Chrysanthemum Witch

The Chrysanthemum variety 'Witch' is a Korean late-blooming culture that is distinguished by its high decorative value and cold resistance. Bushes reach a height of 55-70 cm, have upright and leafy stems that do not tend to flop over. Blooming begins at the end of September and continues until the first frosts, during which 110 to 150 bright semi-double inflorescences with a diameter of about 5 cm form on one bush. The flowers of milky-white shade with a yellow-green center do not shed, which makes the plant especially attractive in the autumn period when most other flowers have already faded. The 'Witch' variety is distinguished by high winter hardiness and can withstand the first frosts without damage, which allows it to be grown without shelter in a moderate climate. The plant is widely used in landscape design both in monocultures and in combination with other perennials, for example, with creeping thyme, which blooms earlier. To maintain decorativeness, it is recommended to cut the stems for winter, apply fertilizers, and cover the bushes with a small layer of peat or manure. Repotting is necessary every 3-4 years to avoid deterioration of flowering quality and loss of color brightness. For successful cultivation of the 'Witch' chrysanthemum, it is preferable to choose sunny areas with well-drained soil. Planting is better done in spring on a cloudy day. After planting, moderate application of nitrogen fertilizers is recommended, and in August, watering should be reduced to prepare the plant for flowering. Bush shaping is usually not required, although individual shoots that grow higher than the rest can be pinched to maintain a compact and lush shape. Pruning is carried out in spring to stimulate growth and improve the crown. Such care ensures abundant and prolonged flowering, making the 'Witch' chrysanthemum a wonderful decoration of the autumn garden.