Help with Chrysanthemums

Question

I planted mums last fall and they sprouted up this year as mammoth size plants toppling over. They look very healthy (too early for blooms, yet) but if they grow back next year how can I keep them a little more tidy so that they don't take over my flower bed? It's important to note that I'm a complete gardening beginner.

Answer 1

get 4 canes place round and use string foliage will cover contraption

Answer 2

pinch them back intermittently early in the summer to promote sturdy, bushier growth.

Answer 3

Mums benefit from regular pinching or light pruning during the growing season. This makes the plants more compact and results in more bloom.

Don't start now though - it is now too late and you would sacrifice flowers. Just stake the plants as best you can.

See source for more info on growing and maintaining chrysanthemums.