Chrysanthemums make an excellent addition to any garden for several reasons.
Firstly, their vibrant colors, which include yellow, white, red, purple, and pink, can add a burst of visual appeal. They bloom in the fall, extending the beauty of your garden when many other plants are fading. They are a versitile flower, thriving in various conditions from full sun to partial shade, and can be grown in garden beds or containers. They require moderate maintenance, with regular watering and occasional fertilization, and are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. Additionally, chrysanthemums attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees, promoting pollination and biodiversity. Symbolically, they represent optimism, joy, and longevity, adding a meaningful touch to your garden
Planting two varieties together is the best way to ensure healthy and vigorous growth and a beautiful garden. If you only grow one variety, it could easily wither away before flowering or give a monotonous look to your flowery design.
Where to Plant Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemum seeds should be sown in a sunny location that receives at least five hours of sunlight daily. They are also susceptible to cold weather, so ensure you do not let them freeze during winter.
How to plant Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemum seeds are tiny and easy to scatter around your yard. Plant them at least two weeks before the last frost date. They like well-drained soil and lots of suns. Once they sprout, water regularly so they don’t dry out. After four months, cut back on watering and fertilize once every three weeks.
When to Plant Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemum seeds should be planted in early spring after the soil has warmed up but before it gets too hot. They like well-drained soil and lots of suns. Plant them in groups of four or five per hole, so they don’t compete for light. The best time to transplant seedlings into larger pots is in late summer or fall.
How to propagate Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemum seeds germinate best at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C). The seedlings will require light once they sprout. They should be planted in individual pots filled with potting soil. Once the plants reach 1 inch tall, they can be moved into larger containers.
Can You Grow Chrysanthemum in Pots?
Yes! If you want to start growing chrysanthemums from seed indoors, you will need to provide them with enough light so they can photosynthesize, but not too much light. The best way to determine this is by using a Plant Growth Light (PGL). You can find one at most big box stores like Home Depot or Lowes.
How Long Does It Take for Chrysanthemums to Grow?
Chrysanthemum plants take four to six weeks to fully mature from seed into flowering plants. They require at least eight hours of direct sunlight per day during this period. Once they reach maturity, they bloom for approximately two months before dying.
How Long Do Chrysanthemums Last After They Bloom?
Chrysanthemum flowers last anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 months, depending on the variety. The longer they bloom, the less likely you will see them again.
Pruning Chrysanthemums
The best way to prune chrysanthemum flowers is to cut the stem by one-third. This will encourage new growth from the base of the flower. If you want to keep the plant looking neat, trim off any dead leaves at the bottom of the plant.
Propagating Chrysanthemums
The best way to propagate Chrysanthemum is by taking cuttings from healthy stems. This will allow you to produce new plants in less than two months.
Watering
Chrysanthemum seeds require a long period of cold stratification before they will germinate. The best way to achieve this is by soaking them in water at room temperature for two weeks. This allows the seeds to enter into a state of dormancy. After two weeks:
- Move the soaked seeds to a refrigerator for another week.
- Remove the seeds from the fridge and place them in a warm location (70°F) for one week.
- Place the seeds in a dark area for three days. Once these steps are completed, you should have healthy chrysanthemum seedlings!
Feeding
Chrysanthemum seeds require light to germinate, so they should be planted in early spring. They will take two weeks to grow and another three months before they begin flowering. Once they start producing flowers, they will continue to bloom throughout the summer.
What we love from Amazon this week
Buy these wonderful flowers directly from Amazon: