Chrysanthemum morifolium – Indoor House Plants

Chrysanthemum morifolium (Florist daisy ) or mums are positioned the highest for air purification. This perennial autumn bloomer is a versatile plant most often used in flower beds or containers. The long stems and big blooms, available in colors ranging from lavender and white to yellow, red, and orange, make hardy garden mum ideal for cut-flower bouquets. Chrysanthemum morifolium, which reaches mature heights of 12 to 36 inches. Plant garden mums in spring or autumn. According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, the Chrysanthemum morifolium filters indoor air pollution, particularly benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, ammonia, xylene, and toluene. It is toxic to dogs, cats. So keep it away from your pets.

Scientific Name: Chrysanthemum morifolium
Common Name: Florist’s daisy and hardy garden mum.

How to grow and maintain Chrysanthemum morifolium:

Light:
Florist’s daisy stays in bloom longer when placed in medium light and away from heating vents, air conditioners, and direct sun.

Soil:
Florist’s daisy will grow in almost any soil type with good soil structure. Blending organic matter deep into the soil before planting is essential to maintaining soil structure for proper root aeration and drainage.

Temperature:
Cool temperatures enable the blooms on a Mum last longer and high temperatures cause the blooms to quickly fade. 70 degrees during the day and not below 60 degrees at night are best for a Chrysanthemum morifolium.

Water:
Water your florist’s daisy plant deeply, and afterward water regularly throughout the season.  Always water at the base of the plant, using a garden hose or soaker to wet the soil to a depth of 5 to 6 inches. Allow the top of the soil to dry before watering again. Avoid watering from above, as wet foliage places the mums at risk of rot and other diseases.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize Chrysanthemum morifolium regularly during the growing season. Stop fertilizing once flower buds have formed.

Propagation:
Once a garden Mum has finished blooming indoors, it can be planted outdoors where it will grow and spread year after year.

Pests and Diseases:
Look for aphids, mites, caterpillars, leafminers, mealybugs, and more on your chrysanthemum plants. Diseases that can affect chrysanthemums include mildew, blight, mold, and root spoil.