Photo: Aruna at Malayalam Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Florist’s chrysanthemum: when and how to prune
Chrysanthemum × morifolium
Florist’s chrysanthemum is best pruned in March and May–June.
| Pruning months | March and May–June |
|---|---|
| Flowering | September–November |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Florist’s chrysanthemum: when to prune it?
Only cut back the old stems in March, and pinch out the tips in May–June.
Florist’s chrysanthemum: how to prune it?
- Leave the spent stems over winter: they protect the heart of the plant from cold and wet.
- In March, when new shoots appear at the base, cut all old stems back to 5–10 cm above the ground.
- In May and June, pinch out the tips of the young shoots just above a leaf. Stop at the end of June, or it will flower too late.
- Remove spent flowers in autumn.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and May–June. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Florist’s chrysanthemum flowers in September–November, when it attracts bees.
Caution: Do not prune in autumn: a plant that goes into winter with its old stems survives better. Florist’s chrysanthemum is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Florist’s chrysanthemum · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.