How to Care for a Chrysanthemum in the Southern States

Place your chrysanthemums in an area that receives full sunlight, either in the ground or in a pot. Although the plants will live in partial sunlight or shade, they may not bloom. If the flowers are planted in the ground, the soil should be dark and well-draining.

Spread a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base of the chrysanthemums but keep it at least 1 inch away from the base of each plant. Mulch conserves soil moisture in the hot southern summers and reduces the frequency of water application.

Water the soil under the chrysanthemums to a 3-inch depth at least once a week. During the summer months when temperatures rise in the south, water mums every two to three days to keep the soil consistently damp. Monitor the leaves regularly for wilting, which means the plant requires water immediately.

Fertilize your chrysanthemums once a month with a general-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer, such as 10-10-10.

Prune the stems of your chrysanthemums once a month from early spring through the beginning of July to encourage branching and lush foliage. For extreme southern states or coastal areas, continue pruning until early August. Cut 1 inch off the tips of all stems with pruning shears.

Examine the leaves and stems regularly for signs of mildew or fungus, the most common of which are rust, powdery mildew, blight and gray mold. If any white, gray or black spots are detected, pull off the infected plant portions and discard them. Spray your chrysanthemum thoroughly with a fungicide until all plant surfaces are wet.