As summer ends and days shorten, many flowers and bulbs in the garden start to fade in the cool autumn weather. That is a perfect time to plant chrysanthemums for color that lasts until freezing weather hits.
Although there are several types of mums, the most common is the hardy mum which appears in stores and nurseries in late summer or early fall.
Prepare Hardy Mums for Planting in the Ground
When bringing chrysanthemums home from the nursery, it will be necessary to provide adequate water while they are in their containers to prevent wilting.
Mums that have been grown in pots have roots that have been confined to a small area. The root system needs to be loosened before putting the plant into the ground. Often this can be done by gently prying the roots loose by hand.
Plant Chrysanthemums in a Sunny Location
Chrysanthemums should be planted where they will receive as much sun as possible except in hot climates where they need protection from afternoon sun. The plants that are already in bud when purchased will continue to bloom in a shaded area but will not do well the next year.
Well-draining soil is important and the soil can be amended by adding peat or other organic matter. The soil should be loose enough for the roots to spread and grow. Place the hardy mum in the ground and water often until it takes root.
Chrysanthemums are heavy feeders and respond well to a balanced fertilizer. The first application can be worked into the soil before the mum is planted.
Chrysanthemum Plant Division Can Increase Supply
The Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service says that plants do not do as well the second year because they become crowded with the production of underground suckers. They suggest digging, dividing and replanting these after the last spring frost.
The new shoots, or divisions, should be planted 18 to 24 inches apart in a sunny spot and kept well watered until they are established. Then the same feeding and watering schedule can be followed as is used for established plants,
Chrysanthemums Care
To maintain a pleasant shape to the plant, the gardener can pinch back the ends of the shoots every few weeks until mid-July. In warm climates where mums can also bloom in the spring, do not pinch until the spring blooming is complete.
Plants should be mulched to help maintain moisture in hot climates and protect from freezing during winter months. To discourage new growth, which can be damaged by freezing, do not feed in late summer. The plant can also be dug and moved to a more protected area of the yard to minimize winter damage.
With proper care, hardy mums will provide years of color to the garden during the fall months.
Other Popular Plants For Borders, Beds and Baskets
How to Plant and Care for Hydrangeas
Rosalie Thompson - Rosalie Thompson enjoys writing about NASCAR, real estate, gardening and travel in the Southeastern United States. After graduating from ...
