Chrysanthemums are beautiful flowers that bloom in the autumn months and are known for their vibrantly colored corollas: yellow, burgundy, purple, white, pink and lavender. Not only are there different colors of chrysanthemums, there are also different shapes and sizes. Taking care of them is not difficult, differentiating your attentions according to the place where we are going to plant them: in a garden or in a pot.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Planting Chrysanthemums Properly
Step 1. Plant or expose the chrysanthemums in full sun
If you don't have an area that is exposed to the sun for 8 hours a day, make sure they get at least 5 hours of light.
If you can choose between the morning sun or the afternoon sun, choose the morning one
Step 2. If you plant chrysanthemums in a pot, use fertile, well-drained soil
They can rot if planted in soil that holds too much water.
If you choose to grow them in the garden, place them in an area where the water does not stagnate excessively
Step 3. Plant the chrysanthemums in a well-ventilated area
Placing them next to a wall, other structures or too close to other plants could hinder their growth or create competition between the roots. You should leave 45 or even 75 centimeters between each chrysanthemum so that they have enough room to grow.
Step 4. Move them to another area every three years
This method is used to prevent pest problems and reduce the risk of disease. For more information, see the Divide and Transplant section.
Method 2 of 4: Growing Chrysanthemums
Step 1. Water the chrysanthemums without overdoing them, their roots can't stand excessive humidity
Potted chrysanthemums will need more water than those planted in the ground which will be able to absorb water from rain and dew.
Don't let the chrysanthemums wilt between waterings and if the lower leaves wilt or turn brown, increase the amount of water. Avoid wetting the leaves as chrysanthemums could get sick or be attacked by bacteria
Step 2. Keep chrysanthemums away from street or artificial lights at night
They need little light, in fact they bloom during autumn because they need long periods of darkness.
Step 3. Fertilize chrysanthemums often
You should use a balanced fertilizer, especially during the growing season to prevent premature flowering.
At each watering use a 20-10-20 solution or an equivalent solution. When the flowering season begins, switch to a 10-20-20 fertilizer solution or equivalent
Step 4. Eliminate the fungi with a fungicide
You can treat pests, rot, fusarium, stains, gray mold, and white rust with natural fungicides like garlic, neem oil, and sulfur.
Step 5. Keep the area around the plant free and clear of plant debris to prevent pests and diseases
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Eliminate insects that commonly attack chrysanthemums (e.g. aphids, mites, thrips, miner insects) with insecticidal soaps or specific oils.
Care for Mums Step 9
Step 6. Between spring and summer, remove the buds of the young chrysanthemums to create dense and compact plants
In the fall you will have an expanse of colorful buds.
Detach faded or discolored flowers to encourage new flowering
Method 3 of 4: Caring for Chrysanthemums in Winter
Step 1. Cut the entire stem of the chrysanthemums after the frosts
Then cover them with a light, airy mulch. Chrysanthemums will survive the cold if the roots are isolated with mulch.
For mulching chrysanthemums it is better to use evergreen plants or a similar material
Step 2. Lift the earth around the plants to form mounds
This way, the plants could survive because they will have extra protection against the cold and frosts of winter.
Step 3. Prepare potted chrysanthemums for winter
If you've grown potted chrysanthemums, move them to a cool but well-lit area. Remove any cover you put on the vase. Do not overwater them, as bacterial colonies may develop. Water only when the soil dries out a lot; to be safe, stick your finger in the earth: if at a depth of 7 centimeters it seems dry, then proceed with watering. If so, fill the pots with water until it comes out of the drainage holes.
Method 4 of 4: Divide and Transplant Chrysanthemums
Step 1. Divide the plants every 3 to 5 years
This is to clean up the garden and leave enough room for the plants to grow. In addition, the old roots will have the opportunity to renew themselves, favoring a more abundant flowering. Remember to divide the chrysanthemums in the spring when the new shoots appear.
Step 2. Dig the soil to extract the chrysanthemums, trying not to damage the roots
Lift the plants out of the hole after shaking the roots to remove excess soil. Remove any parts of the plant that appear to be dead or sick.
Step 3. Divide the plants and the cluster of intertwined roots
In some cases, you will be able to divide them with your fingers, but sometimes you will have to use a knife (it also depends on the size of the plants). Try not to damage the roots more than necessary.
- Use a sharp garden knife to minimize root damage. If you can cut them clean, you won't have to tear them off and the process will be easier.
- Divide each chrysanthemum in half if you want smaller plants.
Step 4. Replant the split chrysanthemums as soon as possible
You should settle them in organic, rich, well-drained soil.
