642 



Journal of Agriciiltiin'. Victoria. [10 Nov., 1917. 



nice couditiou a.s regards moisture content, was apjjlicd equally to each 

 plant. 



Prior to planting, each box was fortified with artificial fertilizers in 

 the following quantities: — Superphosphate, ^ oz. ; ammonium sulphate, 

 1 oz. ; dried blood, 1 oz. ; potassium suljjhate, -j oz. These were thoroughly 

 incorporated with the soil on the surface of the boxes, and the seed sets 

 (whole) were planted on 17th December, 1916. 



The average weight of the sets used was 75 grammes, equalling a 

 shade over 2^ ozs. The variety chosen for the test was Up-to-Date. All 

 of the plants appeared through the ground within three days of each 

 other. This may be considered for all purp)oses, uniform. 



When the plants broke the surface a top dressing of sodium nitrate, 

 at the rate of 5 oz. per box, was applied. 



Analysis of Soil Used. 



An analysis of tlie synthetic soil utilized in this test was made, and is 

 given herewith : — 



(Parts per 100,000.) 



For comparison the analysis of 

 from the Koroit distr^'ct is also given : 



exceptionally good potato soil 



It will be seen that in actual content of the elements of plant food the 

 synthetic soil used in this experiment compares very unfavorably with 

 the rich potato soil from Koroit, bnl it should be noted that the avail- 

 ability of the elements in the manufactured soil would be very much 

 greater than is the case with the Koroit land. 



Cultural Treatment During Growing Period. 



When the plants were well above ground each box was mulched with 

 buffalo grass cuttings, and during the period of growth the surface soil 

 was kept loose, water being applied when necessary. Growth in every 

 case was normal, the plants developing evenly and remaining healthy. 



Harvestings. 



Harvesting and analysis were done at intervals of approximately one 

 month. 



The first harvest was made on 2'9th January, 1917, being 33 days' 

 growth from date of brairding. The second liarvest took place on 

 the 23rd February, 25 days later. The third harvesting was 



