Tips for Preserving Chrysanthemum Blooms
It is hard to find a plant that so loudly says "fall has arrived" like the Chrysanthemum. Mums provide versatility to fall decorating because they can act as a pop of color or provide enough color to provide a full display all on their own. They have a reputation for being hardy and blooming without much fuss, however, taken to extremes mums will wilt prematurely. Mums are low maintenance and cold tolerant but they do need some maintenance; here is how to keep your mum display all season long.
Choose Wisely: Start by selecting mums that haven't bloomed and the tighter the bud, the better. If the mum has already started blooming, it will have only about 2 weeks of bright color left. Blooming mums are a good choice for an event where you need instant color, but unless you are having a wedding or party avoid blooming mums all together
Location: Placement of your mums will have a big impact on how long they will last. Mums can tolerate full sun, however, the heat will decrease their bloom time. Additionally, full sun areas often are susceptible to hard rain which can impact the blooms. Mums do well in sun until they begin to bloom, then partial sun or shade will prolong the bloom season.
Water: The air temperature decreases in fall but so does the humidity which plays a big part in why mums need consistent watering. If left to dry out before watering it will drastically decrease their bloom span.
Water: When the blooms become saturated from water they wilt and fade; this is also why hard rains can cut the life span in half. Rather than showering the blooms, it is best to water the edges of the pot or below the bloom line.
Chrysanthemums are out, fall is here; so choose a good plant, put it in a good spot, just add water and enjoy the season.
