Are Potted Mums Indoor or Outdoor Plants?

Chrysanthemums, also known as mums, are popular fall flowers that come in a variety of colors and sizes. They are easy to care for and are often sold in pots, but many people wonder if they are indoor or outdoor plants. The answer is that they can be either indoor or outdoor plants, depending on the type of mum and the climate in which you live.

Types of Mums

There are two main types of mums: garden mums and florist mums. Garden mums are hardy perennials that can survive in the ground through winter and bloom again in the spring. Florist mums, on the other hand, are typically grown in greenhouses and sold as indoor plants in pots. However, both types of mums can be grown as indoor or outdoor plants.

Growing Mums Indoors

If you want to grow mums indoors, you should choose florist mums. These plants are not as hardy as garden mums and are not meant to survive outdoors. Florist mums need bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered regularly, making sure not to let the soil dry out completely. They also benefit from occasional fertilization. When the flowers start to fade, you can choose to either discard the plant or transplant it outdoors in your garden.

Growing Mums Outdoors

Garden mums can be grown outdoors in most climates. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. In the fall, garden mums produce an abundance of colorful flowers that are perfect for decorating your garden or front porch. To prepare for winter, you can cut the plants back to about 6 inches tall and cover them with mulch for insulation. In the spring, the plants will come back to life and start blooming again.

Conclusion

So, are potted mums indoor or outdoor plants? The answer is that it depends on the type of mum and your personal preference. Florist mums are better suited for indoor growing, while garden mums thrive outdoors. No matter which type of mum you choose to grow, remember that they are easy to care for and can provide a beautiful burst of color to your home or garden.