AUSTRALIAN CHRYSANTHEMUMS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21734, 27 August 1932, Page 18

AUSTRALIAN CHRYSANTHEMUMS

WORLD-WIDE REPUTATION The name of Thomas W. Poekett, the chrysanthemum-raiser, is famous all over tile world. As far back as 1884 (says a writer in The Garden Lover) Mr Poekett commenced to raise and show chrysanthemums in Australia, and the creation of many fine blooms resulted in the commencement of the Chrysanthemum shows in the Horticultural Hall, Melbourne, during that year, from which has developed the many fine shows which are held in the autumn of each year. In 1900 Pockett’s chrysanthemums commenced to obtain prominence overseas, and varieties such as “ Nellie Poekett ” and others were successful in obtaining many first-class certificates in England and France. The, good work was continued, and many fine varieties have been given to the world. The “ William Turner ” type became very popular in the United States of America, and its many sports, such as “ White Turner,” “ Piffle Turner,” “ Bronze Turner,” “J. S. Lloyd ” (known in America as the “Yellow Turner”), are grown by millions in that country. The “ Edith Cavell ” type, with its many sports, has also become increasingly popular. It is interesting to note in this respect that Mr Poekett is now working on a new variety which is a beautiful golden yellow. So far this variety has not been named. An improved yellow “ Louisa Poekett ” is also being introduced, and this will probably be sent out in 1933.

Other, varieties from England and America of outstanding merit which will be distributed shortly are: “ —Hugh Mitchell” (crimson with gold reverse), “Winifred Greenfield” (orange amber), “Mrs J. Woolman ” (bright rose pink). The above three varieties are the best of the English varieties of recent introduction. ~ “Friendly Rival” is an American variety, an intense yellow Japanese incurved that will be grown very extensively for flowers during May. In latter years Mr Thomas W. Poekett has given much attention to the cultivation of dahlias, and many fine varieties by this raiser have been distributed through Messrs Hodgins’ Nurseries Pty., Ltd. Mr Poekett has been giving special attention to the raising of the garden cactus and medium-size decorative types, and has succeeded in raising varieties which have stiff stems, good keeping qualities and a richness of colour which is remarkable. In the raising of the smaller cactus type with stiff stems some excellent results have also been obtained. Some of the recent dahlia novelties which have been distributed include: — Cashmere, Ada Mary Whitcher, John Maxwell Reid, Lady Somers, Lady HoreRuthven, Mrs Carl Stephens, Summer Dawn, Doris M’Hardy, Harry M'Craw, Hon. W. H. Edgar, Mrs E. F. Lind, Betty Bailey and others. t>