Introduction

Chrysanthemums known as mums, are the flowers of fall. These vibrant blooms have captivated gardeners for centuries. They have a stunning array of colors, shapes, and sizes. We’ll uncover history, varieties, and care tips for these flowers.

The story of chrysanthemums begins over 3,000 years ago in ancient China. The flower’s boiled roots were used as a headache remedy. Chrysanthemum sprouts and petals were eaten in salads. Chrysanthemums made their way from China to Japan in the 8th century AD. They were so adored that the Emperor adopted a single chrysanthemum as his official seal.

Today, they hold cultural importance in many parts of the world:

• There’s a “Festival of Happiness” to celebrate this flower in Japan.
• In Australia, mums are worn on Mother’s Day.
• In parts of Europe, chrysanthemums are associated with mourning and used in funerals.
• They’re seen as a cheerful addition to fall decorations and gardens in the United States.

Understanding Chrysanthemums

What are Chrysanthemums?

Chrysanthemums, are known as Chrysanthemum morifolium. They belong to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and sunflowers. These plants are native to East Asia and northeastern Europe. The name “chrysanthemum” comes from the Greek words “chrysos” (gold) and “anthemon” (flower).

Types of Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Understanding the different types can help you choose the perfect mums.

Garden Mums vs. Florist Mums

There are two main categories of chrysanthemums:

1. Garden Mums: These are perennial plants that can survive winter in many regions. They’re grown outdoors and bred to withstand various conditions.
2. Florist Mums: These are usually grown in greenhouses and sold as gift plants. They’re less hardy and treated as annuals when planted outdoors.

Popular Varieties and Their Characteristics

Popular chrysanthemum varieties include:

• Anastasia: Large, spider-like blooms in various colors
• Viking: Compact plants with small, button-like flowers
• Matchsticks: Unique quilled petals with contrasting colors
• Grandchild: Decorative blooms with incurved petals
• Clara Curtis: Single, daisy-like pink flowers

Growing Chrysanthemums

Growing chrysanthemums (mums) requires understanding their specific needs and care.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Here are the key factors to consider:

Sunlight Requirements

Chrysanthemums thrive in full sun, which means they need:

• At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Morning sun is preferable in hot climates to protect from intense afternoon heat

Pro tip: In areas with very hot summers, provide some afternoon shade to prevent flower burn.

Soil Preferences

Mums prefer well-draining, fertile soil:

• pH level between 6.0 and 6.5
• Rich in organic matter
• Loamy texture

To improve your soil for chrysanthemums:

1. Add compost or well-rotted manure before planting
2. Ensure good drainage by adding sand or perlite if needed
3. Test soil pH and adjust if necessary using lime (to raise pH) or sulfur (to lower pH)

Temperature and Climate Considerations

Chrysanthemums are adaptable but prefer moderate temperatures:

• Ideal daytime temperatures: 60°F to 70°F (15.5°C to 21°C)
• Can tolerate light frost, but prolonged freezing can damage plants

Climate zones:

• Hardy in USDA zones 5-9
• In colder regions, treat as annuals or provide winter protection

Planting Chrysanthemums

Follow these guidelines for best results:

When to Plant Mums

Timing is essential when planting chrysanthemums:

• Spring planting: 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date
• Fall planting: At least 6 weeks before the first expected frost

Chrysanthemum Care

Here are key aspects of mum maintenance:

Watering Needs

Chrysanthemums prefer moisture but cannot tolerate waterlogged soil:

• Water once or twice a week, providing about 1 inch of water
• Increase watering frequency during hot, dry periods
• Use mulch to keep soil moisture and reduce watering needs

Warning: Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Fertilizing Schedule

Regular fertilization promotes healthy abundant blooms:

• Start fertilizing in spring when new growth appears
• Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 2-3 weeks
• Switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-5) when flower buds form
• Stop fertilizing about a month before the first expected frost

Pruning and Pinching for Bushier Growth

Proper pruning encourages fuller plants with more blooms:

1. In spring, pinch off the growing tips when plants are 6-8 inches tall
2. Continue pinching every 2-3 weeks until mid-summer (around July 4th in most regions)
3. Remove any suckers that grow from the base of the plant
4. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering

Pro tip: Stop pinching about 100 days before you want the plants to bloom. This allows time for flower buds to form.

Seasonal Care for Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums (mums) need different care throughout the year. Let’s explore the seasonal care requirements for these flowers.

