THE CULTIVATION OF UNTILLED LAND.
[TO THE EDITOR OF THE " SPECTATOR:1
Sm,—I beg to bring before your readers the following simple scheme in operation here, in the belief that it is capable of widespread adoption, and that the economy effected by it Would in the aggregate amount to a very considerable total. Plots of vacant land, such as the gardens of empty houses, building sites, &c., are being cultivated by persons of both sexes and all ages, who have joined together to give their labour free, and to grow vegetables, which will be presented to local war hospitals. To start such a scheme it is merely necessary to call a meeting of persons interested, and to get the permission of landowners to use the land rent free for this patriotic purpose. As tillage improves land otherwise lying idle, permission will probably in most cases be obtained. The present is an excellent time for digging unfilled land, so as to expose it to the weather before planting next spring. This employment gives fresh air and exercise to the many who must, for reasons of health, get exercise somehow—often by aimless walks, or by games, for which at this time they have not much heart. Expert advice will be readily obtainable everywhere by amateur diggers, in order to make a success of their work. Even though the produce is not given to war hospitals, but divided among those con- tributing their labour, the net saving to the country is the same. The economy effected especially applies to suburban areas, where there is a huge expenditure on the transport of vegetables from market, although even a part of the land given up to flowers in these areas could supply a large part of the local demand for vegetables.—I am, Sir, &c.,
Previous page
