by Many people don’t know how to take care of mums in pots, and as a result, their flowers die prematurely.
Mums are beautiful flowers that can last for weeks if they’re taken care of properly. However, many people end up killing their mums because they don’t know how to water them or what type of soil to use.
In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about taking care of mums in pots. We’ll show you the best way to water your mums, the right type of soil to use, and how to fertilize them.
How to grow mums from seeds
Follow below guide and you will have plenty of home-grown mums to enjoy indoors and out!
What You’ll Need:
- Chrysanthemum seeds
- Seed starting mix
- Peat pots
- Scissors
- Pencil
Growing chrysanthemums from seed is not difficult, but does require a little bit of care and attention. Once you have your supplies, you’ll be ready to get started.
Instructions:
1. Starting mix
Fill each peat pot with seed starting mix, then moisten the mix well. Use a pencil to make a small indentation in the center of each pot, then plant 2-3 seeds in each indentation. Gently press the seeds into the mix, then cover lightly with more mix.
2. Water
Water the pots well, then set them in a warm, sunny spot. Keep the mix moist but not soggy, and in 10-14 days the seeds should germinate. (1)
3. Thin
Once the seedlings have sprouted, thin them so that only the strongest plant remains in each pot.
4. Fertilize
Feed the plants every 2 weeks with a diluted liquid fertilizer.
5. Pinch
To encourage bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the plants when they are 6-8 weeks old.
6. Transplant
When the plants are 12 inches tall, transplant them into larger pots or into your garden.
Mums are relatively care-free plants, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure healthy growth.
When to plant chrysanthemum
If you live in a hot climate, it is best to plant chrysanthemums in late summer so they will have plenty of time to establish themselves before the heat sets in.
In cold climates, it is best to plant chrysanthemums in early spring so they will have time to bloom before the first frost.
However, If you live in an area with a mild climate, you can plant chrysanthemums any time of year.
How to care for mums in pots
Chrysanthemums (mums) are easy to care for plants that can be grown in pots or in the garden. Just follow these simple tips and your mums will be blooming in no time!
1. Don’t over-water
Do not over-water mums. They like to be kept on the drier side and too much water will cause the roots to rot. Water mums when the top inch of soil is dry.
2. Don’t let them get too cold
Mums are sensitive to cold temperatures and can be damaged by frost. If you live in an area with frost, it’s best to grow mums in pots so you can move them indoors when the temperature starts to drop. (Learn: Temperature frost point for plants)
3. Give them plenty of sun
Mums need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day in order to bloom. If you live in a cold climate, you may need to grow mums in a south-facing window to give them enough light.
4. Fertilize regularly
Mums need to be fertilized every 2 weeks with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer package so you don’t over-fertilize and damage the plant.
5. Deadhead spent blooms
To encourage more blooming, be sure to deadhead spent blooms. This means removing the dead flowers from the plant. Just snip them off with a pair of scissors.
By following these simple care tips, you’ll have beautiful mums that will last all season long!
When do chrysanthemums bloom
Chrysanthemums typically bloom in the autumn. In the Northern Hemisphere, this means blooming from September to November.
In the Southern Hemisphere, chrysanthemums typically bloom from March to May. If you want your chrysanthemums to bloom during a specific time period, you can force them to do so by manipulating the plant’s exposure to light.
How long do mums bloom
Mums typically bloom for a period of 8-12 weeks (2). However, by following the care tips listed above, you can encourage your mums to bloom for a longer period of time.
Chrysanthemum cultivation
Chrysanthemums (mums) are beautiful, flowering plants that can be grown in pots or in the garden. They come in a wide variety of colors, including white, pink, purple, red, and yellow.
Chrysanthemums are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you need to do to ensure that they thrive.
In order to care for mums in pots, it is important to choose a pot that is large enough for the roots to spread out. The pot should also have drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. Fill the pot with a quality potting mix and water well.
Mums need to be watered regularly, especially during hot weather. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again.
Do mums need full sun
Mums do not necessarily require full sun, but they do need at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. If they don’t get enough sunlight, they will become leggy and produce fewer blooms. When growing mums in pots, choose a spot that gets plenty of sun.
What type of pot is best for mums?
Mums can be grown in any type of pot, as long as it has drainage holes. A plastic or ceramic pot is fine, but make sure it’s at least 12 inches wide and deep.
(Learn: How to choose the right pot for plant)
How often should I water mums in pots?
Mums in pots will need to be watered more often than mums in the ground, since the potting mix will dry out more quickly. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, and be sure to empty any water that collects in the saucer beneath the pot.
Fertilizing mums in pots
Mums in pots will need to be fertilized more often than mums in the ground, since they will be using up nutrients more quickly. Use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks, or add a slow-release fertilizer to the potting mix when you first plant the mum.
(Learn: How to fertilize plants)
Pruning mums in pots
After the blooms have faded, you can cut the stems back to 6 inches to encourage new growth. You can also pinch the tips of the stems to promote bushiness.
When should I repot my mum?
Mums in pots will need to be repotted every year or two, as they will quickly outgrow their pots. Be sure to use a pot that is only 2-3 inches wider than the existing pot.
1. Loosen the root
To repot your mum, first remove it from its current pot. Gently loosen the roots and shake off any excess soil. Place the plant in its new pot.
2. Fill with potting mix
Fill the pot with a quality potting mix, and water well. Be sure to empty any water that collects in the saucer beneath the pot.
3. Place in a sunny spot
Mums need full sun to bloom well, so be sure to place them in a sunny spot.
4. Fertilize and water regularly
Fertilize your mums every two weeks, and water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to empty any water that collects in the saucer beneath the pot.
(Learn: How to repot a plant)
Common pest problem for mums
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
- Spider mites
Aphids
Aphids are one of the most common pests that attack mums. These small, soft-bodied insects can be green, black, brown, or pink in color. Aphids feed by piercing the plant tissue with their needle-like mouthparts and sucking out the sap.
This feeding can cause distortion of new growth, stunting, and yellowing of the leaves. Aphids also produce a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract sooty mold fungi.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies. They can be very destructive to mums, eating the leaves and flowers. Some caterpillars also bore into the stem of the plant.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that feed on the sap of plants. They are usually red, green, or brown in color and are barely visible to the naked eye. Spider mites are especially fond of dry, dusty conditions.
They can cause stippling or mottling of the leaves, and heavy infestations can lead to leaf drop.
Treatment
One of the best ways to control aphids, caterpillars, and spider mites is to introduce natural predators into your garden.
Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps all feed on these pests and can help keep their populations in check.
You can also remove pests by hand using a strong spray of water from the hose or by applying an insecticidal soap. Be sure to follow the directions on the label when using any pesticides.
Preventing problems with pests
One of the best ways to prevent problems with pests is to keep your mums healthy.
Make sure they are getting enough water and fertilizer, and avoid overwatering or over-fertilizing.
Mums that are stressed are more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Also, be sure to clean up any dead leaves or flowers from around your mums. This will remove potential places for pests to hide and lay their eggs.
Final Thoughts
Although caring for mums in pots can be a little tricky, with a bit of practice and following the proper steps, your mums will look beautiful all season long. By using these tips, you’ll be able to create an eye-catching display that will show off your gardening skills and have everyone asking how you did it!
