup will then have become
strongly flavoured with the orange and the peel saturated with syrup.
If a very mild preserve is required, steep either the whole or the sliced
fruit in fresh cold water over night; then drain and, if desired, repeat
the process. The navel orange is a favorite, but other sweet sorts may
be used. The pips should, of course, be carefully removed.
Mandarins.
Mandarins are treated similarly to oranges, excepting that they are
usually preserved whole.
Pineapple.
Peel and carefully remove the " eyes," cut into convenient shapes,
or neat round slices; it is optional whether the core be removed or
allowed to remain, but the former method is generally favoured. Usual
time for processing is 30 minutes, but longer will not harm.
Rhubarb.
Ehubarb for this purpose may be classed and treated as a fruit, and
for convenience preserved either in water only or a weak syrup. It
may be firmly packed in jars in long evenly graded sticks or cut into
short (say, 1 inch) lengths, the latter being an economical method, as
there need be no waste. Time for processing, 8 to 10 minutes.
The Open Pan System.
This is another successful way in which fruit may be preserved, and
is a very simple process.
The preserving pan or any flat-bottomed enamel-lined or aluminium
pan would be suitable, and the cooking may be done on either a gas
stove or ring, kerosene stove, kitchen range, or on an open fire. Prepare
in the usual way only as much fruit as can be cooked while it still
retains its freshness and good colour ; put it in the vessel and pour over
it sufiicient syrup to well cover the contents ; then bring gradually to
boiling point and gently cook. Care must be taken not to boil too
rapidly or the fruit will become broken, and lose in appearance. The
time required will depend upon the variety of fruit under treatment,
but until cooked through is sufficient.
724
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
Raspberries or extremely soft berry fruits are not altogether suitable
for this method, as they incline to lose their shape, and are liable to
suffer to a certain degree when being ladled from pan to bottle. Firmer
fruits are more suitable.
Preparation must be made to see that the containers are ready to
receive the boiling fruit the moment it is cooked. It will be necessary
to heat the glass jars before they are filled, in order to prevent breakage.
When ready, place the hot bottle on a damp folded towel in a shallow
dish, and using an aluminium funnel having a sufficiently wide outlet
to permit a ready passage for the fruit, gently fill the jar to overflowing
with the boiling fruit and syrup from the preserving pan, wipe the rim
of the jar, and make sure that the rubber ring which goes on next is
carefully flattened in its groove or on the shoulder of the jar, as the
case may be, and see that no particle of fruit or seed from the fruit
finds lodgment there, as this would probably cause a leak. Then firmly
and quickly fasten the lids by means of the wire clip, or screw tightly
according to jar, and allow to cool gradually. As in the sterilizing
Jars being filled with boiUng fruit and syrup.
method, it is necessary to work away from a draught, and to make sure
that the jars are airtight.
A convenient way to sterilize the utensils and bottles for this purpose
is to heat them gradually in a separate pan of clean water; they may
be all set on a wooden rack or meat roaster, with a folded cloth over
the wires. Fill the bottles with water, stand them in an upright posi-
tion, and pack the ladles and other utensils around the jars. The rack
or meat roaster serves the purpose of keeping the jars from direct con-
tact with the bottom of the pan. The bottles should be permitted to
remain with the water boiling in them for a few moments, then drained
and filled while still hot.
An Old Way.
Another method which is over 100 years old, but still much used, is
as follows: —
The fruit should be selected, graded, and prepared as previously
described, then packed into the jars, and each filled with cold syrup.
10 Dec, 1918.] Bottling of Fruit for Home Use.
725
726 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
and tlie lids put tightly on. The jars may then be placed in the copper
or vat containing enough cold water to reach to about the shoulder of
the jars; each one being packed around with straw or cloth to prevent
the several bottles from rattling together when the water boils, and
possibly causing breakages.
The whole is brought gently to boiling point, and allowed to remain
for the required length of time for cooking, which would be gauged
according to variety and stage of ripeness. Then the jars should imme-
diately be sealed and made air-tight while at boiling point.
Good results are obtainable by this method, but the disadvantage is
that there is a certain amount of unnecessary work attached to the
packing around the jars, and more time and fire required to heat the
body of water contained in the copper or vat. Time and firewood are
both saved by sterilizing with steam as in the first method described.
Sybup.
The syrup in which the fruit is preserved may be of any desired
strength, and may be varied according to taste and convenience. When
the amount of sugar is large the syrup is described as being " dense "
or " heavy," but where a small quantity is used to the same amount of
water, it is, of course, " weak " or " light." A heavy or strong syrup
will cause the fruit to rise to the top of the jar, leaving a space of
clear syrup below. This does not matter in the least for household
use, but is unsightly, and when intended for exhibition purposes would
be very much against it.
From 4 to 8 oz. of sugar to a pint of water makes a medium syrup,
which would be suitable for most fruits, and is palatable; but quantities
may be varied to suit individual requirements.
In making or preparing syrup, the water is measured into a kettle
or other convenient vessel, brought to boiling heat, the sugar weighed
according to the strength required, then added to the water, and the
whole boiled for 8 or 10 minutes. If the boiling be unduly prolonged,
the water evaporates, leaving a stronger or heavier syrup than intended.
Strain through a clean piece of muslin before using. The fruit may
be put up in plain water without the addition of any sugar, and will
keep equally as well, and the necessary sweetening may be added when
using the fruit. The only advantage in preserving in plain water is
when the fruit is intended for the making of pies, puddings, &c., and
the sugar can be added at that time ; but when the preserves are bottled
for use as a dessert, the flavour is very much better if the fruit be put
up in syrup rather than in water.
The only utensils needed in the work of bottling fruit are those
shown in the illustrations of the work table, and need not be particu-
larized, as they are to be found in every kitchen.
If the foregoing instructions are carefully carried out, and care
taiken to obtain air-tight containers, there should be no chance of
failure, and the preserves should keep indefinitely.
10 Dec, 1918.]
Motor Tractor Trials.
727
MOTOR TRACTOR TRIALS.
The Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria, in connexion with the Annual
Show, September, 1918, arranged for a series of trials with motor tractors.
The Field Ploughing Tests were held at the State Research Farm,
Werribee, during the week before the Show, and the tractors were subjected to
further technical tests at the University, Melbourne, after the Show. Mr.
William Ross was appointed to report on the ploughing and an Engineers'
panel, comprising Professors Payne (Prcfessor of Engineering), Mr. \\ . N.
Kernot (Lecturer on Engineering), and Mr. E. J. C. Rennie (Lecturer on
Agricultiu-al Engineering), was appointed to make the necessary observations
and report on the technical points. The report to the Society is as under,
and deals with the following : —
1. Ploughing Performances — ■
(a) Fuel consumption test.
(6) Dynamometer test.
(c) Mr. William Ross's report on ploughing.
2. Engines' Performances —
(a) Normal load test.
(6) Maximum load test.
3. Description of Tractors —
As the conditions under which the trials were to be conducted
was that the competing tractors were not to be placed in
order of merit, the judges herewith present the full results
obtained from the various trials.
1. Ploughing Performances.
(a) Fuel Consumption Test.
Tests were conducted at the Government Research Farm, Werribee, on
19th and 20th September, 1918, for the purpose of determining efficiency of
eight competing motor tractors when used for ploughing.
Table
T.
1 o
%s
a
o
Is
11
1 o
_o r:
J
11
1-1 "3
a .
O
2 .
§5
J
t
1s5
«0
IT
5. C
o a
Plot Number
1
•t
3
4
6
7
8
10
Acres ploughed . .
3
50
3
54
1
40
1
79
2-12
2-82
3
57
3
63
Ploughing, in hours
3
G7
3
75
4
69
4
69
311
4-50
0
82
4
45
Kerosene fuel, in gallons .
8
49
10
27
7
21
5
11
4-99
11-99
5
96
6
00
Benzine fuel, in gallons
0
81
0
67
0
37
0
29
0-28
0-07
0
30
1
73
Total fuel, in gallons
9
30
10
94
7
58
5
40
5-27
12-06
6
26
7
73
Total water, in gallons
8
07
4
62
0
55
9
09
5-25
10-61
6
85
15
60
Acres ploughed per hour .
0
95
0
94
0
30
0
38
0-68
0-63
1
27
0
82
Fuel per acre, in gallons .
2-66
3-10
5-41
302
2-49
4-28
1-75
2
13
728 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
Table I. — continued.
Type of Plough.
^
tgS
^^1
•§5
>>
SS^
i^Sj2
SS.Q
c»Sa
ap
«a5
rtw
S»
Furrows per run
6
9 and 5
5 and 4
4
8
3
13
6
Total number of furrows
ploughed
192
200
77
96
106
114
208
204
Width ploughed, in chains
1-830
1-850
0-730
0-935
1-334
1-475
1-870
1.900
Average width of furrow, in
inches
7-5
7-3
7-5
7-7
6-6
10-3
7-1
7-4
The depth of ploughing was set by Mr. William Ross (the ploughing judge)
at 4| inches. The actual acreage ploughed by each tractor was measured.
The total time taken up in ploughing includes turning at each end, but
does not include delays due to accidental stoppages.
The conditions of the test were such as not to allow of accurate deter-
mination of the iamount of the lubricating oil used.
(b) Dynamometer Test.
Independently of the fuel consumption tests, a series of autographic
dynamometer tests were taken, the results of which are recorded below.
The depth of ploughing was fixed at 4^ inches.
Table II.
1.
1 o
j
-1^
,2=2
■3
§
1.
.1
,2§
Bx!
o=*
^1 "
_ c
= t.
~S
ta ^
P50
'4^
la
la
.2 —
=35
-CO
If
0 c5
II
Oi-s
t>
COM
Plot Number
1
2
3
4
6
7
8
10
Length ploughed, in chains
38-22
38 - 22
38-22
38-22
31-00
.38-22
38-22
19-11
Time ploughed, in minutes
14-81
17-23
18-66
15-02
15-52
12-22
19-75
6-72
Ploughing speed, in miles, per
2-^3
hour . .
1-93
1-61
1-54
1-91
1-49
2-34
1-45
Average pull, in lbs.
2,2.50
3,415
1,585
1,670
2,740
1.730
3,285
2,760
Average width of furrow, in
inches
7-5
7-3
7-5
7-7
6-6
10-3
7-1
7-4
Pull per inch width of furrow.
in lbs.
49-7
51-8
52-8
54-1
51-9
55-0
*35-5
*62-5
Average ploughing h.p.
11-62
15-17
6-50
8-50
10-97
10-72
12-94
15-7
Maximum pull, in lbs., over
short period
5,700
2,600
2,750
3,600
2,900
6,700
3,000
* In these two cases there is doubt as to depth of ploughing over all, the furrows being the same a»
the observed open furrow.
]0 Dec, 1918.] Motor Tractor Trials. 729
(c) Mr. William Ross's Refort on Ploicghing.
The character of ploughing was judged by Mr. Wm. Ross, and his report
is here incorporated, so that it can be read in conjunction with the foregoing
tabulated results : —
Steel Mule Tractor, pulling one six-furrow Mitchell low mouldboard
plough, did very good work, especially on one side of, and, where there were
no stones. This lot was nearly all stiff clay, and was well down to the
required depth of 4^ inches. The plough was handled by one man.
McDonald's E.A.A. Tractor, pulling one five and one four furrow Mitchell
mouldboard plough. This cut was also mostly in stiff clay and some very
large stones. It was a very good job in that kind of land, and well down
to the required depth. The plough was handled by two men.
Waterloo Boy Tractor, pulling one five-furrow mouldboard plough
(Mitchell and Co.). This tractor and plough were handled by one operator ;
seemed to get along slowly at the start, but improved as time went on. Did
good work in that kind of land — stiff clay at one end in particular — and
was well down to the depth.
McKay Tractor, Sunshine " A," pulling a four-furrow mouldboard
McKay plough. By the time this lot was reached there was less clay. This
cut was neatly ploughed, and a very good job generally, and well down to
the depth. One man on the plough.
International Tractor, pulling one three-furrowed mouldboard imported
plough. The clay had disappeared from the surface of the land. This
tractor and plough were handled by one man, and seemed to be very easy
to manage. The plough made a very useful job, and was well down to the
depth.
Imperial Tractor (light), pulling two four-furrow McKay disc ploughs.
These two disc ploughs made a really good job (as disc work is done). The
plough was managed by two men, and was well down to the depth.
Jelbart Bros.' Tractor, pulling one three-furrow disc, one four-furrow
disc, and one six-furrow disc, or thirteen discs in all. of T. Robinson and
Co. They made a very good job until half finished ; after that they worked
too shallow. Worked by two ploughmen.
McKay Tractor, Sunshine " 0," pulling two three-furrow discs. These
ploughs practically worked too shallow all the time. Worked by two
ploughmen.
2. EngineJPerformances.
Tests were conducted at the Engineering School, University of Melbourne,
from 1st to 7th October, 1918, for the purpose of determining efficiency of
the engines under'normal and maximum load conditions.
The engines were belted to a dynamo, the output was measured with
standardized instruments, and the generator loss was separately determined,
and has been allowed for, as shown in Tables III. and IV.
730
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918,
The tractor entered as Sunshine " 0 " was not presented for these tests,
(a) Normal Load Test.
Table III.
