Hardy garden mum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) kris-AN-theh-mum mor-ih-FOE-lee-um Synonyms:  Dendranthema morifolium Genus:  Chrysanthemum There would be few cut flowers blooming in October were it not for hardy garden mums. Their clusters of flowerheads show over a long period and are available in many colors, including red, orange, yellow, white, and lavender. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Looser habit than florist mums. Long stems that are good for cutting. Care:  Garden mums need fertile soil and can take light shade, although they grow best in full sun. Plants can be pinched back in early summer if not used for cutting. Divide as needed in spring or fall. Garden mums are often used as annuals. Propagation:  Take cuttings in early spring and root in soilless mix with sand on the surface, at 61°F. Place in a cold frame with ventilation and harden off in mid-spring. Problems:  Aphids, earwigs, nematodes, capsid bugs, leaf miners, whiteflies, thrips, and spider mites. Potential disease problems include Botrytis, leaf spots, rust, powdery mildew, stem and root rots, verticillium wilt, aster yellows and viruses.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Pink, Purple, Red, White, Yellow Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Fall Interest Type Perennials