How to Grow Mums Plant Outdoors

Mums, scientifically known as Chrysanthemum, are beautiful flowering plants that can brighten up any garden or outdoor space. With their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms, mums have become a popular choice among gardeners. If you’re looking to add some colorful charm to your outdoor space, here’s a guide on how to grow mums plant outdoors.

Choosing the Right Variety

Before you start growing mums outdoors, it’s essential to select the right variety for your specific climate and growing conditions. There are various types of mums available, including garden mums, cushion mums, and pompon mums. Each variety has its own unique characteristics, such as flower shape, size, and color.

When choosing a mum variety for outdoor growth, consider factors like your climate zone, frost tolerance, and sunlight requirements. Some varieties are more cold-hardy and can withstand frost, while others thrive in warmer climates. Additionally, make sure to select a variety that matches the amount of sunlight your garden receives.

Preparing the Soil

Mums prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level between 6.5 and 7.0. Before planting mums outdoors, it’s crucial to prepare the soil adequately. Start by removing any weeds or debris from the planting area.

To improve drainage and fertility, incorporate organic matter like compost or aged manure into the soil. This will help retain moisture while providing essential nutrients for the plants. Additionally, ensure that the soil is loose and crumbly to allow for proper root development.

Planting Mums

Mums can be planted in either spring or fall, depending on your location and climate. Spring-planted mums have a longer growing season and tend to produce larger blooms. On the other hand, fall-planted mums are more likely to overwinter successfully.

To plant mums outdoors, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. Place the mum in the hole, making sure to position it at the same depth as it was in the nursery pot. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots.

Spacing between mums is essential to allow proper air circulation and prevent diseases. Depending on the variety, space them about 18 to 24 inches apart. Water the newly planted mums thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root establishment.

Watering and Fertilizing

Proper watering is crucial for the healthy growth of mums. While they prefer evenly moist soil, they don’t tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water your mums deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can lead to fungal diseases.

During hot and dry periods, you may need to water your mums more frequently. Applying mulch around the plants can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. A layer of organic mulch also helps suppress weed growth around the mums.

Fertilizing mums is essential for promoting vigorous growth and abundant blooms. Begin fertilizing in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Continue applying fertilizer every four to six weeks throughout the growing season.

Pinching and Pruning

To encourage bushy growth and more flowering stems, pinching is essential when growing outdoor mums. Pinch off the top one inch of new growth every two to three weeks until early July. This practice helps promote branching and prevents the plants from becoming leggy.

Pruning is also necessary to maintain a neat and compact appearance. After your mums have finished blooming, cut back the spent flowers and any dead or damaged stems. Additionally, in late fall or early spring, cut back your mums to about six inches from the ground to encourage healthier growth the following year.

Winter Care

Proper winter care is crucial for the survival of mums planted outdoors. In colder regions, mulch around the base of the plants with a layer of straw or shredded leaves to protect them from freezing temperatures. This insulation helps prevent frost heaving and keeps the roots warm during winter.

Some gardeners also prefer to lift their mums and overwinter them indoors in a cool, dark location. If you choose this method, dig up the plants after the first frost and trim back the foliage to a few inches. Plant them in containers filled with well-draining soil and store them in a cool basement or garage until spring.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Mums are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can occasionally be affected by aphids, leaf miners, or fungal infections. Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation or disease.

If you notice aphids or leaf miners, you can try spraying the affected plants with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap. For fungal diseases like powdery mildew or gray mold, ensure proper air circulation by spacing your mums adequately. Removing and disposing of infected leaves can also help prevent the spread of diseases.

Final Thoughts

Growing mums outdoors can be a rewarding experience, adding bursts of color and beauty to your garden. By selecting the right variety, preparing the soil, and providing adequate care, you can enjoy vibrant mum blooms throughout the season. Remember to water and fertilize regularly, pinch and prune for bushier growth, and protect your mums during winter. With these tips in mind, you’ll have healthy and flourishing mums that will enhance your outdoor space for years to come.