With my new found enthusiasm for Chrysanthemums I thought I would have a day reviewing my gardening performance, sorting out my Chrysanthemums in the greenhouse and planning actions to improve my show of next year.

Some of the best flowers in November have been a range of single Chrysanthemums in a variety of colours. The lemon shown above has had numerous stems (30+) on a single plant with limited branching or spray clustering. The stems are 30 inches high and have been self supporting. I have grown them outdoors in 12″ pots and they have filled the space without problem. The one greenhouse plant in a pot dried out too quickly and the bottom leaves browned off during November when the flowers have been at their best.

A bit more like the traditional daisy like flowers the light mauve or lilac flowers were robust plants that received little care. I now note that I should still have’ stopped’ the plants twice during april and june. Another lesson for next year!

Single Flowered Range

• A reminder that the term ‘single’ is not related to the number of flowers on a stem but to the arrangement of a single row of petals (or ray florets) around the central disc. A semi double may have 5 or more rays of petals but the disc will still be visible. AKA Daisy-eye.
• I will definitely grow them again.
• I bought the plants from J Parker but need to look up the name of the varieties. (Why don’t I keep a record at the time or better still label and remember what I planted).
• I hope to get some cuttings from stock plants in spring.
• The plants lasted in the house and looked good in a mixed arrangement as the leaves were open and delicate in appearance.
• Colours included lemon, yellow, red, deep purple and mauve so a good and varied combination.

Notes to Myself on Single Chrysanthemums

• I over potted the plants. The roots did not spread beyond 8″. Try smaller pots.
• I didn’t provide tlc. More watering, feeding and timely stopping next time.
• Try planting out in the garden with other perennial plants for a late show.
• Label any cuttings.
• Look for a suitable single white flower.