Overview
Dendranthema morifolium, also known as chrysanthemum or mum, is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to Asia and is commonly grown for its ornamental value as well as its medicinal properties.
Appearance
Chrysanthemums are herbaceous perennial plants that typically grow up to 1-3 feet tall. They have deeply lobed leaves that are green in color and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are typically large and daisy-like, with petals that can be white, yellow, pink, red, or purple. The center of the flower is made up of disk florets that are yellow or brown in color.
Uses
Chrysanthemums have been used for various medicinal purposes in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The flowers and leaves of the plant contain bioactive compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. They are also believed to have a calming effect on the body and have been used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other related conditions.
In addition to their medicinal uses, chrysanthemums are commonly grown as ornamental plants in gardens and also used in floral arrangements. They are popular as cut flowers due to their long vase life and come in a wide range of colors and shapes, making them a popular choice for décor.
Common Names
The common name 'chrysanthemum' comes from the Greek words 'chrysos' meaning gold and 'anthemom' meaning flower. The plant is also commonly referred to as 'mum' or 'chrysanths' in some regions. In China, it is known as 'juhua' and is highly valued for its medicinal properties and cultural significance.
Light Requirements
The Dendranthema morifolium (Ramat.) Tzvelev plant thrives in bright light conditions. However, direct sunlight may harm the plant and its flowers. Therefore, it is best to provide the plant with bright, indirect light. To achieve this, place the plant near a window but ensure that it is not placed directly in the line of sun rays.
Temperature Requirements
The Dendranthema morifolium (Ramat.) Tzvelev plant prefers cooler temperatures, especially during the night. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 10 and 21 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above 21 degrees Celsius may cause the leaves to wilt while temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius may slow down growth and even lead to frost damage.
Soil Requirements
The Dendranthema morifolium (Ramat.) Tzvelev plant grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. The ideal soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 7.0. It is crucial to avoid overwatering the plant as this may lead to root rot. Therefore, it is advisable to allow the soil to dry slightly before watering the plant again. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and drainage.
Cultivation methods
Dendranthema morifolium, also known as chrysanthemum, is a herbaceous perennial plant that can reach a height of up to 1 meter. It thrives in well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. Ideal temperature for its cultivation varies from 15 to 21 degree Celsius. While planting care must be taken to avoid waterlogging since that can lead to root rotting and even plant death. The ideal time for planting is in spring or early summer.
Watering needs
Chrysanthemums require regular watering to maintain a healthy life. The plant needs moderate watering in the initial stage to prevent waterlogging. One can water the plant once or twice in a week based on the local climate. Overwatering can lead to the rot of roots, and underwatering can lead to the drying of the plant. One can check the soil moisture content by sticking a finger into the soil. If it feels dry at the top, it's time to water.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, the plant must be fed with nitrogen-rich fertilizer in the early growing stage. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium (N.P.K) can be added twice a month. It is crucial to ensure that the plant is adequately fed with enough nutrients, but too much fertilizer can lead to the burning of the roots.
Pruning
To make the plant bushier and promote more flowers to bloom, one must pinch off the top layer of buds. This process is called disbudding. It is essential to prune the plant regularly by removing the wilted flowers and cutting off the dead/diseased leaves to avoid the spread of disease.
Propagation of Dendranthema morifolium (Ramat.) Tzvelev
Dendranthema morifolium (Ramat.) Tzvelev, commonly known as chrysanthemum, is a widely cultivated flowering plant. It is known for its colorful and attractive flowers that bloom in autumn.
There are several methods of propagating Dendranthema morifolium. These methods include:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Dendranthema morifolium is through seeds. The seeds are small and can be sown directly in the soil or in seed trays. It is best to sow the seeds in spring or early summer. The seeds take around 3-4 weeks to germinate.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Dendranthema morifolium. It involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in new pots or the ground. Division is best done in spring or early summer.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way to propagate Dendranthema morifolium. The cuttings are taken from the stem of the parent plant and planted in a rooting medium such as soil or sand. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they develop roots. Cuttings are usually taken in early summer.
In conclusion, Dendranthema morifolium can be propagated through seeds, division, or cuttings. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method depends on the grower's preferences and resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Dendranthema Morifolium
Dendranthema morifolium, commonly known as chrysanthemum or mum, is a popular ornamental plant grown for its attractive flowers. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to different diseases and pests. Here are a few common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Gray mold: Gray mold or Botrytis cinerea is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stem, and flowers of the plant. Infected plants show grayish-brown powdery masses on the affected areas. To manage gray mold, prune and discard infected plant parts and ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering and apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Mum yellow mosaic: Mum yellow mosaic is a viral disease that affects the leaves of the plant. Infected plants have yellow mottled leaves with stunted growth. The virus is spread by sap-sucking insects such as aphids. To control the disease, remove and destroy infected plants and control the population of the vectors using insecticides.
Root rot: Root rot is a common fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, leading to wilting and death of the plant. It is caused by poorly-drained soil and overwatering. To prevent root rot, plant the chrysanthemums in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Remove and destroy infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing wilting and deformation of leaves and flowers. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphids.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that cause yellowing and browning of leaves, leading to the death of the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Repeat the process every few days until the population reduces. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the stems of the plant, causing wilting and death. To manage cutworms, handpick and destroy them or apply insecticides around the stem base of the plant.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can ensure healthy and thriving chrysanthemum plants.
