Chrysanthemums are flowering powerhouses and are well known and used widely as garden plants, indoor plants and grown extensively as cut flowers. Chrysanthemums colour, shape and form vary hugely, as does the plant habit. The flower types can be single, double, anemone, centred, two-toned or spoon-shaped.
Chrysanthemums are ideal plants for gardeners of all abilities as they’re easy to grow, the challenge sometimes can be choosing which ones to grow, as there are so many.
3 steps to planting Chrysanthemums
prepare
Chrysanthemums are as happy indoors as they are out. Once plants have finished flowering inside they can be cut back and planted in the garden. Alternatively, they can be re-potted, cut back and put to one side to grow for blooms the following season.
Plants are widely available in garden centres in spring and autumn. If growing your Chrysanthemums indoors place in a well-lit position, away from humidity and draughty areas. Too much damp air can cause mildew problems, which will limit the plant’s flowering capacity. Plant into Tui Flower Mix to keep soil moist but not wet. Don’t be tempted to leave plants sitting in saucers of water as this will kill the roots and cause disease problems.
If planting outdoors, choose a spot in full sun with well-drained and moist soil. Some favourite varieties to look out for are Florist’s Chrysanthemums and Pot Mums.
Like building a house a good foundation is the key to success in your garden. The better the soil, the better your plants will grow. If you are starting with an existing garden bed dig in organic matter like Tui Sheep Pellets and Tui Compost to your soil. Then you can add a layer of Tui Flower Mix.
PLANT
The best times to plant are early in the morning, or late in the day so the plants aren't exposed to the hot sun straight away. Always water plants well before and after planting.
Directions for planting in garden beds
- Water plants thoroughly before planting and allow to drain.
- Dig a hole, approximately twice the depth and width of the root ball of your plant.
- Gently loosen the root ball of your plant and position the plant in the centre of the hole.
- Fill in with Tui Flower Mix.
- Press soil gently around the base of the plant.
- Water your plant well and continue to water regularly.
Directions for potting plants
- Water plants thoroughly before potting and allow to drain.
- Half fill your container with Tui Flower Mix.
- Gently take the plant from the current container, loosen the root ball and remove any loose or dead plant material and roots.
- Position the plant in the centre of the new container and fill with Tui Flower Mix up to 3cm from the top.
- Gently firm mix around the base of the plant. The mix should be at the same level on the plant as it was in the previous container.
- Water your plant well and continue to water regularly.
nourish
Feed your plants and they will reward you. Replenishing the nutrients used by your plants ensures your plants grow to their full potential. Feed your Chrysanthemums with Tui NovaTec® Premium Fertiliser when planting.
A well-watered, well-nourished garden will have a better chance of keeping insect pests and diseases at bay. While your Chrysanthemums are growing regularly apply a dose of Tui Organic Seaweed Plant Tonic to give them a welcome boost.
Regular deheading will prolong flowering. Trim back after flowering.