Chrysanthemum lodging

To assess the resistance of chrysanthemum to lodging, a visual 5-point scale is used, where the highest score corresponds to the maximum ability of the shoots to maintain a vertical position during the vegetation and flowering period. In breeding methodologies, both the point score and the general tendency of the cultivar toward bush 'splaying' are recorded, with samples scoring no less than 4 points being considered promising for use.

This trait is directly related to the genetically determined mechanical strength of the stem; however, its manifestation is exacerbated by external factors: excessive nitrogen nutrition, which triggers shoot elongation, planting density, and weather conditions. A tendency to lodge requires the use of agrotechnical formation techniques, such as pinching and tipping, as well as the mandatory installation of supports for tall cultivars, which increases production costs.