Everything You Should Know About Planting Mums, the Go-To Flower of Fall

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Planting mums, also known as chrysanthemums, is a popular fall activity. These colorful flowers add a vibrant touch to any garden or landscape. Here’s what you need to know about planting mums:

1. Timing: Mums should be planted in the early fall, ideally before the first frost. This gives them enough time to establish their roots before winter.

2. Location: Mums prefer full sun, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Well-drained soil is also important for their growth.

3. Soil preparation: Before planting, loosen the soil and add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.

4. Planting process: Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the mum plant. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the crown (where the stems meet the roots) is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the plant.

5. Watering and care: Mums require regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Deadheading spent flowers promotes new blooms.

6. Overwintering: In areas with harsh winters, mums may not survive. Consider planting them in containers that can be moved indoors or treating them as annuals.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of mums throughout the fall season.

April downpours bring May blossoms, but what about beautiful flowers for fall? Now that’s something truly special. If you’re seeking more than just greenery, the solution is simple. Welcome fall’s beloved flower: mums.

Traditionally seasonal, mums are the perfect starting point when you’re planning a fall garden. And if you’re a beginner, the good news is that they require minimal maintenance — you just need to select the right soil. By adding Miracle-GroВ® All Purpose Garden Soil to your garden, your blooms will be fed for up to three months, and the existing soil will be improved to help roots grow stronger.

For more tips on how to make your mums thrive, watch the video below before planting, grab a warm (preferably pumpkin-spiced) beverage, and enjoy your gardening success.

FAQ

1. How do I choose the right location for planting mums?

When planting mums, it is important to choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6 hours a day. Mums thrive in well-draining soil, so make sure the soil is not overly wet or soggy. Avoid planting them in low-lying areas where water tends to accumulate. Additionally, consider the height and size of the mums when selecting the location, as they can grow quite large and may require staking for support.

2. What is the best time to plant mums?

The best time to plant mums is in the spring or early summer. This allows the plants to establish a strong root system before the colder months of fall arrive. If you plant them too late in the season, they may not have enough time to develop strong roots, which can affect their ability to survive the winter. However, if you purchase potted mums in the fall, you can still enjoy them as seasonal decorations and then transplant them into your garden the following spring.

3. How do I care for planted mums?

Proper care is essential for the health and longevity of planted mums. Water the mums regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and suppresses weed growth. Deadheading spent flowers encourages new blooms to form. In colder regions, protect the plants during winter by applying a layer of mulch or straw around the base to insulate the roots. Pruning in early spring, before new growth appears, promotes bushier plants and more abundant blooms.

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