Flower Feature: Chrysanthemum

The chrysanthemum is among the world’s most beloved and popular flowers. Commonly referred to as mums, they’re available in an enormous range of colors and sizes. Whether you prefer an eye-catching purple or a neutral white, you’ll find something in every shade of the rainbow to compliment your living space.

Take a closer look at the unique mum and you’ll discover what makes it so unique: the petal is actually a delicate floret, or a minuscule flower that’s part of a more predominant cluster on the head of the main flower. In the center of the mum are compact disc florets, while the vibrant outer petals are known as ray florets. These delicate accents come together to convey the mum’s showy quality and contribute to its charm.

What makes them so popular? It’s a combination of factors. The average mum grows up to three feet tall, making it a great choice to grow in a compact apartment. More than just great to grow almost anywhere, they’re also relatively easy to maintain. They do require some time and attention to ensure that they look their best, but once you get into a routine you’ll grow accustomed to showing your mums the love they deserve.

Lighting Your Mums

Begin with lighting, which plays a vital role in the integrity and appearance of the plant. Mums prefer to be bathed in full sunlight. Too little light can transform a lively plant into a weakened structure that loses its luster with time and produces fewer flowers. At a bare minimum, aim to expose your mums to at least six hours of sunlight every day. The more you give them, the better they’ll look and the more they’ll thrive.

But be mindful of the summer heat to prevent potential leaf burn. Take care to avoid placing your mums under the punishing rays of the scorching sun. A little bit of shade is beneficial in these instances, so long as your plant continues to receive indirect light. No matter what time of year, you can move the plant to a slightly shadier area once the flower buds emerge to ensure their longevity.

Basics of Soil

The right soil conditions are vital to the upkeep and growth of your mums. While they generally perform well in nearly any type of soil, it’s best to select a variety that drains well. Make regular moisture a priority, as drier soils harden quickly and transform into an inhospitable environment for the roots. When they can’t establish themselves properly, the plant can’t grow. At the same time, the soil shouldn’t be too moist either, or you risk dealing with soggy roots that eventually rot.

The key is to find a happy middle ground where the soil remains moist enough to help the plant thrive, yet not so drenched that its health suffers. As a general rule of thumb, you should test the soil by picking up a small amount and squeezing it. If it crumbles, you’ve achieved the right texture. But if it’s clumpy or lacks any type of structure at all, it’s either too dry or too wet.

The Moisture Factor

As for how often to water your mums, it’s a matter of committing to a regular schedule. When first planted or potted, water the soil at least weekly. Keep an eye on the leaves during this time to ensure they look vibrant and fresh. If you notice wilting, it’s time to increase your watering routine to twice a week.

Make sure to water the plant properly, too. It’s not enough to simply spritz the leaves so the water drips south. Instead, pour the water directly at the roots to ensure that the soil gets adequately wet. Avoid soaking the stems and leaves, which may otherwise start to rot or develop fungi.

Decorating With Mums

Thanks to their shallow roots, mums are perfect for nestling in decorative baskets and containers. These look beautiful at any time of the year! You can use them to dress up your holiday centerpieces and complement other seasonal flowers, or place them in the window to add a pop of color to your home. No matter how you use them, you’ll adore the way that mums complete your living space.