[Sir, — I received a small quantity of the large grained "Inca’s Maize" from Dr Mueller, for exhibition and distribution at the recent National Grain Show.1 I have embraced every possible opportunity to distribute this most valuable corn among our farmers and gardeners for the purpose of giving them an opportunity of trying its cultivation in various parts of this colony. Dr Mueller received this corn from his Excellency, Marshal Santa Cruz, Ambassador for Peru at the French Court.2 I have to request that the recipients will kindly bear in mind that this maize requires a rich and genial soil for its growth, and a succession of hot months for its development. Dr Mueller therefore recommends to manure the soil well for the reception of the seed and to sow the latter after the frosty winter months shall have passed away.3]
The 'Grand National Exhibition of grain, seeds, and farm produce' was held in the Exhibition Building, Melbourne, on 28 March 1865 (Ballarat star, 29 March 1865, p. 2).
Letter not found.
Morrison's letter continues with comments about maize's requiring 'a comparatively large percentage of potash' and about the potential economic value of the crop.
Letter not found. The text given here is from 'Inca's maize', a letter to the editor from Simon Morrison, Ballarat star, 6 April 1865, pp. 2-3.
Please cite as “FVM-65-03-00,” in Correspondence of Ferdinand von Mueller, edited by R.W. Home, Thomas A. Darragh, A.M. Lucas, Sara Maroske, D.M. Sinkora†, J.H. Voigt† and Monika Wells accessed on