Chrysanthemum 'Regalia' Chrysanthemum 'Regalia' (24b)

Water

Mums, including Chrysanthemum 'Regalia', prefer evenly moist soil, so it's important to water regularly. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means once every 2-3 days during active growth periods, depending on weather conditions. Use room temperature water and add approximately 1 gallon per plant for each watering session to ensure that the water reaches deep into the root system. During the winter or dormant periods, reduce watering to every week or when the soil is noticeably dry. Always avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot.

Light

Mums thrive in conditions where they can receive full sunlight for at least 6 hours daily. The best spot for Chrysanthemum 'Regalia' would be in an area that provides bright, indirect light for the remainder of the day. Avoid placing mums in deep shade as this can lead to fewer blooms and leggy growth.

Temperature

Chrysanthemum 'Regalia' does best in moderate temperatures and can generally withstand temperatures between 32°F and 95°F. However, ideally, maintain an environment where temperatures stay within the range of 60°F to 75°F for optimum growth. Protect them from extreme cold, as prolonged exposure to temperatures below 32°F can be damaging to the plants.

Pruning

Pruning is essential for mums to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. For Chrysanthemum 'Regalia', pinch back the tips of stems in late spring and early summer to encourage branching. Once buds begin to form, stop pinching to allow blooms to develop. The best time for heavy pruning is just after the blooms have faded, typically in late fall or early winter.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the common mums is a well-draining, fertile loam with a pH between 6.5 and 6.7. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve fertility and drainage.

Repotting

Mums should be repotted every 1 to 2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Mums thrive best in moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place mums in a well-lit area, away from drafts.

• Outdoor

  Plant in fertile, well-drained soil with full to part sun.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Chrysanthemum 'Regalia', commonly known as mum or hardy garden mum, begins its life as a seed or cutting, which when planted in well-draining soil and given proper care, will germinate or root within a few weeks. The seedling or rooted cutting then grows into a vegetative stage, producing leaves and stems; with adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients, this phase includes the development of a strong root system and foliage. As the plant matures, it enters the budding stage where flower buds start to form, usually triggered by shorter day lengths as it is a short-day plant. Following the budding phase, the Chrysanthemum 'Regalia' blooms, displaying its vibrant flowers that can come in a variety of colors; during this stage, it attracts pollinators and may reproduce if flowers are pollinated. After the flowering stage, the plant enters senescence, where flowers wilt and the plant begins to go dormant, especially in regions with cold winters; in warmer climates, Chrysanthemums can sometimes behave as perennials, surviving through the winter to regrow in spring. Finally, the life cycle can repeat itself if the plant drops seeds, or gardeners can propagate new plants from cuttings taken during the growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Chrysanthemum 'Regalia', commonly known as mums, is typically propagated through stem cuttings. This is considered the most popular method due to its effectiveness and simplicity. To propagate mums, a gardener should select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) portion just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in a rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. This cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the leaf nodes are buried where roots will form. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the cutting should be placed in indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new mum plant can be transplanted.