Hardy Garden 'Korean' Varieties

Hardy garden chrysanthemums have been grown in UK gardens in one form or another for well over 100 years. Although widely known as 'Korean' or 'Rubellum' Chrysanthemums these names are, strictly speaking, trade names of specific crosses with wild species.

Hardy chrysanthemums are as easy to grow as the majority of border perennials. They will do well in a well-drained, sunny border where the soil has been well prepared. A general fertiliser applied each spring is all that is needed in the way of feeding.

On receipt of your plug plants, pot them into a 9cm (3.5inch) pot and grow on for around three weeks or until roots can be seen at the bottom of the pot. When the plants are around 23cm (9 inches) high, pinch the growing tip out to encourage bushier growth. After the danger of frost has passed, they will then be ready to plant into the garden, in a well prepared border. Space the plants 40cm (16 inches) apart and water well until the plants are established. Some staking may be needed.

After flowering, cut the top growth down and apply a light mulch of organic material. As with all chrysanthemums, it is not the cold that kills them, but the wet; so ensure that they are planted in well-drained soil.

Every two to three years, in May, to prevent overcrowding, lift and split the clumps. Retain the strongest portions and replant them, as above.

As the plants come back into growth in the spring, be aware of slug damage and control as necessary.