Growing Chrysanthemums, often recognized by several names including Leucanthemum, Pyrethrum, or Tanacetum, is a delightful gardening project. These plants belong to the diverse Asteraceae family and are known for their vibrant blooms and versatility. This guide will walk you through the easy steps to cultivate these perennials successfully from seed.
Starting Your Seeds
Begin your Chrysanthemum planting journey indoors in late winter to mid-spring. Use sterilized starting soil, sow the seeds on the surface, and ensure they receive ample bright light.
Applying bottom heat to maintain a soil temperature of about 18-21°C (65-70°F) will aid in optimal germination, which typically takes between 10-14 days. If you missed the spring sowing, you could also direct sow seeds in mid-September to October.
Transplanting and Spacing
Once the seedlings are robust enough, transplant them outdoors around late May, spacing them between 25-45cm (10-18 inches) apart. This spacing is crucial for proper growth and airflow between the plants, which helps prevent disease.
Location and Soil
Chrysanthemums thrive in full sun and rich, well-drained soil. Ensure your garden area provides full sun exposure, and the soil is well-aerated and moist, which is essential for their growth. While these plants are hardy, ensuring good drainage during the winter months is crucial to prevent root rot.
Care and Maintenance
Regular maintenance includes pinching back the young plants to encourage bushy growth and deadheading to promote more blooms. For taller varieties, staking might be necessary to support the plants as they grow.
Companion Planting Benefits
Incorporating white flowering mums can also benefit your garden by repelling Japanese beetles, a common pest that can cause significant damage to plant foliage.
Chrysanthemums are not only easy to grow but also bring a burst of color to your garden landscape. They can be grown as perennials in some zones, but are commonly treated as annuals, allowing for flexibility in garden design and management.
Whether you are a novice or an experienced gardener, adding Chrysanthemums to your garden will surely enhance its beauty and biodiversity. Start your planting today and enjoy the lush, vibrant displays throughout the growing season.