Planting Mums in the Ground After They Die

Introduction

Mums are a popular fall flower, known for their bright colors and hardy nature. However, once they start to die off at the end of the season, many people wonder what to do with them. Can you plant mums in the ground after they die?

The Answer

The short answer is yes, you can plant mums in the ground after they die. However, it's important to keep in mind that they may not survive the winter and come back the following year. Mums are usually treated as annuals, meaning they are planted and enjoyed for one season before being replaced.

Preparation

Before planting your mums, it's important to prepare the ground. Choose a location with well-draining soil and good sunlight. Remove any weeds or debris from the area and till the soil to a depth of six inches. You may also want to add compost or fertilizer to the soil to give your mums a head start.

Planting

Once your soil is ready, it's time to plant your mums. Dig a hole the same depth as the container your mums came in and twice as wide. Gently remove your mums from their container and spread out the roots. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil. Water the plant well.

Care

After planting, it's important to care for your mums properly to give them the best chance of survival. Water them regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plants every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead any spent blooms to encourage new growth.

Conclusion

In summary, while you can plant mums in the ground after they die, they may not survive the winter and come back the following year. Proper preparation, planting, and care can give your mums the best chance of survival, but it's important to keep in mind that they are usually treated as annuals. Enjoy their bright colors and hardy nature for one season, then replace them with new plants next year.