Do you plant mums or leave in pot?

Chrysanthemums, or mums for short, are beautiful and colorful fall flowers that add a touch of vibrancy to any garden or pots. However, many gardeners and plant enthusiasts often wonder whether it is more beneficial to plant mums directly into the ground or to leave them in pots. Here, we will explore both options and the pros and cons of each.

Planting mums in the ground

Planting mums in the ground is a popular option for gardeners looking to add fall color to their landscape. When planting mums in the ground, it is important to select a spot that receives plenty of sunshine and has well-draining soil. Mums should be planted at a depth that matches the height of their root ball.

One of the main benefits of planting mums in the ground is that they tend to establish a stronger root system. This allows the plant to grow larger and produce more blooms the following year. Additionally, because the roots are growing in the soil, they are able to access a wider range of nutrients, which can also lead to healthier plants.

However, planting mums in the ground also comes with some drawbacks. For instance, mums planted directly in the ground are exposed to a wider range of pests and diseases that can be detrimental to the plants. Additionally, if the soil is not well-draining, the roots can become waterlogged and rot, leading to the death of the plant.

Leaving mums in pots

Another option for growing mums is to leave them in pots. This is a popular choice for gardeners who lack garden space or who prefer to move their plants around to different locations throughout the season. When growing mums in pots, it is important to select a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system and provides ample drainage.

The main benefit of leaving mums in pots is that it allows for greater flexibility in terms of plant placement. Gardeners can move the pots around to find the perfect spot for their mums as the seasons change. Additionally, because the soil in pots can be controlled more easily than soil in the ground, it is possible to provide the plants with the ideal growing conditions.

However, keeping mums in pots also has some disadvantages. Because the roots are confined to a small space, plants grown in pots are not able to establish as strong of a root system as those grown in the ground. This can lead to weaker and smaller plants that produce fewer blooms. Additionally, because the soil in pots tends to dry out more quickly, plants grown in containers require more frequent watering.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether to plant mums in the ground or keep them in pots depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Those with limited space or who enjoy moving their plants around may prefer to grow mums in pots, while others who have ample garden space and wish to establish strong, healthy plants may opt to plant them in the ground. Regardless of the method chosen, providing mums with the right growing conditions, including plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular watering, is key to producing healthy and vibrant plants.