1 o
l.o
1 6
sio
C3
a
o
g
1
—
^ 3
c .
2 .
Mo
II
^1
OS
11
s o
if
II
3^
1>
Time of run, in hours
1-435
2-000
SPoS.
1-312
2-000
1-984
2-062
Average amperes. .
. 57-7
103-2
c-^
54-6
44-2
49-0
42-6
Averas;e volts
. 213-7
216-4
220-0
225-0
220-0
208-6
Load, in kilowatts
. 12-33
22-35
"-%
12-00
9-95
10-80
8-88
Generator loss, in kilowatt
^ 1-11
2-27
o ^
1-02
0-87
0-94
0-83
Total load, in kilowatts
. 13-44
24-62
C m
13-02
10-82
11-74
9-71
B.H.P. hours
. 25-85
65-90
05 -ti
23-01
29-00
31-20
26-83
B.H.P. ..
. 18-06
33-00
^%
17-45
14-50
15-73
1301
Total kerosene fuel, in pin
ts 29-6
60-0
^^
22-4
20-9
25-6
20-0
Fuel, in pints, per B.H.
P.
'&'§ -o
hour . .
*ri45
0-910
S -g £
0-978
0-690
0-821
0-745
Total water, in gallons
2-00
4-62
® j2 s=
3-53
8-50
1-75
6-00
Water, in gallons, per B.H.
P.
hour . .
0-077
0-070
^g§
0-153
0-293
0-056
0-224
* The engine was not working to its best advantage during the test.
{h) Maximum Load Test.
Table IV.
Imperial
Imperial
Mogul —
Crude Oil
Sunshine.
•' A"—
H. V.
McKay.
E.A.A.—
Light-
Interna-
Tractor—
McDonald
weight —
tional
Jelbart
and Co.
McDonald
and Co.
Harvester
Co.
Pty.
Time of run, in hours . .
0-596
0-536
0-552
0-500
0-558
Average amperes
114-0
65-8
52-1
65-5
540
Average volts
212-0
221-0
219-4
218-5
212-0
Load, in kilowatts
24-20
14-53
11-42
14-30
11-44
Generator loss, in kilowatts
2-83
1-25
0-99
1-25
1-05
Total load, in kilowatts
27-03
15-78
12-41
15-55
12-49
Brake horse-power
36-22
21-15
16-63
20-84
16-74
B.H.P. hours . . • . .
21-60
11-34
9-18
10-42
9-34
Total kerosene fuel, in pints
20-0
11-2
7-2
10-4
7-2
Fuel, in pints, per brake horse-
power
0-926
0-988
0-784
1-000
0-771
Total water, in gallons
4-62
2-17
1-00
2-00
3-75
Water, in gallons, per brake horse-
power hour. .
0-214
0191
0-109
0-192
0-401
A table of the main points of the various tractors is given on pages
and
In conclusion, we desire to thank the competitors for the help which
they so willingly rendered, thus greatly facilitating the running of the various
tests, both at Werribee and at the University.
10 Dec, 1918. 1
Motor Tractor Trials.
731
3. Description of Tractors.
A table of the main points of the various tractors is given below : —
TABLE V.
Imperial
*■ E.A.A."
Imperial
Lightweight.
Jelbart.
Mogul,
I.H.C.
Height . .
Length over all . .
Wheel base
8 ft. 7 in.
15 ft. 0 in.
9 ft. 9 in.
8 ft. 4 in.
13 ft. 2 in.
8 ft. li in.
7 ft. 0 in.
13 ft. 0 in.
7 ft. 2 in.
7 ft. 0 in.
13 ft. 6 in.
8 ft. 6 in.
Width over all . .
Tread . .
8 ft. 4 in.
4 ft. 4 in.
on front wheels
5 ft. 5 in.
5 ft. 4 in.
6 ft. 7 in.
6 ft. 0 in. back . .
4 ft. 4 in. front
5 ft. 9 in.
4 ft. 7 in. back
2 ft. 7 in. front
Front wheel dia.
Back wheel dla. . .
3 ft. 0 in.
5 ft. 4 in.
3 ft. 0 in.
5 ft. 4 in.
2 ft. 11 in.
5 ft. 7 in.
3 ft. 0 in.
4 ft. 6 in.
Front wheel width
Back wheel width
6 inches . .
18 inches
6 inches . .
12 inches
4)1 inches
12 inches
6 inches . .
10 inches
Belt
Tight on top
Tight on top
Tight on top
Tight on bottom . .
Speeds in miles per
hour . .
2-251
or ^forward y
2-95J J
2 reverse
1-1-5 1 •]
2—2-1 ^forward )■
3— 3-16 J J
0 - 7 reverse
1— in
2^4 i> forward
3—6 J
If reverse
2 J forward
2J reverse
Weight on front axle
tons ct. qr. lb.
18 2 0
tons cwt. qr. lb.
13 0 7
tons ot. qr. lb.
0 14 1 0
tons ct. qr. lb.
0 15 2 14
Weight on back axle
tons ct. qr. lb.
3 15 0 0
tons ct. qr. lb.
2 117
tons ct. qr. lb.
2 10 3 21
tons ct. qr. lb.
1 16 1 0
Total weight
tons ct. qr. lb.
5 3 3 7
tons ct. qr. lb.
3 4 17
tons ct. qr. lb.
3 5 0 21
tons ct. qr. lb.
2 11 2 0
Type of Steering
Gear
Worm and nut
encased
Worm and worm
wheel enclosed,
chains with con-
cussion springs
Bevel gear and
chain worm ex-
posed
Worm and worm
wheel exposed,
spring shock ab-
sorbers
Minimum Turning
Radius
41 ft. 6 in.
29 ft. 6 in.
28 ft. 0 In.
20 ft. 0 in.
Brakes . .
Hand brake on
high-speed pulley
Hand brake on
high-speed pulley
Hand brake on
gear pulley, emer-
gency band on
differential axle
Brake operated by
by hand wheel and
screw
Control . .
Gear shift by lever
hand control on
governor
Gear shift by lever
hand control on
governor
Gear shift by lever
hand control on
governor
Two air controls, one
fuel control ; for
starting. Fuel and
water controls for
running
Engine . .
4-stroke cycle ver-
tical
4-stroke cycle ver-
tical
2-stroke cycle hori-
zontal
4-stroke cycle hori-
zontial
No. of cylinders . .
2
1
1
1
Bore
8J inches
8i inches
7 inches . .
8 inches . .
Stroke ..
9 inches . .
9 inches . .
9i inches
12 inches
Belt pulley, r.p.m.
500
500
400
400
Maker's rated h.p.
on belt pulley
40
20
14
16
Fly-wheel
Solid disc. 3-ft. dia
meter
Solid disc, 3-ft. dia-
meter
Two fly-wheels, one
on each side, 41-in.
diameter, 4-in. face,
five spokes
Diameter 3 ft. 6 in.,
3J-in. face, six
spokes
732
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
TABLE Y— continued.
Imperial
" E.A.A."
Imperial
Lightweight.
Jelbart.
Mogul,
I.H.C.
Belt pulley
20-in. diameter; 6-in.
face
18-in. diameter, 6-in.
face
24-in. diameter, 6i-in.
face
20-in. diameter, 10-in.
face
Suspension
3 point, bolted to
channel frame
3 point, bolted to
channel frame
3 point, no springs
3 point
Oiling . .
Splash pump in
sump
Splash, pump in
sump
Gravity, sight feed
Mechanical lubrica-
tion
Governor
Throttling governor
in oil-tight case,
hand-control lever
Throttling governor
in oil-tight case,
hand-control lever
Hit or miss type,
hand control
Throttling governor
enclosed and run-
ning in oil
Ignition..
H.T. magneto, with
quick brake
H.T. magneto, with
quick brake
H.T. magneto with
quick brake
L.T. magneto break
in cylinder
Carburetter
Schebler, vaporizer
beyond carburet-
ter in manifold
Schebler, vaporizer
beyond carburet-
ter in manifold
Own make, vapor-
izer on cylinder
head
I.H.C, mixer and
pre-heater, vapor-
izer in cylinder
held
Cooling Arrange-
ments
Radiator 2 ft. 11 in.
long, tubes J-in.
diameter with gills,
centrifugal circu-
lating pump ; fan
for forcing
draught ; radiator
spring mounted
Radiator 2 ft. long,
tubes i-in. dia-
meter with gills ;
radiator spring
mounted ; centri-
fugal circulating
pump. Fan for
forced draught
Tank, thermo-syphon
circulation, 3 feet
high, 2-ft. dia-
meter
Hopper-cooled cy-
linder
Fuel.Tanks
Tanks on standards
across tractor ;
gravity feed ;
12-gallon tank for
water injection
Capacity, U gallons
kerosene ; 5 gal-
lons benzine
One double-com-
partment tank
above cylinder —
kerosene, 8 gallons,
benzine 1 gallon ;
gravity feed
16 gallons capacity,
under tractor
frame ; fuel pump
and overflow from
carburetter
Drive
1 forward, 1 re-
verse, changeable ;
bull pinion for
speed change
3 forward, 1 re-
verse ; friction
clutch
1 furward, 1 re-
verse, belt, jockey
pulley and gear-
bo.\ ; link belt, 5
inches wide, J
inch thick
1 forward, 1 re-
verse ; epy-cychc
gears; chain
drive
Gear Box
In case
In case . .
In case . .
Planetary gears,
specially arranged
casing
BulUPinions
4i-in. face, 2-in.
pitch ; internal
gear drive ; eleven
or fourteen teeth
2-in. face, IJ-in.
pitch ; internal
gear drive eleven
teeth.
4-in. diameter ; ex-
ternal gear drive
None ; chain drive . .
Usual Retail Selling
Price
£800
£519
£495
£380
(Table continued on next page)
10 Dec, 1918.]
Motor Tractor Trials.
733
TABLE V— continued.
Sunshine " A."
Waterloo Boy.
Bates' Steel
Mule.
Sunshine " 0."
Height ..
Length over all . .
Wheel base
8 ft. 3 in.
12 ft. 10 in.
7 ft. 10 in.
8 ft. 0 in.
11 ft. 0 in.
7 ft. 6 in.
6 ft. 7 in.
14 ft. 9 in.
8 ft. 10 in.
Width over all
Tread
6 ft. 0 in.
6 ft. 0 in. back
5 ft. 6 In. front . .
6 ft. 0 in.
5 ft. 10 in. back . .
4 ft. 10 in. front . .
8 ft. 10 in.
Maximum
7 ft. 5 in.
Front wheel dia.
Back wheel dia. . .
3 ft. 3 in.
4 ft. 1 in.
2 ft. 4 in.
4 ft. 4 in.
2 ft. 8 in.
Front wheel width
Back wheel width
6 inches . .
14 inches
6 inches . .
12 inches
7 inches
Caterpillar, 15
inches wide
Belt
Tight on top
Tight on bottom . .
Tight on bottom
Speeds in miles per
honr . .
1— in
2 — 2 J V forward . .
3—4 .
li reverse
2i forward >
l-2i ^ ]
2 — 3i ( forward >■
2J reverse
2 — 3 }■ forward
3-4! J
IJ reverse
Weight on front axle
tons ct. qr. lb.
0 IS 0 21
tons ct. qr. lb.
tons ct. qr. lb.
Weight on back axle
tons ct. qr. lb.
16 10
Total weight
tons ct. qr. lb.
■ 2110
tons ct. qr. lb.
2 16 3 0
tons. ct. qr. lb
17 0 0
Type of Steering
Gear
Motor car type, ex-
posed
Worm and worm
wheel corrugated,
chain drum,
spring cushions to
absorb shock
Motor car type, ex-
posed
Minimum Turning
Radius
.31 ft. 6 in.
30 ft. 0 in.
Brakes . .
Hand brakes on belt
pulley
Foot brake on dif-
ferential shaft
Centrol . .
Hand control on
governor ; extra
air valve
Gear shift by lever
hand control on
governor
Gear shift by wheel
indicator for
gears on back of
fuel tank
Engine . .
4-stroke cycle ver-
tical
4-stroke cycle ver-
zontal
4-stroke cycle ver-
tical
No. of cylinders . .
4 .. ..2
4
4
Bore
4J inches . . | 6 inches . .
4J inches
3| inches
Stroke . .
5J inches ■ ■ \ "^ inches . .
5} inches
5 inches
Belt pulley, r.p.m.
800-1,100 ..750
850
1,200
Maker's rated h.p.
on belt pulley
27
24
30
15
Fly-wheel
None
Diameter 2 feet, 4-in.
face, six spokes
Disc, with clutch
734
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
TABLE v.— continued.
Sunshine " A."
Waterloo Boy.
Bates' Steel
Mule.
Sunshine " 0."
Belt pulley
lOJ-in. diameter,
5-in. face
12-in. diameter,
10-in. face
8-in. diameter,
8 J -in. face
Suspension
3 point . .
3 point
Oiling . .
