Learn how to grow Chrysanthemums from seed. These perennial plants regularly undergo name changes, and may be listed as Chrysanthemum, Leucanthemum, Pyrethrum, or Tanacetum.

Latin
Shasta daisy: Leucanthemum x superbum & Painted daisy: Chrysanthemum coccineum
Family: Asteraceae

Difficulty
Easy

Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun
Zone: Leucanthemum is hardy to Zone 3, but most are grown as annuals.

Timing
Start indoors in late winter to mid-spring, and transplant or direct sow starting around late May. They can also be direct sown in mid-September to October.

Starting
Sow seeds on the surface of a sterilized starting soil. Provide bright light and use bottom heat to keep soil at 18-21°C (65-70°F). Seeds will germinate in 10-14 days. Space transplants at 25-45cm (8-18″) apart.

Growing
Grow in a rich, well-drained, evenly moist soil in full sun. Good drainage in winter is essential. Pinch back young plants to keep them bushy. Deadhead regularly. Taller plants may require staking.

Companion Planting
White flowering mums repel Japanese beetles.

More on Companion Planting.