How To Care For Mums? Consider These Factors
Mums are one of the most common symbols of autumn. Even if they're in different shades, sizes and shapes, it's not hard to miss them. They are found in most homes among the decorations for Halloween, Thanksgiving or for practically any Fall occasion. And with the symbolisms and rich history attached to these flowers it is not surprising for people like the Japanese to show the ultimate way of how to care for mums: treating them like royalty.
Although it may appear that growing mums requires too much effort, it is actually quite a breeze. You just have to keep all the factors of Chrysanthemum care covered and you will be a pro on everything about how to care for mums in no time. Here are some of the most important:
Types. When buying chrysanthemums choosing which type you are willing to give time and sweat to grow is important. If you need a burst of color for only a short time, like through Thanksgiving perhaps, then florists mums can do the job for you. However, when you want to keep growing mums that could last you for a long time, hardy mums are what you need. These chrysanthemums can last you for more than a whole year – with proper care that is.
If you've decided to dedicate a huge amount of your time to growing perennial mums, you'll also be happy to know that there are a huge variety of shapes, sizes and colors to choose from. One tip, choose colors that will complement the landscape on which you plan to plant the mums.
Location. Plant mums in places where they can have a fair share of sunlight. These flowers thrive in light and when they do not get enough doses of light, they grow tall, leggy and bloom small flowers. This can be a good look on you but not on your chrysanthemums.
Soil. Not to dry and not soggy – this is how mums like it. Their shallow roots just can not stand being wet all the time. Plant mums on well-drained soil where their roots can grow deep enough. Doing this can help them to last through winter and keep them away from diseases that are caused by soggy soil. Add some compost or fertilizer if needed.
Division. Chrysanthemums don't want to be overcrowded. Although they look really great all bunched up together, they need to have some distance from each other to allow them to grow to their fullest.
Water. Most mums can get by with natural rain although newly planted mums must be watered at least twice per week. After that, watering them with about an inch of water per week will do. Water directly on the soil while carefully keeping the foliage dry.
Pinching. This is important if you want your mums to grow bushy and well-shaped. First pinching is recommended when the plant has reached about 6 inches tall. Cut a half to about an inch from the stem back to the leaves and repeat every two to four weeks or with every 3 to four inches in growth.
Overwintering. Mulch the soil to keep your mums warm over the winter. Nip off dead leaves but postpone pinching stems until after the winter season . They have better chances of surviving that way.
When you have these factors in check, then you are on your way to perfecting how to care for mums. And when you do, you will surely be rewarded with the prettiest blooms all throughout fall.