Oil pump
Forced feed and
splash
Governor
Throttling governor
belt-driven, with
hand control
Throttling governor
gear driven
Throttling governor
ball bearings, run-
ing iu oil bath
Ignition. .
n.T. magneto
H.T. magneto, im-
pulse starter
H.T. magneto,
direct driven from
cam-shaft
Carburetter
Two carburetters —
one for kerosene,
one for benzine ;
mixer own patent,
in exhaust mani-
fold
Schebler, pre-heater
in exhaust mani-
fold
Bennett, pre-heater
in exhaust mani-
fold
Cooling Arrange-
ments
Special type radia-
tor ; thermo-sy-
phon circulation
Honeycomb radia-
tor ; centrifugal
pump and fan
Tank 2 ft. 2 in. dia-
meter, with air-
cooling pipes run-
ning through it ;
centrifugal pump
on extension of
cam-shaft
Fuel Tanks
Fuel tank, two com-
partment ; gravity
feed
Kerosene tank, 20
gallons capacity,
over front axle
Two - compartment
tank 28 inches
long, 18 inches dia-
meter, at back of
tractor
Drive
Sliding gear, 3 for-
ward, 1 reverse ;
friction clutch ;
no gears in mesh
when doing belt
work
1 forward, 1 reverse;
cone clutch ac-
tuated by foot
pedal
Multiple disc clutch
Gear Box
In case
Bull Pinions
Special roller
pinion ; internal
gear drive
Usual Retail SeUing
Price
£500 ..
£420
£460 ..
£350
-^^^^^^^^^
10 Dec, 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 735
COPPER FUNGICIDES FOR VINE DISEASES.
By F. de Castella, Government ViticidturiH.
(Continued from page 678.)
Substances which may be added to Bordeaux.
In addition to acid, neutral and alkaline (or basic), Bordeaux
mixtures, a considerable number of formulae have from time to time
been suggested, and more or less widely used, in which the innovation
consisted in the introduction of some substance capable of modifying
the chemical or physical nature of the mixture. The addition of casein
has already been fully described (see pp. 598 and 675). As this appears
to be the most useful of all suggested additions, it was dealt with thus
early, so as to secure insertion in the October issue, thus making the
information concerning it available for the spraying season then about
to start.
Though it would be out of place to consider in detail all the other
additions which have been suggested, a few of the more important ones
may be briefly considered; some of them may possibly be recommended
as novelties here, and a brief indication of the advantages and defects
of each may prove useful.
Sugar or Treacle. — The addition of sugar to Bordeaux mixture
was strongly recommended by Michel Ferret in 1896. Of the many
" improvers " which have been suggested, it is still one of those most
worthy of attention ; curiously enough, however, " sugar Bordeaux "
seems to have largely gone out of fashion, so that it is now not extensively
used. In his original communication,* Ferret pointed out how, in order
to combat fungus diseases more efficiently, the copper should be rendered
soluble, so that its protective action might be insured from the very
start of growth. With this object in view, he tried the solubilization
of copper by sugar, so as to form a soluble copper saccharate (sucrate)
quite harmless to vegetation. This substance, owing to its adhesiveness,
resists the action of rain, thus dispensing with the repeated sprayings
necessary with most other mixtures. He suggested the mixing of lime
saccharate (sucrate) and copper sulphate. On thoroughly stirring this
powder into water, it entirely dissolves, yielding, by a double exchange of
bases, a spray mixture composed of lime sulphate, precipitated copper
oxide, and copper saccharate, the solution of which is of a fine green
colour. Of the copper saccharate thus obtained, one-half is in solutioii ;
this acts strongly on fungi, whilst it offers no danger to the vine. The
mixture can, therefore, be used with impunity from the very start of
growth. Three kilos per hectolitre (15 lbs. to 50 gallons) is the strength
he recommends.
A composite sugar Bordeaux was subsequently advocated. This can
be obtained by the addition of treacle to ordinary or standard Bordeaux
mixture (containing 2 per cent, of copper sulphate crystals), at the rate
of 1 gallon of treacle to 50 gallons of spray mixture. The treacle should
be diluted and well mixed with about five times its bulk of water, and
stirred into the Bordeaux before its final dilution to the 50-galIon
bulk (see p. 559). In this composite mixture the treacle simultaneously
* Revue de Viticulture, 22nd February, 1896.
736 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Deo., 1918.
increases solubility and adhesiveness. Treacle usually contains about
half its weight of uncrystallizable sugar; it should be free from glucose.
Sugar may be substituted for treacle, about half the weight being
necessary.
Sugar Bordeaux, containing smaller quantities of treacle (or
sugar), ha5 sometimes been recommended; according to Gastine, how-
ever, Ferret's original formula (1 gallon treacle to 50 gallons mixture)
should be retained in order to obtain a complete measure of adhesive-
ness.
It is sometimes claimed that the addition of sugar or treacle enables
Bordeaux mixture to remain in good order and fit for use for several
days after its preparation, a point which is, however, of little importance,
since the preparation of fresh mixture for each day's spraying presents
little difficulty if the directions detailed in last issue be followed.
Soap. — Lavergne was one of the first to recommend soap mixtures,
concerning which very numerous articles have appeared in the French
viticultural press during the past twenty years. Lavergne does not
claim to be the inventor of the method; he recalls* having seen trials
of soap Bordeaux as early as 1894, though without any very striking
results. He relates how Dr. Mangin, in 1896, drew his attention to
the value of soap for the preparation of a mixture capable of
thoroughly wetting all vine surfaces. The first season's experiments
were not altogether satisfactory, but further trials in 1897 led to the
discovery of a mixture of similar composition and consistency to copper
soda, and with satisfactory wetting and adhesive power.
The soap nsed was not that of Marseille (white soap), the basis of which is
oil and soda, but the jjreen or black soap prepared by means of caustic potash
solution and the oils of colza, rape, &c. (this would, no doubt, be a soft soap).
Tliis soap is obtainable commercially in the form of a stiff paste; it has the
advantaofe of being cheaper and more readily soluble in water than ordinary
Marseille soap.
The formula, which was employed on a large scale, was as follows: — ■
Black soap, 1,000 grammes (2.2 lbs.).
Copper sulphate, .500 grammes (1.1 lbs.).
Water, 100 litres (22 gallons).
The copper sulphate is dissolved in a few litres of water. The soap is separately
worked up with a little water, in small lots at a time, by means of a spatula.
When quite fluid, it is thoroughly stirred into the bluestone solution, and made
up with water to the final bulk.
Since Lavergne's first communication numerous aoap-Bordeaux
formula have appeared, into the composition of which many very
different kinds of soap have been made to enter. We thus have Bordeaux
mixtures with ordinary soap and with soaps made from linseed oil,
castor oil, &c. Rosin soap has also been largely used for the purpose.
Vermorel and Dantony have conducted a considerable amount of
research work in connexion with soap mixtures of recent years, and
have communicated numerous notes, describing their results, to the
French Academy of Science. One of their most important recommenda-
tions is to use soap as rich as possible in oleate of soda, and free from
excess of soda carbonate and alkaline hydrates. Stearate of soda, which
is plentiful in most soap powders, should be avoided. It increases
surface tension to a noticeable extent, and reduces the solubility
co-efficient.
* Revue de Viticulture, 26th June, 1897.
10 Dec, 1918.] Copper Fungicides for Vine Diseases. 737
In 1911, they recommended a formula for what they termed a
colloidal copper soap, as follows: —
(a) Dissolve 500 grammes (1.1 lbs.) in 50 litres (11 gallons)
water.
{h) Dissolve 2,000 grammes (4.4 lbs.) in 50 litres water.
When mixing the two solutions, the usual procedure should be reversed,
and the copper _ poured into the soap solution, in.stead of soap into
copper. Operating thus, instead of a voluminous greasy precipitate of
copper soap, an opaque bluish-green liquid is obtained, which has a
surface tension as low as that of a simple solution of alkaline soap,
which wets the bunches, just as alcohol would. The same authors
recommended, a couple of years later, in view of the difficulty of
procuring soaps rich in soda oleate, the preparation of a home-made
castor-oil soap, as follows : —
Castor oil, 1 kilo. (2.2 lbs.).
Caustic soda, 150 grammes (5^ ozs.).
Water, 250 c.c. (9 fluid ounces).
The caustic soda is dissolved in the water, and the hot solution stirred
into the oil. The mixture soon thickens to such an extent as to prevent
further stirring; it should then be left to itself for twelve hours. This
soap is extremely soluble in water.
Rosin soap mixture (Bouillie a la colophane) figures in most French
viticultural text books. This may be dealt with here, though, strictly-
speaking, it should be considered under the heading of copper soda, since
rosin is more usually added to that spray mixture than to Bordeaux.
Ravaz* mentions it as follows — it is worthy of note that he does not say
much for or against its use : —
Colophane (Rosin) is a mixture of dift'erent fatty acids; in combination with
soda it forms a soap which serves for the preparation of spray mixtures. The
rosin floats on the surface, forming a thick froth which thoroughly wets the green
parts of the vine. In order to prepare a mixture, dissolve 2i lbs. soda carbonate
in a gallon of water; heat to boiling point, and add 2^ lbs. powdered rosin. Stir
until dissolved. This soap is then poured into the copper sulphate solution, and
carbonate of soda added until neutralisation takes place. Tliis spray mixture
was first suggested by ^l. Perraud. Jt ha^ given good results.
Several of the household soaps in general use here contain up to 20
per cent, of rosin. A rosin soap mixture may thus be made by simply
stirring a certain proportion of a solution of such a soap into the spray
mixture. The quantity required to communicate sufficient wetting
power can be determined, as recommended by Ravaz, by dipping a vine
leaf into the mixture. If this remains pi'operly wetted after withdrawal,
the proportion of rosin soap is. sufficient.
Concerning the addition of soap to Bordeaux generally, it is worthy
of note that of late it has gone quite out of fashion in France. Casein
seems, in fact, to have altogether displaced it; this substance possesses
all the virtues of soap, in the direction of increased wetting power and
adhesiveness, without its defects; so much so that Vermorel and Dan-
tony, who have contributed so m.any interesting articles concerning soap
mixtures a few years back, have now abandoned their soap formulae in
favour of the addition of casein mixture to ordinary Bordeaux mixture.
* Le M'ddion, p. 176.
17628.— 2
73S Journal of A gricidture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
THE RUTHERGLEN BUG
(Nysius vinitor.)
A Destructive Pest to Potatoes, Tomatoes, Grapes, Peaches, &c.
By C. French, Junr., Govenvinent Entomologist.
The small insect called tlie Rutherglen bug, or Rutherglen fiy, which,
is a true plant bug, is one of the worst pests that orchardists, vignerons,
and growers of vegetables have to contend with. In orchards and vine-
yards, the bugs damage the fruit in all stages of development, causing it
to become shrivelled and fall off. The punctures made by the bugs cause
small brownish markings, somewhat resembling bitter pit in apples, to
appear under the skin of the fruit. In J^few South Wales it has been
recorded as a wheat pest, but the authorities there state that it has not
become a serious trouble in their western areas. This, is probably due to
the fact that wheat ripens early in those districts, and consequently is too
hard to be attacked when the bugs begin to appear.
The insect is of a dirty-brown colour, measuring about two lines in
length ; the body is at first of a light greyish-brown, but later becomjes
almost black in colour. They sometimes appear in countless numbers
during October, November, December, and January, and have caused
considerable losses to growers of fruit, especially peaches, apricots, and
tomatoes.
Rutherglen bugs have also beeai responsible for the falling oif in the
honey production in Victoria, owing to its swarming in the Eucalyptus
and other flowers, and abstracting the nectar. Mr. Beuhne, the Go-
vernment Bee Expert, has made careful observations regarding their
attack on some of the best honey flora, and I fully agree with him when
he says that these insects caused ai)iarists severe losses last season. For-
tunately, the bugs appear only in such vast numbers as those of last
year once or twice every few years, the previous heavy devastations by
them having been seven years before.
Like all other plant bugs, this insect is furnished with a kind of
beak, with which it pierces the flowers and fruits. It then ci)mmences
to suck the sap ; flowers turn dark-coloured, and fruit shrivels up.
The eggs of the bug are deposited in clusters amongst rubbish and
weeds, or under the soil, at the end of the summer. From ths time the
bug leaves the Qg^, it goes through various moulting stages, casting the
skin at regular intervals, until it reaches the final moult, when it
emerges as a fully-winged insect.
This insect can be kept in check by the use of benzole emulsion (1 lb.
of benzole emulsion to 5 gallons of water), kerosene, or tobacco sprays.
The recent smudge fire exj^eriments have been very successful in Vic-
toria and elsewhere. When a gentle breeze is blowing, smudge fires
are started at intervals along the trees, and a little sulphur is sprinkled
on them. The fires should not be placed too near the trees.
The phenyle spray was used against Rutherglen bugs with good
results in the Goulburn Valley last season by Mr. Fletcher, Orchard
Supervisor. The formula adopted was : —
1 quart phenyle, 1 bar yellow soap (2 lbs.).
3 lb. washing soda, 40 gallons of water.
10 Dec, 191S.J
The Rutherglen Bug.
■ 739
Rutherglen Bug.
1. Branch of elierry tree with fruit and with insects. (Natural size.)
2. Perfect Insect; under view. (Magnified.)
3. Perfect Insect; upper view. (Magnified.)
4. Head of Adult Insect. (Magnified.)
5. Adult Insect. (Slightly magnified.)
— From A Handbook of the Destructive Insects of Victoria, Part I.
by C. French, Sen., F.L.S., &c.
749 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
The soap is shredded and dissolved in hot water, and the other ingredi-
ents are added.
