Mums, or chrysanthemums, are the quintessential fall flowers, adding vibrant colors to your gardens and fall porch design. You can keep your Mums last through the entire fall season and bring lasting beauty to your outdoor space with some proper care. We make complete guide to help you keeping your mums alive and blooming all fall long.
1. Choose Hardy Varieties
The first step is selecting the right mums. Hardy, garden mums are your best bet for outdoor conditions, as they’re bred to withstand cooler fall temperatures. Florist mums, while beautiful, are designed for short-term indoor use and may not last as long outdoors. For long-lasting fall color, go for garden mums, and plant them as early in the season as possible to allow roots to establish before the frost.
2. Plant Early and Provide Adequate Space
Early planting gives mums a chance to get established before the chilly nights set in. If you’re planting mums in your garden, ensure they have enough space to grow. Crowded plants can lead to poor air circulation, increasing the risk of diseases like powdery mildew. For container mums, choose larger pots to give their roots room to spread and prevent root-binding, which can hinder blooming.
3. Sunlight Is Key
Mums thrive in full sunlight. Place your mums where they’ll get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Insufficient sunlight may cause them to produce fewer blooms or become leggy. For potted mums, move them around as needed to ensure they’re soaking up as much sun as possible, especially if they’re under porches or shaded areas.
4. Consistent Watering
Mums need consistent moisture, especially during the fall when dry winds can sap moisture from the soil. Water them deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. For container mums, check them daily, as potted plants tend to dry out faster than those planted in the ground.
5. Use Well-Draining Soil
Whether your mums are in pots or planted directly in your garden, ensure they’re in well-draining soil. Mums don’t like sitting in soggy soil for long periods, as it can lead to root rot. If your garden soil tends to hold water, mix in some sand or compost to improve drainage.
6. Deadhead Regularly
To keep mums blooming throughout fall, regularly deadhead (remove) spent blooms. Snipping off faded flowers encourages the plant to put energy into new blooms rather than seed production. Deadheading also helps the plant look fresh and prevents the build-up of dead flowers that can attract pests.
7. Feed Your Mums
While mums aren’t heavy feeders, giving them a little fertilizer boost can help promote continued blooming. Urban Farm bloom fertilizer is recommended by experts, it is easy to use and more than enough for all fall season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks to support growth and flower production. However, stop feeding them as the season nears its end to allow the plant to naturally slow down for winter dormancy.
8. Check Drainage and Inspect for Overgrowing Trees or Plants
Good drainage is vital for keeping your mums healthy. Ensure that water flows away from your mums and doesn’t pool around their roots. If planting in the ground, make sure they’re in slightly sloped areas or use raised beds to prevent water logging. Also, inspect any overgrowing trees or plants nearby. Tree branches and large shrubs can drop leaves or create too much shade, leading to moisture buildup that can cause rot or fungal growth on your mums. Trim back any foliage that’s too close to the plants.
9. Protect Mums from Frost
As fall temperatures drop, protect your mums from frost damage. If a frost warning is issued, cover garden mums with a light cloth overnight, and bring potted mums indoors until temperatures rise again. Covering them will help extend their blooming period and prevent them from dying prematurely.
11. Repot Mums for Longevity
If you bought your mums in small containers, consider repotting them into larger pots with fresh potting soil. This gives their roots more room to grow and helps prevent the plant from becoming root-bound, which can limit their ability to bloom throughout the season.
12. Pest Management
Keep an eye on your mums for signs of pests such as aphids or spider mites. Regular inspection will help you catch any infestations early. If you notice bugs, treat your plants with a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Healthy mums free from pests are more likely to bloom continuously.
13. Overwintering for Next Year
To enjoy your mums again next year, consider overwintering them. For mums planted in the garden, cut them back to about 3 inches after the first frost and apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to protect the roots from freezing. For potted mums, bring them indoors to a cool, dark place like a garage or basement, and water occasionally through the winter. With the right care, your mums can come back strong for another season.
By following these tips, your mums will thrive and continue to bloom throughout the entire fall season. With consistent care, these beloved autumn plants can bring seasonal cheer to your garden or porch year after year.
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