There would be few cut flowers blooming in October were it not for hardy garden mums. Their clusters of flower heads show over a long period and are available in many colors, including red, orange, yellow, white, and lavender.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsLooser habit than florist mums. Long stems that are good for cutting.
CareGarden mums need fertile soil and can take light shade, although they grow best in full sun. Plants can be pinched back in early summer if not used for cutting. Divide as needed in spring or fall. Garden mums are often used as annuals.
PropagationTake cuttings in early spring, and root in soilless mix with sand on the surface, at 61°F. Place in a cold frame with ventilation, and harden off in midspring.
ProblemsAphids, earwigs, nematodes, capsid bugs, leaf miners, whiteflies, thrips, and spider mites. Potential disease problems include botrytis, leaf spots, rust, powdery mildew, stem and root rots, verticillium wilt, aster yellows, and viruses.
- Genus : Chrysanthemum
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Bloom Time : Fall, Late Summer, Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Fall Interest
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Flower Color : Pink, Red, White, Yellow
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