Saving a mum plant doesn’t have to be a daunting task; it’s actually quite achievable with the right knowledge and approach. At savewhere.net, we provide you with expert tips and guidance on how to ensure your mums not only survive but also thrive, bringing beauty to your garden year after year. Discover simple steps to overwinter your mums, choose hardy varieties, and nurture them for vibrant blooms using our money-saving tips for gardening enthusiasts.
1. What Are Mum Plants and Why Save Them?
Mum plants, also known as chrysanthemums, are popular for their vibrant fall blooms. Saving them is environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and allows you to enjoy their beauty for multiple seasons.
Chrysanthemums are a staple in many gardens, particularly as the weather cools and summer flowers fade. Their bright, cheerful blooms in a variety of colors bring life to landscapes and potted arrangements. While many people treat them as annuals, discarding them after their initial bloom, mums are actually perennials in many climates, meaning they can live for more than two years. Saving these plants not only preserves their beauty but also offers several practical benefits. By overwintering mums, you save money by avoiding the need to purchase new plants each year. It also reduces waste, aligning with environmentally conscious gardening practices. Plus, nurturing these plants and watching them thrive can be a deeply rewarding experience for any gardener. Understanding the potential longevity and hardiness of mums encourages a more sustainable approach to gardening, turning what might seem like a disposable decoration into a lasting feature of your outdoor space.
2. Understanding the Types of Mums
Knowing the type of mum you have is crucial for successful saving. Garden mums (Chrysanthemum x grandiflorum) are generally hardy, while florist mums (Chrysanthemum x morifolium) are more delicate and harder to overwinter.
2.1. Garden Mums (Chrysanthemum x grandiflorum)
Garden mums are specifically bred to withstand colder temperatures and are often referred to as “hardy mums”. These plants are typically more resilient and can survive winters in USDA hardiness zones 5-9, given the right care. Their ability to adapt to varying weather conditions makes them a popular choice for gardeners looking for long-term floral displays. Garden mums come in a wide array of colors and forms, offering versatility for landscape design.
2.2. Florist Mums (Chrysanthemum x morifolium)
Florist mums, on the other hand, are primarily grown for indoor decoration and commercial purposes. These mums are bred for their striking appearance and long-lasting blooms, but they are not as cold-hardy as garden mums. Florist mums often struggle to survive winters outdoors, particularly in colder climates. Their sensitivity to temperature fluctuations and specific needs for light and humidity make them more challenging to overwinter. If you have florist mums and wish to save them, providing extra protection and care is essential.
2.3. Identifying Your Mum
Identifying whether you have a garden mum or a florist mum can significantly impact your strategy for saving the plant. Garden mums typically have denser foliage and sturdier stems compared to florist mums. Florist mums often have larger, more showy flowers and may be labeled as “annuals” or “decorative mums” at the point of purchase. Consulting with local nurseries or garden centers can also provide valuable insights. They can help identify the type of mum you have and offer tailored advice for its care. By understanding the specific needs of your mum, you can implement the right overwintering techniques and increase the likelihood of enjoying its blooms for years to come.
3. Preparing Your Mum Plant for Overwintering
Proper preparation is key to ensuring your mum plant survives the winter. This involves timing, pruning, and choosing the right location.
3.1. Timing is Everything
Knowing when to prepare your mum for overwintering is crucial for its survival. The ideal time to start preparing your mum plant is in late fall, after the first frost has occurred but before the ground freezes solid. This timing allows the plant to enter dormancy naturally, conserving its energy for the winter months. Preparing too early, before the plant has fully experienced the cooling temperatures, can disrupt its natural cycle and reduce its chances of survival. Waiting too long, until after severe freezes, can damage the plant’s root system, making it difficult to recover in the spring. Observe local weather patterns and plan to prepare your mum plant during this critical window.
