The chrysanthemum provides lots of fall color, in many flower styles. Garden mums, the most common and most available type, were for years considered perennials, returning year after year.
The last 20 years have seen many new hybrids in lots of colors and with improved bloom length up to several weeks.
The only problem is that many of new garden mums die off in winter. The Perennial Plant Association of America has now removed the garden mum from the cold-hardy perennial list. It lists all mums as annuals that, like geraniums, must be planted anew every year.
The most colorful and long-lasting garden mums are known as "Blue Ribbon Blooms." They are now available at retail outlets.
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