How to Grow November Pink
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November Pink
Chrysanthemum × morifolium 'November Pink'
flowerNovember Pink is a hardy garden mum cultivar known for its soft pink blooms that typically flower in late autumn. This perennial chrysanthemum produces full, daisy-like flowers on sturdy stems and is a popular choice for fall gardens and seasonal arrangements. It's valued for its reliable blooming schedule and ability to thrive in cooler temperatures.
When should you plant November Pink in your zone?
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Example November Pink timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant November Pink
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First November Pink blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact November Pink dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Hardy in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Establishment
2-3 weeksYoung transplants with developing root systems and initial leaf growth
Keep soil moist; provide shade for first week if transplanted in hot weather; pinch back tips at 6 inches tall to encourage bushy growth
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and dense foliage; leaves are deeply lobed and feathery
Continue pinching back stems until late July/early August to promote branching and more flowers; apply balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks
Bud Formation
3-4 weeksFlower buds begin to form at stem tips; plant shows reduced vegetative growth
Stop pinching; reduce nitrogen fertilizer and switch to phosphorus-rich formula to encourage blooming; maintain consistent watering
Dormancy
5-6 monthsAfter flowering, foliage dies back or becomes dormant; plant enters winter rest period
Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around base for winter protection; cut back dead stems in spring; water sparingly over winter
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe; ensure adequate humidity
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Spray with strong water stream; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects
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Improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; apply sulfur dust or fungicide if needed; remove affected leaves
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Remove affected leaves; improve drainage and air circulation; apply copper fungicide if severe
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; apply neem oil for persistent infestations
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryChrysanthemum flowers are traditionally used in Asian cuisine, particularly in China and Japan, where petals are dried for tea or used as garnish. The flowers have a slightly bitter, peppery flavor and are believed to have cooling properties. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalChrysanthemums have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to cool the liver, clear the eyes, and reduce inflammation. The flower is believed to have detoxifying and immune-boosting properties. [source]
Fall Decorations & Floral Arrangements
HouseholdNovember Pink mums are quintessential autumn flowers, widely used for seasonal home decoration, cemetery arrangements, and cut flower displays. Their long vase life and abundant blooms make them practical and economical for seasonal decorating. [source]
Flower Pressing & Preservation
CraftMum petals and small flowers can be pressed for crafts, herbariums, and decorative projects. The flat daisy-like structure makes them ideal for preservation and framing. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeLate-blooming mums provide crucial nectar and pollen sources for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators in autumn when few other flowers are available. The accessible flower structure makes them excellent for beneficial insects preparing for winter. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers for arrangements when blooms are fully open; cut stems early in the morning for longer vase life; remove lower leaves before placing in water; change water every 2-3 days; vase life is typically 2-3 weeks
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Chrysanthemums are the national flower of Japan and symbolize joy and optimism; in the U.S., they became associated with fall and are the second most popular flower after roses
- 🌱 November Pink and other mum varieties were developed through extensive breeding programs in the 20th century; modern garden mums are hybrids optimized for specific bloom times
- 🌱 Mums have natural pest-repellent properties; pyrethrin, an organic pesticide, is derived from chrysanthemum flowers and is one of the safest natural insecticides available
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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