What to Feed Chrysanthemums

Feeding chrysanthemums correctly is the key to producing healthy plants with strong stems and brilliant flowers. These long-flowering perennials have different nutritional needs during growth, budding, and flowering. By adjusting what you feed them at each stage, you can maximise colour, bloom size, and longevity. This guide explains exactly what fertilisers to use and when to apply them.

Balanced Feeding for Growth

In spring and early summer, chrysanthemums need a balanced fertiliser to establish strong roots and lush green foliage. A complete feed such as
NPK 20-20-20 Plant Fertiliser supplies equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This balance encourages steady growth and builds plant resilience, setting the stage for flowering later in the season. Apply every 3–4 weeks, watering in well after each application.

Nutrients for Stem Strength

Strong stems are essential to support heavy blooms. Regular feeding with a balanced fertiliser during the growth stage strengthens cell walls and prevents weak, floppy stems. Consistent watering at the base also helps transport nutrients effectively, reducing plant stress and ensuring they can support the upcoming flowering load.

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Bloom-Boosting Fertilisers

As chrysanthemums shift from leafy growth to bud production in late summer, their nutrient requirements change. At this point, they benefit from fertilisers high in phosphorus and potassium. The
Advanced Formula NPK 4-18-38 + Calcium & Magnesium is ideal. Phosphorus supports strong flower initiation, while potassium improves colour and extends bloom life. Calcium and magnesium enhance stem durability and petal quality.

Feeding Frequency and Technique

During the bloom stage, apply a flower-promoting fertiliser every 2–3 weeks until flowering ends. Always feed at the soil level, avoiding wetting leaves and flowers to reduce fungal risk. Combine feeding with mulching and deep watering for best results. Over-fertilising should be avoided, as too much nitrogen at this stage produces excess foliage at the expense of flowers.

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Seasonal Feeding Strategy

Think of chrysanthemum feeding as a cycle: balanced nutrition in spring and summer for growth, followed by bloom-focused feeding in late summer and autumn for flowers. After flowering, reduce fertiliser and cut back plants, allowing them to rest before resuming the cycle in spring. With the right feeding program, chrysanthemums will return stronger and more colourful each year.

FAQs – What to Feed Chrysanthemums

What fertiliser is best for growth? NPK 20-20-20 supports roots, stems, and foliage.
What should I feed for flowers? Switch to NPK 4-18-38 + CaMg when buds form for colour and bloom size.
How often should I feed mums? Every 3–4 weeks in growth, then every 2–3 weeks during flowering.
Can I overfeed chrysanthemums? Yes, too much nitrogen causes leafy growth instead of flowers.
Do potted mums need feeding? Absolutely, as nutrients wash out faster in pots than in garden soil.