- Chrysanthemums are a symbol of remembrance on All Saints’ Day – choose those that will last longer.
- Pay attention to the leaves, buds and root ball to buy healthy and long-lasting plants.
- Check how a simple home-made conditioner can extend the life of flowers and which varieties are best for graves.
What chrysanthemums should you choose for graves on November 1?
In Polish tradition, graves are decorated with flowers and lights on All Saints’ Day. They are intended to symbolize memory and the bond that connects us with the deceased. The most popular flowers on All Saints’ Day are . They bloom in autumn, which is why many people put flowers in pots on graves. They are fresh and bloom for a longer time than cut flowers. Additionally, chrysanthemums have many varieties with different colors and flower sizes. Everyone will find something for themselves. Before you go to the first stall at the cemetery, check what to consider when choosing chrysanthemums.
Flowers grown for sale are not always properly cared for. A common problem is pruned roots and too small pots. In such conditions, the flowers fade quickly and do not last as long as they could. When choosing chrysanthemums for graves, it is worth looking at them carefully.
What should you pay attention to when buying chrysanthemums for graves?
- Leaves and stems should be intensely green, without spots, discolorations, wilted or fading flowers.
- The pot should not be completely dry – excessive drying and weakening of the plant increases the risk that it will not survive external conditions.
- The plant should be in the phase before or just in full bloom – if there are already a lot of flowers, it may be closer to the end of its “life” in the pot. It is worth choosing one that has buds so that it blooms longer.
- Check the root ball and soil – if the pot looks very overcrowded or the roots are coming out of the pot, it may be more difficult to keep the plant in good condition.
Mix it with water and take it to the cemetery. Thanks to this, the flowers will last two weeks longer
and in the ground they bloom from the second half of August until November. Some species, if properly cared for, can bear flowers even until December. Chrysanthemums bought at stalls in cemeteries require proper care. Often these flowers have their roots pruned and lack water. From the moment you place the pot of flowers on the tombstone, water them abundantly. Boiled water at room temperature is best for this purpose. You can also use an express conditioner that will strengthen the stems and make the inflorescences last longer.
During the flowering period, it is recommended to fertilize chrysanthemums with nutrients containing large amounts of potassium and phosphorus. At home, these requirements will be met by a conditioner based on banana peels. Peel 2 fresh bananas and place the peels in a jar. Pour a liter of water over them and add 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Set aside for 1 day, strain the mixture through a sieve and pour it into a bottle. In the cemetery, water with fertilizer. If necessary, you can repeat this treatment in two weeks.
Banana peel conditioner is rich in potassium and phosphorus. Both of these ingredients strengthen the root-stem system and prolong the flowering process. Thanks to them, chrysanthemums look fresh for longer and the inflorescences do not fall off.
What varieties of chrysanthemums for All Saints’ Day?
The variety affects durability, resistance to wind, rain and frost – conditions typical for late October/early November. A well-chosen plant will last longer and look nicer.
Green-front (“Santii,” ‘multiflora”)
Smaller inflorescences and a compact shape make the plant easily fill the pot and have a nice visual effect even in windy or cold weather. Usually less demanding in terms of location compared to very impressive varieties.
Medium-flowered potted varieties
If we want the flower to be a little more “expressive” than a typical small-flowered chrysanthemum, but at the same time we want to avoid the risk that it will be less durable – this group is a reasonable choice.
Large-flowered and decorative varieties (“pompom”, spherical)
If you want to highlight the grave or place the pot in a visible place, this variety can really catch the eye. However, it is worth making sure that the plant is healthy, well-rooted and placed in a slightly sheltered place – otherwise it may lose its charm faster.
The most popular species of chrysanthemums in Poland
- “Elda White” – a variety with white flowers, recommended for pots.
- ‘Avalon Red’ – a variety with red flowers.
- ‘Etoile d’Or’ – lemon-yellow full variety.
- “Bran zefeuer” – in the classic list of winter-hardy varieties in the garden: golden-brown flowers.
