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Sadly Alan passed away
on Sunday 9th March 2008. This page remains as a tribute to him and
his love of chrysanthemums.
Top Midlands grower Alan
Hunter shares his bagging method when using the very large bag
(14"x16.5") for large intermediates such as 'Billy Bell'
and 'Lynn Johnson'.
Alan says the very large bags are
needed for these cultivars but the size of the bag means it can be
rather unstable.
Alan has found a simple way to add
extra stability.
Note: Alan says this method is only
suitable for conventional flat bags, it will not work with
gussetted bags as it is impossible to have a satisfactory double bag
arrangement with this type of bag. |
| Alan uses the 'double
bagging' method with a small but significant enhancement.
The basis of Alan's method is to
attach two thin strips of plastic covered wire to the outside of what
will be the inner bag. Each wire is continuous from the opening at
the base, over the top and down to the opening on the opposite side. |
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This bag shows the wire
attached to the bag, just to the left of the vertical glued seam. |
| Here we see the inner
bag with both wires taped in place. |
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Now insert the bag with
wires attached inside another bag. |
| Alan ensures that all
buds are sprayed with insecticide prior to going into the large
bags. (Bud of 'Yellow Billy Bell' illustrated). |
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Inflate the bag before
placing over the bud. |
| Adjust the shape of the
bag to ensure maximum size. |
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Job done!
See how the addition of the wires
helps to maximise the space within the bag and helps reduce the
likelihood of the bag collapsing. Alan
uses a four inch electric cable tie to secure the bag around the
stem and ensure a tight fit between bag and stem. |
| The end result - one of
Alan's vases of 'Lynn Johnson' gaining a 'Best in Show' award. |
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