FFA Floriculture Practice Test

What type of environment is required for chrysanthemums to produce flowers?

1. Long day photoperiod

2. Short day photoperiod

3. Consistent temperature

4. High humidity

The correct answer is: Short day photoperiod

Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are classified as short-day plants, meaning they require shorter periods of light each day in order to trigger the flowering process. Typically, this involves a photoperiod of less than 12 hours of daylight. When the light duration is reduced, it signals to the plant that it is time to flower. In a controlled environment, growers often reduce the light exposure to achieve the desired blooming cycle for chrysanthemums. This characteristic makes them particularly interesting for cultivation during late summer and fall when shorter days are naturally occurring. The significance of the short day photoperiod in chrysanthemum cultivation is crucial, as it directly influences the timing and quality of the flowers produced, making it essential for growers to manage their lighting conditions effectively. While consistent temperature and humidity can affect plant growth and health, they do not specifically trigger the flowering process in chrysanthemums. High humidity levels can support overall plant vitality but are not directly related to inducing flowering. Thus, understanding the short-day requirement is key to successful chrysanthemum cultivation.