I wanted to take a moment and re-post this from last year:

It’s time to plant mums

I was planning on picking up a few mums this weekend to add some fall color to the yard. But it’s raining now and is expected to continue through the weekend. Planting may be on hold, but this gives me a great opportunity to offer up some tips and advice on getting the most from your plants.

When purchasing mums there a a few things to remember. Try not to purchase plants that are in full bloom. It’s much nicer if they begin their bloom in your yard where you have more time to enjoy them. Pay close attention to the flower buds. If they look dried out and shriveled, choose a different plant. Be certain the soil is moist and not dry. Another thing to consider is the container. Some are sold in decorative containers. We’re paying extra for those. If you have no intention to keep the plants in those containers (you’re planting them ) look for plants in a simpler pot.

Mums will grow in any average soil but will appreciate the addition of some compost. Well drained soil is necessary for the plant’s growth and the ability to survive the winter successfully. Regular fall watering is necessary if the season is dry.

Mums should be lightly mulched to help prevent multiple freeze/thaw cycles. But don’t mulch too heavily as the plants may suffocate. It is just necessary to mulch the soil under the plant and an area around it. Don’t mulch up over the plant’s stems and foliage. Shredded leaves are a good material to use as mulch. The plants may also be aided by the installation of a burlap covering at the end of the season. This will help protect them from damaging winter winds.

If all goes well the hardy mums should survive the winter. The spring will tell us if our work was successful. The plants will then have all year to grow and add even more color to next fall’s landscape. After a few growing seasons the plants will be large enough to be divided and separated. But we’ll discuss that in the spring when it’s more appropriate.

I’ll see you in the backyard!

September 13th, 2008