Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot' Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot' (Poppins Series)

Water

Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, should be watered deeply and thoroughly to saturate the root zone. During the growing season, mums typically need about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering. This could translate to roughly 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil per week. It is crucial to avoid overwatering mums, as standing water can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and decrease the risk of disease.

Light

Mums thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sun per day to grow and bloom properly. An ideal spot for Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot' is in a sunny garden bed or border where it can receive ample light without being shaded by larger plants or structures. If grown indoors, a south-facing window is a good location to provide necessary light exposure.

Temperature

Mums are hardy in temperatures typically ranging from 32°F to 90°F, making them suitable for growth in many temperate climates. The ideal growing temperatures for Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot' are between 70°F and 75°F during the day. These plants may not survive extreme cold and should be protected or brought indoors if temperatures approach freezing.

Pruning

Pruning, also known as pinching, encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms in mums. Prune Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot' by pinching off the tips of the stems in early summer. This process can be repeated up until mid-July to promote fuller plants. The best time for general pruning is after the flowering season, trimming back the stems to maintain shape and remove spent flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mums thrive in well-drained soil with good organic matter. A mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite works well for Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot'. Maintain soil pH between 6.0 and 6.7 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot' typically requires repotting every one to two years. Refresh the soil and increase pot size if roots become crowded or the soil quality deteriorates.

Humidity & Misting

Mums prefer moderate humidity levels, ranging from 40% to 60%, to thrive. Avoid overly dry or excessively humid environments to promote healthy plant growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light, ensure proper drainage.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, rich soil, adequate drainage, mulch in winter.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot', commonly referred to as hardy mum, starts its life as a seed or more commonly as a propagated cutting from a mature plant. Once planted, the cutting takes root and a young vegetative plant emerges, carrying out photosynthesis and growing both roots and foliage. As the plant matures, it develops a bushy form with multiple stems and leaves, preparing for the flowering stage. Environmental cues such as shorter days and cooler temperatures trigger the beginning of the flowering stage, during which the plant produces vibrant apricot blooms that attract pollinators. Post-bloom, the flowering heads fade and seeds may form if pollination has occurred, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, hardy mums can enter a dormancy stage during winter, preserving energy to regrow in the spring from the root system or remaining stem bases.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot', commonly known as mum, is typically propagated through the division of clumps. The division should be performed in the spring, just as the new growth begins to emerge. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant and gently separate the root clumps into smaller sections, each with several shoots and a good portion of roots attached. These divisions can then be immediately replanted into a well-prepared garden soil or potting mix, ensuring that they are spaced adequately to allow for future growth. Divisions should be watered thoroughly after planting to help establish them in their new location. This method helps to rejuvenate older plants and create new plants that will be genetically identical to the parent. It's an effective technique for maintaining the health and vigor of the Chrysanthemum 'Prelude Apricot'.