Here are some essential tips for growing chrysanthemums indoors, presented from the perspective of the plant's own needs and biological functions.
As a photoperiodic plant, my flowering is directly triggered by the shortening daylight hours of autumn. To thrive indoors, I require an abundance of bright, indirect light to fuel my photosynthesis. A south or west-facing window is ideal. Without at least 5-6 hours of this strong light daily, my stems will become weak and leggy as I stretch searching for the sun, and my flower bud production will significantly diminish. Please do not place me in deep shade; it stifles my energy production.
I prefer conditions that mimic a crisp autumn day. Temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day are perfect for supporting my metabolic processes and prolonging my bloom time. I am highly sensitive to heat and ethylene gas. Please keep me away from heat sources like radiators, vents, or appliances, and also away from ripening fruit. Excessive heat will cause my buds to drop and my flowers to wilt rapidly, significantly shortening my display.
My roots demand consistent moisture but absolutely cannot sit in waterlogged soil, which suffocates them and leads to fatal root rot. Water me thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, allowing excess water to drain completely from the pot's base. This cycle ensures my cells remain full and turgid (supporting my structure) without drowning my root system. Avoid letting my soil dry out completely, as this will cause me to wilt and stress, potentially dropping buds and flowers.
Indoor heating can create an arid environment that is stressful for me. Low humidity accelerates water loss through my leaves (transpiration), leading to crispy leaf tips and brown edges. To help me, you can place my pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensuring the pot is not sitting directly in the water) or occasionally mist the area around me. This boosts local humidity, allowing my stomata to function properly without losing water too quickly.
After my flowers fade, the energy-intensive blooming period has left me exhausted. I need to redirect my energy to my roots and leaves. Please cut back my stems to about 6 inches. This pruning signals me to focus on vegetative growth rather than trying to sustain spent blooms. I may then enter a period of dormancy. I require less water during this time but still need light. With proper care, I can be encouraged to bloom again, though it often requires precise control over light exposure to simulate the shorter days of fall.
