Chrysanthemums commonly called Mums originated in China. The Chinese grew Chrysanthemums as early as the 15th century. The Chinese name for the flower is Chu and they named a city Chu Hsien (Chrysanthemum City) in honour of this flower. Generally speaking, Chinese people traditionally adore Chrysanthe-mums.
The Japanese also like the flower. So much so that they took it to Japan and began growing it there. The Emperor used the flower as a crest. Chrysanthemums were later introduced to Europe in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus a Swedish botanist.
Later, in1798, they were introduced to the USA.
Mums are divided into two groups – garden hardy and exhibition hardy. Garden hardy Mums are new perennials which are defined by their ability to produce an abundance of small blooms.
There are many varieties of Mums. Mums blooms are compound by individual florets.
Mums are florists’ favourites; varieties such as Pompom, Cushion, Single, Spider, Spoon and others can be seen in many fresh floral arrangements.
Columbia, Peru and Ecuador produce tonnes of Mums for export daily worldwide along with the Netherlands.
Mums like to be planted in well-drained soil outdoor in a semi-shaded area. Fertilize with Miracle Gro All Purpose Plant Food once every two weeks and you will be rewarded with many blooms for days.
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
