How to Grow Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum
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Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum × morifolium 'Patricia Ballard'
flowerPatricia Ballard is a classic garden chrysanthemum cultivar prized for its vibrant red-pink double flowers and exceptional hardiness. This hardy mum produces abundant blooms in fall and is one of the most reliable perennial chrysanthemums for northern gardens. It's an excellent choice for cut flowers, borders, and reliable seasonal color.
When should you plant Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum in your zone?
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Example Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum
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 Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8; extremely cold-hardy for a chrysanthemum
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Get my Patricia Ballard Chrysanthemum timeline →Growth Stages
Spring Emergence
4-6 weeksNew shoots emerge from dormant roots in spring; bushy growth begins with soft green foliage
Divide mature clumps in early spring if desired. Ensure good drainage to prevent crown rot. Begin regular watering as growth accelerates.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant develops full bushy form with multiple stems and feathery green foliage; no flowers yet
Pinch back stem tips every 2-3 weeks until mid-July to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer. Space properly for air circulation.
Budding
3-4 weeksFlower buds begin to form at stem tips in response to shortening day length; plant looks compact
Stop pinching after July 15. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer; switch to phosphorus-rich formula to support blooming. Keep soil consistently moist.
Flowering
4-6 weeksAbundant double flowers in red-pink tones open progressively from bud; peak bloom in October-November
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Provide staking if needed for very full plants. Reduce watering slightly but maintain soil moisture.
Winter Dormancy
12-16 weeksFoliage dies back after frost; plant goes completely dormant below ground
Cut stems back to 2-3 inches after freeze. Optional: apply 2-3 inches of mulch for extra winter protection in zone 3-4. Reduce watering dramatically.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; provide adequate spacing for air circulation
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Wash off with strong water spray; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
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Yellow sticky traps; neem oil; ensure good air circulation around plants
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Avoid overhead watering; improve air circulation; apply sulfur or potassium bicarbonate; severe cases may require fungicide
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Ensure excellent drainage; don't overwater; divide plants every 2-3 years to rejuvenate; remove affected plants
Uses
Tea and edible flowers
CulinaryChrysanthemum flowers can be dried and brewed into a mild, slightly sweet tea with traditional use in Chinese medicine for cooling properties. Some petals are edible and add color to salads. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalLong used in Asian traditional medicine, particularly in China and Japan, for its purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Often consumed as a tea to support eye health and reduce heat-related symptoms. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
HouseholdPatricia Ballard produces abundant long-stemmed flowers perfect for fresh bouquets, fall arrangements, and floral displays. Exceptional vase life makes it a florist favorite for both professional and home arrangements. [source]
Flower drying and pressing
CraftFlowers dry exceptionally well for use in dried arrangements, pressed flower crafts, and herbal projects. Their sturdy structure and vibrant color retention make them ideal for preservation. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeProvides essential late-season nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators during fall when few other flowers are blooming. Valuable food source during migration periods. [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 in early morning when stems are most turgid. Cut just above a leaf node to a length of 12-18 inches. Remove lower foliage below water line in vase. Patricia Ballard makes an excellent long-lasting cut flower (7-10 days in water). For garden displays, pinch off spent flower heads to encourage more blooms. Plants can be divided every 2-3 years in spring for propagation.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Patricia Ballard was bred in England and introduced in 1928; it remains one of the most cold-hardy chrysanthemum cultivars available, surviving in zone 3 with proper care—exceptional for a tender-leaning genus.
- 🌱 Chrysanthemums are the national flower of Japan and China; Patricia Ballard is classified as a 'Hardy Garden Mum' due to its exceptional winter survival compared to florist mums bred for indoor cultivation.
- 🌱 The name 'morifolium' in the scientific name means 'with leaves like a partridge'—referring to the fine, feathery foliage structure that characterizes this species and its cultivars like Patricia Ballard.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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