As the eggs of the bugs are placed on steins, grass, and weeds, or
rubbish on the ground, it is absolutely necessary to destroy all such
harbors either by ploughing the weeds, &c., into the ground, or by spray-
ing them with benzole or other emulsions, tobacco water, or phenyle
sprays.
One of the methods found satisfactory in New South Wales in
attacking the bugs when they infest trees is to start early in the morning,
before the sun is up, and while the resting bugs are semi-torpid, and to
shake them out of the branches into a dish of water and kerosene placed
on the ground beneath.
A 9-foot sheet of galvanized iron can be converted into a shallow
dish by any handy man by turning up the ends and sides. A gallon of
water should be placed in this pan with a pint of kerosene; the latter
will form a thin scum of oil on the surface of the water, which will kill
every bug as it drops in. A dish of this size placed under the tree and
pulled round as the branches of each section of the tree are either shaken
or tapped sharply with a stick around which a bit of bagging has been
tied to prevent the bark being bruised will be an object lesson to an
orchardist, as it fills with falling bugs. This operation will not be
effective after sunrise, as then the bugs, being stimulated, will grip to
the branches or will fly away.
Unfortunately, they suck the sap from fruit with their rostrum or
beak, and from flowers from beneath the epidei-mis, and thus they cannot
be poisoned with the arsenical sprays that are used with much success
against chewing insects, such as codlin moth grubs, cutworms, cherry
borer, painted apple moth, vine moth, and others.
The only means of destroying them is to use contact sprays. Spray-
ing should be performed on dull days, or towards evening, when the
sun's rays are not too hot.
Kerosene torches have proved most successful in some places against
this pest. Mr. Sage, of Wentworth, JSTew South Wales, uses an old rake
handle, at the end of which he fixes a ball or rags about the size of one's
fist. This he dips in kerosene from a jug, which he carries about with
him, lighting it and waving the lighted torch through the trees, and
the fumes kill the bugs instantly.
The greatest care must be exercised not to leave the torch too long
in one place, or the foliage may get singed. It is surprising how
quickly this method can be worked; in fact, Mr. Sage says that in a
slow walk round the trees the pest is effectually conquered.
A tobacco spray which has given good results against Rutherglen
bugs is made as follows : —
Tobacco stems or tobacco dust, 2 lbs.
Water, 4 gallons.
The following is the formula for its preparation : — Put the tobacco in
the water, enough to cover, which may be either hot or cold. I'lace over
a fire, and, when the water has reached boiling point, remove some of
the fire and allow the water to simply simmer for fully an hour, when the
liquid is ready to the drained off, diluted to the above proportions, and
applied. Care should be taken that the water does not boil violently,
or the nicotine will be driven off. If whole-leaf tobacco is used, prepare
as above, using 1 lb. of tobacco to each 4 gallons of water.
10 Dec, 1918.] Packing and Grading of Fruit. 741
STANDARDIZED PACKING AND GRADING OF FRUIT.
By Ernest Meeking, Senior Fruit Inspector.
(Continued from Page 307.)
FKUIT CASES ACT.
The Fruit Cases Act, whicli came into force in 1906, was the second
measure passed for the exclusive benefit of the fruit industry in this
State, Its chief purpose was to establish standard sizes for cases, in order
that the then prevalent practice of selling fruits in packages of varying
dimensions might be abolished, and a basis of value between seller and
purchaser established. The imperial bushel capacity, viz., 2,218 cubic
inches, was taken as a basis, and a schedule of sizes for cases was com-
piled. These sizes were fixed at half-bushel, one-bushel, and two-bushel
capacities.
Fruit Cases Act has Proved Beneficial.
Much opposition to the introduction of the Act was shown by
orchardists. It was contended that many of the growers would be put to
great loss in getting rid of their old stocks of cases ; that the compulsory
branding of cases with the maker's name and guarantee would consider-
ably add to the cost of cases, and the grower be thereby penalized; that
the enforcement of the Act would constitute a restriction of trade.
These are only some of the objections raised, and so persistent was the
opposition, which, by the way, consisted of a small but very energetic
minority, that the application of the Act was delayed for eighteen
months after it was passed. Finally, however, it came into full opera-
tion, and has remained so ever since — some ten or eleven years. None of
the gloomy predictions regarding its baneful effects on the industry has
been fulfilled. On the contrary, the benefits derived have become so
obvious that no one would think of advocating a reversion to the old
order.
Fruit Cases Act does not Provide a Complete Standard.
Although the Fruit Cases Act has proved of inestimable benefit to the
community by insisting that certain fruits shall be sold only in standard-
sized packages, yet it has failed to provide a complete basis of value be-
tween the seller and the purchaser. It insures only that, provided the
package is properly filled, a purchaser receives a bushel (a capacity
bushel, it must be remembered) of fruit for his money, but with no
guarantee as to the quality of such fruit. As a matter of fact, the utility
of the capacity standard as giving the best basis of value is becoming
discredited amongst the more advanced sections of the industry. The
reason for this attitude will be more fully stated later.
Victoria the First State to Introduce Legislation Governing
Sizes of Cases.
Victoria was the first Australian State to introduce a Fruit Cases
Act, and shortly after the other States fell into line. Unfortunately,
however, some of the sizes adopted by the other States differed from the
sizes specified in the Victorian Act, or, rather, in some instances their
legislation went further, and provided for cases of dimensions which
were not included in our Act. In l^ew South Wales and Queensland
742 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
sizes were fixed for cases suitable for tlie packing of citrus fruits, which
constitute the main crop of those States. The " dump " bushel case
included in the Victorian Act differed in size from the " dump " case
in use in Tasmania, which is known in the trade as the " Peacock "
Sizes of Cases now Uniform Throughout the Eastern States.
These matters were adjusted at an Inter-State Conference of Minis-
ters of Agriculture, held in Tasmania in 1913, at which all the States
excepting Western Australia were represented. A schedule of cases of
uniform sizes for all the States which were represented at the Conference
was adopted, and these are included in the Victorian Fruit Act regula-
tions, which came into force this year.
(a) "Peacock'
"Canadian" Case;
Flat Case.
Dump Case;
(d) Half -bushel
Plate III.
(b) Flat
Bushel Case; (c)
"Peacock" Dump Case; I
" Special " or
e) Half -bushel
DESCEIPTION OF CASES.
• " Peacock '' and '' Flat " Bushel Cases.
These are shown in the illustrations accompanying this article, and
a short description of each may perhaps be useful.
Plate III. (a) shows the "Peacock" dump case, which measures
18 inches long by 14^ inches deep by 8f inches wide=cubical content of
2,223 cubic inches. This case is used for packing apples for oversea
and Inter-State export, and also for local sale.
Plate III.(&) illustrates the " Flat " bushel case, measuring 26 inches
long by 14i inches deep by 6 inches wide= cubical content of 2,223 cubic
inches. This case is used locally for packing all kinds of fruit, and is
one which is mainly used for selling apples in the open case at the Queen
Victoria and other retail markets. For reasons which will be given
subsequently, the writer considers this case unsuitable for packing
apples.
10 Dec, 1918. J Packing and Grading of Fruit.
743
Adapted " Canadian " Case.
Plate III.(c). — This is an adaptation of a case called in the United
States of America the " Special " or " Canadian " case, altered in mea-
surement to enable it to conform with the bushel standard of capacity.
The " Special " or " Canadian " case itseK measures 20 inches long by
10 inches deep by 11 inches wide=cubical content of 2,200 cubic inches,
or 18 inches short of the bushel. The adapted case measures 20 inches
long by 10 inches deep by llj inches wide=cubical content of 2,225
cubic inches.
For purposes of packing apples under the diagonal numerical system
it is doubtful if any material benefit will accrue from the alteration in
size. It must be remembered that the fruit-growers of the United States
and Canada, in adopting the 20 inches x 11 inches x 10 inches case had in
view the packing of apples by number and not by the bushel. A comparison
of the two will be made later, when it will be shown that for all practical
purposes in connexion with buying and selling the numerical system
possesses advantages over the capacity standard.
Plate IV.— "Gill" Cases.
(o) Half-bushel "Gin" Case; {b) Quarter-bushel
bushel " Gin " Case.
Gin" Case; (c) One-
Half-Bushel Cases.
Plate lll.(d) shows the half -bushel "Peacock" dump, and Plate
Ill.(e) the half -bushel "Flat" case. Each of these is the same length
as the full bushel case, but only one-half the depth, and therefore one-half
the capacity.
Plate IV. (a)
Plate IV.(&)
a bushel " gin
a
Gin Cases.
illustrates a one-half bushel " gin
one-quarter bushel " gin," and Plate
case,
IV.(c)
The first of these measures 18 inches long
by llf inches wide by 5J inches deep^-=cubical content of 1,110 cubic
inches. The quarter-bushel gin case measures 13f inches long by 10 g
inches wide by 4 inches deep=cubical content of 556-|- cubic inches.
The bushel "gin" case measures 20 inches long by 11| inches
wide, by 10 inches deep. These cases are usually closed, as shown in
the illustration, by a lid having leather hinges, and are fastened by a
744
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
tie consisting of a short piece of rope or other suitable material. The
fastening is usually supplemented by four or more nails in the usual
manner for securing the lids of fruit cases. This type of case is largely
used by growers in ISTew South Wales and Queensland for packing choice
oranges, mandarins, and passion fruit, and may be recommended for
this purpose, and also for packing peaches, as it is easily packed and
fastened, and is suitable for transporting soft fruits, and is easily
handled.
Grape Cases.
Plate V.(a) and (&) show grape cases, which are recommended for
use in packing grapes for export. The first case, which, when packed,
holds about 28 lbs. of grapes, measures 22^ inches long by 7 inches wide
by 13^ inches deep=cubical content of 2,126i cubic inches. The second
case (Plate IV.(&)) contains, when packed, about 25 lbs. of grapes,
and measures 26h inches long by 5 inches
wide by 13A^ inches deep = cubical con-
tent of 1,7883 cubic inches. The 28-lb.
case, being the easier to pack on account
of its greater width and the easier to
handle by reason of its shorter length, is
recommended as the better of the two. So
far, the use of these cases has been almost
exclusively confined to the oversea export
trade, but they are strongly recommended
for use in the local and Inter-State trade.
When used in the transport of grapes
over long distances, the case is usually
filled with cork dusk, which is shaken into
the case until the spaces between the
bunches are filled. T^is forms a pad which
prevents bruising of the fruit, the quan-
tity of cork dust required for the purpose
being usually from 2| to 4 lbs.
Plate V.
(a) Export Grape (28 lb.) Case;
(h) Export Grape (25 lb.) Case.
Trays for Soft Fruits.
Plate VI. illustrates trays used in the
export of soft fruits, such as apricots,
peaches, pears, and plums. These measure
respectively 18 inches long by 14 J inches
wide by 3 ^ inches deep^cubical content of
833f cubic inches; and 18 inches long by 14^ inches wide by 2| inches
deep^cubical content of 737 7-16 cubic inches. For oversea export
each tray is lined with wood wool, and three trays are fastened together
to form a package or " nest." The fastening is usually effected by nail-
ing two strips of wood at each end of the " nest." These serve to cleat
firmly together the three trays, which comprise thfc ^ nest." Another
method is to pass around the nest near each end a strip of hoop-iron,
which is strained and then nailed on. The illustration shows one of
these trays packed singly, and also three such trays hoop-ironed together
to form the " nest." A full description of the packing, branding, and
fastening of all the packages mentioned, together with illustrations of
same, will be supplied later.
10 Dec, 1918.] Packing and Grading of Fruit. 745
Punnet and Bucket used for " Berry "" Fruits.
Plate VII. (a) exemplifies a punnet used for retail sale of "berry"
fruits (strawberries, raspberries, loganberries, &c.). It contains one
and a half imperial pints.
Plate y.{b) shows a bucket u,sed for containing "berry" fruits,
and has a cubical capacity of two imperial gallons.
" TOPPING " ACT.
After the I^ruit Cases Act had been in force for some time, its short-
comings in the direction of providing a proper basis of value were recog-
nised, and an attempt to overcome these was made by the introduction
of the Fruit and Vegetable Packing and Sale (Topping) Act in 1913.
Plate VI.— Trays for Soft Fruits.
Chief Provisions of '" Topping " Act.
This was a very simple measure, the chief section of which provided
that no person should sell any fruit or vegetables contained in any
package, or any lot of loose fruit or vegetables, unless the faced or shown
surface of the fruit or vegetables in the package or lot was so packed,
disposed, or arranged that the faced or shown surface of the fruit or
vegetables was a true indication of the whole of the fruit or vegetables
contained in such package or comprised in such lots. This was a step
in the right direction, but as was the case when the Fruit Cases Act
was introduced, the " Topping " Act met with opposition from many
people engaged in the industry, especially from that section which
retailed fruit in open cases in the metropolitan markets.
Shortcomings of " Topping " Act.
The " Topping " Act has proved very useful in eliminating many
abuses from the fruit trade, but has been quite inadequate to provide
746 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10' Dec, 1918.
a selling standard of value, as, even when fruit is packed so that the
faced or shown surface is a true indication of the sizes, degrees of
maturity, and soundness of the whole of the fruit in the package, very
little guidance is given to the purchaser as to its value for the purposes
of re-sale.