3.2. Pruning Techniques
Pruning is an essential step in preparing your mum plant for the winter. After the blooms have faded and the foliage begins to die back, it’s time to trim the plant. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut the stems back to about 6 inches above the soil line. This helps the plant conserve energy by reducing the surface area exposed to cold temperatures and wind. Removing dead or decaying foliage also minimizes the risk of fungal diseases and pests that can harm the plant during its dormancy. Be careful not to prune too severely, as some stem material is needed to protect the crown of the plant. Proper pruning ensures that your mum plant can focus on root development and storage of nutrients, setting it up for healthy regrowth in the spring.
3.3. Choosing the Right Location
Selecting the right location for overwintering your mum plant is critical for its protection and survival during the cold months. For garden mums planted in the ground, ensure the location has well-draining soil to prevent root rot, which can be exacerbated by winter moisture. Applying a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant can provide insulation and protect the roots from freezing temperatures. For potted mums, consider moving them to a sheltered location, such as a garage, shed, or unheated basement, where they are shielded from harsh winds and extreme temperature fluctuations. If you live in a warmer climate, a location with partial sunlight may be sufficient. The key is to provide a stable environment that mimics the plant’s natural dormancy period. Avoid placing mums in overly warm or humid areas, as this can encourage premature growth and deplete their energy reserves.
4. Overwintering Mums in the Ground
For garden mums, overwintering in the ground is often the easiest method, provided you take a few precautions.
4.1. Mulching for Protection
Mulching is a vital step in protecting your mum plant during the winter months. Apply a generous layer of mulch around the base of the plant, extending several inches beyond the foliage. Ideal mulching materials include straw, shredded leaves, wood chips, or pine needles. These materials provide insulation, helping to maintain a consistent soil temperature and preventing the roots from freezing and thawing repeatedly, which can damage the plant. The mulch also acts as a barrier against harsh winds and extreme temperature fluctuations. Ensure the mulch is loose and breathable to allow for air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to fungal diseases. In addition to protecting the plant from cold, mulch helps to suppress weed growth and retain soil moisture, benefiting the plant when it emerges from dormancy in the spring.
4.2. Soil Considerations
Proper soil conditions are crucial for the successful overwintering of mum plants. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot, a common issue during the wet winter months. If your soil is heavy clay or prone to waterlogging, consider amending it with organic matter such as compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure. These amendments improve soil structure, enhance drainage, and provide essential nutrients to the plant. Before winter arrives, ensure the soil is adequately moist but not waterlogged. Overly dry soil can leave the roots vulnerable to freezing temperatures, while excessively wet soil can lead to rot. Test the soil moisture by inserting your finger a few inches into the ground; it should feel slightly damp. Maintaining the right soil conditions ensures that your mum plant’s roots remain healthy and protected throughout the winter, setting the stage for robust growth in the spring.
4.3. Additional Winter Care
Beyond mulching and ensuring proper soil conditions, additional winter care can further enhance the survival of your mum plants. Consider using burlap wraps or frost blankets to provide extra insulation, especially in regions with severe winters. These coverings protect the foliage and stems from harsh winds and heavy snow, reducing the risk of cold damage. Monitor the mulch layer periodically and replenish it as needed to maintain its insulating properties. Check for signs of pests or diseases and address any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading during the dormant season. In areas with heavy snowfall, gently remove excess snow from around the base of the plant to prevent the soil from becoming overly compacted. By providing comprehensive winter care, you maximize the chances of your mum plants thriving and returning with vibrant blooms in the spring.
5. Overwintering Mums in Pots
For potted mums, overwintering requires a slightly different approach, focusing on protection from extreme temperatures.
5.1. Moving Pots Indoors
Moving potted mums indoors is a crucial step in protecting them from the harsh conditions of winter. Before the first frost, relocate the pots to a cool, dark, and sheltered location, such as an unheated garage, basement, or shed. These environments provide a stable temperature range that mimics the plant’s natural dormancy period. Avoid placing the pots in overly warm areas, as this can encourage premature growth, depleting the plant’s energy reserves. Ensure the indoor location has adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and fungal diseases. If the storage area is completely dark, consider providing occasional light using grow lights or by moving the pots to a brighter spot for a few days each month. This helps maintain the plant’s health without stimulating excessive growth. Regularly check the soil moisture and water sparingly to prevent the roots from drying out completely.
