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Chrysanthemums: Tips for selecting and maintaining fall garden blooms
As the summer-to-fall garden transition begins in September, gardeners are increasingly focusing on chrysanthemums. While cushion mums are the most common variety found in garden centers, there are numerous other cultivars available. Many varieties are perennials that can return annually if planted early enough to establish roots before the first frost, though gardeners should distinguish them from one-season florist mums often sold in foil-wrapped pots.
To maximize the blooming period, experts recommend several maintenance strategies. For longevity, it is advised to select plants with buds that have only just begun to open rather than those in full bloom. Proper watering is critical; allowing the root ball to dry out completely can cause the plant to drop buds. Watering should be done directly at the soil level, avoiding the leaves and flowers, and frequency should be adjusted based on weather conditions rather than a fixed schedule.
Placement also affects bloom duration. While full sun encourages faster blooming, providing partial shade or a protected location can help extend the colorful display. Additionally, repotting into fresh soil can help retain moisture and prevent the container from drying out too quickly.
Entities
Alex Williams · Longwood Gardens · National Chrysanthemum Society
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Botanists recognize about 40 species of wild chrysanthemums. www.lewistownsentinel.com · www.heraldstandard.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The National Chrysanthemum Society uses 13 exhibition-judging categories based on flower shape. www.lewistownsentinel.com · www.heraldstandard.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Chrysanthemums generally bloom for a period of four to six weeks. www.lewistownsentinel.com · doyouremember.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Partial sun or shade can slow the bloom cycle compared to full sun. doyouremember.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Nursery expert Alex Williams recommends choosing mums with buds that have only just started to open for longer-lasting color. doyouremember.com