How to Grow Mum Plant Outdoors

Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, are beautiful flowers that bloom in the fall, adding vibrant colors to gardens and landscapes. With their wide range of colors and shapes, mums are a popular choice for outdoor gardening. If you want to grow mum plants outdoors and enjoy their stunning blooms, follow these simple steps to ensure success.

Choose the Right Variety

Before you start growing mum plants outdoors, it’s important to choose the right variety for your climate and garden conditions. There are various types of mums available, including garden mums, cushion mums, and daisy mums. Each variety has different growth habits and flower forms.

Consider the hardiness zone of your area when selecting mum plants. Different varieties have different cold tolerance levels. Make sure to choose a variety that is suitable for your zone to ensure successful growth and overwintering.

Prepare the Soil

Mum plants prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level. Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. Remove any weeds and rocks from the area.

Incorporate organic matter into the soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve drainage and provide essential nutrients for the plants. Mix in a slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions to promote healthy growth.

Planting Mums

Mum plants can be grown from seeds or purchased as young plants from nurseries or garden centers. The easiest way to start growing mum plants is by using young plants.

Choose a sunny location in your garden for planting mums. These flowers require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive and produce abundant blooms. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.

Place the mum plant in the hole, making sure that it sits at the same depth as it was in the container. Backfill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the plant. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

Watering and Fertilizing

Proper watering is crucial for the growth and health of mum plants. Provide enough water to keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, as wet leaves can lead to diseases.

During hot and dry periods, mums may require more frequent watering. Monitor the moisture level of the soil and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

To promote healthy growth and abundant blooms, apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer or a water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions.

Pruning and Pinching

Pruning and pinching are essential for maintaining compact and bushy mum plants. Pinch off the top inch of each stem once the plants reach a height of about 6 inches. This will encourage branching and result in more flower buds.

Continue pinching every few weeks until early summer to shape the plants and promote fuller growth. Stop pinching by mid-summer to allow sufficient time for bud development before fall bloom.

Overwintering Mums

In colder regions, mum plants may not survive winter if left outdoors. To overwinter your mum plants, provide them with extra protection.

Before the first frost, cut back the stems of mum plants to about 4-6 inches from the ground. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures.

Consider transplanting your mum plants into containers that can be moved indoors during winter. Place them in a cool location with bright indirect light until spring arrives. Resume regular care once frost danger has passed, and transplant them back into your garden.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Mum plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew.

Regularly inspect your mum plants for any signs of pests or diseases. If detected, treat them promptly with appropriate organic insecticides or fungicides. Pruning infected plant parts and maintaining good air circulation can also help prevent the spread of diseases.

Conclusion

Growing mum plants outdoors can add a burst of color to your garden during the fall season. By selecting the right variety, preparing the soil, and providing adequate care, you can enjoy beautiful blooms from these stunning flowers. Remember to water and fertilize regularly, prune and pinch for bushier growth, and provide winter protection in colder regions. With a little effort and care, your mum plants will thrive and bring joy to your outdoor space.