Can Potted Mums Be Planted Outside?

Chrysanthemums or mums are a staple in fall gardens, and these colorful blooms add an extra pop of color to your landscape. Potted mums are popular houseplants, but they are also often used for outdoor decor. The question is, can potted mums be planted outside? The answer is yes, but there are some things you need to keep in mind.

Choosing the Right Location

When planting potted mums outside, you need to select the right location. Mums love the sun, so make sure to choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day. They also prefer well-draining soil, so avoid planting them in areas that get too muddy when it rains.

If you live in a region with harsh winters, you also need to pick a location that offers some protection from the elements. Avoid planting them in low spots where water collects or areas where strong winds are common. These conditions can damage the plants or even kill them.

Preparing Your Potted Mums for Planting

Before planting your potted mums outside, it's important to prepare them first. Make sure that the potting soil is moist but not waterlogged. Gently remove the mums from their pots, being careful not to disturb the roots too much.

Once you have removed them from their pots, gently loosen the roots and remove any dead or diseased growth. If the plant has become too root-bound, you can divide it into smaller plants for more fullness. After preparing your mums, you can proceed to plant them outside.

Planting Your Potted Mums Outside

When planting your potted mums outside, you should dig a hole that is twice as big as the root ball of the plant. Place a mixture of composted organic matter and soil in the bottom of the hole, then gently place the mum in the hole. Carefully fill the hole with soil around the roots of the plant, ensuring that there are no air pockets around the root ball.

After planting your mums, water them thoroughly, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and regulate temperature. When your mums start to grow, you can start fertilizing them with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Caring for Your Potted Mums

After planting your potted mums outside, it's important to continue caring for them. Water the plants regularly, especially during the hot summer months to keep the soil moist. However, make sure not to overwater them as they prefer well-drained soil.

Remove any dead or diseased blooms from your mums to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's healthy appearance. Cut the plants down to a few inches above the ground after they stop blooming in the fall to ensure they come back next year.

Conclusion

So, can potted mums be planted outside? Yes, they can. With proper preparation, planting, and care, your potted mums can thrive in your outdoor space. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, prepare your plants, and care for them regularly to enjoy these beautiful blooms year after year.