Troubleshooting
Chrysanthemum 'Will's Wonderful' problems — and how to fix them
Chrysanthemum 'Will's Wonderful' (Chrysanthemum 'Will's Wonderful') 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
Congregate on growing tips and under leaves; treat early with insecticidal soap to prevent distorted blooms.
Capsid bug
Puncture young foliage leaving ragged holes; more common in open borders — use a systemic insecticide if severe.
Powdery mildew
Especially prevalent in hot, dry spells; improve air circulation and water consistently at the root zone.
Petal blight (Botrytis)
Ruins show blooms in wet autumns; protect flowers under cover as they develop.
Crown rot
Overwinter stools in frost-free, just-moist conditions to prevent rot; restart in fresh compost in spring.
Prevent chrysanthemum 'will's wonderful' problems before they start
Most chrysanthemum 'will's wonderful' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Chrysanthemum 'Will's Wonderful' problems — FAQ
Why is my chrysanthemum 'will's wonderful' aphids?
Congregate on growing tips and under leaves; treat early with insecticidal soap to prevent distorted blooms.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'will's wonderful' capsid bug?
Puncture young foliage leaving ragged holes; more common in open borders — use a systemic insecticide if severe.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'will's wonderful' powdery mildew?
Especially prevalent in hot, dry spells; improve air circulation and water consistently at the root zone.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'will's wonderful' petal blight (botrytis)?
Ruins show blooms in wet autumns; protect flowers under cover as they develop.
Why is my chrysanthemum 'will's wonderful' crown rot?
Overwinter stools in frost-free, just-moist conditions to prevent rot; restart in fresh compost in spring.