Maintaining and caring for mums (chrysanthemums) in the fall is essential for keeping them healthy and vibrant throughout the season. Here’s a guide to help you:
Choosing the Right Location
- Sunlight: Mums thrive in full sun, so plant them in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily
- Soil: They prefer well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding compost or organic matter to improve drainage
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Mums need consistent watering, especially after planting and during dry spells. Water them deeply, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged
- Avoid Overhead Watering: Water at the base to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases
Fertilizing
- Initial Fertilizing: When planting, mix a slow-release fertilizer into the soil to provide nutrients throughout the growing season.
- Late-Season Fertilizing: Avoid fertilizing mums in late fall, as this can encourage new growth that may not survive the winter.
Pruning and Deadheading
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production.
- Pruning: After the first frost, when the blooms have faded, cut back the stems to about 6 inches above the ground. This helps the plant conserve energy over the winter.
Mulching
- Winter Protection: Apply a layer of mulch (like straw, leaves, or pine needles) around the base of the mums after the ground has frozen. This insulates the roots and protects them from extreme cold.
Overwintering
- In-Ground Mums: In colder climates, ensure mums are planted early enough in the season so they can establish roots before winter. If they’re well-established, they can often survive the winter and regrow in spring.
- Potted Mums: If you have potted mums, move them to a sheltered location, like a garage or basement, where they can stay cool but won’t freeze. Water them sparingly during this period.
Pest and Disease Management
- Monitor for Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap if necessary.
- Disease Prevention: Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Dividing Mums
- Every Few Years: To keep mums healthy and vigorous, divide them every 2-3 years in the spring. This also helps control their size and encourages more blooms.
By following these steps, your mums should remain healthy and vibrant throughout the fall, adding beautiful color to your garden or landscape.