Chrysanthemums, the imperial flowers from China, are available in an incredible variety of colors. Thanks to their very late flowering period, the perennials delight us with their magnificent flowers and sweeten the dark autumn. With the right location, the flowering can even be extended.
Which location is optimal for chrysanthemums?
The ideal location for chrysanthemums is a partially shaded spot with enough light for lush flowering. The soil should be nutrient-rich, loose and well-drained. At temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius or below zero, the plants' ability to bloom suffers.
Are chrysanthemums suitable for outdoor use?
Chrysanthemums are actually suitable for outdoors as long as they are in the right location and you have chosen a hardy garden chrysanthemum. These can even be planted in the bed after the flowering period or in spring.
But you can also put cold-sensitive varieties outside - it just shouldn't be too cold or freezing yet. These chrysanthemums feel most at home in a pot and in a protected location - for example on the balcony or terrace.
How much sun do chrysanthemums need?
Basically, chrysanthemums need a sunny and protected location to bloom beautifully. Only when there is enough light do the magnificent perennials bloom as lushly as you would like them to. But be careful: it's better not to put them in a full sun spot, otherwise the flowering period will only last for a very short time. A partially shaded location - especially if it is shaded during midday - is therefore more suitable and also ensures that you can enjoy the beautiful flowers for longer.
Which soil is optimal for chrysanthemums?
Chrysanthemums are extremely heavy feeders and therefore need a location with nutrient-rich, loose and well-drained soil. The winter aster only blooms particularly beautifully when the nutrient requirements are met. If the garden soil is not nutrient-rich enough - for example because it is rather sandy - it can be easily fertilized with mature compost and thus improved. High-quality potting soil or compost is suitable for chrysanthemums grown in pots (€14.00 on Amazon). In heavy soils and ion pots, a drainage layer is always necessary to avoid waterlogging.
What temperatures can chrysanthemums endure?
Whether and for how long a chrysanthemum blooms essentially depends on the temperature at its location. If the thermometer shows more than 25 degrees Celsius, the blooming of the autumn flowers noticeably decreases. At temperatures below zero, however, the flowers freeze. Therefore, you should bring late-flowering potted chrysanthemums into the house overnight when frost threatens.
Depending on the type and variety, chrysanthemums are more or less hardy, provided they receive appropriate protection for overwintering.
Tip
Are chrysanthemums perennial?
Chrysanthemums are actually perennial plants that, with proper care, can grow and bloom magnificently for many years. However, not all varieties are suitable for planting in the garden; some must always be cultivated in pots and kept cool and frost-free in winter. Garden chrysanthemums, on the other hand, cover them with a little brushwood and cut them back in spring.
