Chrysanthemum 'Country Girl' problems — and how to fix them

White powder on older leaves, particularly in warm, dry spells. Improve spacing and air movement; apply sulphur spray at first sign.

Soft new growth attracts aphid colonies. Control with insecticidal soap or a forceful water spray; check undersides of leaves.

Insufficient light or late pinching leads to weak, lax stems. Pinch back tips in late spring to encourage branching and a self-supporting habit.

Circular brown spots with yellow halos on foliage, caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens. Remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.

In colder zones, mulch the crown in late autumn with dry straw or bracken to insulate roots against hard frosts.