8 June, 1908.] Straivherry Clover. 337 



V\ nen one vie\vs the uninviting nature of the adjacent country and 

 then turns to the small cultivated plot the contrast is remarkable. 



That better results will ensue from the projected work than has already 

 been the case, I am confident, and the knowledge already gained will form 

 an excellent basis for similar operations on the part of the new settler 

 on the heath land. 



STRAWBERRY CLOVER. 



IF. Younger, Dairy Supervisor. 



Strawberry clover is indigenous to South Europe and North Africa ; to 

 Persia; the Canary Islands and Azores. Since its introduction to South 

 Gippsland it has spread over many thousands of acres and in that part is 

 considered far superior to any other grass grown there. It is continuous 

 in growth and is distinct in appearance from all other varieties, being of a 

 trailing habit and having much smaller leaves. Strawberry clover was 

 first introduced into South Gippsland by the late Mr. George Black, of 

 Tarwin Meadows, and has proved its exceptional fattening qualities by 

 the fact that the stock from this estate have for many years realized the 

 highest prices in the Melbourne yards. It has also been planted by 

 residents and adjoining landholders who regard it as the best grass for 

 dairying. It Avill hold its own against any other grass in flats, swampy 

 land, wet or marshv places ; stands flooding, even with brackish tidal 

 waters, and grows much fodder during summei'. Horses prefer it tO' all 

 other grasses. 



Propagation of strawberry clover can be effected in two ways^ — either 

 by portion of the root or by seed ; the former, however, is the most satis- 

 factory and is generally adopted. It will grow from a small root, if 

 necessary, but a piece about 3 inches square is best, a little more or less 

 being of no consequence. In planting it among ordinary grasses hoe up 

 a piece of sod to the depth of a few inches. Place clo'ver sod in this hole 

 and firmly press it into the broken soil. Plant about every yard and in 

 two years, where the situation is at all favorable, the clover will have 

 worked its wav completely through the grass, meeting at all points. It 

 spreads with seeds mostlv through the dung of animals ; in fact, the seeds 

 apparently germinate much more satisfactorilv in this way In land that 

 is cultivated for the reception of the plants the roots are cliopped up into 

 small pieces, sown broadcast, and rolled in. The smallest portion will 

 grow. 



Plants can be obtained in quantities, from a sack upwards, at 15s. 

 per sack, delivered at Tarwin Railway Station. A sack of first class 

 plants, that is strong stems not too many leaves, should give at least 

 2,000 plants. Seed can be obtained from Melbourne seedsmen at 6s. per 

 !b. in the husk. 



This valuable grass would undoubtedly flourish in the valleys of the 

 Yarra, Goulburn and other districts, where, as yet, it is practicallv un- 

 known and would greatly improve the pastures and increase the carrving 

 capacity of the lanu. 



