Chrysanthemums come in an almost unmanageable variety of varieties: an estimated 40 different species and over 5000 varieties are currently known, and the trend is increasing. The very flowering, perennial perennial can be cultivated not only in the garden, but also as a potted plant on the balcony or even as a houseplant. However, in order for chrysanthemums to bloom magnificently, they need to be cared for properly.
How do I care for chrysanthemums on the balcony?
To care for chrysanthemums on the balcony, you should choose a bright location that is not exposed to full sun, water and fertilize regularly, cut off spent inflorescences and, depending on the variety, provide appropriate overwintering protection.
Choose a suitable location
Proper care also includes the right location. Many chrysanthemums only open their flower buds when the days and nights become approximately the same length in autumn. This means the plants need at least four hours of sun a day. So choose a location that is as bright as possible, but without constantly exposing the plant to full sun. In particular, the intense midday sun should be avoided. On the other hand, light shaded to partially shaded locations are optimal - a balcony that faces west or east would be perfect.
Watering and fertilizing
Chrysanthemums are heavy feeders. This means that the perennial must not dry out under any circumstances and should also be regularly supplied with a good liquid fertilizer (€14.00 on Amazon) for flowering plants. While compost is usually sufficient for planted chrysanthemums, potted chrysanthemums definitely need mineral, readily available fertilizer - liquid fertilizer is ideal for this purpose. Fertilize the plant about every two weeks during the growing season. However, stop giving at the end of August at the latest to prepare the chrysanthemums for winter rest.
Cutting
Actually, the chrysanthemum doesn't need to be cut. However, faded inflorescences - which turn brown - quickly look unsightly. You can also extend the flowering period of the plant by cutting - many a balcony gardener has already managed to have their chrysanthemums, which are in a protected location, still blooming at Christmas time. It is therefore an advantage to cut off any dead flowers immediately. But be careful! The new buds are already developing under the withered heads, it is better not to cut them off - otherwise the further flowers will fail.
Wintering
How you overwinter your chrysanthemums on the balcony depends primarily on the variety. Not all chrysanthemum varieties are hardy. You can overwinter hardy chrysanthemums on the balcony if provided with the appropriate protection. To do this, wrap the planter with a jute bag or fleece and cover the substrate surface with fir or spruce branches. Non-hardy chrysanthemums, on the other hand, overwinter indoors under cold house conditions.
Tips & Tricks
Chrysanthemums need a lot of water, but they don't like waterlogging. When planting in a container, you must ensure very good drainage, which is created by loose substrate and an open drain. Clay balls or similar as the bottom layer of the pot also allow excess irrigation water to drain away quickly, so a drainage hole in the bottom of the planter is essential.