Sale of Fruit in Closed and Open Packages.
This is particularly so when fruit is contained in a nailed up package,
but even when sold in a package with the lid or side removed, the diffi-
culty to assess the value still obtains, though in a lesser degree. It
would perhaps be nearer the mark to say that, Avithout standardized
grading for colour, size, and soundness, and the marking of cases in
conformity therewith, it is impossible to accurately gauge the value of
a closed case of fruit, and is almost impossible to do so even when the lid
or side of the case is removed. Under such conditions a wholesale pur-
chaser who buys, say, a line of 100 cases of apples is compelled to open
a large percentage of these, and even then, after all his trouble and loss
of time, has little more than a vague idea as to whether he is receiving
Plate VII.
(a) Punnet used for berry fruits; {h) Bucket used for berry fruits.
full value for his money. The retailer who buys in the market labours
under the same disability, and is compelled to waste much valuable time
in overhauling the fruit offered for sale before he can decide upon a
purchase. The seller, too, often suffers, as, if the intending purchaser,
when inspecting a case of fruit, discovers that it contains specimens of
varying sizes, colour, and soundness, he is naturally prone to magnify
the defects and assess the value of the whole case of fruit on the basis
of the worst specimens. Most of the difficulties mentioned may be over-
come by adopting the principle of packing according to standards which
embrace colour, shape, size, soundness, variety, and freedom from
disease.
These have all been provided for in the Eruit Act regulations, which
came into force on 15th May, 1918. A short description of the provi-
sions of the Act and regulations will be given in a subsequent article.
(To he continued.)
10 Dec, 1918.] Native Fibre Plants. 747
NATIVE FIBRE PLANTS.
By Alfred J. Ewart, B.Sc, Ph.D., Government Botanist.
As the tenii " fibre plant " has been used in a misleading sense,* it
may be as well to define it more exactly. Fibres are as much an essential
part of the stiiicture of a flowering plant as bones are of a vertebrate
animal, so that a list of the fibre plants of Victoria would be merely
a list of the flowering plants of Victoria, and would include the ferns and
their allies also. The term can, however, be restricted so as to include
only those plants whose fibres have been proved to have a definite com-
mercial value as sources of fibre. From this point of view bo plants
native to Victoria have become recognised fibre plants. A number of
the more promising were tested by Mr. Guilfoyle and others many years
ago and the fibres extracted, but none of them has been able to displace
any of the recognised sources of fibres. To be able to do this, a new fibre
plant must satisfy various conditions, which may be detailed as follows : —
1. Its fibres must be easily capable of separation and purification.
2. They must be equal or superior in strength, length, and quality to
the class of fibre with which they have to compete.
3. They must be present either in unlimited quantity, or must come
froim plants which are capable of cultivation.
The exploitation of a fibre plant means a factory, and a factory can-
not be dependent upon a precarious or quickly exhausted supply of a
wild plant. If the fibre of the latter is sufficiently valuable commercially,
the plant is worth cultivating to secure a constant supply, and it must
then compete with easily cultivable plants, such as flax, &c. Further, in a
•country where thousands of tons of straw are burnt annually, not out of
wastefulness, but because the price obtainable for the whole yield would
not cover the cost of collection and transportation, there is no need to
search among wild plants for materials for strawboard or coarse papei*
pulp.
The plant fibres of use comimercially fall into three main classes.
There are, firstly, the fibres termed " pappus," Avhich are hairs growing
usually from seeds enclosed in pods (cotton, kapok, &c.). ]^o native
plant shows any likelihood of being able to displace any of the plants
recognised as sources of this type of fibre. The combination of strength,
length, and purity in the cotton fibre is unique among plants.
In the second class of fibre plants, the fibres belong to what is termed
sclerenchyma tissue, and in Dicotyledons they occur just outside the
vascular bundles (veins) in a herb, or in the bark outside ihe wood in a
tree. In Monocotyledons, however, the fibres are usually associated
with the vascular bundles which are scattered all through the stem
or leaf, and do not occur on the outside of the stem only. As
a general rule, therefore, in Dicotyledons this class of fibre
is more easily obtained in pure form than in Monocotyledons,
where it is associated with the wood tissue and soft, weak, easily
decomposed phloem tissue of the vascular bundle. The finer fibres of
• Journal of Agriculture, October, 1918, p. 600, " Indigenous Fibrous Plants of Victoria."
748 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
this type are, therefore, obtained from Dicotyledons (flax, hemp, jute),
for the most part. Monocotyledons yield coarser, weaker, darker, or
more irregular and rougher fibres of less commercial value (coir, raffia).
New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax) is one of the few exceptions, but
is at a disadvantage owing to its slow growth under cultivation.
The third class of fibre is derived from the fibres of wood tissue,
and, as a general rule, is employed only for making paper pulp, but has
been used in various ways in Germany for weaving to make good the
deficiency of proper textile fibres. For wood pulp the fibres should be
at least 1 to 4 millimetres long, they must be easily separated by
mechanical or chemical treatment, and must, therefore, not be too
strongly cemented together, and the less lignified the fibres are, and the
more they consist of unaltered cellulose, the better.
Bearing the above facts in mind, it may be worth while to consider
how far the native plants which have been put forward as fibre plants
comply with the above conditions and requirements as possible com-
mercial sources of fibre.
Eucalyptus Barks as Fibre-yielding Barks for Paper Making. — The
first statements to this effect appear to have been made some 30 years
ago by Baron von Mueller, and apparently were intended as statements
of possibility rather than as statements of fact. Since then, owing to
the increased use of wood pulp for paper making, many once promising
materials have lost all value for this purpose. The original statements
have, however, been repeated again and again more and more dogmatic-
ally without further investigation of the actual economic value of such
materials.
In some respects the barks of Eucalypts have precisely those qualities
which should not be present in good paper-pulp materials. Thus the
presence of insoluble gum, resin, or kino, or of a high percentage of
tannin or colouring materials is a serious disqualification for paper-pulp
purposes. The pulp must be capable of ready bleaching without treat-
ment so severe as to damage the fibres, lessen their strength, or cause
their walls to swell. Finally, the bark must not contain suberinized
tissue mixed up with the fibres, as is the case with the stringy barks.
The suberinized tissue is more resistant than the fibres to caustic soda
and retting, and can only be removed even partially by expensive me-
chanical methods. Until it is removed, a satisfactory pulp cannot be
obtained.
Statements as to the value of the barks of Eucalypts for paper
making should, therefore, be received with great caution, unless definite
evidence is given of the actual manufacture, cost, and quality of the
paper supposed to be yielded by them.
Eucalyptus ohliqua. — The bark is stated to be suitable for the manu-
facture of packing, printing, or even w^riting paper, as well as for mill
and paste boards, and the pulp is stated to bleach readily. As a matter
of fact, the fibres are red or brown in colour, are very weak, and cannot
be bleached readily by any cheap method without still further weaken-
ing them. As the bark contains large amounts of suberinized non-
fibrous tissue, it is unsuitable for paper making. The same applies to
Eucalyptus macrorrhyncha, the red stringy bark.
10 Dec, 1918.] Native Fibre Plants. 749
The barks of E. globulus, E. amygdalina, E. goniocalyx, E. corym-
bosa. E. longifoUa, E. stuartiana, and E. rostrata are also stated to be
useful in or suitable for paper making, 1 have not been able to procure
any samples of paper made from these barks, nor can I find any data
as to the cost and value of paper prepared from them. They all appear
to have one or more disqualifications as economically valuable sources
of paper-making materials, and hence, until precise information in
regard to them can be brought forward, including cost of treatment and
value of product, they can be dismissed from the list of materials suit-
able for paper making.
Acacia penninervis (the hicl'ory wattle). — The bark of this plant
is stated to be suitable for making coarse paper, and that of other
species for packing paper. I cannot find any record of paper having
been made from the bark of this tree, and in general barks which are at
all rich in tannin are unsuitable for paper pulp.
Melaleuca ericifolia (swamp paper bark). — ^The bark is stated to be
adaptable for making blotting paper, and probably filter paper. The
papery bark is very deceptive in appearance. It is non-fibrous and
suberinized, and is, therefore, the worst possible material for either
blotting paper or filter paper. Grood blotting paper should consist of
as pure as possible cellulose fibres. Lignified fibres are not so good.
Suberinized tissue, being non-absorbent, is useless. As filter paper
should be as nearly free from ash as possible, the bark of the paper tree
is useless for filter paper on that account alone.
Brachy chiton (kurrajong), — ^^The barks of the different species of
this tree yield a strong fibre. It is often cut down in drought time to
feed stock, and hence is rapidly disappearing from Victoria. The fibre
is worthy of investigation, but it would not be profitable to grow the
tree for its bark alone,
Pimelea. — Various species of these are herbs or shrubs, with a very
tough fibrous bark, Mr, Patton, Government Research Scholar, has
isolated the fibres in some cases, and finds that they are of great length,
and appear to be of considerable strength. They are worthy of further
investigation, since the fibres are as long as short-staple cotton, but,
unless the plants can be cheaply and economically cultivated, they are
not likely to compete with such fibre plants as flax or cotton. The above,
as well as Plagianthus pulchellus (the hemp bush), and Commersonia
Fraserii (the blackfellow's hemp), were well known to the native abori-
gines as sources of fibre or cordage. So far, however, they have not been
found to possess such special properties as would render them capable of
displacing any of the recognised economic fibre plants.
Casxiarina stricta (drooping sheoke) and C. suberosa (black buloke).
— It has been stated that the foliage of these trees can be converted into
an excellent pulp for packing paper, and even printing pa}oer and miD-
boards. The trees really have no foliage, for the leaves are reduced to
minute scales. The branches are so formed that it is very doubtful
whether paper pulp could be economically obtained from them. They
contain two different kinds of fibres, requiring dissimilar treatment, and
the two classes of fibre would be difficult to separate. Mr. Patton
informs me that the fibres are among the smallest that he has examined.
7-SOi Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
Bedfordia salicina (the blanket wood) has been quoted as yielding
a-jwhite ilock resembling scoured wool from the under surface of the
leaves, from which paper could be made. The cost of collecting such
material would, of course, be prohibitive, and, as it consists of resistant
cuticularized hairs, it would be useless for paper making.
■'i Lavatera plebeja, or the Australian hollyock. — Samples of paper
were made many years ago in England from the fibres of this plant,
but it failed to compete successfully with other sources of paper mate-
rials. Fibres are never obtained by chopping up the material into small
pieces. This breaks the fibres transversely to their length, and destroys
their value. The methods must always be such as to give the greatest
possible length of fibre, and when caustic soda is used, it is not to remove
gummy matter, but to loosen the fibres from one another, and to enable
the non-fibrous material to be washed away or removed without the
fibres being broken or destroyed.
Urtica (nettle). — Owing to the shortage of supplies of more useful
textile materials, Germany appears to have been compelled to make use
of the fibre of the nettle. Linen made from nettle fibres appears to be
very irritating to delicate skins, and with the Himalayan nettle the irri-
tation produced is severe. If Germany has been cultivating the nettle
for fibre purposes, some difficulty may be experienced in clearing the
fields for ordinary agriculture when supplies of cotton and similar
textile fibres are again available. So far as the Victorian nettles are
concerned, there is no satisfactory evidence to show that they are likely
to prove satisfactory sources of paper-making materials.
Rushes and Sedges. — Many of these have been recommended for
paper making. A few have been tested in England, Europe, and
America. It is very doubtful whether they can compete with wood
pulp. The high percentage of silica is a disadvantage, and owing to
their peculiar habit, they could hardly be brought under cultivation.
The cost of collection when growing wild would be considerable, and they
would need to have a higher intrinsic value than they appear actually to
possess to make their commercial exploitation profitable. Several are
suitable, and are used for weaving, but the amount so used will always
be small.
Xanthorrhoea australis and X. hastilis (grass trees). — The leaves of
these plants have been quoted as affording a very good fibre. The fibre
is weak and brittle, and the cost and difficulty of its extraction puts the
plant out of the field as a commercial source of fibre.
Poet ccBspitosa. — The tufted meadow grass has been recommended as
affording a good fibre of fair quality, and making a fair paper stock.
Some years ago, Mr. Holden, then Chairman of the Geelong Harbor
Commission, who was interested in the utilization of native plants,
ohtained for me bulk samples of Poa ccespitosa. They were forwarded
to the United States for testing. The plant proved to be useless as a
fibre or paper plant and even for weaving the value of the material in
America was insufficient to pay for the cost of collection and transport
and leave any profit. This was disappointing, as the material appeared
to be promising, but this instance is sufficient to show the caution neces-
sary in judging the economic value of a native " fibre " from casual
examination without making full tests on a profit and loss basis^
10 Dec, 1918.] Does Foultri/ Farming Pay? 751
DOES POULTRY FARMING PAY?
By A. V. D. Rintoul, Assistant Poultry Expert.
Tlie fact that this question has appeared at some time or other in
most poultry journals published in every corner of the globe is, of itself,
sufficient reason why a careful analysis of the prospects of the industry
is, at this crisis in the world's history, eminently desirable. Primary
production must form the basis of our future success, and no nation
can afford to neglect any branch of the rural industries in which profits
may accrue.
