Caring for Fall Mums
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Collapse ▲Chrysanthemums (mums) are a popular fall plant that can draw attention to any garden or landscape. Mums come in a wide variety of colors and sizes, are affordable, and many species can be overwintered and/or grown in pots. While mums are one of the easier plants to grow, there are some helpful tips to know that will make caring for and enjoying your mums easier:
Planting Mums
Location: Choose a spot with full sun (at least six hours daily) and excellent drainage to prevent root rot and encourage strong roots.
Soil Preparation: Work the soil to a depth of 8-12 inches and mix in 2-4 inches of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil quality and drainage.
Timing: Plant fall-bought mums early enough in the fall (about six weeks before winter) for the roots to become established.
Ongoing Care
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist by watering at the base of the plant, but avoid over-watering, which can kill the plant.
Fertilizing: In the spring, use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer (like a 5-10-5 or 5-10-10) to promote root growth.
Pinching: For fuller plants, prune or pinch the growing tips of the stems when they are about 4-6 inches tall, continuing every four to six weeks until early August when buds begin to form.
Winter Care
Mulching: Apply an extra-thick layer of mulch (4 inches or more) in the fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and reduce winter stress.
Trimming: Leave the old stems standing for the winter to help protect the plant.
Spring Pruning: After the mums emerge in the spring, prune them back to encourage more branching and fuller blooms.
Distinguishing Garden Mums from Florist Mums
Garden Mums: are perennial and bred to survive winter and return year after year.
Florist Mums: are often greenhouse-grown, are typically larger, and may not survive harsh winters if planted outdoors.
With a little attention, mum can be enjoyed for years to come. If you have any questions about growing and caring for mums, please contact N.C. Cooperative Extension in Graham County at (828) 479-7979.