It’s easy to understand why the chrysanthemum appeals to so many kinds of gardeners. They have the dramatic exhibition types giving long-lasting spectaculars as cut flowers and singles in charming sprays. There are dwarf types the cushion mums creating 10 to 12-inch-high self-supporting mounds of intense color.
Chrysanthemums can supply all or most of a garden’s color in fall and winter with ease: whites, pale and deep yellows, burgundies, bronze reds, pinks, some blends, and even green.
A favored way to use chrysanthemums is to grow them on in pots, tubs or baskets until about ready to bloom, then move them into the patio, terrace or front entry. Chrysanthemums are shallow-rooted and can be moved as clumps even when in bloom. However, I prefer to no disturb the roots and sink the pot indirectly.
For chrysanthemum care feed and pest control:
Feed every month from planting time until the buds show color using a balanced liquid food mixed by the gallon in water as directed. Put a pint of this solution around each plant.
To keep chrysanthemums clean of insects, spray regularly with a general garden spray (I like Neem oil) – check with your local garden center. Watch out for mildew.
