Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum
Potted chrysanthemum may not be suitable as garden plants. When planted outdoors, potted plants often do not form flower buds until very late in the season. Such plants rarely have enough growing season left to bloom. However, plants purchased in late winter or early spring may be garden varieties. The plants prefer full sun, except when in bloom, then give them bright light. Use a loose, open soil and water when the soil has begun to dry. Use an equal analysis house plant fertilizer according to label directions. Ideal temperatures are 70 to 75 degrees during the day and 60 to 65 degrees at night. Flowering is a response to short days and long nights. Old plants are usually not rebloomed, unless they survive in the garden. Instead, new plants are grown from cuttings. Provide 14 hour nights for 10 to 12 weeks to force chrysanthemum into bloom.
Propagation is by stem tip, or root cuttings. Once a plant has finished flowering cut it back. When new growth occurs, make cuttings to grow into blooming size plants.
