How Much Time Is Needed Before Chrysanthemums May Be?

Chrysanthemums are a popular plant that can grow from under 12 in. (30 cm) to 36 in. tall (90 cm), depending on the variety. They typically bloom for 4 to 8 weeks, from early September to frost. To propagate them, start seeds in late May or early June and transplant them to their pots. The best time to propagate chrysanthemums is in the spring, when the plants are coming out of winter dormancy and beginning to show new growth.

Transplanting spring mums after frost danger has passed, and fall mums at any time in late summer or fall, at least six weeks before the first expected frost. Planting location depends on the variety and the type of chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums can grow from under 12 in. (30 cm) to 36 in. tall (90 cm), depending on the variety.

To prepare the soil for planting, loosen it to a depth of about 12 to 15 inches and mix in organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and provide nutrients. The chrysanthemum lifespan is only three to four years, but it will get more susceptible to winter damage with each passing year.

Chrysanthemums thrive in well-draining soil and can be ready for transplant in 2-3 weeks if using a 4″ pot and 3-4 weeks if using a 6″ pot. Transplanting to the garden or larger pot should be done as soon as good root development is seen around the pot. The best time to transplant garden mum is from late summer to early fall, as lower temperatures and gentle sunlight create favorable conditions for root development.

Chrysanthemums can be planted almost any time, but they should be planted in early spring after all danger of freezing has passed. Early flowering chrysanthemums bloom outdoors in August and September in the open ground and can be planted out in the garden from April.