Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are vibrant, hardy plants that add stunning color to your garden and home. With their variety of shapes and colors, they make perfect flower pots for both indoors and outdoors. Here’s a simple guide to help you grow beautiful chrysanthemums in pots.
Why Grow Chrysanthemums?
- Bright Colors: Mums come in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, white, pink, and purple.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: These flowers bloom in late summer to fall, providing color when many other plants are fading.
- Easy to Grow: Chrysanthemums are relatively easy to grow, making them ideal for beginner gardeners.
What You’ll Need:
- Healthy chrysanthemum plants (nursery-grown or seedlings)
- Large pots with drainage holes
- Well-draining potting soil (preferably a mix designed for flowering plants)
- Watering can or spray bottle
- Fertilizer (balanced, liquid houseplant fertilizer)
- Pruning shears
Steps to Grow Chrysanthemums in Pots:
- Choose the Right Pot:
- Select a pot that is large enough for the chrysanthemum roots to spread. A pot about 12–16 inches in diameter is ideal.
- Ensure the pot has drainage holes to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
- Prepare the Soil:
- Use a well-draining potting mix designed for flowering plants. If you don’t have one, mix equal parts of regular potting soil, perlite, and compost to improve drainage.
- Fill the pot with soil, leaving about 2 inches from the top to prevent spillage when watering.
- Plant the Chrysanthemums:
- Remove the mum plant gently from its nursery container, and shake off any excess soil.
- Place the plant in the pot, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Fill around the roots with soil, lightly pressing down to eliminate air pockets.
- Watering:
- Water the plant thoroughly after planting, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not soggy.
- Water regularly to keep the soil slightly moist. Chrysanthemums like consistent moisture, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- In hot weather, you may need to water more often to keep the soil from drying out.
- Place the Pot in a Sunny Spot:
- Chrysanthemums need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to bloom properly. Choose a sunny spot on your porch, balcony, or windowsill.
- Keep the plant away from drafty areas or places with high heat that could dry it out too quickly.
- Fertilizing:
- Fertilize your chrysanthemums every 2–3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. This will encourage strong growth and vibrant blooms.
- Stop fertilizing in late summer as the plant nears bloom time to prevent excessive leaf growth.
- Pruning and Pinching:
- To encourage bushy growth, pinch back the tips of the stems when the plants are young. This will help the plant develop a fuller shape and more blooms.
- Remove any dead or wilted flowers regularly to encourage new growth and extend the flowering period.
- Temperature and Care During Blooming:
- Chrysanthemums prefer temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
- If you’re growing mums indoors, ensure the room temperature stays within this range and that the plant gets enough light.
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Yellowing Leaves: This could be a sign of overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. Ensure good drainage and reduce watering.
- Leggy Growth: If your mum becomes tall and spindly, it may not be getting enough light. Move it to a sunnier spot.
- Pests: Chrysanthemums can sometimes attract aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Keep an eye on the leaves and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and dish soap.
Tips for Success:
- Deadheading: Removing spent flowers regularly encourages the plant to focus on producing new blooms.
- Pinching Back: Pinch off growing tips in early summer to make the plant more compact and improve blooming.
- Seasonal Care: In cooler climates, chrysanthemums can be overwintered indoors to keep them alive for the next season.
Conclusion:
Growing chrysanthemums in pots is a rewarding and easy way to enjoy beautiful blooms year after year. With the right care, your mums will thrive, providing vibrant color and a welcoming atmosphere for your home or garden. Whether planted in a single pot or as part of a larger display, chrysanthemums will add a touch of cheer and elegance to your space.