4 OCTOBER 1930, Page 16

A POISONED POISONER.

The mention of ragwort (of which I wrote recently in refer- ence to its qualities both as a dye and a poison) suggests a more or less new remedy for this and other weeds. I know no weed that has multiplied more steadily in many English parishes, though it is one of the few which cultivators are theoretically compelled under penalties to eradicate. Its ravages in the North are yet worse. A correspondent sends me a copy of the Galloway News, where considerable space is given to the weed, especially its poisonous quality. It is said to have killed many cattle both in Canada and New Zealand. It is from New Zealand that the remedy is reported. None could be simpler. The chemical is a no more elaborate mixture than sodium chlorate delivered- by a spray. It is not unlikely that this may prove one of the most valuable non- poisonous weed-killers for the garden as for the fami.