The National Chrysanthemum Society displayed this Yellow Orinoco Early Spray Chrysanthemum at the Harrogate flower show last month. It only begins to hints at the great variety of Chrysanthemums that can be grown with it’s vibrant colour combination of Yellow on Red.

Personal Top Tips

• As a beginner grow only a limited number of types and varieties. The Cushion varieties or pot mums grow well in pots and borders and can be bought in rooted plants of 6 in May for growing on.
• Spray chrysanthemum give a good return for the effort.
• Look after the plants by watering and feeding regularly. Chrysanthemums, like me, do not thrive on neglect.
• Give taller growing plants lots of support. The stalks can be easily broken and you can loose a lot of flowers from damage.
• Follow a diary of action so you know when you plan to ‘stop’ (pinch out) or ‘pot up’ your cuttings and plants.
• Grow for picking and floral arrangements Chrysanthemums last well in a vase and demonstrate your gardening skills.

Chrysanthemums: The Complete Guide by National Chrysanthemum Society Chairman (Paperback) has all the information you need.
There are also many local societies in the UK and there is likely to be one near you. Some good photographs and years of knowledge and skill or contained on these web sites

Chrysanthemums in Aberdeen , Chrysanthemums in Scotland

Terry Hubbard’s “Blooming Chrysanthemums” website and Forum,  Dave Holden’s Chrysanthemum growing diary

NCS – Northern Group, Humberside Chrysanthemum Club, Northumberland & Durham Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society

Hedon & District Chrysanthemum Society, Dukinfield Chrysanthemum Society,  Newton-le-Willows Gardeners Association

Nuneaton Chrysanthemum & Dahlia Society, Purbrook Horticultural Society

Lambeth Horticultural Society, Stoke-on-Trent Chrysanthemum Society , Southport & District Chrysanthemum Society US

Ivor Mace’s Chrysanthemum website,  Peter Fraser’s website , Harry Lawson’s homepage

Richard E Coles Chrysanthemums,  Frank Charlton – Exhibition Chrysanthemum Specialist

A