Chrysanthemums have a long, fascinating history. Native to Asia, especially China and Japan, mums have been cultivated for over 2,500 years. In China, they were grown as medicinal herbs and symbols of longevity. In Japan, chrysanthemums became so cherished that the Imperial Family adopted them as their crest, and the “Festival of Happiness” still celebrates their beauty today.
They did not arrive in Europe until the 17th century, and soon after, North America welcomed them too. Today, mums are the ultimate autumn flower across the globe.
Why Do Mums Bloom in Fall?
Unlike many summer flowers that thrive on long days of sunlight, chrysanthemums are “short day plants.” This means they bloom when the days get shorter, typically in late summer through fall.
As daylight hours decrease, mums respond by setting buds and bursting into vibrant colour. That is why, just as other plants are winding down, chrysanthemums step in to take centre stage.
What Makes Chrysanthemums So Special?
Chrysanthemums are not just pretty, they are powerhouses in the garden and beyond:
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Incredible variety: From daisy-like singles to tightly packed pompons, mums come in countless shapes and colours.
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Fall colour champions: Bright yellows, fiery oranges, deep purples, and elegant whites add unmatched richness to autumn landscapes.
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Pollinator support: Bees and butterflies love late season blooms, making mums an important nectar source when options are scarce.
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Cultural symbolism: In Asia, mums represent longevity and happiness, while in many Western countries, they symbolize friendship and cheer.
Why Do Mums Love Water So Much?
Mums have dense root systems and produce a heavy canopy of leaves and blooms, which means they need lots of consistent moisture. Unlike drought tolerant perennials, chrysanthemums wilt quickly if they dry out.
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Deep watering is key. Soak the soil to reach their roots rather than giving light, frequent sips.
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Mulching helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool.
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Container mums dry out even faster, so check pots daily and water generously.
💡 A well watered mum will bloom longer and more vibrantly through the season.
The Symbol of the Season
From their deep cultural roots to their spectacular fall performance, chrysanthemums are much more than a decorative plant. They are a living celebration of autumn. With their love for water, cool weather, and short days, mums thrive just when we need them most, brightening gardens, porches, and patios with lasting colour.
✨ This fall, bring home the magic of mums and let your garden glow right into the cooler months.
Discover mums, fall colour, and all your seasonal favourites at your local Ritchie Feed & Seed.
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