Troubleshooting
Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Mound' problems — and how to fix them
Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Mound' (Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Mound') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Aphids
Clusters on new shoot tips in spring; blast off with water or treat with insecticidal soap.
Powdery mildew
White coating on leaves in humid, still conditions; improve air flow and avoid overhead watering.
Leaf miners
Pale sinuous trails in leaf tissue; remove and destroy affected leaves promptly.
Crown rot
Caused by waterlogged winter soil; ensure sharp drainage and lift/divide congested clumps every 2-3 years.
Earwig damage
Ragged holes in petals and leaves overnight; trap in rolled damp newspaper placed near the plant.
Prevent chrysanthemum 'ruby mound' problems before they start
Most chrysanthemum 'ruby mound' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Chrysanthemum 'Ruby Mound' problems — FAQ
Why is my chrysanthemum 'ruby mound' aphids?
Clusters on new shoot tips in spring; blast off with water or treat with insecticidal soap.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'ruby mound' powdery mildew?
White coating on leaves in humid, still conditions; improve air flow and avoid overhead watering.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'ruby mound' leaf miners?
Pale sinuous trails in leaf tissue; remove and destroy affected leaves promptly.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'ruby mound' crown rot?
Caused by waterlogged winter soil; ensure sharp drainage and lift/divide congested clumps every 2-3 years.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'ruby mound' earwig damage?
Ragged holes in petals and leaves overnight; trap in rolled damp newspaper placed near the plant.