Caring for Chrysanthemums

Once again Mothers Day is just around the corner and the traditional Mothers Day flowers Chrysanthemums will be in full bloom. Did You Know? The name Chrysanthemum comes from two Greek words "Chrysos" meaning gold and "anthos" meaning flower.The genus Chrysanthemum is a large one,they vary greatly in form,size and colour.Chrysanthemums can be grown in many different climates. Origin The origin of the Chrysanthemum is Asiatic and the native habitat of the plants is Northern China,Mongolia,Korea and later Japan. What to do *Buy Chrysanthemums where at least half of the flowers are partially open, this is very important with Disbuds which only have one flower per stem.Half open disbuds will often not open, so choose those that are fully open * Remove any foliage that will sit below the water line. * Recut stems on a sharp angle and place in fresh water with flower food. * Remove any yellowing leaves as they develop and recut stems regularly. * Chrysanthemums are not ethylene sensitive, their most common problem is stem blockage. * NEVER NEVER smash or split the stems of chrysanthemums or any other woody stemmed flower such as a Protea or a Rose. This damages the flower stem and hinders the water uptake, meaning flowers will wilt more quickly. * Keep them out of sunlight and drafts Did you Know? * The Chrysanthemum is depicted on Japans imperial weapon and flag. japan also had a national festival devoted to the flower. * In Germany, people put white chrysanthemums in their homes at Christmas, to welcome baby Jesus. * Feng Shui adherents believe the Chrysanthemum brings laughter and happiness to your home. * The chrysanthemum flower has been known since before 5000BC in a small yellow form.