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Chrysanthemum Prot [lant Gifs 
Well grown short pot plants of Chrysanthemums have been finding a ready market in various sections 
of the country. We feel that many growers have been neglecting this valuable Fall potted plant. In 
many cases, poor attempts have been made in growing this plant and we offer the following sugges- 
tions for your consideration: 
Planting 
Cuttings may be planted into 2!/,"" pots in May and later shifted into the larger pot for finishing. 
If this is done care must be used so as not to get the plants hardened too much before shifting. A 
more efficient and easier way is to set the large pots on the bench, fill them with potting soil and 
plant the cuttings directly into the finishing pots. 
Three cuttings should be planted in a six inch pot while four may be required for a lerge pot. 
Watering and Humidity 
After planting, water thoroughly to set the soil around the plant roots. Repeat this type of watering 
when the soil gets on the dry side. Organic matter in the soil will facilitate watering and will tend to 
avoid extreme fluctuations in moisture supply. Keep humidity in house by wetting down bench and 
walks. 
Pinching 
Three pinches are sufficient for a good short compact pot plant. The first pinch should be approxi- 
mately 15 days after planting. The second pinch about 30 days after planting and the third and 
last pinch as listed on the chart. Some of the varieties listed grow taller than others, however by 
observing the last pinching date all the varieties listed should finish reasonably uniform in height. 
Fertilizing 
The best program is to have regular soil tests and feed as need is indicated by these tests. In absence 
of these facilities, and starting with a relatively fertile potting soil, several light feedings should be 
made with a complete fertilizer such as Electra. This can safely be used at the rate of | Teaspoonful 
per 6" pot. This should be applied when soil is moist and never on a dry soil. 
The foliage should retain a bright green lustre throughout the life of the plant, and the lower leaves 
should never be allowed to lose their color and turn to a light green due to low fertility. A strong 
well grown pot plant is a well fed plant. 
Diseases and Insects 
Pot plants should be sprayed regularly with one of the rotenone insecticides for control of red 
spider. Pyrethrum sprays or Deenate 50W will control thrip and leaf tyer. If plants are to be grown 
outdoors before final potting the foliage should be kepi covered with a spray such as Bordeaux Mix- 
ture or Fermate to prevent leaf spot. If this is not done considerable foliage loss may result during 
wet cool weather. 
Shading 
Same procedure as for cut flowers. Black cloth should be new or in best of condition for very early 
shadings to avoid delayed and uneven blooming. When possible take cloth off at night, replacing 
before daylight. Pinch pot plant varieties the last time the date shading is started. 
Pot Plants in 60 Days 
Plant four to six vigorous rooted cuttings directly in a 6 inch pot and 60 days later the plant will be 
in full bloom. The cuttings should be from lighted stock. The potted cuttings are given short days 
immediately. The plant is not pinched but grown in a 60 degree temperature. 
Cuttings planted from September | to February | will require no lighting or black cloth treatment. 
The nights are short enough to produce flowering. Plants growing from March | to September | will 
require short day treatment. 
