Mums Plant Harvesting:
Optimal Time and Technique

Introduction

Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, are beautiful flowering plants that add color and vibrancy to any garden. They come in various colors and sizes, making them a popular choice for both amateur and professional gardeners. One of the key steps in maintaining healthy mums is knowing when and how to harvest them. In this article, we will explore the optimal time and technique for mums plant harvesting.

When to Harvest Mums?

The timing of mums plant harvesting is crucial to ensure that they are at their peak freshness and beauty. Generally, mums should be harvested when the blooms are fully open but have not yet started to decline. This stage is commonly referred to as the “mature bud” stage, where the petals are fully expanded and show their vibrant colors.

Harvesting mums too early can result in underdeveloped blooms that may not fully open, while harvesting them too late can lead to faded or wilted flowers. Therefore, it’s important to observe the plants closely and look for the optimal time to harvest.

Signs of Readiness for Harvesting

To determine if your mums are ready for harvesting, there are a few signs you can look out for:

1. Color Intensity

Check the color intensity of the petals. Mums should have vibrant, rich colors when they are ready for harvest. Faded or dull petals indicate that the flowers have passed their prime and may not last long after being cut.

2. Petal Firmness

Gently touch the petals to assess their firmness. Ideally, they should be taut and resilient. If the petals feel soft or flimsy, it may be an indication that the blooms are past their optimal stage.

3. Bud Size

Observe the bud size of the mums. Harvesting should take place when the buds have fully matured and look plump. Avoid harvesting when the buds are small and tightly closed, as they may not open fully or may take longer to bloom.

4. Stem Length

Consider the length of the stems. Mums with longer stems are preferable for floral arrangements and bouquets. Harvesting when the stems have reached a desirable length ensures versatility in arranging the harvested blooms.

Technique for Harvesting Mums

Harvesting mums requires a delicate touch to ensure minimal damage to the plant and maximum vase life for the cut flowers. Here is a step-by-step technique for mums plant harvesting:

1. Choose the Right Tools

Before you begin harvesting, gather the necessary tools. Sharp pruning shears or garden scissors are ideal for cutting through the stems cleanly without crushing or tearing the plant tissue. Make sure your tools are clean and disinfected to prevent the spread of diseases.

2. Select the Blooms

Identify the mums that are ready for harvest based on the signs mentioned earlier. Focus on selecting healthy, vibrant blooms with sturdy stems. It’s best to harvest one stem at a time to maintain accuracy and avoid damaging other flowers on the same plant.

3. Cut at an Angle

Position your pruning shears at a 45-degree angle, approximately half an inch above a leaf node or bud union. This technique ensures that water uptake is maximized, promoting longer vase life for the cut flowers.

4. Remove Excess Foliage

Trim off any excess foliage or side shoots from the stem that will be submerged in water in floral arrangements or vases. Removing these leaves prevents them from decomposing in water, reducing bacterial growth and keeping the water clean.

5. Place in Water Immediately

After cutting the mums, place the stems in a bucket of clean water as soon as possible. This step is crucial to prevent air bubbles from entering the stem, which can block water uptake and lead to premature wilting.

6. Store Properly

Store the harvested mums in a cool location away from direct sunlight until you are ready to arrange them. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or drafts, as this can shorten their vase life.

Conclusion

Mums plant harvesting is an essential skill for gardeners who want to enjoy the beauty of these flowers indoors. By understanding the signs of readiness for harvest and employing the right techniques, you can ensure that your mums remain fresh and vibrant for longer periods. Remember to choose the optimal time for harvesting, select blooms carefully, cut at an angle, remove excess foliage, and store them properly. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the beauty of mums all season long.