Mums, short for chrysanthemums, are vibrant flowers that add a splash of color to gardens and homes, especially during the fall season. While they are a popular choice for many gardeners, keeping mums healthy and blooming can be a bit tricky. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for mums, ensuring they thrive and continue to brighten up your space year after year.
If you’re looking for a landscaping professional to help you with any questions or concerns, please give Sunrise Lawn Care a call today!
Introduction to Mums
Mums are perennial plants known for their daisy-like flowers, coming in a variety of colors such as yellow, purple, red, and white. They are native to Asia and northeastern Europe and have been cultivated for centuries for their beauty and medicinal properties. Mums are a staple in fall gardens but can also provide color throughout the growing season with proper care.
Choosing the Right Mums
Garden Mums vs. Florist Mums
Before you start planting, it’s essential to choose the right type of mums:
- Garden Mums (Hardy Mums): These are suitable for outdoor planting and can survive winter conditions in many regions. They are perennials, meaning they come back year after year if properly cared for.
- Florist Mums (Tender Mums): Typically sold as indoor plants or seasonal outdoor decorations. They are not frost-tolerant and usually do not survive the winter outdoors.
Tip: If you want mums that will return each year, opt for garden mums. Check the plant tag or ask a nursery specialist to ensure you’re getting the hardy variety.
Planting Mums
Best Time to Plant
- Spring Planting: Planting mums in the spring gives them ample time to establish a strong root system, increasing their chances of surviving the winter.
- Early Fall Planting: If you plant in the fall, do so as early as possible. Late-season planting doesn’t allow enough time for roots to develop before cold weather sets in.
Tip: Plant mums at least six weeks before the first expected frost date in your area.
Ideal Planting Location
- Sunlight: Mums thrive in full sun. They require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Insufficient light can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms.
- Soil: They prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Soil that retains too much water can cause root rot.
- Space: Plant mums 18 to 24 inches apart to provide adequate air circulation and room for growth.
Tip: Avoid planting mums near large trees or shrubs that may compete for nutrients and water.
Soil Preparation
- Testing Soil pH: Mums prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5 to 7.0). Test your soil and adjust if necessary.
- Amending Soil: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
- Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Tip: Adding a layer of gravel at the bottom of the planting hole can enhance drainage in heavy soils.
Watering Mums
Watering Techniques
- Consistency Is Key: Mums have shallow root systems and require consistent moisture. Water them thoroughly at the base, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Avoid Overhead Watering: Wet foliage can promote fungal diseases. Use a soaker hose or water early in the day to allow leaves to dry.
Mulching Benefits
- Moisture Retention: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
- Weed Suppression: Mulch also helps prevent weeds that compete for nutrients and water.
Tip: Keep mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.
Fertilizing Mums
Fertilizer Types
- Balanced Fertilizer: Use a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 balanced, slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.
- Organic Options: Compost tea or fish emulsion can be used for a more natural approach.
Application Schedule
- Early Growth Stage: Begin fertilizing when new growth appears in the spring.
- Frequency: Feed mums every four to six weeks until mid-July or early August.
- Late Season: Avoid fertilizing late in the season to prevent tender new growth that won’t withstand winter.
Tip: Always water plants before and after applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
Pruning and Deadheading
Pinching Back
- Encouraging Bushiness: When stems reach 6 inches tall, pinch off the top 1 inch to encourage lateral branching.
- Repeat Pinching: Continue pinching every two to three weeks until early July for early bloomers or mid-July for late bloomers.
- Stopping Pinching: Cease pinching about 100 days before the desired bloom time to allow buds to form.
Tip: Use clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Deadheading Spent Blooms
- Promoting New Blooms: Remove faded flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
- Technique: Snip off the spent flower just above the next set of leaves.
Tip: Regular deadheading can extend the blooming period significantly.
Overwintering Mums
Winter Protection Strategies
- Mulching: After the first hard frost, apply a thick layer of mulch (up to 4 inches) or straw around the base to insulate roots.
- Do Not Cut Back: Leave the foliage and stems intact over winter to provide extra protection.
Spring Revival
- Removing Mulch: In early spring, gradually remove the mulch to prevent new growth from rotting.
- Pruning Dead Stems: Cut back dead stems to ground level once you see new growth emerging.
Tip: In colder climates, consider digging up mums and storing them in a cool, dark place indoors over winter.
Pest and Disease Management
Common Pests
- Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distorted growth. Control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: Tiny pests that cause stippling on leaves. Increase humidity and use miticides if necessary.
- Leaf Miners: Insects that tunnel through leaves, causing trails. Remove and destroy affected leaves.
Disease Prevention
- Powdery Mildew: Fungal disease causing white powdery spots. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
- Root Rot: Caused by overly wet soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Fungal Spots: Remove and destroy infected foliage promptly.
Tip: Plant disease-resistant varieties and rotate planting locations if possible.
Extending Bloom Time
Light Requirements
- Full Sun Exposure: Ensuring your mums receive ample sunlight can maximize bloom production.
- Avoid Shade: Even partial shade can reduce the number of blooms and make plants leggy.
Stress Reduction
- Consistent Care: Keep a regular schedule for watering, feeding, and pruning to reduce plant stress.
- Temperature Considerations: Protect mums from extreme heat by providing temporary shade during heatwaves.
Tip: Planting mums in a location sheltered from strong winds can prevent stem breakage and stress.
Common Questions About Mums
Can mums survive winter in pots?
- Mums in pots are more susceptible to cold. Move them to a sheltered area or indoors before frost.
Do mums come back every year?
- Garden mums are perennials and can return annually with proper care.
Why are my mums not blooming?
- Insufficient sunlight, improper pruning, or over-fertilizing with high nitrogen can inhibit blooming.
Tip: Monitor your mums regularly to catch and address issues early.
How to Take Care of Mums Summary Table
| Care Aspect | Key Points | Tips |
| Choosing Mums | Opt for garden mums for outdoor planting; they are hardy and perennial | Confirm plant type with nursery staff | Planting Time | Best in spring; early fall planting is acceptable but riskier | Plant at least 6 weeks before first frost | Sunlight | Require at least 6 hours of full sun daily | Avoid planting near shade-casting structures | Soil | Well-draining + rich in organic matter; pH 6.5-7.0 | Amend soil with compost or manure | Watering | Keep soil consistently moist; water at the base | Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds | Fertilizing | Use balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks until mid-summer | Cease feeding late in the season | Pruning | Pinch back stems to promote bushiness; deadhead spent blooms | Stop pinching 100 days before desired bloom time | Overwintering | Mulch heavily after first frost; do not cut back stems until spring | Consider indoor storage in harsh climates | Pest Control | Monitor for aphids / spider mites / leaf miners; prevent diseases with proper care | Use organic pesticides and remove affected foliage | Blooming | Full sun and reduced stress extend bloom time | Regular care and monitoring are essential |
Final Thoughts About Mums
Caring for mums doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right knowledge and consistent care, you can enjoy their stunning blooms not just in the fall but throughout the growing season. Remember to choose the right type of mums for your garden, plant them in the ideal location, and provide the care they need to thrive. From proper watering and fertilizing to pruning and overwintering strategies, each step plays a crucial role in the health and longevity of your mums. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a mum-growing expert, delighting in the vibrant colors and lush blooms these wonderful plants have to offer.
If you’re looking for a professional landscaper in Katy, or just need landscaping services in Cinco Ranch, TX please don’t hesitate to give Sunrise Lawn Care a call today! (713) 570-6377