Autumn is here! After spring, this is my favorite time of year. Hayrack rides, fall potlucks, the bounty of gardens spilling across the table, jelly making, and my family’s annual pumpkin carve party brings in the bounty of the autumnal season. And of course, chrysanthemums blooming!
Chrysanthemums, or mums for short, are a favorite part of many people’s fall decorations. I like to center a mum (still in its pot) among a grouping of grasses, pumpkins, and gourds. The mum steals the show. Occasionally, a butterfly or bee will alight on a flower. The morning due will create a world of sparkles on the petals of a soft blooming mum. And the colors! From pink to purple and white to orange, there are so many options to choose from. Differing shades of red, orange, yellow, and purple always catch my eye.
One of the most common questions I hear in regards to the fall mums is “Will it survive if I plant it?”
Most likely yes. While it is true that many mums have been developed in recent times for their flower power, they will usually overwinter just fine in the ground and can be planted as a perennial in gardens. I recommend them to be planted as soon as possible to allow the roots to grow quickly in the warm fall soils. I also recommend that you leave the tops once the blooms have faded, they help protect the crown of the plant and they look nice through the winter snows. Once spring has arrived, cut the tops back and mulch around the plant.
Pick your mums early, they will go fast once colors are popping! Come to all 3 Grimm’s locations for Buy 3 Get 1 Free through the month of September on Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, & Mums!
Happy Planting!