Chrysanthemums are the quintessential fall plant.  In fact, they are the official plant of September.  Hardy, beautiful and versatile, chrysanthemums make an excellent potted plant indoors or a beautiful, thick perennial plant outdoors.  There are many varieties of chrysanthemums so you have many choices for colors, height and length to blooming. 

As long as there is no new growth, chrysanthemums can be planted outside while it is still frosting at night.  Mums with new growth need to be hardened off before planting.  To harden off a plant, put it outdoors in the warmest part of the day and gradually extend the time they are outside until they are used to the colder weather.  Do not put a mum with new leaves outside during freezing.

Chrysanthemums prefer lots of light and a well-nourished soil.  A fertile, sandy soil mixture is best, along with ample drainage to keep the chrysanthemum roots from becoming oversaturated.

To prevent pest issues, transplant your mums every three years to an entirely new location.  When you transplant them, also divide them, as this should be done every three to five years anyway.  You can propagate new plants from the divided ones and use them as gifts, to sell at farmers markets, or to start new chrysanthemum beds at your home.

Chrysanthemum plants are so beautiful and delicate; it is hard to believe they are also so easy to care for.  When you are looking for an easy perennial to add a multitude of rich, vibrant colors to your landscaping, consider the hardy chrysanthemum.