Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, are a popular flower for home gardens. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and can add instant beauty to any landscape. However, to keep your mums looking their best, proper care is essential. In this blog post, we will discuss how to are for mums, including how to plant, water, soil, light, and fertilizer requirements to ensure the optimal growth and blooming of your mums.
Zone to Plant Mums Outdoors
The appropriate planting zone for mums primarily depends on the climate. Mums thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, which covers a broad swath of the United States. These zones are ideas they offer a mild climate—neither too hot nor too cold. It is crucial to remember that mums are frost-sensitive; therefore, if you live in a region with a colder climate, consider planting your mums in containers that can be moved indoors during winter. Conversely, in hotter zones, mums need to be situated in an area with afternoon shade to avoid wilting under intense heat.
Best Time of Year to Plant Mums
The ideal time to plant mums is in the spring after the risk of frost has passed. Planting in early spring gives the mums plenty of time to establish their root systems before the fall blooming period. However, garden centers typically sell mums in the fall, and these can still be successfully planted as long as they are given proper care. If you’re planting in the fall, be sure to get them in the ground a few weeks before the first hard frost to give the roots time to establish. Remember, mums planted in the fall may not survive the winter in colder zones, so consider overwintering them indoors if needed.
Preparing the Soil and Planting your Mums
Mums prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. To prepare the soil for planting, start by removing any grass or weeds from the area. Then, till the soil to a depth of about 8 to 12 inches and mix in some well-rotted compost or manure to enrich the soil.
When you’re ready to plant, dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the container your mums are in. Carefully remove the mums from their container, being careful not to damage the roots. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the ground. Fill in the hole with soil, firming it around the plant with your hands. Make sure the plant is straight and finish by watering thoroughly. Remember, it’s important to space your mums about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
Light and Water Requirements
Mums need full sunlight to thrive—around six hours of direct sunlight a day. Make sure you plant your mums in a location that is exposed to plenty of morning and early afternoon light. Avoid locations with late afternoon sun, as the intense heat can stress the plants.
Regarding water needs, mums require regular watering as they do not tolerate dry soil well. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. During hot, dry periods, this may require watering every other day. In cooler, wetter conditions, you may only need to water once a week. Always aim to water early in the day to allow any excess to evaporate before the cooler night temperatures set in. This reduces the risk of fungal diseases that can thrive in damp, cool conditions.
Fertilizing Your Mums
Proper fertilization is key to promoting healthy growth and ensuring vibrant blooms in your mums. Start applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 formula) when new growth appears in spring. The numbers on the fertilizer indicate the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, respectively, all essential nutrients for plant growth. Nitrogen promotes lush, green growth, phosphorus supports root development and flowering, and potassium aids in general plant health.
To apply the fertilizer, follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount. Sprinkle the fertilizer around the base of the plant, avoiding direct contact with the stems and leaves as it can cause burns. Then, water the plant thoroughly to help the soil absorb the fertilizer. Continue this fertilizing process every four to six weeks through the summer until about a month before your area’s first expected frost date. Stop fertilizing at this point to help your mums prepare for winter.
Remember, over-fertilizing can be as damaging as under-fertilizing. Too much fertilizer can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms and can even burn the plants. Therefore, it’s crucial to strike a balance to ensure your mums’ optimal health and abundant blooms.
Deadheading and Pruning Your Mums
Maintaining your mums also requires regular deadheading and pruning.
Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, encourages the plants to produce more blooms and extends the flowering season. To deadhead your mums, simply pinch off the faded blooms at the base of their stems. This process not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your plants by keeping them looking fresh and vibrant, but it also directs the energy of the plant towards growth and the production of new blossoms.
Pruning mums is essential to maintain their shape and promote dense, bushy growth. Begin pruning in the spring when new growth is about 4-6 inches tall. Pinch off the top 1-2 inches of growth on each stem to encourage the plant to branch out. Repeat this process every 3-4 weeks until mid-July. Avoid pruning after this point, as it can prevent the plants from producing buds for fall blooming.
Remember, as with all gardening tasks, make sure to use sharp, clean tools for pruning and deadheading to prevent the spread of disease. In the end, appropriate care and maintenance can significantly enhance your mums’ health and longevity, guaranteeing seasons of vibrant and plentiful blooms.
Happy Gardening!
Caring for mums doesn’t have to be difficult. With proper planting, watering, soil, light, and fertilizer care, your mums can thrive and produce beautiful blooms. Remember to plant them in the spring or early summer, in well-draining soil with full sunshine. Water consistently and avoid over-fertilization. By following these tips, you can ensure healthy growth and blooming of your mums, adding beauty to your home garden.
Please be sure to check out my Gardening Blog Post page for more growing tips on growing Mums, Herbs, African Violets, bulbs and how to plant them, Flower Gardening, Vegetable and Fruit Gardening, Indoor Houseplants of all kinds, Cactus, Succulents, Hanging plants, Container Gardening and even Bird, Bee, Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens!