Mum Plant Harvesting:
Optimal Time and Technique

The mum plant, scientifically known as Chrysanthemum, is a popular flowering plant that is widely cultivated for its vibrant and colorful blooms. With a variety of cultivars available, mums are a favorite among gardeners and florists alike. One of the most important aspects of growing mums is knowing when and how to harvest them to ensure the best quality flowers. In this article, we will discuss the optimal time and technique for mum plant harvesting.

Determining the Optimal Harvest Time

The timing of mum plant harvesting greatly affects the quality and longevity of the flowers. Harvesting mums at the right time ensures that they are at their peak freshness and beauty. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the optimal harvest time for your mum plants:

1. Observe the Bud Stage

Mums go through different stages of bud development before they fully bloom. To determine the optimal harvest time, it is important to observe the bud stage of your mum plants. Ideally, you should harvest them when the buds are showing color but have not fully opened yet. This stage ensures that the flowers will open fully and last longer once harvested.

2. Check Petal Color

Another indicator of the optimal harvest time is the color of the petals. Each mum cultivar has its own unique color pattern, and it is important to know what color stage is ideal for harvesting. Generally, mums are harvested when about 75% of the petals have opened and reached their desired color intensity.

3. Monitor Stem Stiffness

The stiffness of the mum stems also plays a role in determining the harvest time. Ideally, the stems should be firm but not overly rigid. If the stems become too stiff, it indicates that the flowers are past their prime and may not last long after being harvested.

4. Consider the Weather

The weather conditions can also influence the optimal harvest time for mum plants. In general, it is best to harvest mums on a dry and sunny day. Wet or rainy weather can cause the flowers to become limp and may lead to fungal diseases. Avoid harvesting mums when they are wet or damp to ensure their longevity.

Harvesting Techniques for Mum Plants

Once you have determined the optimal harvest time for your mum plants, it is important to use the correct technique to ensure minimal damage and maximum vase life. Here are some techniques to follow when harvesting mum plants:

1. Use Clean and Sharp Pruners

Before harvesting, make sure your pruners are clean and sharp. This helps prevent the transmission of diseases and ensures a clean cut, which promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of bacterial infections.

2. Cut at an Angle

When harvesting mum flowers, always cut the stems at a 45-degree angle. This allows for better water absorption and prevents the ends from sitting flat on the bottom of a vase, which can restrict water uptake.

3. Remove Excess Foliage

After cutting the mum stems, remove any excess foliage that will be submerged in water. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps the water clean and fresh for a longer period of time.

4. Place in Water Immediately

As soon as you cut the mum stems, place them in a bucket or vase filled with clean water. Allowing the cut stems to sit out for too long can reduce their vase life and lead to wilting.

5. Store Properly

If you are not using the harvested mums immediately, store them in a cool location away from direct sunlight. This helps prolong their freshness and extends their vase life. Change the water every day or two to keep it clean and fresh.

Conclusion

Knowing when and how to harvest mum plants is crucial for obtaining high-quality flowers with an extended vase life. By observing the bud stage, checking petal color, monitoring stem stiffness, considering the weather conditions, and using proper harvesting techniques, you can ensure the best results when harvesting your mum plants. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy beautiful and long-lasting mum flowers that will brighten up your home or create stunning floral arrangements.