THE CHRYSANTHEMUM. 



161 



may be a failing with some varieties, but we fail to see any real 

 disadvantage, as the yellow or greenish-yellow colouring of the eye 

 invariably contrasts pleasingly with the ray florets when they are well 

 disposed round the same. This seems to point to the need for possessing 

 ourselves of singles with good and distinct colours, in which case they 

 would far outshine the eye in their attractiveness. 



The claims of varieties suitable for market growers are now receiving 

 attention. Hitherto Japanese blooms of medium size have received little 

 notice from leading societies. Many very beautiful varieties have been 

 ignored because they failed to attain to the high standard of quality set 

 up by exhibitors of the Japanese Chrysanthemums. Within the last two 

 years the whole state of affairs has altered, and many charming varieties 

 have been recognized by an Award because they have a special value for 

 decorative purposes and for market growers. 



It is astonishing what an 'impetus this recognition has given to the 

 cultivation of medium -sized flowers. Market men are quick to appreciate 

 the recognition of their claims. 



Essential characteristics of all blooms intended for market purposes 

 are that should they be produced on stout, erect flower stalks, which 

 should be clothed with foliage, and, most important of all, the petals 

 should be of sufficient substance to travel without bruising unduly. 



Good and distinct colours of pleasing tones have a greater interest 

 for market growers than those of dowdy or less interesting shades of 

 colour, and now that a standard of quality has been set up we may look 

 forward to the future with confidence. Our greenhouses and conserva- 

 tories are destined to present a more gay appearance in the dull season 

 of the year than would have been the case were the smaller flowers 

 ignored. 



In the hope that these praiseworthy efforts will still be persisted in, 

 we may safely leave the matter in the hands of the Chrysanthemum 

 specialists to maintain the well-being of the flower. 



