Although there are over one hundred varieties of chrysanthemum, they may be the easiest perennial to grow. Due to the large variety, it is possible to find any combination of color, height, flower size, and time of bloom that you desire. Although chrysanthemums may be the easiest perennial to grow, following these few guidelines will improve the bloom. For outdoor culture, plants may be propagated by cuttings of the stem, by division of the crown, and some varieties from seeds. Cuttings are easy to grow and the method requires no more special attention than most other plants. Stem cutting should be; taken early in the season when the plant has reached the height of four or five inches. The distance between plants varies with type, but ordinarily 18 to 24 inches will give sufficient space. The depth of the plants should be such that the soil comes to the top of the crown of roots. Always water plants well immediately after setting. Chrysanthemums can be started as seeds, cuttings, divisions, or purchased at a nursery as bedding plants up to gallon sized plants. They should be planted into well prepared, fertile, sandy soil. They resent "wet feet" so the hole should be dug deeply. When choosing a site for you chrysanthemums, make sure that there is light shade to full sun. Since Chrysanthemums are shallow rooted and garner all of their water from the top six inches of the soil, it is important that the site selected has soil that drains well. I would recommend that you not grow your mums in the same spot for more than three consecutive years to help prevent disease and pest problems.
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