Chrysanthemum 'Dowches Patricia' Chrysanthemum 'Dowches Patricia' (29d)

Water

Mums, including the Chrysanthemum 'Dowches Patricia', require consistent moisture and should be watered deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this might be approximately every week, but you should adjust the frequency according to the climate and weather conditions. Aim for about one gallon of water per plant for each watering session, ensuring that the water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage strong root growth. Avoid overhead watering to minimize leaf wetness and reduce the risk of disease. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, but always check the soil moisture first to avoid overwatering.

Light

Mums thrive in a location where they receive full sun, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Placing Chrysanthemum 'Dowches Patricia' in an area with ample morning light and protection from intense afternoon sun can promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering. However, they are versatile and can also tolerate partial sun conditions, but they may not bloom as profusely.

Temperature

The Chrysanthemum 'Dowches Patricia', like most mums, prefers moderate temperatures with ideal growing conditions ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive short periods of colder weather down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can be damaging. Mums also perform poorly in extreme heat, particularly temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, as high heat can stress the plants and affect flowering.

Pruning

Pruning mums like Chrysanthemum 'Dowches Patricia' encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems in late spring to early summer when they are about 4 to 6 inches tall, removing about half the length of the growing shoots. Perform additional pinching every two to three weeks until mid-summer. The best time for major pruning is after the blooming period in the fall to remove spent flowers and dead foliage, which helps prevent diseases and prepares the plant for winter.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, thrive best in well-draining soil with high organic matter content. A mix of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part perlite, and 1 part compost would be ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Chrysanthemums should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and allow for root growth; repot in spring before new growth starts.

Humidity & Misting

Chrysanthemums prefer a moderate humidity level, around 40-60%. Avoid overly dry air which can stress the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA.

Life cycle

The Chrysanthemum 'Dowchester Patricia', commonly known as Hardy Chrysanthemum or Garden Mum, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in moist, well-drained soil under full sun to partial shade conditions. Seedlings emerge and develop into vegetative plants with deeply lobed leaves, after which they enter a period of vegetative growth where they focus on developing a robust root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage, typically triggered by shorter day lengths, where flower buds form at the tips of the stems. The blooming stage follows, where the buds open to reveal the characteristic vibrant blossoms that may vary in color, and this stage can last from late summer into fall. Following pollination, the flowers will develop seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, in colder climates, the Chrysanthemum 'Dowchester Patricia' enters dormancy during the winter, surviving as underground stems or in the form of seeds until favorable conditions return in spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Propogation: The Chrysanthemum, often referred to as mums, is commonly propagated through the division of their clumps. This process is best done in the early spring, just as the new growth emerges. To propagate by division, you should dig up the entire plant, making sure to keep a good portion of the roots intact. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, split the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each new division has a fair amount of roots and shoots. These divisions can then be immediately replanted into a well-prepared soil that is rich in organic matter. Water the new plantings thoroughly to help establish them. This method of dividing ensures that the unique characteristics of 'Dowches Patricia' are maintained, and it also helps rejuvenate older plants that might have become too large or dense.