When Do You Plant Mums in Pots?

Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are the stars of the autumn garden. These colorful perennials produce a plethora of flowers that last for weeks, making them perfect for adding a touch of brightness to your patio or garden. While planting mums in pots may seem straightforward, it's important to choose the right time to get the best results. In this article, we'll answer the question "when do you plant mums in pots?" and explore some tips for growing healthy, vibrant mums in containers.

Choosing the Right Time to Plant Mums in Pots

The best time to plant mums in pots depends on your location and preferred planting time. If you live in a warm climate, you can plant mums in pots at any time of the year. However, if you live in an area with cold winters, it's best to plant mums in the late spring or early summer. This gives the plants time to establish themselves before the cooler weather arrives.

If you want to get a head start on the growing season, you can plant mums in pots indoors during the winter months. This is known as forcing and can result in earlier blooms. To force mums, plant them in a pot with well-draining soil, and keep them in a cool dark place for 6-8 weeks. After this time, move the pots to a sunny location and the plants should begin to grow.

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil for Mums

When planting mums in pots, it's important to choose the right container and soil. Mums thrive in well-draining soil and prefer pots with adequate drainage holes. This ensures that water does not accumulate in the pot, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.

Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter, as mums have a shallow root system and need ample space to grow. Terracotta, plastic or clay pots are all suitable choices for planting mums in pots.

For soil, use a well-draining potting mix that contains a good balance of organic materials and perlite or vermiculite. It's important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, as mums do not like wet feet.

Planting and Caring for Mums in Pots

When planting mums in pots, start by filling the pot with soil and gently firming it down. Remove the mum plant from its nursery pot and gently loosen the roots. Place the plant in the pot and backfill around it with soil, being careful not to cover the crown of the plant. Water thoroughly and place the pot in a sunny location.

To care for mums in pots, make sure they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch, and fertilize once per month with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth and repeat blooming.

Conclusion

Planting mums in pots is a rewarding way to add color and interest to your patio or garden. By choosing the right time to plant, selecting the right pot and soil, and properly caring for your plants, you can enjoy vibrant blooms all season long. When do you plant mums in pots? The answer depends on your location and preferred planting time, but with a little care, mums can thrive in containers year-round.