5.2. Temperature and Light Control
Maintaining proper temperature and light control is essential for successfully overwintering mums in pots indoors. The ideal temperature range for dormancy is between 32°F and 50°F (0°C and 10°C). This cool environment allows the plant to conserve energy and prevents it from breaking dormancy prematurely. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature in the storage area and adjust accordingly. If the temperature fluctuates significantly, consider adding insulation or using a space heater to maintain a stable range. Light is also a critical factor. While mums don’t need much light during dormancy, complete darkness can weaken the plant. Provide indirect light for a few hours each month by moving the pots to a brighter location or using grow lights. Avoid direct sunlight, which can warm the plant and stimulate growth. By carefully managing temperature and light, you create an optimal environment for your potted mums to rest and prepare for robust growth in the spring.
5.3. Watering and Humidity
Proper watering and humidity control are essential for the successful overwintering of potted mums. During dormancy, the plant’s water needs are significantly reduced. Water sparingly, only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is particularly problematic in cool, dark environments. Ensure the pots have good drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. Humidity levels should also be monitored. High humidity can encourage fungal diseases, while very low humidity can cause the plant to dry out. Aim for a moderate humidity level by providing adequate ventilation in the storage area. If the air is too dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the pots on a tray filled with pebbles and water. As the weather warms in late winter, gradually increase watering frequency to prepare the plant for the active growing season.
6. Spring Care for Your Saved Mums
As spring approaches, it’s time to bring your mums back to life with proper care and attention.
6.1. Transitioning Outdoors
Transitioning your overwintered mums outdoors requires a gradual approach to acclimate them to the changing conditions. Once the danger of frost has passed, begin by placing the pots in a sheltered location outdoors for a few hours each day. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend outside over a period of one to two weeks. This process, known as hardening off, allows the plants to adjust to the brighter sunlight, fluctuating temperatures, and increased air movement. Avoid placing them directly in full sun immediately, as this can scorch the foliage. For mums that were overwintered in the ground, gently remove the mulch layer and check for any signs of new growth. Water the plants thoroughly as the soil begins to dry out. Transitioning them carefully ensures that your mums can adapt to their new environment and thrive throughout the growing season.
6.2. Fertilizing and Watering
Fertilizing and watering are critical components of spring care for your saved mums, providing them with the nutrients and hydration they need to thrive. Once the plants show signs of new growth, begin fertilizing with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Follow the package instructions for application rates. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn the roots and damage the plant. Water the mums regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture frequently by inserting your finger a few inches into the ground. Adjust watering frequency based on weather conditions and soil drainage. During periods of heavy rain, reduce watering to prevent root rot. Proper fertilizing and watering ensure that your mums receive the essential nutrients and hydration needed for robust growth and vibrant blooms throughout the spring and summer.
6.3. Pinching and Pruning for Bushier Growth
Pinching and pruning are essential techniques for promoting bushier growth and abundant blooms in your saved mums. Pinching involves removing the tips of new shoots to encourage branching and create a fuller, more compact plant. Begin pinching the stems in early spring, as soon as new growth appears. Continue pinching every two to three weeks until mid-July. This allows the plant to develop a strong, bushy structure before it begins to set flower buds. Pruning involves removing any dead, damaged, or overcrowded stems to improve air circulation and light penetration. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make precise cuts. Regular pinching and pruning not only enhance the plant’s appearance but also stimulate more profuse blooming in the fall. These practices ensure that your mums remain healthy, vigorous, and visually appealing throughout the growing season.
7. Common Problems and Solutions
Even with the best care, you may encounter some common problems when saving mum plants. Here’s how to address them.