It is desirable, in the first instance, to determine what is actually
meant by the term " Poultry farming." The main source of income
undoubtedly should be derived from the production of eggs for com-
mercial purposes, and while this end is being achieved considerable
profits may at times be made by those meeting the requirements of
certain branches of the industry, but these side-lines must remain per-
manently subsidiary to the determining point — Does egg production
pay? Failures must be accounted for more fully than successes require
to be. Considerably more than a competence is gained by those engaged
in the following branches: — ^Stud breeding (which includes the sale of
baby chicks, &c.), custom hatching, the sale of proprietary foodstuffs^
the manufacture of articles of equipment, such as incubators, brooders,
and the like, literary work in connexion with the industry, and lastly —
though none too remunerative — instructional and advisory work. All
these sources of income are, however, in the long run dependent upon
the success or otherwise of the endeavour to produce commercial egg^*
profitably. Failures are all too frequent, and their causes and methods
of prevention are therefore entitled to a close analysis.
Failures are almost invariably due to one or more of the following
causes :— First and most important, lacJc of experience; second, laclx: of
capital; third, lack of health ; and a fourth cause may be added, lack'
of aptitude for the business. Quite recently a well-known institution'
desired to have one in whom it was interested started in poultry keeping,
largely on the ground that the mentality of the individual concerned
was too low to permit him to take up any other work. ISTo greater
mistake could be made than to consider poultry keeping the proper
outlet for the fool of the family. Apart from the aptitude to carry
on any commercial undertaking successfully, there is required an-
ingrained love of live stock with the ability to get the best return from
them, besides a general knowledge of food values, building construction,
bookkeeping, and banking, together with some elementary anatomical
and medical experience.
Lack of experience in any of these matters may prove the poultry-
keeper''s undoing, yet, fired with enthusiasm, which is perhaps a polite
way of expressing " through foolhardiness," the beginner rushes in,
and may be, owing to the blandishments of some agent, buys land in an
unfavorable situation, proceeds to erect unsuitable housing, acquires'
stock from an undesirable breeder, or makes a start at the wrong time
of the year. Failure results, but this does not mean that the query^
"Does poultry farming pay?" is to be ansAvered in the negative.
T52 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
Lack of capital is the next barrier to success. The land may be
suitable, the shedding correct, the stock of high quality, but the available
funds are insufficient to tide over the necessary period until enough
atock come into full lay at the right time of year to more than balance
the ledger. This want of sufficient capital also prevents the best being
got from the undertaking, as suitable lines of foodstuffs cannot be pur-
chased under the best market conditions ; young cockerels are sold too
soon owing to the lack of capital for foodstuffs, or in consequence of
insufficient shed accommodation to enable them to be -held pending
the time of most advantageous marketing; eggs have to be disposed of
for cash as laid instead of being held in cool store until the dearer time
of year.
Lack of health is perhaps the most tragic cause of failure, those who
are compelled on this account to lead an out-door life finding that at
certain times of the year the work is more arduous than they are, by
nature of their ailment, able to perform.
We now arrive at the point where the question can be put — 'Given
sufficient experience, the necessary capital, and good personal health,
does poultry farming pay? To this there can be only the one answer,
" Yes, it undoubtedly does." As to how the capital and good health
may be acquired is not a direct concern of the Department of Agricul-
ture, but the necessary experience can undoubtedly be gained by spend-
ing at least six months, and preferably a year, at some place where
the business is already being made a success, and, unless a business is
a success commercially, there is some element of doubt as to which is
actually meant by the term " taking in " students.
What Profits can be made.
On this point there is a wide divergence of opinion, and because
a certain profit per head can be made from 20, or even 200, birds, it
by no means necessarily follows that proportionate results will be
obtained from 2,000 or 20,000 birds. Estimates are almost invariably
based on the returns from the sale of eggs, less the cost of feed, more o"
less neglecting the rental value of the land, interest and depreciation
on buildings and equipment, and the labour involved.
A careful study of the egg-laying competitions during the past few
years reveals the fact that it is possible to get a return of seventeen
dozen (204) eggs per bird in a period of twelve months from 600 o.*
more pullets, and that these eggs are worth, on an average. Is. 2d. per
dozen all the year round, so that the competition income per bird may
be stated, roughly, at 19s. 4d., against an average cost of feed — in war
time — of about 9s. 4d. Consequently, the competition profit over feed
has been about 10s. per head, but it would be fatal to consider such
return as net profit on a commercial plant. Whatever may be the
circumstances of the selection of competition birds, they undoubtedly
are considered at the time to be the pick of the flock, and not repre-
senting the general average. Further, no account is taken of the cost
of rearing a pullet up to the time she arrives at the competition, from
which it may be seen that an estimate of 20s. profit over the feed bill
for the laying year for every three pullets, i.e., 6s. 8d. each, is much
more nearly correct than to foolishly expect 10s. per bird. Even this
10 Dec, 1918.] Docs Poultry Farming Pay? 753
63. 8d. per bird, however, is not net profit, because the cost of rearing
to the laying stage usually exceeds the market value of the light-breed
birth after her laying year, and no allowance has been made for interest
on capital expended on house, land, shedding, and equipment, nor, in
the case of light breeds, for the cockerels, which at times fail to realize
the actual expenditure upon them. Probably, therefore, it is much
more reasonable to assess the real profits at 5s. per bird over the entire
aock.
This estimate will eventually prove of greater value to the industry
than any higher one that could be made, as it should not only act as a
wholesome check upon the inexperienced speculator, who is easily
carried away by incorrectly worded pamphlets, but also act as an
inducement to every one to keep, at least, a few fowls, if only for the
profitable nature of this undertaking. The suburban dweller using
household scraps can materially reduce the feed bill thereby, and no
farm should ever be considered complete without, at least, 100 or 150
fowls. There are a large number of suburban homes which are actually
being paid for by the profits made from poultry, while the wages earned
are meeting household expenses.
When the United States of America declared war, the sum of £30,000
was at once appropriated for itinerant lecturers to develop the poultry
industry alone, which was then worth £140,000,000 per year, or, roughly,
28s. per head of population. In Victoria, the industry is worth about
£2,146,000, or, roughly, 30s. per head of the population, and the expenses
connected with the industry have been drastically curtailed since the
war.
{To he continued.)
Eczema in farm horses is a non-parasitic disease of the true skin,
caused by pressure or chafing of saddle or harness, especially at the
time of change of coat; extremes of heat or cold, exposure to wet, want
of cleanliness, bad feeding, and constitutional disturbance. These
produce inflammation of the underskin or dermis, as distinguished from
the outer skin or epidermis. The symptoms are small nodules on
which the hair stands upright and becomes knotted; scabs form, which
become detached, and leave bare patches; the irritation is great, and
rubbing makes it worse. Eczema may attack the mane or tail, while
grease and mud fever are simply forms of the same disease. The
scabs should be softened with glycerine, then washed with warm water
and hard soap. After drying thoroughly, a lotion composed of one
part each of lead acetate and zinc sulphate in 40 parts of water should
be applied. If this does not cause a change, an application of oil of
tar is recommended by a veterinary surgeon. A change of food and
provision for shelter should be made. As the system is generally out
of order, a ball should be given and followed up by soda hyposulphite
i oz. twice a day. If the system is badly deranged, Fowler's solution
of arsenic, 2 to 8 drams, may be given, and sulphur, 2 oz. to 4oz.,
added to mash of gruel once a day. The horse should be kept clean
during treatment by grooming. — The Australcbsian.
754 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
AUTOMATIC FEEDERS FOR PIGS.
R. T. Archer, Senior Dairy Inspector.
The illustrations on the next page show two self-feeders
for pigs. The feeder is 30 inches long, 24 inches wide, and
26 inches from the peak of the roof to the ground. One-incli hardwood
boards should be used, except for two sleepers of jarrah, 2 by 4 inches,
placed beneath to prevent the feeder being upset, and to keep it off the
ground. Ends, sides, floor, and roof can be made separately and pieced
together. Each roof slope is 36 inches by 18 inches. For a slope
three 6-in. by 1-in. boards 3 feet long are held together by nailing 2-in
by 1-in. strips 18 inches long across each end. The ends are 24 inches
wide, 16 inches high at each side, and 24 inches high at the peak. Take
6-in. by 1-in. boards 2 feet long, nail a 2-ft. strip 2 inches by 1 inch
2 feet long, nail a 2-ft. strip 2 inches by 1 inch across one end, and
another across the boards 16 inches higher. Measure 24 inches in the
middle and 16 inches on each side from the end with the strip. Draw
a line from the 16-in. mark on each side to the 24-in. mark in the middle,
and saw along these lines to make the ends the proper shape. The sides
are 30 inches long and 16 inches high. For each side take four 4-in, by
1-in. hardwood 30 inches long and nail a 2-in. by 1-in. strip across each
end. The floor is 24 inches wide and 30 inches long, and may be made by
nailing four 6-in. by 1-in. boards, or six 4-in. by 1-in. boards 30 inches
long to the 4-in. by 2-in. sleepers. These sleepers should be at the ends,
so that the ends of the feeder may be nailed to them, and they should
project 9 inches on each side. When everything is ready to be put
together except the peak in the floor and the sides of the troughs, put the
floor peak in. This is 30 inches long, and is made by nailing together
4-in. by 1-in. and 3-in. by 1-in. boards, trimming the edges to meet the
floor, and nailing to the floor with each edge 9 inches from the sides.
This will put the peak in the middle. Then attach both ends, running
the lower end an inch below the flooring, and nailing to the sleepers
flooring and peak. N^ext nail the sides between the ends, standing them
in from the upper outer edge of the ends towards the middle of the floor,
thus leaving a space between the sides of the floor and floor peak for
the mixture to feed through. JSTail 4-in. by 1-in. boards 30 inches long
to the floor and ends, planing the lower edges to fit the floor, for the
sides of the trough. The roof, which should be covered with some
waterproof material, is put on last. After the edges have been planed
to fit properly at the peak, one slope is nailed down, and the other is
hinged to it.
Of course, the feeder may be made longer than specified above, and
otherwise altered to suit circumstances.
Another cheap and convenient form of automatic feeder is a barrel
as shoAvn on page 756. The illustration does not require much explana-
tion. The outlet holes may be made on foiu- sides, and the size varied
according to requirements. The pyramid or cone causes the grain to
run out more freely and completely. Three-inch by 2-inch hardwood
boards might be nailed to the platform a foot or so away from the
barrel, so as to prevent the food spreading too much.
10 Dec, 1918.] Automaiic Feeders for Pigs.
36
mr\
^
30"
-^ FLOOR LINL
4^\2JARIiAH
■SIDE VIEW
mw'^i's'j
Battens
BUOn/FLOOh
755
CROSS SECTION
END V/EW
756
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
/KO/V ^ncliBruckets
To KupCash in Position
////, /'/'////.j^:^<y^^
•^My///////;^f:S:i^^'^w//^/J/m^^i^^'^^:^^-v>'^;/>////,'^
Holes inSkids for hauling
^GxTHW PlA TFQRU I^AIL ID ON TO 4- *2 JAmHSk/D O -^
Purps
A Barrel on A Platform Hl/lh A Pyramid in the bottom
To slide the Crain to openinas cut in 3 or 4 sides ofjhe Barrel
HEALTH VALUE OF CHEESE.
The long-cherished idea that cheese should form only a small part
of the daily diet has recently been challenged. Not long ago the United
States Department of Agriculture issued a bulletin recommending the
use of cheese as a cheap and wholesome substitute for meat.
Now we are told by a Swiss investigator that cheese is valuable not
only for its content of proteids and carbohydrates, but for the beneficial
bacteria found in it.
Another interesting and important assertion is to the effect that
persons who make cheese a considerable part of their regular diet
are very resistant to many intestinal diseases, such as dysentery, and
the dreaded typhus fever which has desolated Servia. According to
Dr. Burri, the daily meat ration in the Swiss army has already been
partly replaced by cheese, with excellent results.
— Producers' Review, N.Z.
10 Dec, 1918.] Analysis of Artificial Fertilizers.
757
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10 Dec, 1918.] Analysis of Artificial Fertilizers.
759
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10 Dec, 1918.] Charges for Freezing, &c.
76B
SCALE OF CHARGES FOR HANDLING, FREEZING,
SHIPPING, ETC., GOVERNMENT COOL STORES.
Storaf
;e, per
Package,
Produce.
Treatment, &c.
Rate.
per Week
following,
or Portion
of Week.
s.
d.
s.
d.
Butter or Milk
Per box,, for the first week or any portion
thereof, including handhng, freezing, and
shipping oversea
0
5
0
li-
Butter or Ifelilk
Per box, including above, for Inter-State,
export, or storage
0
3
0
n
Cheese
Per case of 1 cwt., or of 120 lb.?., for first
week or any portion thereof
0
9
0
5
Eggs
Per case of 36 dozen, for first week or any
portion thereof
0
2i
0
2i
Eggs
Per case of 25 dozen, for first week or any
portion thereof
0
H
0
n
Eggs
Per butter box, for first week or portion
thereof ■
Per dozen, for export, including grading.
0
1
0
1
Eggs
0
U
0
14
packing, case, and fourteen days' storage
Egg Pulp
Per 4-gallon tin, per week
0
Of
0
Oi
Egg Pulp
Per case of two tins, per week . .
