Chrysanthemums develop the delightful effect of their colorful, autumnal flowers not only in the garden. The often large-flowered and lushly blooming perennials are also ideal for cultivation in pots. However, potted chrysanthemums need a lot of attention so that you can enjoy them for as long as possible.
How to care for chrysanthemums in a pot?
To care for chrysanthemums in pots, they should be placed in a bright location without direct midday sun, planted in nutrient-rich, humus-rich potting soil with good drainage and watered regularly. In winter they should hibernate frost-free at 5-10 degrees Celsius.
Protect sensitive flowers from frost
The chrysanthemums, which only bloom in autumn, provide another colorful splash of color before winter finally sets in. They are often among the last flowering plants in the garden. Potted chrysanthemums feel just as at home in a sheltered place in the garden - for example on a wall - as they do on a balcony or terrace. Keeping them in the apartment is also possible. However, caution is advised when frost sets in early, as the flowers of the perennial, which often blooms in November, are very sensitive to frost. Therefore, if there is a risk of frost, it is better to bring the plants indoors overnight.
Care for potted chrysanthemums – briefly explained
Chrysanthemums are not only flowering perennials that bloom very late, they also often delight with a very long flowering period. Below we have put together the most important tips for caring for the popular autumn flower briefly and clearly.
Avoid direct sun
Of course this also includes the right location. Chrysanthemums need a lot of light, but they usually don't tolerate long-term direct sun - especially midday sun - particularly well. So it's best to ensure a bright to sunny location without direct midday sun.
Substrate and planting
For your potted chrysanthemums, use a nutrient-rich, humus-rich potting soil (€3.00 on Amazon), which you can loosen up with a little sand. Pay particular attention to good pot drainage so that excess water can flow away easily. You can achieve this if you fill in pottery shards, small pebbles or a similar material about two to five centimeters high in the bottom layer of the pot.
Watering and fertilizing
The lushly blooming chrysanthemums are very draining, so they need a lot of water and fertilizer. In autumn it is sufficient to water generously once or twice a week. The right time to water is when the top layer of substrate in the pot has already dried. You should avoid fertilizing in autumn.
Cutting
Flowered flower stems can be cut off to just above the ground.
Wintering
Chrysanthemums in pots should not overwinter outside, but rather in the house, in the garden shed or in the greenhouse at temperatures between five to ten degrees Celsius.
Tip
When watering, be careful not to wet the leaves and flowers. This measure will help you prevent fungal infestation.
