Can You Plant a Potted Mum in the Ground?

Chrysanthemums, or often called mums, are beautiful flowering plants that come in a variety of colors and shapes. They are commonly used as decoration during the fall season because of their ability to brighten up any space. Some people may wonder whether they can plant a potted mum in the ground. The answer is yes, but it requires some special care.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting your potted mum in the ground, it is important to prepare the soil first. Mums grow best in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add organic matter such as compost or manure to the soil to improve its fertility and drainage. You can also mix in perlite or sand to improve drainage if your soil is heavy and clay-like.

Choosing the Right Spot

Mums need to be planted in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Choose a spot that is protected from strong winds and has good air circulation. If you live in an area with hot summers, consider planting your mum in a spot that receives some shade during the hottest part of the day.

Planting Your Potted Mum

When planting your potted mum, wait until after the danger of frost has passed. Remove the plant from its pot and loosen the root ball gently. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water the plant thoroughly.

Caring for Your Mums

Once your mum is planted, it is important to care for it properly. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mums also benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooming. You can use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, once a month from spring through summer.

To encourage bushy growth and more blooms, pinch back the tips of young shoots throughout the growing season. You can also deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. In the fall, cut back the plant to 2-3 inches above the soil surface to encourage new growth the following year.

Conclusion

Planting a potted mum in the ground is possible, but it requires some preparation and care. Choose a well-draining soil, a sunny spot with good air circulation, and fertilize regularly. Pinch back young shoots and deadhead spent blooms to encourage bushy growth and more blooms. With proper care, you can enjoy your mums for many seasons to come.