Fall is in the air and with it comes a bouquet of vibrant colors, especially from the most popular fall flowering plant, the hardy mum! Known for their ability to withstand the cooler temperatures and bloom beautifully, mums are the quintessential addition to any autumn garden. In this blog post, we’re going to dive into the delightful world of mums, their growth patterns, care tips, and why they’re a staple for the season.
Mums, also known as Chrysanthemums, are a hearty bunch. The term “hardy” in their name suggests that they are quite rugged and capable of enduring the chilly embrace of late fall. Unlike other perennials, which typically bloom during the summer, mums hold out until fall to show off their stunning colors. While they may not look impressive during most of the year—often resembling uninspiring green clumps—their stunning blooms are well worth the wait. They start as rooted plants in late spring and are transplanted into larger containers, which is quite a process considering the breeding advancements that aim to get them to bloom earlier and earlier.
When purchasing mums, it’s all about timing. The earlier you buy them, the better, but keep in mind that early bloomers might not have the same longevity as those that are a bit behind. If you’re looking for a plant that will last well into November, opt for the mid-season to late-season varieties. These plants have been bred to bloom later, ensuring a longer display of color for your garden. Mums come in stages, from early to late, with early bloomers already showing off their vibrant hues and late bloomers still waiting for their moment in the sun. It’s crucial to understand these stages to enjoy your mums for as long as possible. If you buy an early-blooming mum in August, it’s likely to be on its way out by October, which is why it’s better to wait for the cooler days of September to introduce them to your garden.
Now, let’s talk about their care. Mums can be a bit fickle, preferring cooler weather and consistent hydration. They don’t take kindly to drying out, so be sure to keep an eye on them. If you see the buds on your mum drooping, it’s a clear sign that it’s thirsty. These beauties don’t do the whole “wilt and bounce back” routine like some other plants. When they’re done, they’re done, so don’t neglect them. But, here’s the kicker – mums are often treated as annuals, despite being perennials. Why, you ask? Well, they spend most of the year looking rather unassuming, blending into the garden landscape with their green foliage. It’s only when fall rolls around that they transform into the star of the show. And let’s be honest, once their blooms fade, the aesthetic appeal diminishes significantly. So, how do you ensure your mums look their best? Pinching is key. By pinching back a third of their growth in the spring, and then again in early and mid-summer, you encourage those tight, dome-shaped mounds of flowers that are the hallmark of a well-maintained mum. It’s like giving them a little haircut to promote bushiness and prevent legginess.
Now, if you’re feeling guilty about tossing your mums after they’ve served their colorful purpose, fear not! It’s perfectly okay to treat them as annuals. After all, remember that “They’re Plants, Not Puppies.” So enjoy the vibrant colors of hardy mums, and when the season is over, let them go and make room for new blooms next year! At Bloomers, our 4.5″ Pots are 4 for $18 & 8 for $32…Or $4.99 Each. So Yes, they are relatively inexpensive, and the joy they bring during fall is worth the investment. Plus, they make for great compost.
If you’re looking for a way to keep the magic of mums going all season long, check out the different blooming stages. Plant some early, mid, and late-blooming varieties to ensure a continuous display of color from September through November. It’s like planning a garden party that never ends! Mums are the unsung heroes of fall gardens. With a bit of TLC, they can brighten up your outdoor spaces and provide a warm welcome for all your autumn gatherings. So, don’t shy away from these hardy perennials – embrace them for the temporary splendor they offer and enjoy the show they put on every year. And remember, if you need a visual guide or some more gardening inspiration, hop on over to our YouTube channel, “Bloomer’s Home Garden,” where you can watch our show . Remember, to like, and subscribe to stay up to date with all the valuable information you need from the gardening world of gardening!
