CARING FOR FALL MUM PLANTS
The change of the season from summer to fall brings us the warm colorful sight of chrysanthemums – commonly known as mums, decorating doorsteps, porches and patios. This hardy autumn favorite comes in a variety of colors, including the traditional yellow, rust orange, barn red and white as well as some softer colors such as purple and pink. While they are hardy and will comfortably tolerate the cool, almost-freezing, temperatures fairly well, they are not immune to frost. Just one frosty night can do them in. Here are some tips to help make them last longer.
CHOOSE A HEALTHY PLANT
When choosing your mum plants, choose ones that are not in full bloom. Although mums in bloom may look more attractive when purchased, they are already well into their life cycle. You have no way to tell if the blooms on your plant have just opened or have been open already for a few weeks. Closed blooms tell you the plant is in an earlier stage of its life cycle. When they do bloom, they will last longer than those that are already putting forth flowers. Another thing to check is to make sure the leaves are green and the stems are not broken or bent.
PICK THE RIGHT CONTAINER
A solid, sturdy container will help anchor the top heavy plant and will also support the clusters of blooms. Choose a container that is about 1/3 larger than the plants root ball on all sides is ideal for re-potting.
RE-POTTING YOUR MUM
Gently remove the mums from the original container. If necessary, moisten the root ball to aid in removal. Line the bottom of the pot you will be transferring your plant to with clean potting soil (about 1 to 2 inches) and place the root ball on top of the added soil. Next, fill the remaining open area loosely with potting soil – do not pack the soil. The plant roots need aerated soil to expand.
BASIC CARE
Place your freshly potted plant in a sunny area and intend to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. Giving them too much water will result in rotting stems and can create mushy, decaying blooms. Remember to deadhead your plants as needed and remove any dead or damaged flowers, leaves, and stems to keep your mum looking healthy and fresh.
If a frost warning is a possibility, move your mums to an inside area that is protected such as a garage or shed the evening before. When the temperature reaches above 50 degrees the next day you may place the plants back outside. Another method for protecting your mums from frost is to cover them with old sheets or towels or sheets making sure to cover all exposed areas of the plant.
With these tips you’ll be enjoying the beautiful color and welcoming feeling of your mums for a lot longer!
