334 AUSTRALIAN AGRICOLTURK. 



XXV [.REMINDERS FOR SEASONABLE WORK. 



As explained in the opening chapter (page 14) the seasons in Australia 

 may be classed as Sprimj, commencing in August ; Summer, in November ; 

 Autumn, in February; and Winter, in May. With such modifications as 

 may arise from the location in which we may be operating, this classifica- 

 tion answers very well in order to form a fair idea of the usual weather of 

 the season in view, and the crops and crop treatment most suitable 



For detailed information concerning the seasons, the rainfall, prevail- 

 ing winds. &c. , perusal and study of Chapter I., and the records and 

 reports of the Meteorological Observer, are recommended. 



FIELD WORK FOR THE SPRING SEASON. 

 AUGUST, SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER. 



Usual Weather. The temperature of both air and soil, and the sun 

 heat rises sensibly during August. The native grasses, shrubs and trees, 

 and many spring herbs, show evidences of warmer weather. As do stone 

 fruits in the earlier sections of the country. Wheat, oats, barley, and 

 other cold season field crops, make active growth. Rain usually comes in 

 light showers. Heavy dews have a stimulating effect upon vegetation. 

 Dry weather is indicated by westerly winds, and shelter from them is a 

 decided advantage. 



Planting. Where early ploughing has been followed, we can, with but 

 a light fall of rain, get in corn, sorghum, millet, chicory, artichokes, and 

 summer crops generally. For all these crops well prepared manure is 

 advantageous. It is at this stage where real skill comes into Australian 

 farming. (Read up the chapters on " Cultivation, Manuring, and Irriga- 

 tion " carefully. ) Add mineral fertilisers, such as sulphate of ammonia, 

 potash, and phosphates, to the manure heap, where one or more are 

 necessary for the crop in hand, composting them with coarser stuff in 

 Accordance with the wants of the crop. 



Maize. May be planted from August onwards. Where a start has 

 been got, and the crop is showing up, the safe prospect for bringing maize 

 on to maturity is in keeping the surface soil loose. This prevents rapid 

 evaporation of the moisture in the soil, of which growing corn takes the 

 full benefit, and the land is in the best condition for absorbing any showers 

 that may fall. 



Wheat. Usually sown during May, earlier or later, according to 

 location. The crop is well grown by August. The risky time for rust 

 comes towards the end of October and November. Harvesting appliances 

 may be got in order, so that should the enemy appear during muggy warm 

 weather, the rusted pieces can be cut out at once. Stuff thus cut may be 

 useful for hay. If rusted patches are allowed to stand the disease spreads 

 quickly, and may ruin the whole crop. 



- Selecting Wheat for Seed. As wheat approaches ripeness, real good 

 work can be done by selecting wheat ears that ripen early and clean. Dry 

 seasons may develop very superior varieties of wheat. It is by such means 

 that the very finest sorts have been got. 