7.1. Pest Control
Effective pest control is crucial for maintaining the health and vigor of your saved mums. Common pests that can affect mums include aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause damage by sucking sap from the foliage, leading to yellowing, stippling, and distorted growth. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation, such as visible pests, sticky residue, or webbing. If you detect pests, take action promptly. For minor infestations, try washing the plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests. For more severe infestations, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the product instructions carefully. These treatments are effective against a wide range of pests and are less harmful to beneficial insects. Encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, by creating a welcoming habitat in your garden. By implementing proactive pest control measures, you can protect your mums from damaging infestations and ensure they remain healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season.
7.2. Disease Prevention
Preventing diseases is essential for the long-term health and vitality of your saved mums. Common diseases that can affect mums include fungal infections such as powdery mildew, rust, and botrytis. These diseases can cause unsightly spots, discoloration, and decay on the foliage and flowers. To prevent diseases, ensure good air circulation around the plants by spacing them adequately and pruning out any overcrowded stems. Avoid overhead watering, which can create a humid environment that favors fungal growth. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of disease, such as spots, lesions, or powdery coatings. If you detect disease, take action promptly. Remove and dispose of any infected foliage to prevent the disease from spreading. Consider using a fungicide labeled for use on mums, following the product instructions carefully. By implementing proactive disease prevention measures, you can protect your mums from harmful infections and ensure they remain healthy and beautiful throughout the growing season.
7.3. Addressing Root Rot
Addressing root rot promptly is crucial for saving your mum plants from this potentially fatal condition. Root rot is typically caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage, which creates a waterlogged environment that suffocates the roots and allows fungal pathogens to thrive. Signs of root rot include wilting foliage, yellowing leaves, and a foul odor emanating from the soil. If you suspect root rot, take immediate action. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Healthy roots should be firm and white, while rotted roots will be mushy and brown or black. Trim away any affected roots with clean, sharp pruning shears. Replant the mum in a new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Improve soil drainage by amending the potting mix with perlite or sand. By addressing root rot promptly and improving drainage, you can save your mum plants and prevent further damage.
8. Choosing Hardy Mum Varieties
Selecting the right variety can make a significant difference in your success rate. Some mums are simply hardier than others.
8.1. Recommended Varieties
Choosing hardy mum varieties is essential for ensuring your plants survive the winter and thrive in subsequent seasons. Some recommended varieties known for their resilience and longevity include ‘Sheffield Pink’, ‘Mammoth Mum’, and ‘Ryan’s Pink’. ‘Sheffield Pink’ is a popular choice for its late-season blooms and ability to withstand colder temperatures. ‘Mammoth Mum’ is known for its large, impressive flower displays and robust growth habit. ‘Ryan’s Pink’ offers beautiful pink blooms and excellent hardiness. When selecting mum varieties, consider your local climate and growing conditions. Check with local nurseries or garden centers for recommendations on varieties that perform well in your area. Planting hardy mum varieties increases your chances of success in overwintering and enjoying their vibrant blooms year after year.
8.2. Where to Buy
Purchasing hardy mum varieties from reputable sources ensures you receive healthy, high-quality plants that are more likely to thrive. Local nurseries and garden centers are excellent places to buy mums, as they often carry varieties that are well-suited to your local climate. These nurseries typically provide knowledgeable staff who can offer advice on selecting the right mums for your garden and provide guidance on their care. Online retailers also offer a wide selection of hardy mum varieties, often with detailed descriptions and customer reviews. When buying online, choose reputable vendors with a track record of providing healthy plants. Check customer reviews and ratings to ensure the vendor’s reliability. Consider purchasing mums from specialty growers or breeders who focus on developing hardy and disease-resistant varieties. These sources may offer unique and hard-to-find mums that are well worth the investment.
