Chrysanthemum
chrysanthemum x
Also known as: ["Mum","Hardy Mum","Garden Mum"]
Overview
A popular ornamental plant known for its vibrant flowers and long blooming season.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Chrysanthemum |
| Botanical Name: | Chrysanthemum x |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can use cactus mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Pinch back stems in spring/early summer; deadhead regularly during blooming season; major pruning after flowering or in late fall.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; pinch back young growth by half; remove up to one-third of old growth in major pr
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but requires partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot climates; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near heat sources that can increase light intensity.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures at night promote bud development; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Use a thermometer to monitor conditions; group plants to create microclimates; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, monthly in spring and fall
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps; or seed (less common for hybrids).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when plants are actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or use a commercial rooting medium.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder or gel for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks; full establishment takes 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching, deadheading, and selective cutting to maintain shape and encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plants for bushier growth; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; control size and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; adjust frequency based on season (less in winter, more in summer); avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, bud drop, or stunted growth; chlorosis in cold stress; scorching or leaf burn in heat stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can damage tender tissues; prolonged cold may cause root rot or death.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected area; use frost cloth or mulch to insulate roots; avoid watering excessively in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; can lead to dehydration and nutrient uptake issues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to pyrethrin compounds found in Chrysanthemum x, which can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon ingestion. Symptoms are usually not severe but warrant monitoring.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Chrysanthemum x due to the presence of pyrethrin compounds. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChrysanthemum x contains pyrethrin compounds, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon ingestion. These compounds are generally not harmful in small quantities but can lead to discomfort if consumed in larger amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are chrysanthemums toxic to pets?
A: Chrysanthemums are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water chrysanthemums?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 2-3 days during active growth.
Q: Do chrysanthemums come back every year?
A: Many chrysanthemum varieties are perennials and will return each year in suitable climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
