Growing Manual for Chrysanthemum

Introduction:

Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums or chrysanths, are popular ornamental plants known for their vibrant and diverse blooms. This manual provides comprehensive guidelines for successful chrysanthemum cultivation, from selection to maintenance.

Botanical Information:

• Genus: Chrysanthemum
• Common Name: Chrysanthemum, Mum
• Family: Asteraceae
• Origin: Asia and northeastern Europe

Climate and Growing Conditions:

• Hardiness Zones: Varies by variety, generally USDA zones 5-9.
• Temperature: Prefers cool nights and mild days; 60-75°F (15-24°C).
• Sunlight: Full sun for at least 6 hours daily.

Variety Selection:

• Hardy Garden Mums: Suitable for outdoor planting and come in various colors.
• Florist Mums: Often grown for cut flowers, with a wide range of bloom forms.
• Cushion Mums: Compact, suitable for containers and borders.

Site Selection and Preparation:

• Well-Drained Soil: Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots. Mix the fertilizer through the soil with a rotavator.
• Air Circulation: Select a location with good air flow to prevent disease buildup.
• Avoid Frost Pockets: Avoid planting in low-lying areas prone to late spring frosts.

Soil and Substrate:

• Organic Media: Well-draining potting mix with coir, perlite and compost.
• Water Holding Capacity: 40-50%.
• Cation Exchange Capacity: 5-10 meq/100g.
• Air Porosity: 10-30%.
• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
• Texture: Well-draining loamy soil is ideal. Incorporate organic matter for improved fertility and structure.

Planting:

• Spacing: Plant 6 inches apart to allow for growth and air circulation.
• Depth: Plant at the same depth as they were in their nursery containers.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature.

Watering and Irrigation and light:

• Consistent Moisture: Maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods.
• Avoid Overhead Watering: Direct water at the base of the plants to prevent foliage diseases.
• Drip Irrigation: Consider using a drip irrigation system for efficient and consistent watering.
• Light bulbs: From the planting time a duration of 2-3 weeks daylength light should be added to reach 16 hours of daylight. 70 lux/meter is the minimum requirement for daylength extension. The lights should be on during 10pm until 2am.
• Programming light: different planting times results in light-areas and the non-light areas. Between those batches a blackout curtain is needed.

Fertilization:

• Pre-Planting: Incorporate balanced, slow-release fertilizer during site preparation.
• Regular Feeding: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Support and Staking:

• Tall Varieties: Provide stakes or supports for taller varieties to prevent bending or toppling.

Pruning and Deadheading:

• Pinching: Pinch back young plants to encourage bushiness and more blooms.
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering.

Pest and Disease Management:

• Monitor Regularly: Inspect plants for signs of pests (e.g., aphids, spider mites) and diseases (e.g., powdery mildew).
• Natural Predators: Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.
• Organic Pest Control: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for minor pest issues.

Harvesting (if applicable):

• Cutting Technique: Use clean, sharp shears to make a diagonal cut just above a leaf node.

Post-Harvest Handling (if applicable):

• Water Conditioning: Dip stems in warm water with floral preservative.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dark place with good air circulation.

Use of coir in soil media

• Electing High-Quality Coir:
  • Choose high-quality, well-processed coir from reputable suppliers. Look for products labeled specifically for horticultural use.
• Rehydrating Coir:
  • Prior to use, rehydrate the coir by soaking it in water. It will expand and become more pliable as it absorbs moisture.
• Incorporating Coir into Soil Mix:
  • Blend the rehydrated coir with the existing soil. Aim for a mix that includes about 20-30% coir. This helps improve soil structure, aeration, and water retention.
• Ensuring Proper pH Levels:
  • Check the pH of the soil mixture after adding coir. Chrysanthemums prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Coir is naturally pH-neutral, so additional adjustments may be necessary.
• Improving Soil Structure:
  • Coir helps lighten heavy soils and improves drainage, which is crucial for chrysanthemums as they prefer well-draining soil.
• Enhancing Water Retention:
  • Coir is excellent at retaining moisture, which can be particularly beneficial for chrysanthemums, as they require consistent moisture levels.
• Mulching with Coir:
  • Apply a layer of coir mulch around the base of chrysanthemum plants. This helps conserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Monitoring Moisture Levels:
  • Regularly check soil moisture levels to ensure they are within the preferred range for chrysanthemums. Coir retains moisture well, so it’s important to avoid overwatering.
• Fertilization:
  • Coir is low in nutrients, so it’s important to supplement with appropriate fertilizers to meet the specific needs of chrysanthemums. Use balanced, slow-release fertilizers.
• Adjusting pH Levels as Needed:
  • Monitor the pH levels in the soil mixture periodically and make adjustments if necessary to maintain the slightly acidic to neutral conditions preferred by chrysanthemums.
• Replacing or Amending Soil:
  • Over time, chrysanthemums may deplete the nutrients in the soil. Coir can be amended or replaced to rejuvenate the soil.
• Regular Maintenance:
  • Monitor plant health, address any nutrient deficiencies, and adjust watering and fertilization practices as needed.