10 July, 1918.] Hints on Flax Cultivation. 



447 



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. 