0
u
0
li
Poultry, Chickens,
Per case, including freezing, handhng, ship-
0
lU
0
H
Fowls, Ducks,
ping, and fourteen days' storage*
Geese, and Turkeys
Rabbits (Furred) . .
Per crate of 24, including freezing, handling,
shipping, and fourteen days' storage'"
0
iil-t
0
li
Rabbits (Furred) . .
Per crate of 24, hard frozen, including hand-
ling, shipping, and fourteen days' storage
0
8*
0
li
Rabbits (Skinned, in-
Per crate, including as per Furred Rabbits*
0
lUt
0
U
cluding ship's stores)
Rabbits (Skinned, in-
Per crate, hard frozen
0
U
0
U
cluding ship's stores)
Hares
Per crate of twelve, including as per Furred
Rabbits*
1
3t
0
2
per lb.
Mutton . .
Per carcass, including handling, freezing,
loading, bagging, and 21 days' storage
(cutting extra)!
1
0
0
OoV
Mutton . .
Per carcass, hard frozen, including handhng
and loading, first week
0
4
0
O^V
Lamb
Per carcass, including handling, freezing,
loading, bagging, and 21 days' storage
(cutting extra)J
0
9
0
Ott
Lamb
Per carcass, hard frozen, including handling
and loading, first week
0
3
0
Oo't
Meat (Beef, Pork,
Per lb., including handling, bagging, freez-
0
^
0
OoV
Veal, Sundries)
ing, loading, and 21 days' storage J
Meat (Beef, Pork,
Frozen, per lb., including handling, loading,
0
0|
0
OoV
Veal, Sundries)
and 21 days' storage
* Exporters have to grade, pack, provide packagns, and deliver to chamber door.
t This rate to apply to freshly-packed or chilled rabbits and hares which reciuire a second handling for
freezing before storage.
J Wraps and wiapping material to be provided by owner.
764
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918,
SoALB OF Charges for Handling, Freezing, Shipping, etc., Government
Cool Stores — continued.
storage, per
ruckage,
Prodnce.
Treatment, &c.
Uitc.
per Week
following,
or Portion
of Week.
s.
d.
8. d.
per package.
Meat
Kidne3's, packed in cases of twenty dozen,
including case
1
0
0 1
Meat
Kidneys, packed in cases of ten dozen, in-
cluding case
0
9
0 01
Fruit
Per case, for handling, transferring, assem-
bling, &c., without storage
0
2
Fruit
Per case, for export, from date of receiving
and one week's storage
0
3
0 li
Fruit
Per case, for storage, per week, or anj^ por-
tion thereof (minimum charge, 3d.)
0
n
0 U
Notes.
Extra labour incurred in double bagging of mutton or lamb will be charged for at th«
rate of M. per carcass. Quarters of beef, carcasses of veal and pork. Id. each.
Weighing of mutton, lamb, pork, veal, beef, &c., up to 10 per cent, included in abov«
scale of charges. Additional weighing will be charged for at the rate of -Jd. per carcass
of mutton. Iamb, veal, pork, or piece of beef ; Id. for quarters of beef.
Re- branding of cases, &c., including removal of other brands, W. extra.
Butter, &c., arriving at the Cool Stores, and taken delivery of the same day, befor*
being put in freezing-rooms, will be charged Id. per case.
R. CROWE,
7th August, 1918. Exports Superintendent.
VICTORIAN RAINFALL.
Third Quarter, Year 1918.
J
District,
.J
Sb
i
Quarter.
HS
<
CO
Points.
Points.
Points.
Points.
Mallee North , ,
District Mean . .
66
140
29
235
Normal
94
132
147
373
Per cent, above normal
6
„ below „
30
••
80
37
Mallee South . .
District Mean . ,
60
186
45
291
Normal
128
139
166
433
Per cent, above normal
34
„ below „
53
73
33
North Wimmera
District Mean . .
119
187
37
343
Normal
172
175
198
545
Per cent, above normal
7
„ below „
31
••
81
37
South Wimmera
District Mean , ,
171
208
63
442
Normal
219
223
227
669
Per cent, .above normal
„ below „
22
7
72
34
10 Dec, 1918.]
Victorian Rainfall.
765
Victorian Rainfall — corUinued.
District.
X
§
1
Quarter.
3
1-5
<
cc
Points.
Points.
Points.
Points.
Lower Northern Country
District Mean . .
72
297
63
432
Normal
160
171
176
507
Per cent, above normal
74
„ below „
55
106
64
15
Upper Northern Country
District Mean . .
298
55
459
Normal
191
205
199
595
Per cent, above normal
45
„ below „
45
228
72
23
Lower North -East
District Mean . .
500
162
890
Normal
313
273
273
«59
Per cent, above normal
83
4
„ below „
27
457
41
Upper North-East
District Mean . .
504
271
1,232
Normal
475
452
442
1,369
Per cent, above normal
12
„ below „
4
••
39
10
Bast Gippsland
District Mean . .
403
231
208
842
Normal
235
206
285
726
Per cent, above normal
71
12
, ,
16
„ below „
473
27
West Gippsland
District Mean . .
177
256
906
Normal
291
307
368
966
Per cent, above normal
63
„ below „
321
42
30
395
6
East Central . .
District Mean . .
322
1,038
Normal
282
289
345
916
Per cent above normal
14
11
14
13
„ below „
••
West Central . .
District Mean . .
2.52
271
196
719
Normal
198
206
280
684
Per cent, above normal
27
32
5
„ below „
256
30
139
••
North Central
District Mean . .
318
713
Normal
271
275
291
837
Per cent, above normal
16
„ below „
6
52
15
Volcanic Plains
District Mean
266
213
154
633
Normal
227
235
289
751
Per cent, above normal
17
„ below „
9
47
16
West Coast . .
District Mean . .
393
273
232
898
Normal
333
318
329
980
Per cent, above normal
18
„ below „
••
14
29
8
N.B. — 100 points = 1 inch.
766 Journal of Affrirnlture, Victoria. [10 Dkc, 1918.
ORCHARD AND GARDEN NOTES.
E. E. Pescott, F.L.S., Pomologist.
The Orchard.
As a preventive against eodlin motli, apple and pear trees should be
sprayed with arsenate of lead whenever there is danger from the
prevalence of the moth. One of the secrets of success in eodlin moth
spraying is the destruction of as many as possible of the insects of the
first brood. Thus, if particular care is given to the early sprayings,
keeping the fruit covered with spray for a month or six weeks after
setting, this result is easily accomplished. Some growers prefer to
gather all fruit infected by the first brood, spraying only for the second
and later broods. Even if all the fruits attacked are gathered, which
very rarely happens, the grower suffers from the loss of fruit, which he
can ill afford, unless his crop be a heavy one.
Another feature for consideration is the fact that the presence of
any arsenical spray on the foliage is responsible for the destruction of
the pear and cherry slug, root-borer beetle, and all forms of leaf-eating
insects.
Spraying the cherries for the slug will now be necessary. Arsenate
of lead may be used, provided the fruit is not far advanced. Hellebore,
and also tobacco water, are effective against this pest.
Cultivation.
All orchard soils should be kept well worked during the summer
months. It is very essential that the trees should have an abundant
supply, of moisture during the whole of the growing season.
This will mean an increased supply of fruit buds for the next
season, consequently the frequent summer cultivation of the soil will
be a necessity if the health and vigour of the trees are to be maintained.
Excessive transpiration is often the cause of loss of young trees and
of new grafts. They are found to part with a large amount of moisture,
and are not able to obtain or retain sufficient for their nourishment;
they then very soon wither and die. The soil around these should always
be kept well stirred; they may also be given a good straw or grass
mulching, and an occasional overhead sprinkling will greatly benefit
them.
The planting out of citrus trees may be continued, sheltering the
tender plants from winds with hessian or breaks of scrub.
The general aims in summer cultivation should be to maintain a
good loose earth mulch, during the whole season, and to keep down all
weeds and useless orchard growths.
Pruning.
Summer pruning may now be commenced, particularly on apple,
pear, and plum trees. The removal or reduction of surplus leader
growths, the shortening of unduly long laterals, and the thinning out
of crowded shoots, will all tend to strengthen other parts of the tree
and to increase the development of new fruit buds.
10 Dec, 1918.] Reminders. 767
Vegetable Garden.
Tomatoes will require much attention at this time of the year. If
the plants have been well looked after, they should he making vigorous
growth. It will be to advantage to tie the plants to stakes, training
them to two or three main growths, and pinching out all laterals as they
come.
The plants should be well watered, and occasionally a handful of
bonedust and blood manure mixed should be forked in around the roots.
"Where stable manure is used, it should be used as a mulch, forking i\
in every three or four weeks, and making a fresh mulch.
All plants of the cucumber and melon family should now be con
stantly supplied with ample water. Pinch out unnecessary lateral
growths, and also the terminals.
The following seeds may now be sown : — French beans, cabbage and
cauliflower for winter crops, parsnip, lettuce, and celery.
The side sheets of celery plants should be removed, afterwards earth-
ing up the plants. Asparagus beds should be top-dressed, and allowed
to grow without any more cutting. The vegetable beds will need
frequent forking and hoeing to keep the soil sweet, and to keep down all
weeds.
Flower Garden.
Plant out dahlias this month ; tubers early, and plants groA\Ti from
cuttings for exhibition blooms later in the month. Water well at
planting, and keep well cultivated afterwards.
Rose bushes and beds may be given a good mulch with light stable
manure, straw, grass, or lawn clippings. The beds should be kept
rather dry, so as to allow the plants to rest before the autumn period of
growth.
Sow seeds of cosmos, asters, zinnia, balsams, cockscomb, and othei
late summer and autumn blooming annuals.
Cut down delphiniums that have yielded their first crop of flowers.
so as to allow a succession of flowers to come.
Daffodil, hyacinth, tulip, ranunculus, anemone, and other bulbs and
tubers may be taken up and stored; while gladioli corms may still be
planted.
The garden must be kept well watered and cultivated, so as to tide
the plants over the hot and dry season.
REMINDEHS FOR JflNUflRY.
LIVE STOCK.
HoR.SES. — Stabled. — Over-stimulating and fattening foods should be restricted.
Water should be allowed at frequent intervals. Rub dovsrn on coming into stables
in an overheated condition. Supply a ration of greenstuff, where possible, to all
horses. Brood mare.i should be well fed on succulent food if available; otherwise,
oats and bran should be given. Foals may with advantage be given oats to the
extent of 1 lb. for each month of age daily. Provision should be made for shade
shelter for paddocked horses.
768 Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 Dec, 1918.
Cattle. — Provide succulent fodder and plenty of clean water and shade.
Provide " lick " in trough, consisting of salt 20 lbs., lime 20 lbs., superphosphate
5 lb., and sulphate of iron 1 11). Limewash the cow bails, it helps to keep down
flies. Provide calves, if possible, with good grass run, or lucerne hay or oats in a
trpugh.
Pigs. — Supply short bedding in warm, well-ventilated stjes. Keep styei
clean and dry, and feeding troughs clean and wholesome. Sows may now b€
turned into grass run. Sows suckling young should be well fed to enable them
to produce plenty of milk. Give young pigs pollard and skim milk in separate
trough as soon as they will take it. and keep tliem fattening from the start to
get them off as early as possible. Give a tablespoonful of bone meal or super-
phosphate per 100 lbs. live weight in food daily. If pigs are lousy, dress with
kerosene emulsion or sulphur and lard, rubbing well into crevices of skin, and
disinfect styes. Pig breeding and feeding should be very profitable for a long
time to come, and it should be safe to launch out now. Plenty of water should
be available for them to wallow in in hot weather.
Sheep. — Ewes, after a season such as this, will come in season well to time.
Merino and fine comebacks, November and December; crossbreds, January and
February ; pure British breeds, February and March. Be sure of ample rams
running with them. Join best rams first. Breed from every good ewe possible.
Keep in view wool production as well as lamb and mutton. Meat and wool will
always be amongst the foremost commodities in demand. Two-tooth ewes, if well
grown, can be bred from, but they should be well treated throughout. Use rams
with width and substance, and never inferior-fleeced ones. Rams work best at
night and early morning. With large paddocks it may be necessary to yard
occasionally. Purgative drenches, worm pills, &c., must be given to all lambs,
weaners, or grown sheep showing unhealthy discharge, and in persistent cases,
second and third doses. Healthy sheep are rarely fly blown.
Poultry. — Separate the sexes ; the cockerels should now be fattened and
marketed. Grade the young stock according to age and size, otherwise the younger
birds will not thrive. Avoid overcrowding. Do not force pullets too much with
animal food; build them up with a good variety of food, but avoid maize, and
give but little meat. Increase the green food ; thoroughly spray houses and
perches with an emulsion of kerosene and soapsuds, or a solution of carbolic acid
1 in 60. Keep water vessels in shady spot, and renew water twice daily.
Moisten dust bath.
CULTIVATION.
Farm. — Get all crops harvested and stacked as soon as possible. Horse-hoe
maize, potatoes and other summer crops. See to insurance of stacks of grain
and hay.
Orchard. — Keep the soil well scarified and weed free. Cultivate after
irrigation or rain. Do not allow the surface to become caked. Spray against
codlin moth, poar slug, vine caterpillar, and woolly aphis. Summer prune
strong growing shoots and laterals.
Vkoetable Garden. — Plant out all seedlings, when ready, from former sowings.
