When Can I Plant My Potted Mums Outside?

If you're like many gardeners, you probably look forward to the arrival of fall each year, and with it, the opportunity to fill your home, yard, and garden with vibrant, colorful chrysanthemums, or "mums" as they're affectionately called. Typically, mums are sold in pots at flower shops or nurseries, and while they can certainly add beauty to your space indoors, it's important to know when and how to plant them outside to get the most out of these hardy, long-blooming plants.

Choosing the Right Time

The first thing you need to know when it comes to planting potted mums outside is when to do it. Your timing will vary depending on where you live and the climate you're dealing with, but a good rule of thumb is to wait until after the last frost before you start planting. This ensures that your mums won't be killed off by a sudden cold snap, and it also gives them a chance to get settled before winter sets in.

If you live in an area with a mild climate or a long growing season, you may be able to plant your mums as early as late summer. If, on the other hand, you live in a colder climate with a shorter growing season, you may need to wait until October or even November.

Preparing Your Soil

Before you plant your mums, it's important to make sure your soil is prepared. Mums prefer well-drained soil that's rich in organic matter, so you should amend your soil if necessary to ensure it meets these requirements. In addition, you may want to add a slow-release fertilizer to help your mums get the nutrients they need over time.

Choosing the Right Location

The next step is to choose the right location for your mums. Ideally, your plants should get at least six hours of sunlight per day, so choose an area that gets plenty of light. In addition, make sure your mums won't be crowded by other plants, as this can cause them to become stressed and potentially die off.

Planting Your Mums

Finally, when it comes time to plant your mums, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to dig a hole that's deep and wide enough to accommodate the root ball of your plant. Then, carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently tease apart any roots that appear bound together. Place the plant in the hole, filling it in with soil and water as necessary to help it get settled.

It's also important to remember that mums are heavy feeders, so you should plan to fertilize them regularly throughout the growing season. In addition, be sure to water your mums regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot.

In Conclusion

Planting potted mums outside can be a great way to add color and beauty to your garden. By choosing the right timing, preparing your soil, choosing the right location, and planting your mums properly, you can enjoy these hardy plants for weeks on end. Just be sure to keep them fed and watered, and don't be afraid to prune them back if they start to look leggy or scraggly. With a little care and attention, your mums will thrive and bring joy to your garden for years to come.