CHRYSANTHEMUMS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 23 June 1939, Page 3

CHRYSANTHEMUMS

CONTROL OF EELWORMS. Eelworm has become such a serious pest of the chrysanthemum that it behoves growers to concentrate on control measures. Some varieties are particularly susceptible to attack, and strict attention must be given when selecting stock plants. During the flowering period all plants showing signs of eelworm infection should have been, noted, and as soon as the flower has been removed these plants should be dug up and burned. When lifting stock plants from the open ground, great care should be taken not to damage the stool unnecessarily. The plants should be forked up, soil shaken away and all but four inches of the old growth cut (not broken) away. The young basal growths should then be shortened back to a point beyond the unfolded leaves. The stools will then be ready for lining in, in frames or on a border. Before covering with soil, spray the stools well with nicotine sulphate and soap to destroy any ap?nis which may be lodged at the base of the plant. The secret of early chrysanthemum growing for cut flowers is to afford the plants such conditions that they

are never checked in growth while awaiting their next move. If cuttings are taken too early, the plants become “leggy” and a poor “break” results. Cuttings should be taken in August or September and grown on without any check whatever. Whatever method is adopted for striking cuttings, the grower should aim at getting uniform plants. I I i