H—29

Small Fruits. —A growing demand, accompanied by higher prices, is causing growers to increase the areas planted with small fruits. The estimated production of small fruits in commercial areas is : 1946-47 1945-46 Season. Season. Tons. Tons. Gooseberries .. .. .. .. .. 270 150 Strawberries .. .. .. .. .. 380 250 Raspberries .. .. .. .. .. 530 750 Loganberries .. .. .. .. 25 40 Currants .. ... .. .. .. 120 150 During the year a preliminary survey of raspberry varieties was undertaken to locate the heaviest-cropping strains for selection in the propagation of further supplies for extension of plantings. It is intended to propagate the selected strains at the proposed horticultural station at Levin, the ultimate aim being the establishment of a " certified raspberry stock " scheme. A limited number of plants of several varieties of black currants, gooseberries, and strawberries have been introduced from reliable English sources for establishing a supply of disease-free, true-to-name plants. It is particularly desirable that virus-free strains of strawberries, which will provide a succession of good crops, should be raised. The culture of other fruits is increasing, and greater quantities of tree tomatoes, Chinese gooseberries, and feijoas are being produced for market. Viticulture Weather conditions during the past year have not favoured good grape crops. In parts of Hawke's Bay, Te Kauwhata, and Auckland, spring frosts caused some damage to the vines. The cold weather conditions in December had an adverse effect on the good setting of the berries. Indoor Grapes.—The production of grapes grown under glass is estimated at 600,000 lb. An expansion in indoor grape-growing is expected when materials for the construction of glasshouses are again available. Wine Grapes..—The grape crop harvested in 1946 was fair average yield, with the average production per acre somewhat higher than the previous year. The increase in wine-production is mainly due to the new areas of vines which have come into bearing. Wineries and Vineyards.—Winemakers continue to extend and improve their cellar layout and accommodation and equipment by the installation of up-to-date filters, crushers, presses, and pumping units. Winemakers generally have sought the advice and guidance of the Vine and Wine Instructor when about to make any large alterations £0 premises or equipment. Diseases. —Fungous diseases have not seriously affected glasshouse grapes. The improved fumigation methods introduced in co-operation with the Plant Diseases Division of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research are effective' in the control of mealy bug. The warm and humid weather conditions experienced in the Hawke's Bay district during February, 1947, were the cause of powdery mildew in that area. Wine-production.—The approximate area under outdoor grapes grown for winemaking is 800 acres, The production of 191 licensed winemakers was approximately 388,800 gallons, mostly of the sweet red and sweet white type. It is estimated that there is also a further 78,770 gallons of wine made from fruit other than grapes. 6—H29

69