For information on chrysanthemum pests and diseases consult HGIC 2101, Chrysanthemum Problems . Mature plants set in a shady area will give nice color the first year but do very poorly the following year. The right amount of water is vital to success with chrysanthemums. Too little water will slow their growth or stop it completely. Mums especially need plenty of water when they bloom.
Mums are heavy feeders.
A weekly application of soluble fertilizer is a good practice. Mulch will help retain soil moisture, control weeds and improve appearance. Chrysanthemums can be planted in the fall or in early spring. Spring planted mums will give a more robust, full plant for the fall landscape. Pinch the tip growth of spring-planted mums regularly to cause them to branch and bloom well.