Flower blight of chrysanthemums : the causal fungi and their control : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Agricultural Science at Massey University

Abstract

The commercial chrysanthemum commonly grown in New Zealand is botanically identified as Chrysanthemum morifoliurr. Ramat. and is believed to have originated in China. As the family name Compositae suggests the individual flower ('flower head') is a composite arrangement of two types of florets, namely ray florets with well developed petals, and disc florets with tubular or poorly developed petals. Production of commercial chrysanthemums basically comprises three categories: (i) cut flowers; (ii) cuttings; (iii) container or pot plants. Chrysanthemums are probably grown by more floriculturalists than any other flower crop. Much of its popularity is attributed to the wide range of colours and forms and the fact that it can be grown either as a pot plant or for cut flowers. Another important characteristic of the chrysanthemum is the long keeping quality of the flowers, a feature which is much appreciated by retailers and consumers. In the United States of America the chrysanthemum or 'mum' is the most popular flower, surpassing both the rose and carnation in total wholesale value. [FROM INTRODUCTION]