Garden Mum Chrysanthemum 'Galaxy' (9d)

Water

Mums should be watered regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. During active growth, typically in the spring and summer, they may need watering once every two to three days depending on weather conditions. Aim for approximately one gallon of water per plant each week, adjusting based on rainfall and temperature. Avoid overhead watering to prevent disease, and water at the base of the plant in the morning to allow foliage to dry out during the day.

Light

Mums thrive in full sun conditions, which means they should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily; however, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial. The best spot for a Chrysanthemum 'Galaxy' is in a location where it can enjoy morning sunlight and protection from intense late afternoon sun. Proper light exposure encourages strong growth and a profusion of blooms.

Temperature

Mums prefer moderate temperatures and can generally withstand temperatures down to about 32°F, although they flourish in conditions between 60°F and 70°F. They should be protected from extreme cold, as temperatures below freezing can damage the plant. Furthermore, excessively high temperatures above 90°F might inhibit bud formation and stress the plant, so provide some shade during the hottest part of the day in warmer regions.

Pruning

Pruning mums is important for shaping the plant, encouraging bushier growth, and promoting more blooms. Pinch back the tips of new growth in late spring and early summer to encourage branching, stopping about mid-July to allow flower buds to form. The best time for more significant pruning is after the blooming period in the fall to tidy up the plant or in early spring to remove dead or winter-damaged stems.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Chrysanthemum 'Galaxy', commonly known as Hardy Mum or Mum, consists of a well-draining potting mix that includes components like peat, perlite, and compost. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, in the range of 6.5 to 6.7. It's important to ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and to maintain soil fertility for vigorous growth.

Repotting

Hardy Mums should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It is best to repot in the spring before new growth begins, ensuring that the plant remains healthy and has room to grow.

Humidity & Misting

Hardy Mums prefer average household humidity levels. To maintain optimal growth, aim for a humidity level around 40-60%. While they can tolerate lower humidity, consistent conditions within this range are beneficial for their overall health.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Hardy Mum in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant Hardy Mum in well-draining soil with at least 6 hours of sun.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of a Chrysanthemum 'Galaxy', commonly known as a hardy garden mum, begins with seed germination, where the plant emerges from its seed as a small seedling, given the right conditions of soil, temperature, and light. It progresses to the vegetative stage, where the seedling develops into a mature plant with a strong root system, stems, and leaves, preparing to support the flowering process. When the plant enters the budding stage, flower buds start to form, signaling the upcoming reproductive phase. The blooming stage is the most visually striking, as the Chrysanthemum 'Galaxy' displays its vibrant flowers, attracting pollinators for fertilization. Following pollination, the plant produces seeds, completing its reproductive cycle, and if not deadheaded, it can spread new seeds to grow the next generation. Finally, as a perennial, the plant enters a period of dormancy during colder months, only to regrow from the root system with the return of favorable conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring to Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Chrysanthemum 'Galaxy', commonly known as mums, is through cuttings. To propagate through cuttings, a grower would take a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) stem cutting from a healthy parent plant during the late spring or early summer months. The lower leaves of the cutting are removed, and the cut stem is dipped in rooting hormone powder to stimulate root growth. This treated cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least a few sets of leaf nodes are below the surface. The cutting should be kept moist and provided with indirect light until it has established its own roots, which typically takes about three to four weeks. During this time, it's important to maintain high humidity around the cutting, which can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator.