The Story
Plant Bio
Chrysanthemum x morifolium, commonly known as garden mums, are popular ornamental plants known for their vibrant blooms and variety of colors.
This cultivar is particularly noted for its long-lasting flowers that provide color in the late summer and fall.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia and northeastern Europe
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Transplant seedlings once they develop 2-3 sets of true leaves, typically after 6 weeks.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during active growth.
- Pinch back the tips to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
- Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering period.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy plants.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry 🌱
- Pinch back stems to promote bushiness
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season
- Deadhead spent flowers for continuous bloom
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering
- Avoid excessive fertilization which can cause legginess
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pinch | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Garden Mum questions
What zones can Garden Mum grow in?
Garden Mum is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Garden Mum deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Garden Mum, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Garden Mum bloom?
Garden Mum typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Garden Mum need full sun?
Garden Mum does best in full sun (6+ hours).
More Chrysanthemum to compare

May Queen Shasta Daisy
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'May Queen'

Becky Shasta Daisy
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'Becky'

Mammoth Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Mammoth'

Christy Garden Mum
Chrysanthemum x hybrida 'Christy'

Mammoth Mum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Mammoth Mum'

Small Wonder Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum x morifolium 'Small Wonder'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Garden Mum with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
















