Chrysanthemum x morifolium (Decorative) – Decorative Fall Mum

The fall mum is the undisputed star of late-season decor. Presented in dense, perfectly formed pots, it unleashes an explosion of vibrant colour that instantly enlivens balconies, patios, and entryways. Easy and ready to display, it is the perfect solution for extending the garden's beauty until the first snows, offering immediate gratification with minimal effort. It is the essential touch of colour for celebrating autumn.

Characteristics

• Foliage: Dense, dark green foliage that is aromatic when crushed, forming a perfect dome that serves as a backdrop for the abundant blooms.
• Flowering: A spectacular abundance of flowers completely covering the plant. The form (pompon, daisy, decorative) and colour vary enormously by cultivar, offering a nearly infinite palette.
• Light: For the longest life, place in full sun.
• Habit: Adopts a compact, dense, and perfectly rounded cushion habit, a result of professional growing techniques.
• Growth: Sold at its final size and in full bloom, it holds its shape for the entire fall season.
• Soil: Is content in a quality potting mix that provides good drainage.
• Temperature: These varieties are generally hardy in zones 6-7. They must therefore be considered annuals in most parts of Canada and will not survive the winter in the ground.
• Resistance: Tolerates cool autumn temperatures well, but the flowers will be damaged by a hard frost.

Use

• Types of Use: Essential for fall pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets. Perfect for decorating porches, patios, and balconies. While it can brighten a very bright room indoors for a short time, its optimal use is outdoors. Can be dropped "as is" with its pot into garden beds to fill gaps.
• Decorative Advantages: Provides instant mass colour and maximum visual impact. Its vast range of colours allows for harmonious pairings with pumpkins, grasses, and other seasonal decorations.

Care

• Watering: Check the soil's moisture frequently, sometimes daily. Water thoroughly as soon as the soil is dry to the touch, preferably avoiding the flowers. Do not let the pot sit in water.
• Fertilization: No fertilization is necessary; the plant already has all the reserves it needs to complete its bloom cycle.
• Pruning: No pruning is required. Simply remove any faded flowers as needed to maintain a neat appearance.
• Planting: Keep the plant in its original pot or repot it into a larger decorative container with a good potting mix.
• Winter Protection: None. Treat the plant as an annual and compost it after a hard frost ends its blooming period.

For ideas and advice, read our blog:

Chrysanthemums, for a colourful autumn