
Care of the Chrysanthemums 
Visitors at our Nurseries always ask how we get our plants to stay bushy and self- 
supporting, while theirs sprangle and sprawl! all over the place. We offer them some good 
advice which goes in one ear and out the other, since they won’t believe that the plants 
will bloom if pinched or cut: back so much. We try to follow the plan NOT OVER 
TWELVE INCHES HIGH BY MID-JULY. Some varieties are better if pinched or cut back 
yet again after that, while some would do better if let go earlier, These are things one 
must discover working with the varieties. After the first topping three to five “breaks” 
or branches should appear. These in turn should be topped after they have two or three 
leaves; by removing the growing tip.’ Strong stocky plants will result, plants that will 
“make a better show, and yield much better flowers if you want them for cutting. This 
stopping process DOES NOT APPLY TO THE MOUND VARIETIES KNOWN AS CUSHION 
MUMS. They are self branching, and do not need pinching at all. 
We believe that while the Chrysanthemum will flourish in nearly any soil, a little in- 
surance inthe form of a complete fertilizer is a good policy. Apply as soon after planting 
as new growth sets in, and work in well. Use sparingly, applying more often. 
Chrysanthemums that, are being grown for cut flowers will have to be staked or tied 
in some manner to support them. Heavy with rain and dew, a little wind will knock them 
- over, soiling the blooms. We like to drive stakes at intervals of every few feet, running 
twine or wire down each side of the row, crossing at each stake. If properly installed, this 
‘simple method will save a lot of blooms. 
While chrysanthemums “grown in the open are nearly free of insect pests, it may be 
necessary to spray for rollers and certain other pests. We will be glad to supply what in- 
formation we can on this subject on request. Complete information on spraying, prun- 
'~ ing, disbudding, selection, etc., is. covered inthe book: 
“Chrysanthemums Under Glass and Outdoors” 
By PROF. ALEX LAURIE | $1.50 the copy Postpaid 


| rere rene as er et EE ee ED EE EE EN TE 
THE HERALD-PROGRESS FRESS, ASHLAND, VA. 


