Caring for Fall Mums
Chrysanthemums, often referred to as "mums," are a delightful addition to any landscape, bringing a burst of color and vibrancy to gardens, yards, and outdoor spaces in autumn. These versatile and hardy flowers are known for their diverse range of colors and shapes, making them a popular choice among garden enthusiasts. Caring for chrysanthemums might seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and growing practices, you can enjoy their beauty during the fall season. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to ensure your chrysanthemums thrive in your landscape.
Choosing the Right Location
The first step in caring for chrysanthemums is selecting the optimal location for planting. Chrysanthemums thrive in well-drained soil and require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. When choosing a spot, keep in mind that proper air circulation is essential to prevent diseases. Avoid planting them too close to other plants that might overshadow or crowd them.
Planting and Soil Preparation
Chrysanthemums can be planted in the spring or fall, but fall planting is generally preferred as it allows the plants to establish their root systems before winter. Here's how to properly plant chrysanthemums:
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Depth: Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball of the plant. Place the chrysanthemum in the hole at the same depth it was in its nursery container.
Spacing: Space the plants according to the specific variety, usually around 18 to 36 inches apart, to allow for proper growth.
Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering and Feeding
Proper watering and feeding play a vital role in the health and vitality of your chrysanthemums:
Watering: Chrysanthemums require regular watering, especially during their growing season. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Be cautious of overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Feeding: Fertilize your chrysanthemums with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during their active growth period. A phosphorous-rich fertilizer will encourage flower production.
Pruning and Pinching
Regular pruning and pinching are essential to encourage bushier growth and abundant flowering:
Pinching: Pinch back the top inch or two of new growth every few weeks until mid-summer. This encourages branching and more flower buds.
Pruning: After the first wave of blooms has faded, cut the plants back by about half to promote a second blooming in the fall. This is especially important for perennial varieties.
Pest and Disease Management
Monitor your chrysanthemums for signs of pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Early detection is key to preventing infestations. Use organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap if necessary. Additionally, ensure proper air circulation to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.
Winter Care (Maybe)
Chrysanthemums are perennials in many climates and might survive winter with the right care. However, our region, the Mid-Ohio Valley, is right on the border of their survivability zone. We recommend treating them as an annual with the expectation they won’t survive the winter. Sometimes it can come down to weather during the winter and where the mum was planted. We can’t make any guarantees with overwintering … but it is a fun experiment.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plants before the first frost to insulate the roots.
Cut Back: After the first hard frost, cut back the plants to a few inches above the ground.
Dividing: Every 2-3 years, consider dividing and replanting your chrysanthemums to rejuvenate their growth.
Conclusion
Caring for chrysanthemums in your landscape can be a rewarding experience, as these vibrant flowers bring life and color to your outdoor spaces during the fall season. By selecting the right location, providing proper watering and feeding, practicing regular pruning, and being vigilant about pests and diseases, you can enjoy healthy and stunning chrysanthemum displays. With a little care and attention, your chrysanthemums will be the envy of the neighborhood and a source of pride for your autumn garden.
