Chrysanthemums, commonly referred to as "mums," are popular flowering plants belonging to the genus Chrysanthemum in the Asteraceae family. They are native to Asia and northeastern Europe, with a long history of cultivation dating back thousands of years. Mums are renowned for their vibrant blooms and diverse range of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a favorite choice for gardens, landscapes, and floral arrangements.
Ubiquitous now in supermarkets, farm markets, and almost any other store you enter, some of these plants are plannable in your garden now – and will most likely come back year after year. Keep an eye out for Hardy Mums - pop them in the ground now and see if you get lucky in the spring. At the very least, you’ll have them planted through the fall.
With a profusion of daisy-like flowers, Chrysanthemums typically grow with a dense cluster of petals surrounding a central disk. The flowers come in various shapes including pompons, spoons, spiders, and quills, and an extensive array of colors such as white, yellow, orange, red, pink, lavender, and bronze. The foliage of mums is usually dark green and deeply lobed or serrated. The leaves vary in shape, from lance-shaped to oval, depending on the cultivar.
Mums can vary widely in their growth habits, including bushy, compact forms suitable for containers or edging and taller, more upright varieties ideal for borders or cutting gardens. They typically bloom in late summer or fall, adding a burst of color to gardens when many other plants are waning. However, some varieties may bloom earlier or later depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions.
Chrysanthemums are generally hardy perennials, though some cultivars may be more sensitive to cold temperatures. They are often grown as annuals in colder climates or overwintered indoors in pots to protect them from frost. However, Hardy Mum varieties can persist year to year.
Mums thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. Well-draining, fertile soil is essential for mums. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mums prefer evenly moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Water deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch, especially during hot weather. Feed mums with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.Pinch back young mums in spring to encourage branching and compact growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming and maintain plant appearance.
Provide winter protection by mulching around the base of the plants and covering them with a layer of straw or leaves. If you want to keep your Chrysanthemums in their containers, you can move them to a sheltered location or bring them indoors before the first frost.
Chrysanthemum varieties that are hardy in Groton’s climate include (L to R) Bienchen, Coppersmith, Debutante, Grape Queen, Honeycomb, Overture, Real Charmer, Rumpelstilzchen, Pat Lehman
Photo Credit Epic Gardening
Mums are commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for their attractive flowers and foliage, providing color and interest throughout the growing season. They make excellent cut flowers, prized for their long-lasting blooms and vibrant colors, and are frequently used in floral arrangements for bouquets, centerpieces, and other decorative purposes.
Popular choices for container gardening, Chrysanthemums add seasonal color to patios, balconies, and entryways. They can be grown in pots or hanging baskets for a striking display. As they are often associated with fall festivals, harvest celebrations, and other seasonal events, their cheerful blooms are used to decorate homes, businesses, and public spaces during autumn festivities. In many cultures, chrysanthemums symbolize longevity, happiness, and joy. They are commonly featured in floral traditions, rituals, and ceremonies around the world.
Chrysanthemums are versatile, easy-to-grow plants that add beauty and color to gardens, landscapes, and floral displays. With their diverse range of cultivars, vibrant blooms, and long-lasting flowers, mums are a popular choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike. Keep an eye out at local stores and you may get lucky and find a hardy variety that you can cultivate in your garden for years to come.
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