Spring Care

As the weather warms up, it’s time to prepare your chrysanthemums for the growing season ahead.

Starting Mums from Cuttings

Spring is also a great time to propagate new plants from cuttings:

1. Select healthy, 3-4 inch shoots from the parent plant.
2. Remove lower leaves, leaving only the top 2-3 sets.
3. Dip the cut end in the rooting hormone.
4. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix.
5. Keep the soil moist and place in bright, indirect light until roots develop (usually 2-3 weeks).

Summer Maintenance

Summer is for focusing on bushy growth, preventing pests and disease issues.

Pest and Disease Management

Inspect your mums for common pests and diseases:

• Aphids: Spray with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
• Spider mites: Increase humidity and use miticides if infestation is severe.
• Leaf spot: Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation.
• Powdery mildew: Apply fungicides and avoid overhead watering.

Preventive measures:

• Maintain good air circulation by proper spacing.
• Water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry.
• Remove any dead or diseased plant material.

Fall Care

Fall is the season when chrysanthemums shine. Proper care during this time ensures a stunning display of blooms.

Encouraging Fall Blooms

To maximize your chrysanthemum’s fall display:

1. Switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer in late summer to promote blooming.
2. Ensure plants receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
3. Water, especially during dry spells.
4. Remove any remaining summer blooms to direct energy to fall flower production.

Protecting Mums from Early Frost

Mums can tolerate light frost with protection. Early heavy frosts can damage buds and blooms:

• Cover plants with sheets or frost cloths when frost is expected.
• Water plants before a frost – moist soil retains heat better than dry soil.
• Move container plants to protected areas or indoors during frost events.

Winter Protection

Proper winter care is important, especially in colder regions.

Mulching Techniques

Mulching helps protect the roots from freezing temperatures:

1. Wait until the ground freezes before applying mulch. Mulch after the first hard frost.
2. Use a 3-4 inch layer of straw, leaves, or pine needles.
3. Avoid piling mulch against the stems to prevent rot.

Chrysanthemums in Container Gardens

Growing in containers is an excellent way to add vibrant color to small spaces. Container-grown mums are also easier to move around. This will allow you to showcase them wherever they look best.

Choosing the Right Pots

Selecting the proper container aids the health and growth of your chrysanthemums:

1. Size: Choose a pot that is at least 8-12 inches in diameter and depth. Larger varieties may need pots up to 16 inches wide.
2. Material: Options include:
   1. Terra cotta: Porous, provides good air circulation but dries out quickly
   1. Plastic: Lightweight, retains moisture well
   1. Ceramic: Attractive, but can be heavy and expensive
3. Drainage: Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Soil Mix for Container Mums

The right soil mix is essential for container-grown chrysanthemums:

1. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix formulated for containers.
2. Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage if needed.
3. Mix in slow-release fertilizer before planting to provide nutrients throughout the growing season.

Watering and Fertilizing Potted Chrysanthemums

Container-grown mums have different watering and fertilizing needs:

Watering

1. Check soil moisture daily, especially during hot weather.
2. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
3. Water until it runs out of the drainage holes.
4. Avoid letting pots sit in standing water.

Tip: Place a saucer filled with pebbles under the pot to catch excess water and increase humidity.

Fertilizing

1. Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
2. Switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer when flower buds begin to form.
3. Reduce fertilization in late summer to prepare plants for dormancy.

Important: Always water plants before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.

Propagating Chrysanthemums

Propagating chrysanthemums is a good way to expand your collection. There are three main methods of propagation. The methods are growing from seeds, taking stem cuttings, and dividing mature plants. Each method has its advantages and challenges.

Growing Mums from Seeds

Most gardeners propagate chrysanthemums through cuttings or division. Growing your plants from seeds can be interesting and rewarding.

Steps to Grow Chrysanthemums from Seeds:

1. Get seeds: Buy from a reputable supplier. Collect seeds from existing plants after flowers have dried.
2. Timing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date.
3. Sowing:
   1. Use a sterile seed-starting mix.
   1. Sow seeds on the surface of the soil because they need light to germinate.
   1. Press seeds into the soil but don’t cover them.
4. Germination conditions:
   1. Maintain soil temperature around 70°F (21°C).
   1. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
   1. Provide bright, indirect light.
5. Care after germination:
   1. Once seedlings have 2-3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
   1. Acclimate them to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden.

