Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith' Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith' (5a)

Water

The Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith', commonly known as mums, should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during hot, dry periods. Generally, providing about 1 inch of water per week either from rainfall or manual watering is sufficient, but this can vary depending on climate conditions. The best way to water mums is to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering which can lead to leaf diseases. During the growing season, you might need to water a couple of times a week, depending on weather conditions. It's crucial not to overwater as mums are susceptible to root rot, so ensure the plant is in well-draining soil.

Light

Mums flourish in a spot that receives full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade can result in a less vigorous plant with fewer flowers. The ideal location for Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith' is in a garden bed or container that is exposed to the morning sun and has some protection from the intense late afternoon sun in very hot regions.

Temperature

Chrysanthemums, including the 'May Shoesmith' variety, prefer a moderate climate and thrive in temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 32 degrees Fahrenheit, making them suitable for fall cultivation. However, temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant, potentially impacting flower development and overall health.

Pruning

Pruning mums, including Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith', encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems by about an inch once they reach 4 to 6 inches in height, usually in late spring to early summer. Continue to pinch back every few weeks until mid to late July, which allows time for the flower buds to form for fall blooming. After blooming, mums can be cut back to the ground once the foliage dies back with the first hard frost.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mums thrive best in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0; mix in organic matter like compost along with perlite for drainage.

Repotting

Chrysanthemums should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and allow room for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Mums prefer moderate humidity levels, but do not require high humidity; average indoor levels are generally sufficient.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place mums in bright light, away from drafts, and water regularly.

• Outdoor

  Plant mums in full sun and shelter them from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith', also known simply as the Mum, begins its life cycle when seeds, cuttings, or division of roots are planted during spring to early summer. The plant then enters a vegetative stage where leaves and stems grow from the emerging shoots, driven by warm temperatures and long days. Following this, as the days shorten towards late summer and fall, the Mum enters the budding stage, developing tight buds that eventually open into the characteristic flowers. The flowering stage can last until the first hard frost, showcasing a range of colors depending on the cultivar. After blooming, Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith' enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, where the above-ground vegetation dies back and the plant survives as underground stems or roots. With the return of spring, the plant will break dormancy, sprouting anew to repeat the life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late spring to early summer

• The Chrysanthemum 'May Shoesmith', commonly known as Mum, is often propagated through the division of established plants. This popular method involves carefully splitting the mum's root ball into smaller sections with a sharp spade or knife, making sure that each section has a portion of the root system and some shoots. This should be done in early spring when the plants have just started to break dormancy and new growth is visible, but still compact, typically in regions 5a around late March to early April. The newly divided sections can then be immediately replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were originally growing, making certain to space them at least 12 inches (about 30 cm) apart to allow enough room for growth. After replanting, it's important to water the divisions thoroughly to help re-establish the plants and ensure a successful propagation.