Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are a popular choice for fall gardening due to their vibrant colors. These flowers come in various shades of reds, yellows, oranges, and other hues, adding a pop of color to gardens during the colder months. Interestingly, the Hardy Mums we cultivate at Heeman’s are perennials in our area. When planted in the ground, they have the potential to grow and blossom annually during autumn.

Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, typically bloom during autumn and are coordinated with the duration of daylight. Using a technique called light manipulation, growers can hasten the flowering process of mums by adjusting their daily exposure to sunlight. The plant will be deceived by this method and initiate its flowering cycle after a few weeks. With the diverse range of chrysanthemum species available, you can obtain plants that blossom as early as September or as late as October.

Taking care of your potted mums is a perfect way to add beauty and color to your garden. The good news is that this task is not as complicated as you may think. All you have to do is pick a compact plant with multiple branches and buds. However, the most crucial part of caring for your mums is choosing the right ones. Avoid buying flowers that are already blooming or expired, as this will limit the time you can enjoy their vibrant colors. Typically, mums bloom for about three to four weeks, so purchasing those that are not yet in full bloom will give you more time to appreciate their beauty.

After bringing your mother plant home and noticing that it is starting to bud or bloom, you can confidently move it to any spot with ample sunshine. Ensure they receive consistent watering and supplement their growth with 20-20-20 fertilizer once a week. This will help preserve the flowers and keep them vibrant for a longer duration.