The Golden Ball Chrysanthemum, with its distinctive spherical blooms, is a vibrant addition to any garden. This guide provides information on cultivating and maintaining these plants.
Understanding Golden Ball Chrysanthemum
Golden Ball Chrysanthemum (Tanacetum parthenium ‘Golden Ball’ or Chrysanthemum multicaule) is known for its nearly spherical, densely packed, vibrant golden-yellow blooms. These compact plants typically reach 25 to 45 cm (10 to 18 inches) tall and spread 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 inches) wide.
This variety blooms from mid-summer through mid-fall. Often described as a short-lived herbaceous perennial in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 to 9, it can self-sow.
Essential Care for Golden Ball Chrysanthemum
Consistent care helps Golden Ball Chrysanthemums thrive and produce abundant blooms.
Light Requirements
For optimal blooming and vigorous growth, select a site with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While they tolerate light shade, full sun promotes the most vibrant flower production. Insufficient light can lead to pale foliage and leggy growth.
Soil and Planting
These chrysanthemums prefer well-drained, fertile soil. Amending the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure before planting improves both drainage and nutrient content. An ideal soil pH for chrysanthemums ranges from slightly acidic to neutral, typically between 6.0 and 7.0. When planting, space individual plants about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) apart to allow for proper development and air circulation.
Watering Needs
Maintain consistent soil moisture, as they do not tolerate waterlogging. Water deeply at the base to avoid wetting foliage, which helps prevent fungal diseases. During dry periods, increase watering frequency. While they tolerate some drought, regular watering promotes continuous growth and flowering.
Fertilization and Feeding
Golden Ball Chrysanthemums benefit from regular feeding to support their vigorous growth and prolific flowering. Apply a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formulation, once or twice during the growing season. Begin fertilization in spring after the risk of frost has passed and new growth emerges, continuing monthly until mid-July or when flower buds start to form. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds once buds appear, as this can encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and Deadheading
Pinching back the plant early in the season encourages bushier growth and a more compact form, preventing leggy stems. When new shoots are 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) tall, pinch off the top, leaving two to three leaves on the shoot. Continue this pinching every two to three weeks until mid-July. Regularly deadhead spent blooms by removing faded flowers to redirect the plant’s energy into producing new flowers and to maintain a tidy appearance.
Overwintering Golden Ball Chrysanthemum
To help Golden Ball Chrysanthemums survive winter dormancy in colder climates, prepare them for overwintering.
Overwintering Outdoors
In USDA Hardiness Zones 5 and warmer, perennial chrysanthemums can remain outdoors through winter. After the ground freezes, spread a 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inch) layer of mulch around the plant to insulate the roots.
Overwintering Indoors
In extremely cold regions, or for plants in containers, consider overwintering them indoors. After the first frost in the fall, carefully lift the plants, retaining as much of the root ball as possible, and pot them. Store these potted plants in a cool, dark, and frost-free location such as a basement or unheated garage. Keep the roots slightly damp by checking pots weekly, but avoid overwatering. In spring, once the risk of frost has passed, gradually reintroduce the plants to outdoor light before transplanting them back into the garden.
Troubleshooting Common Golden Ball Chrysanthemum Problems
Gardeners may encounter common issues when growing Golden Ball Chrysanthemums, which can typically be addressed.
Leggy Growth
One frequent concern is leggy growth, where stems become elongated and sparse. This often occurs due to insufficient light or a lack of proper pinching. Ensuring the plant receives full sun and consistently pinching back new growth in spring and early summer promotes a denser, more branched structure.
Pests and Diseases
Chrysanthemums are susceptible to common garden pests like aphids and spider mites. Regular foliage inspection aids early detection; insecticidal soap can control infestations. Maintaining good air circulation, through proper plant spacing, helps deter fungal diseases like powdery mildew by reducing humidity.