Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are one of the most beloved fall flowers...and for good reason! Their bold colors, full blooms, and seasonal charm make them a favorite for front porches, gardens, and fall centerpieces. They even make great cut flowers!
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or picking up mums for the first time from one of our Brooklyn garden centers, here are our best tips and tricks for keeping your mums healthy and beautiful all season long.
Choosing the Right Mums
Not all mums are created equal! When shopping, keep an eye out for tight buds. Choose plants with more closed than open blooms. This ensures a longer flowering period at home.
Leaves should be green, full, and free of yellowing or wilting. A bushy, rounded shape means a healthier root system and stronger flowering potential.
Planting Mums: In Pots vs. In-Ground
In containers: Use pots with drainage holes and plant with a well-draining potting mix. Make sure to water thoroughly, but don’t let the roots sit in water. For extra flair, group with pumpkins or gourds for a festive fall display.
In the ground: Plant your mums in a sunny location (6+ hours of sunlight) and add compost or organic matter to enrich the soil. We recommend spacing plants to allow for airflow and prevent disease.
💡 Pro tip: Mums planted in the ground in early fall may survive the winter and return in spring, especially if they’re hardy varieties and well-mulched!
Care Tips
Watering: Water regularly, especially in hot or windy conditions. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Avoid wetting the leaves when watering because this helps prevent mildew.
Deadheading: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth and extend flowering.
Light & Temperature: Mums love the sun! Plant them in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. They’re cool-weather tolerant, but a sudden frost can damage blooms. If a cold snap is coming, move container mums to a sheltered spot.
Extending Bloom Time
To get the most from your mums, pinch back growth early in the season (if planted in spring or summer) to encourage fullness. Be sure to deadhead regularly because removing faded flowers encourages more blooms. If they are planted in containers, rotate them regularly to ensure even sun exposure.
FAQ: Chrysanthemum Care
Q: Can mums survive the winter?
A: Yes, if planted in the ground early enough (ideally by early September), hardy mums can overwinter and come back in the spring. Add mulch after the first frost to protect roots.
Q: How often should I water mums?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. During warm spells, this might be every day. In cooler temps, 2–3 times a week may suffice.
Q: Why are my mums turning brown?
A: Browning blooms may be from spent flowers, under watering, or frost damage. Remove faded blooms and adjust care accordingly.
Q: Are mums toxic to pets?
A: Yes. Mums can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, so it’s best to keep them out of reach of curious pets.
Visit us at one of our two Brooklyn locations to pick up your mums today!