Note: Chrysanthemums grown from seed may not bloom in their first year. They may not resemble the parent plant if it’s a hybrid variety.

Taking Stem Cuttings

Propagating through stem cuttings is the most reliable method. It produces plants identical to the parent and is quick and easy.

Steps for Taking Stem Cuttings:

1. Timing: Take cuttings in spring when new growth is about 4-6 inches long.
2. Selecting cuttings:
   1. Choose healthy, non-flowering shoots.
   1. Cut 3-4 inches from the tip of the stem, cutting below a leaf node.
3. Preparing cuttings:
   1. Remove lower leaves, leaving only 2-3 sets at the top.
   1. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder or gel.
4. Planting cuttings:
   1. Insert the cutting into a small pot filled with a well-draining rooting medium (e.g., a mix of peat moss and perlite).
   1. Water and place a clear plastic bag over the pot to maintain humidity.
5. Rooting conditions:
   1. Keep the soil moist.
   1. Provide bright, indirect light.
   1. Maintain temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
6. Aftercare:
   1. Roots should develop in 2-3 weeks.
   1. Once rooted, remove the plastic bag and acclimate to normal conditions.
   1. Transplant to larger pots or into the garden when well-established.

Dividing Mature Plants

Division is excellent for rejuvenating older plants and creating new ones. It’s best in spring when new growth begins to appear.

Steps for Dividing Chrysanthemums:

1. Timing: Divide plants in early spring, as new growth emerges from the soil.
2. Preparation:
   1. Water the plant a day before division.
   1. Cut back any remaining dead foliage from the previous year.
3. Digging:
   1. Dig around the plant, preserving as much of the root system as possible.
   1. Lift the entire clump out of the ground.
4. Division:
   1. Shake off excess soil to expose the roots.
   1. Using clean, sharp tools, divide the clump into smaller sections.
   1. Each division should have 3-5 healthy shoots and a good part of the root system.
5. Replanting:
   1. Plant the divisions immediately in prepared soil.
   1. Space new plants 18-24 inches apart.
   1. Water after planting.
6. Aftercare:
   1. Keep the soil moist for the first few weeks.
   1. Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to keep moisture and suppress weeds.

Important: Divide chrysanthemums every 3-4 years to maintain plant vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chrysanthemums

Are chrysanthemums annual or perennial?

Chrysanthemums are actually perennials, meaning they can live for several years. Their perennial nature depends on several factors:

• Climate: In USDA hardiness zones 5-9, most garden mums are perennial. In colder regions (zones 4 and below), they’re often treated as annuals.
• Variety: Some chrysanthemum varieties are hardier than others. Garden mums tend to be more perennial than florist mums.
• Care: Mulching and protection from harsh conditions help mums survive as perennials.

Can chrysanthemums be grown indoors?

Yes, they can be grown indoors, but need specific care:

1. Light: Place them in a spot that receives bright, indirect light for at least 6 hours daily. A south-facing window is ideal.
2. Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) during the day. Keep them cooler at night.
3. Humidity: Mums prefer higher humidity. Use a pebble tray or room humidifier to increase moisture levels.
4. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
5. Fertilizing: Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Pruning: Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.

Are chrysanthemums toxic to pets?

Chrysanthemums are mildly toxic to pets. The plants affect dogs, cats, and horses. The toxicity is due to compounds called pyrethrins, found in the plant.

Symptoms of chrysanthemum toxicity in pets may include:

• Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea)
• Drooling
• Lack of coordination
• Dermatitis (skin irritation)

Severe poisoning from chrysanthemums is rare. Keep pets from ingesting or contacting your plants. If you think your pet has ingested them, contact your veterinarian for advice.

Conclusion

Let’s recap the essential care tips for these beautiful flowers:

1. Sunlight: Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for growth and blooming.
2. Soil: Use well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
3. Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Water once or twice a week.
4. Fertilizing: Feed during the growing season. Switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer when flower buds form.
5. Pruning: Pinch back growing tips until mid-summer to encourage growth and blooms.
6. Winter care: In colder regions, mulching or moving container plants to shelter.
7. Propagation: Divide plants every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and expand your collection.
8. Pest and disease management: Inspect plants and address issues to maintain plant health.

Chrysanthemums offer an array of colors, shapes, and sizes. Make them a choice for your garden or indoor space