How to Properly Care for Mums: Your Complete Guide

Have you ever wondered about the beautiful mums you see in the fall? Did you know that they come in two different types – florist mums and garden mums? Let’s dive into the world of mums and learn how to take care of these stunning perennial plants.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Different Types of Mums

Florist Mums

Florist mums are the mums you typically see in pots at floral shops, supermarkets, and greenhouses during the fall season. These mums are grown specifically for their fall flowering display and are not meant to survive the winter. They are annuals that do not come back year after year.

Characteristics of Florist Mums:
– Bushy plants reaching 1 to 2 feet tall
– Densely covered with small blooms
– Available in a wide range of colors
– Sold with closed buds for prolonged flowering display

When purchasing florist mums, look for ones with many closed buds as this will ensure a longer period of blooming. Once all the buds have opened, the plant’s life cycle is nearing its end, and it is usually discarded.

Garden Mums

Garden mums, also known as hardy mums, are the perennial variety of mums. These mums are planted in the spring, allowing them to establish strong root systems and survive the winter. They come back year after year and are hardy in zones 4 to 9.

Characteristics of Garden Mums:
– Fast-growing plants reaching 1 to 3 feet tall
– Less dense growth habit with larger flowers
– Available in a wide range of colors
– Best planted in the landscape for long-term growth

Garden mums start to set buds in late summer and bloom in the fall for up to eight weeks. They are best planted directly in the ground to allow their roots to grow and provide insulation against both summer heat and winter cold.

How to Properly Care for Mums

Whether you have florist mums or garden mums, proper care is essential for their health and longevity. Here are some tips to ensure your mums thrive:

Choosing the Right Plant:
When purchasing mums, determine if they are florist mums or garden mums based on their characteristics.
Florist mums are best enjoyed as annuals for fall displays, while garden mums are ideal for long-term planting in the landscape.
Planting Mums:
For garden mums, plant them in the spring to allow them to establish strong root systems.
Dig a hole slightly larger than the pot and ensure the roots are well-covered in soil to promote growth.
Watering Mums:
Mums should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry periods.
Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, but ensure the soil remains consistently moist.
Fertilizing Mums:
Use a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Follow the application instructions on the fertilizer packaging for best results.
Pruning Mums:
Pinch back the tips of mums in the spring and summer to encourage bushier growth.
Deadhead spent blooms to promote new flower production and a tidy appearance.
Winter Protection:
For garden mums, provide a layer of mulch in the winter to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
Avoid cutting back foliage until spring to provide insulation and protection.

By following these care tips, you can enjoy beautiful, thriving mums in your garden for years to come. Whether you prefer the seasonal display of florist mums or the long-term beauty of garden mums, mums can bring color and joy to your landscape.

In Conclusion

Mums are versatile, beautiful plants that brighten up any garden or floral display. By understanding the differences between florist mums and garden mums and following the proper care techniques, you can enjoy these perennial plants for years to come. Remember to choose the right type of mum for your needs and provide them with the care they need to flourish. With a little effort and attention, your mums will reward you with vibrant blooms and lasting beauty.