Chrysanthemum ‘Icicles’ is a striking spider-type exhibition chrysanthemum, admired for its long, slender, tubular petals that gracefully curve and twist, resembling delicate icicles. This variety is highly prized for horticultural shows and floral displays, where its unique form and elegant texture stand out.
Suitable For: Cut flowers, garden displays, and exhibitions
Growing Options: Can be grown in the ground or in pots
Suitable For: Cut flowers, garden displays, and exhibitions
Growing Options: Can be grown in the ground or in pots
- Type: Spider chrysanthemum (exhibition variety)
- Bloom Size: Large (15–20 cm across)
- Colour: Pure white, giving a frosty, ethereal appearance
- Petal Shape: Long, fine, and curling at the tips
- Growth Habit: Tall, upright with sturdy stems
- Flowering Period: Autumn (April–May)
- Light: Requires full sun (at least 6 hours daily) to develop strong stems and large blooms.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).
- Spacing: Plant 30–45 cm apart to allow good air circulation.
- Watering:
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Water at the base to prevent fungal diseases on the leaves.
- Feeding:
- Early growth: High-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage strong foliage.
- Mid-season: Balanced fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) for healthy plant development.
- Budding stage: High-potassium fertilizer (e.g., tomato feed) to enhance bloom size and strength.
- Pinching:
- Remove the growing tips when plants reach 15 cm tall to encourage bushier growth.
- Have the final cutback done by the 20th of January
- Disbudding:
- To achieve larger, show-quality blooms, remove all side buds, keeping only one central bud per stem.
- Due to its tall growth and large flowers, use stakes or a grow-through support system to prevent bending.
- Pests: Watch for aphids, thrips, and spider mites—treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Diseases: Powdery mildew and botrytis can affect chrysanthemums—ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.
- Timing:
- Adjust pinching and feeding schedules to ensure blooms peak at the right time for exhibitions.
- Shading: Light shading in late summer can help delay flowering if needed for competitions.