Introduction
Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, are a beautiful and popular plant that add lovely colors to gardens and indoor spaces. While these flowers are relatively easy to grow, they do require proper care for a long-lasting and healthy plant. In this article, we will explore the basics of mum care, fertilizing and pruning, maintaining healthy roots, pest control, extending bloom period, overwintering mums, and creating a beautiful mum display. By following these tips and techniques, you can have a vibrant and thriving mum plant in no time.
Basics of Mum Care
Choosing the right pot size is crucial for mum care. A pot that’s too small or too big can affect the growth of the plant. Ideally, the pot should be twice the size of the mum’s root ball. Moreover, mums grow well in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. These plants thrive in full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade. Moreover, they need to be watered regularly, especially in hot weather. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing & Pruning
Feeding your mums is essential for their growth and longevity. Use a balanced fertilizer that has equal amounts of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks starting from mid-summer, when the plant begins to form flower buds. Pruning is also an essential mum care technique that promotes healthy growth. Before blooming, pinch back the tips of the plant’s stems by about an inch to encourage branching. Deadheading will help promote additional bloom, making the flowers last longer.
Maintaining Healthy Roots
Having a robust root system is essential for the healthy growth of mums. Regularly inspecting the roots and trimming any damaged ones is essential for maintaining healthy roots. Moreover, if the mums grow out of their container, consider repotting them. For mature plants, lift the mum out of the pot, trim the roots by a third, and add fresh soil. Doing this will help the mums continue to grow healthily.
Pest control
Mums are prone to pest infestations, such as spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can cause discoloration, stunted growth, and deformities in the flowers. To control pests, you can use organic or chemical treatments. Chemical treatment must be used with caution as it could harm beneficial insects. More preventive measures, such as regular cleanup and removal of dead plant material and keeping the plant well-nourished, can reduce the occurrence of infestations.
Extending Bloom Period
Mums have a natural blooming period that requires a bit of work to extend. Removing spent flowers and deadheading will help extend the blooming period by encouraging new growth. Additionally, avoid allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as this can stress the plant. To prolong the bloom time, keep the mums in a cooler environment and reduce the sunlight they receive throughout the day.
Overwintering Mums
While mums are generally hardy, they do require some care during the winter months. Mulching with two to three inches of leaves, pine needles, or other organic material can protect the mum from freezing temperatures. Moreover, you can provide additional protection by covering the mum with a burlap sack or other cloth cover, allowing air to circulate. Be sure to remove any protective covering during the day to allow the plant to receive sunlight and good air circulation.
Creating Beautiful Mum Display
Mums are great for both indoor and outdoor displays. When choosing pots and container ideas, consider pairing the flowers with darker tones or contrasting colors to add depth to the display. Mums can also be used to make beautiful floral arrangements, either on their own or with other plants. When using multiple colors, choose hues that complement each other for an eye-catching display.
Conclusion
Growing mums can be a rewarding experience when you provide the proper care. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll have a vibrant and healthy mum plant that will provide lovely blooms for a long time. Remember to choose the correct pot size, use the right soil type and pH level, fertilize and prune regularly, maintain healthy roots, control pests, extend the blooming period, overwinter the plant, and create a beautiful mum display.
