Winterin’ Mums

Frequently, a gardener asks, “How shall I care for my chrysanthemums so they will live through the winter ?” If plants are old, spindly, and diseased, why save them? It is better to start with fresh, healthy nursery plants bought from specialists whose business is raising and selling the finest varieties. To be worth saving, … Read more

Chrysanthemums For The North

Gardeners in such states as Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and one or two of their near neighbors formerly had difficulty in planning their gardens, so they were full of bloom in the late Summer and early Fall months.  The fact impressed me during a trip to the East in late Summer a little over … Read more

Chrysanthemum Forms: A Guide to Diversity

Using Chrysanthemum

Have you ever seen chrysanthemums planted to utilize the contrast in their different flower forms?  Probably not! Because most gardeners who grow mums are more conscious of their colors than their shapes. Wonderful effects, however, can be attained by choosing from the many forms available—incurves, reflexes, pompons, buttons, singles, anemones, quills, and spiders and nothing’s … Read more

Unleash The Power: Mums That Can Thrive In Any Garden Setting

Mums

Although roses are my favorite flowers and have been for many years, hardy garden chrysanthemums are getting to be a close second.  The first great advance in wide popularity came with the advent of the single Korean hybrids, introduced by the late Alex Cumming, of Bristol, Connecticut, which were quickly followed by double flowers of … Read more

No Frost In Sight: Planting Mums That Flourish In Colder Climates

Mums in Colder Climates

For mums that riot in brilliant color in a last burst of bloom before frost strikes, gardeners in northern climates can thank men like Dr. L. E. Longley, assistant professor of horticulture at University Farm, St. Paul, Minnesota.  Dr. Longley has spent years developing chrysanthemums that flower in climates of northern states such as Minnesota … Read more

Chrysanthemums: A Flower With A History

Chrysanthemum History

In the history of the world, certain flowers have been cultivated and appreciated for their sheer enjoyment rather than for any special purpose.  A few noteworthy kinds with an extensive background are the chrysanthemum, rose, violet, carnation, narcissus, tulip, and iris. Chrysanthemum: An Ancient Flower With some plants, the cultivated species are so ancient that … Read more

Seasonal Showstoppers: Chrysanthemums & Tulips

Chrysanthemum and Tulips

I am fond of chrysanthemums and like to grow many of the better varieties for their beauty in the garden and arrangements and to give them away to friends as cut flowers and divisions.  At first, I grew all I could in a mixed border, but there, due to the proximity of other plants set … Read more

Keeping Up-to-date With Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums

According to reports from test gardens and breeders across the country, chrysanthemums are better than ever this year. In addition, test varieties show marked improvements in hybridization, in keeping with the natural trend for better color and form.  However, expert selection is equally as important. Although the color and form may be satisfactory, the flowers … Read more

All Sizes, All Kinds All Mums

Mums

Chrysanthemums fans call their favorite the universal flower. And they aren’t far from right.  Whatever you ask of a flower—except fragrance—the chrysanthemum delivers. The forms of its flowers are endlessly varied.  Sizes Of Mums The sizes of its plants are anywhere from short to majestic. The hardy ones grow well outdoors.  In the greenhouse, most … Read more

Tips To Grow Better Mums

Quality Mums

Even though fall is months away, it’s not too soon to start working for top-quality chrysanthemums to brighten up borders or foundation plantings. Regardless of the number of plants grown or whether the grower is a mum specialist or not, the aim should be for the best flowers possible. Quality blooms are more appealing in … Read more