Book review: Chrysanthemums by Naomi Slade

Naomi Slade is an accomplished author who has produced a series of books on specific plant groups. Here, she delves in great depth into the history and origins of these beautiful, autumn-flowering plants as well as listing many of the varieties available in their various categories.

The photography is truly stunning, showing in detail the many flower shapes and forms and giving the reader a clear idea why the Chinese and Japanese growers of hundreds of years ago found them so fascinating. Chrysanthemums are depicted on much of the pottery, fabric and art from those regions. Japan, in particular, regards the flower as auspicious, being the emblem of the Imperial Family and having festivals to celebrate them each year.

Once a staple of late summer flower shows, where keen amateur growers would present perfect blooms for judging in the hope of winning silverware, Chrysanthemums have fallen in popularity over recent years as gardens decrease in size and interest in growing for showing declines. They are perhaps perceived as being old-fashioned or difficult, but this book shows there is a variety for any garden and there are tips on growing and propagation to give added assistance.

This is a book for the dedicated grower, or one who aspires to be, and those interested in the flowers from an artistic perspective. Be aware that not all the varieties will be available everywhere, as tastes change and growers find improved forms - as well as varying from country to country.

The main pests and diseases that affect Chrysanthemums are covered, but it would have been helpful to include pictures to help with identification, especially white rust, which is highly contagious from plant to plant.

At £25, this is more of a gift book than an impulse buy and, as such, is very attractive.

Author: Naomi Slade
Photography: Georgianna Lane
Publisher: Pavilion Books (HarperCollins)
ISBN: 978000866273
Price: £25.00

This story was published on: 24/08/2024

Image attribution: Pavilion Books

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