Stir and mulch the surface. Dig each plot as it becomes vacant. Sow seeds of
cauliflower, cabbage, peas, French beans. Kohl Pvabi, &c.
Flower Garden. — Keep the soil moist and cool by watering, hoeing, and
mulching. Stake tender and lengthy plants. Water and shade young plants.
Sow pansy, Iceland poppy, cosmos, aster, &c.
Vineyard. — Summer bud or Yema grafting may be practised in January,
though February is the usual month. (See Journals, January and February,
1916.) This is" the slackest month in un-irrigated vineyards — all ordinary work
should be completed before Christmas. It is only exceptional operations, such
as scarifying after rain, sulphuring in case of odium, or spraying for downy
mildew (see Journal for November, 1917), that must be carried out. In irrigated
Tineyards the application of water, and the cultivation it necessitates, require
attention.
Cellar. — Fill up regularly and keep cellar as cool as possible. Towards end
of month commence to make preparations for the coming vintage.
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
Mangel —
Long Red
Mammoth
SOW
Mangels
NOW
MANGELS are one of the
most valuable root crops.
They may be sown any
time between July and December,
or even later if good heavy rain falls.
Sow Now in order to ensure the
best crops, 4 lbs. is sufficient for
an acre.
Giant Half Sugar and Yellow
Globe, A/' per lb. Mammoth
Long Red, Mammoth Long
Yellow, Golden Tankard, and
other varieties, 3/6 per lb. Cheaper
in quantities. Very scarce, so be
sure to order promptly.
N
OW is also the best time to sow Japanese Millet
(recleaned Victorian), the wonderful Sudan Grass,
Maizes, all varieties of Sorghums, and Amber Cane
Write for special price list and other particulars
LAW, SOMNER
PTY.
LTD.
BRITISH AND COLONIAL SEED MERCHANTS
139-141 Swanston St., MELBOURNE
Established 1850 Telephone— Central 729
Nurseries— Orrong Road, ARMADALE, adjoining Toorak Railway Station
L.R.W.
iviii Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. [10 t)Ec., l^ld.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES
VICTORIA DOCK
The Stores have a capacity of 743,980 cubic feet
insulated, and are capable of holding 372,000
boxes of butter, or 248,000 cases of fruit,
or 335,000 carcasses of lamb and mutton.
Electric motor power totals 900 H.P.
Produce can be placed on conveyors at any point and mechanically
carried to any chamber in the building, or conveyed from the chambers
direct into the ship's hold.
The Railway Department Goods Sheds
are adjacent to and connected with the Cool Stores by direct Imes ; delay
and exposure of produce through shunting in the Spencer-street yards, or
cartage, are thus avoided. The Stores are situated in close proximity to
the Victoria Dock, where vessels drawing up to 30 feet of water can be
berthed ; excellent facilities for the efficient and economical treatment and
shipment of frozen and perishable products are provided.
Expert Officers are connected with every Branch, so that
any one requiring information regarding the production, preparation, and
shipment of produce can rely upon being promptly supplied with up-to-
date ir.formation upon all matters.
10 Dec, 1918.] Journal of Agriculture, Victoria. xix
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES
VICTORIA DOCK ,
F^SiCilitieS are provided for producers and smaller exporters of the
various kinds of produce, so that direct shipments on their own account
may be undertaken. The Government ownership and conduct of Cool
Stores places producers in an independent position, and, in addition,
preserves an open channel for the carrying on of the export trade in
perishable products.
The Department of Agriculture will receive,
liand'e, freeze, store, and ship Butter, Cheese, Eggs, Fruit, Meat,
Poultry, Rabbits and Hares, &c., for producers and exporters.
Produce to the value of over £30,000,000 has been treated
at the Government Cool Stores.
GOVERNMENT COOL STORES, VICTORIA DOCK (Dudley St)
Telephones ;
Office : 10383 Central. Snperintendent and Engineer-in-Char2e : 10382 Central.
SCALE OF CHARGES, ETC.
and further particulars may be obtained upon application to the
Exports Superintendent, Department of Agriculture,
Produce Offices, 605-7 Flinders Street, Melbourne.
Telephone 93SO Central.
XX
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
Uy'o iKiy^ Jjpray
amd prGvonl:
your fruil
/rom'ruy'tin^''
IS
SR 5
MANY fungicides, whilst ful-
filling their mission in regard
to protecting the tree from
Black Spot and other Fungus diseases
unfortunately "rust" the skin of the
fruit.
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying
Oil, applied after your fungicidal,
will perform the double duty of
preventing such rusting, and of
holding your fungicidal in place when
rains would wash it off.
Gargoyle Prepared Red Spraying
Oil has an enormous popularity
amongst orchardists. It is the most
reliable destroyer of Aphis, Scale,
Red Spider and other insect pests.
Ask your Storekeeper. If not obtain-
able, write direct to
Vacuum Oil Company Pty. Ltd.
Branches Thtoughout Australasia
6^g>5r^
PREPARED RED
SPRAYING OIL
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
/jDMrnATION
U IS ALWAYS THE RESULT OF USING
T^PTUNE SSgf
NEPTUNE SPRAYS
Consist of the following grades—
NEPTUNE RED SPRAYING OIL
Makes a beautiful white emulsion, contains 85% Red
Oil, and will do all that other red spraying oils will
do, and more.
NEPTUNE LIME AND SULPHUR SOLUTION
Is the safest and most powerful fungicide ever dis-
covered. Trees can be sprayed when in full bloom.
ARSENATE OF LEAD ^'MERCURY" BRAND
Will not scorch the foliage, and won't wash off.
Death to all parasites.
Write for a Pamphlet giving full information and instructions.
NEPTUNE OIL CO. LTD., J^eSbouVn^
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dhc, 1918.
THE REWARD OF PRO-
GRESSIVE METHODS and
EFFICIENT ORGANIZATION
Has been increased business, necessitating
removal to much larger premises, and thus
to-dav we extend to everv Producer UN-
EQUALLED FACILITIES FOR BUYING
AND SELLING ALL HE GROWS.
Liberal advances made aj^ainst consisrn-
ments. Write us for quotations for Corn-
sacks, Lubricating Oil, and Blue Bird Brand
Twine.
Inquiries can
from Buying and
throughout the
10 Dec, 1918.]
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
VICTORIA
JOURNAL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 64 pp. Illustrated.
The Journal is issued monthly, and deals with all phases of up-to-date agriculture.
The subscription, which is payable in advance, and includes postage, is 3s. per annum
for the Commonwealth and New Zealand, and 5s. for the United Kingdom and foreign
countries. Single copy, 3d. New volume commences with the January number of
each year.
A limited number of the issues comprising Volumes III. (1905), 8 parts, exclusive
of February, March, April, and May, out of print; IV. (1906), 9 parts, exclusive of
Parts 7, 8, and 9 (July, August, and September) out of print; V. (1907). and VI.
(1908), 12 parts each; VII. (1909), 10 parts, exclusive of Parts 2 and 10 (February
and October) out of print; and VIII. (1910), 12 parts, are at present in stock, and
will be supplied at the foregoing rates. The parts forming the current volume may also
be obtained. A few bound copies of Volumes Vlll. (1910), IX. (1911), II parts,
exclusive of February, X. (1912), 6 parts, exclusive of January, February, March,
July, September, and October, and XI. (1913), II parts, exclusive of June, are at
present available. Price, 5s. per volume. Postage: C, 3id.; N.Z., Is. 2d.;
B. &F.,2s. 4d.
YEAR BOOK OF AGRICULTURE FOR 1905. 448 pp., 200 illustrations. 2
coloured plates. Cloth, 3s. 6d. ; paper, 2s. 6d. Postage: C, cloth 2id., paper
2d.; N.Z., cloth 9d., paper 8d. ; B. & F., cloth Is. 6d. , paper Is. 4d.
AUSTRALIAN FUNGL By Dr. Cooke. £lls. Poi/age ; C, 5d.; N.Z. I Od. ;
B. &F., Is. 8d.
PLAN AND SPECIFICATION OF SHEEP-SHEARING SHED. 2s. 6d.
Postage, I d .
MILK CHARTS (Monthly and Weekly), I/- per dozen, post free; Cabinet. 2/- per
dozen. When ordering, dairy farmers should mention "Monthly " or " Weekly.'
By Professor A. J. Ewart, Government Botanist.
WEEDS, POISON PLANTS, AND NATURALIZED ALIENS OF VICTORIA.
2s. 6d. Postage: C.,\IA.; N.Z.,5d.; B. &F..IOd.
PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO VICTORIA. Vol. II.. lOs. Postage : C, 2d.;
N.Z..8d.: B. &F.. U. 4d.
By C. French, F.E.S., Government Entomologist.
DESTRUCTIVE INSECTS OF VICTORIA. Parts I.. II., III.. IV., V.. 2s. 6d.
each. Postage: Parts I. and III., C, Id.; N.Z.. 3d.; B. & F., 6d. each. Parts
II. and IV.. C. lid. ; N.Z.. 4d.; B. & F., 8d. each. Part V.. C, Id.; N.Z..
4d.; B.&F.. 7d.
Application, accompanied by Postal Orders or Notes,
must be made to
The Director of Agriculture, Melbourne
Journal of Agriculture, Victoria.
[10 Dec, 1918.
School of
Primary Agriculture and Horticulture
^^^ ^ ^-^
BURNLEY GARDENS, BURNLEY
TELEPHONE HAWTHORN 639
The Courses of Instruction at the above Institution
have been thoroughly revised, and the services of
a large staff of expert teachers are now available
A. Course in Horticulture
This IS a two-years' course in orchard and garden practice
and poultry management for students of both sexes who
are at least 14 years of age. The students attend daily
and spend two-thirds of the time m the orchard and
garden. The training is intended for those who propose
to follow orcharding or gardenmg as a means of livelihood.
Fee, £5 per year.
B. Part'time. Course in Qardening
The class meets on two afternoons a week for instruction
m gardening. Fee, £2 per year.
C. Course in Primary Agricultural Science
This course is mtended for boys at school who are
taking the subject for the Public Examination of the
Melbourne University. No fee.
Prospectuses and information concerning the courses may be obtained from
the Department of Agriculture, or the Principal, at Burnley Gardens,
Burnley. The latter will he glad to see parents and others desiring information.
Classes for 1919 will commence on Tuesday, 11th February.
By Authority : H. J. Geeen, Acting Government Printer, Melbourne.
Maize Products
"Polly" Feed and Oil Meal
All Cattle and Poultry Like It
"POLLY" BRAND FEED Is just Maize, with the germ and the surplus
starch removed, toasted, and made appetising, then disintegrated into powder,
and put up for ready mixing and immediate use. Is rich in Protein, viz.,
20 per cent, guaranteed.
COWS fed on "Polly" Feed will yield 20 per cent, more milk.
HORSES thrive better on "Polly" Feed because the heavy and indigestible
starch proportion is removed, and the Feed is muscle and bone forming.
" POLLY " FEED does not weevil or germinate, and it does not turn rancid
with age.
Maize Products "Oil Meal"
IMaize Oil Meal is toasted and tasteful, does not germinate or turn
rancid with age or storage. Ready for use as a mash at a moment's notice.
CALVES thrive on "OIL MEAL" better than any other.
POULTRY of all kinds do better with "OIL MEAL" than with any other.
Fattening Pigs — For fat bacon nothing is more successful for Weight
and Flavour.
Maize Oil Meal differs from our " Polly" Brand Feed in that the
latter is cheaper and produces bone and muscle, whereas Maize Oil Meal
produces Bone, Muscle, Fat, and a Glossy and Beautiful Coat.
"Maize Oil Meal " "Polly " Brand Feed
Put up in lOO lb. bags. Every bstg guaranteed.
Write for prices and further particulars.
MAIZE PRODUCTS Pty. Ltd.
Office and Works Footscray, Victoria
Telephones: FooUcray 367-368
r
VICTORIAN
RAILWAYS
PICTURESQUE VICTORIA
I
Summer Excursions
The Victorian Railways issue Summer Excursion
Fares to the Seaside, Mountains, Rivers, Lakes,
and Caves, from 1st November till 30th April
MOUNT BUFFALO
Excursion Fares all the year
round
First-Class Special Inclusive
Week Tickets
covering Transport and Acconunodation,
at the "Government Chalet," are issued
on Mondays by the 6.15 a.m. train, and
on Fridays by the 4 p.m. Express train,
at £6
Excursionists withing to travel by motor from Bright
may do so, weather permitting, on payment at
Bright of 5/- extra.
Special Inclusive Week
Excursion Tickets
including Accommodation, &c.
HEALESVILLE
Rail, Coach Drives. &c.. 7 days. £3 3/-
WARBURTON
Rail, Coach Drives, &c., 7 days, £3 5/-
MOUNT BUFFALO
Dlhi
ee other side.
Write to the Government Tourist
Bureau for full particulars.
Victorian Government Tourist Bureau
Opposite Town Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne
Full Information supplied in regard to Excursions, Tourist
Resorts, Accommodation, &c. Tickets issued daily
Handbooks, Maps, and Hotel Guides Free on application.
Telephone Nos. 2898
and 2899 Central
GEO. H. SUTTON.
Secretary for Railways.
New York Botanical Garden Library
3 5185 00265 1055
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