The Missouri Botanical Garden, often referred to as MOBOT, is a 79-acre botanical oasis located in St. Louis, Missouri. It is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States, attracting over 750,000 visitors annually with its dazzling displays of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world. Tonight, we shine the spotlight on one of its most stunning attractions: the Chrysanthemum Show.
A highlight of the MOBOT's autumn season, the Chrysanthemum Show is a breathtaking display of over 5,000 chrysanthemums, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors and intricate bloom forms. This annual event is a testament to the garden's commitment to showcasing natural beauty and cultivating public appreciation for plant diversity.
The History of Chrysanthemums
The chrysanthemum is one of the world's oldest cultivated flowers, with a history that dates back to China over 2,500 years ago. It was first cultivated for consumption, with its leaves and roots being used for a variety of uses, including a cure for headaches, relief from liver ailments, and even as a treatment for frenzied or confused states of mind.
The chrysanthemum's journey west began during the Han Dynasty when the flower was cultivated for its seeds, used for medicine and as a component of the famous "Four Gentlemen" floral arrangement alongside bamboo, plum blossoms, and orchids.
Chrysanthemum Types: Old World vs. New World
The two primary classifications of chrysanthemums are Old World and New World. Old World types, popular in Japan and Europe, are known for their delicate, pompon-like blooms and wide variety of colors. They were the first to find their way to North America in the 1700s via European settlers. American growers began domesticating chrysanthemums in the mid-1800s, resulting in the hardy, showy blooms we recognize today as New World types.
New World chrysanthemums, also known as hardy or garden mums, are characterized by their large, well-structured blooms and ability to thrive in North America's variable climates. The Missouri Botanical Garden focuses on cultivating these hardy varieties, with many developed in-house by their expert horticulturists.
Chrysanthemum Care and Cultivation
Native to Asia and Eastern Europe, chrysanthemums thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5-9, making them a popular choice for home gardeners. They prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade, and well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Proper watering and spacing, along with adequate air circulation, are crucial for preventing diseases and promoting healthy growth.
To encourage bushy growth and increased blooming, pinch back young plants in early spring and again in late June to early July. Regular Composting or fertilizer application also promotes robust, colorful blooms. With the appropriate care, chrysanthemums can provide weeks of stunning floral display, from early fall to the first hard freeze.
The Missouri Botanical Garden's Chrysanthemum Show
The Missouri Botanical Garden's annual Chrysanthemum Show is a testament to the garden's horticultural expertise and commitment to showcasing the natural world's beauty. The show typically opens in late September and runs through early November, with displays changing throughout the season as different varieties reach peak bloom.
Visitors can enjoy the show's centerpiece, the Floral Clock, an intricate arrangement of thousands of chrysanthemums forming a nearly 20-foot-diameter clock face. Surrounding the clock are themed gardens, displaying cutting-edge design concepts and showcasing the garden's commitment to sustainable gardening practices.
Chrysanthemum Show Events and Activities
In addition to the breathtaking displays, the Chrysanthemum Show offers a variety of educational and interactive activities for visitors of all ages. Horticultural presentations and workshops provide opportunities to learn about chrysanthemum care and cultivation from the experts. Kids can enjoy craft activities and interactive games, while the whole family can participate in "Flower sweater" planting events.
Don't miss the stunning "Antique Chrysanthemum Show," where historic varieties are showcased, offering a glimpse into the chrysanthemum's past and the Missouri Botanical Garden's role in preserving horticultural history.
The Missouri Botanical Garden's Chrysanthemum Show is more than just a flower display—it's an immersive, educational experience that celebrates the beauty and diversity of one of the world's oldest cultivated flowers. Whether you're a horticultural enthusiast or simply looking for a chance to enjoy the great outdoors, autumn is the perfect time to visit MOBOT and indulge in the enchanting spectacle of the Chrysanthemum Show. Plan your visit today and prepare to be amazed by the incredible power of plants to inspire and delight.