Overview
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. is a perennial plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is also commonly known as the Smooth Chrysanthemum.
Origin
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. is native to East Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. It can be found growing in meadows, grasslands, and along riverbanks and roadsides. It has also been introduced to other countries, including the United States, where it is used as an ornamental plant.
Description
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. has a bushy and compact growth habit, and it can grow up to a height of 50 cm. Its leaves are oblong-shaped, dark green, and glossy, with toothed margins. The flowers have white petals that surround a yellow center. They bloom in the fall and are approximately 2 cm in diameter. The plant also produces small, black fruit that are not typically used.
Uses
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. has a number of traditional medicinal uses in East Asian cultures. It has been used to treat headaches, fever, and inflammation, as well as to promote digestion and circulation. The plant has also been used as a natural dye, producing a yellow color.
In addition, Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. Its bushy growth habit and white flowers provide a pleasant aesthetic. It is also deer-resistant, making it a popular choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
Light Requirements
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. thrives in full sun conditions, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is best suited for temperate climates and cannot tolerate extreme hot or cold temperatures. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Temperatures above 30°C (86°F) can cause the plant to wilt, and temperatures below 5°C (41°F) can damage the leaves and stems.
Soil Requirements
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. prefers well-drained soil with a neutral pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it does best in loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. thrives in well-draining soil, under full sun or partial shade. The plant should be planted at least 12 inches apart from each other.
It is best to plant the chrysanthemum flowers in the early spring, as soon as the frost has passed. This will give the roots plenty of time to establish themselves before the flowering season.
The plant needs consistent watering as it grows, but it should not sit in water. Overwatering will cause the roots to rot.
It is also important to keep weeds under control around the plant as it can compete for water and nutrients with the chrysanthemum flowers.
Watering Needs
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. requires a moderate amount of water, especially during its growing season. The soil should be kept uniformly moist, but not waterlogged.
During the hotter months, make sure to irrigate the plant frequently and evade the soil from drying out. If possible, try to avoid wetting the plant’s leaves, which can attract pests and diseases.
Overhead watering should be alternated with drip irrigation, which is more water-efficient as it releases water gradually and reduces the possibility of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
It is necessary to fertilize Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. properly to encourage its growth and development. Opt for a balanced fertilizer once every 2-3 weeks during the active growing period only.
After transplanting the plant, wait at least a month before beginning to fertilize. Start with a slow-release 10-10-10 fertilizer, increasing it to a 20-20-20 in the active growing period.
Make sure not to over fertilize as it can lead to too much foliage growth and fewer flowers.
Pruning
To promote bushy growth and encourage more flower production, Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. should be pruned back in the late spring or summer.
When the plants have reached a height of about six inches, you should pinch back the tip of each stem about an inch. This will stimulate branching, which will result in a fuller plant with more flowers.
You should also remove any weak, thin, or diseased-looking stems as soon as you see them. This will keep the plant healthy and visually attractive.
Propagation of Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb.
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb., also known as the smooth chrysanthemum, is typically propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. should be sown in well-draining soil in late winter or early spring. The seeds should be scattered on the surface of moist soil and covered lightly with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds should germinate within 14 to 21 days.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings should be taken in late spring from healthy, mature plants that have not yet flowered. The cuttings should be 3 to 4 inches long and taken from the tips of the stems. Remove the leaves on the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep moist. After about 2 to 3 weeks, the cutting should have rooted and be ready to transplant.
Propagation through Division
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. can also be propagated through division. This should be done in early spring or after flowering in the fall. Gently dig up the plant and separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least one shoot and a good root system. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Disease Management for Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb.
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. can be affected by various fungal and bacterial diseases, which can significantly damage the crops. Here are some common diseases that affect Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. and their management strategies:
Botrytis Blight
Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that causes the leaves and flowers to become water-soaked and wilted. Grey mold spots may also appear on the affected parts. To manage Botrytis blight, it is recommended to remove the infected parts immediately and avoid overcrowding the plants to ensure good air circulation. Chemical fungicides can also be used to prevent this disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white powdery coating on leaves, resulting in stunted growth and chlorosis. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to provide proper air circulation to reduce humidity levels. Chemical fungicides can also help control the disease, but it is important to apply them before the disease becomes severe.
Verticillium Wilt
Verticillium wilt is a vascular disease that causes plant death. The leaves wilt, turn yellow, and become necrotic. The vascular system of the plant is affected, leading to wilted branches. One way to manage Verticillium wilt is to dispose of infected plants immediately. Crop rotation is also a vital strategy for preventing the spread of this disease.
Pest Management for Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb.
Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. can be susceptible to a range of insect pests that can cause severe damage to the crops. Here are some common pests that affect Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. and their management strategies:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing the plants to wilt and deform. The best way to manage aphids is to prevent their occurrence by checking for infestations regularly. Natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to control their populations. Chemical insecticides can be used, but only as a last resort.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on the flowers of Chrysanthemum glabratum Thunb. causing petals to become discolored and distorted. Controlling thrips can be challenging, but it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil since they are effective in controlling thrips populations.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are sap-sucking pests that cause leaves to become discolored and wilted. They also produce fine webs, which can cover affected plants. Natural predators such as predatory mites can help manage spider mite populations. Introducing plants that repel spider mites, such as lemongrass, can also be an effective strategy. Chemical treatments such as insecticidal soap or oil can also be used to control spider mites.