8.3. Reading Plant Labels
Reading plant labels carefully is essential for selecting the right mums and understanding their specific needs. Plant labels provide valuable information about the plant’s variety, hardiness, light requirements, watering needs, and potential size. Look for labels that clearly state the plant’s name, including both the common name (e.g., chrysanthemum) and the scientific name (e.g., Chrysanthemum x grandiflorum). Check the hardiness zone information to ensure the plant is suitable for your local climate. Plant labels also often indicate the plant’s light requirements, such as full sun, partial shade, or full shade. Pay attention to this information to ensure you plant the mum in a location that meets its needs. Read the label for information on watering and fertilizing, and follow these guidelines to keep your mum healthy. By reading plant labels carefully, you can make informed decisions and provide the right care for your mums, increasing their chances of thriving in your garden.
9. Save Money With These Mum Growing Tips
Saving mum plants isn’t just about preserving their beauty; it’s also a financially savvy choice for budget-conscious gardeners. By overwintering your mums, you avoid the need to purchase new plants each year, resulting in significant cost savings over time. Additionally, propagating new plants from cuttings is a cost-effective way to expand your mum collection without spending extra money.
9.1. Propagating New Plants From Cuttings
Propagating new plants from cuttings is a cost-effective method that allows you to expand your mum collection without spending money. In the spring, take stem cuttings from healthy, vigorous mums. Select stems that are about 4-6 inches long and remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone to promote root development. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, such as a combination of peat moss and perlite. Keep the cuttings moist by covering them with a plastic bag or humidity dome. Place the cuttings in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. After a few weeks, the cuttings should develop roots. Once the roots are established, transplant the new plants into individual pots and care for them as you would mature mums.
9.2. Collecting Seeds From Your Mums
Collecting seeds from your mums is a cost-effective way to propagate new plants, although it may not result in plants that are identical to the parent. Allow some of your mums to flower fully and develop seed heads. Once the flowers have faded and the seed heads have dried out, carefully collect the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant them. In the spring, sow the seeds indoors in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide plenty of light. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of leaves, transplant them into individual pots. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting them in your garden. Keep in mind that plants grown from seed may not have the same characteristics as the parent plant, as they can be the result of cross-pollination.
9.3. Utilizing Savewhere.net for Deals and Discounts
Utilizing savewhere.net for deals and discounts is a savvy way to save money on mum plants and gardening supplies. Savewhere.net is a comprehensive online platform that offers a wide range of deals, discounts, and coupons from various retailers, including nurseries, garden centers, and online gardening suppliers. Regularly check savewhere.net for special promotions on mum plants, potting mixes, fertilizers, and other gardening essentials. Sign up for the savewhere.net newsletter to receive email alerts about new deals and discounts. Take advantage of seasonal sales and clearance events to score even greater savings. Compare prices from different retailers on savewhere.net to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal. By utilizing savewhere.net, you can save money on all your mum gardening needs and enjoy the beauty of these plants without breaking the bank.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
10.1. Can I save mums in all climates?
The success of saving mums depends on the climate and the type of mum. Garden mums are hardier and can survive in zones 5-9 with proper care, while florist mums are more challenging to overwinter in colder climates.
10.2. How often should I water mums in the winter?
Water sparingly, only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
10.3. What’s the best mulch for mums?
Straw, shredded leaves, wood chips, or pine needles are all good options for mulching mums.
10.4. When should I start fertilizing my mums in the spring?
Begin fertilizing when you see signs of new growth, using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
10.5. How do I prevent pests on my mums?
Regularly inspect your plants and use insecticidal soap or neem oil for infestations.
10.6. What do I do if my mum’s leaves are turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or pest infestation. Adjust watering and check for pests.
10.7. Can I divide my mum plants?
Yes, divide overgrown clumps every few years in the spring or fall to promote healthy growth.
10.8. How much sun do mums need?
Mums thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
10.9. What are the signs of root rot?
Signs include wilting foliage, yellowing leaves, and a foul odor from the soil.
10.10. Where can I find deals on mum plants?
Check savewhere.net for deals, discounts, and coupons from various retailers.
Saving a mum plant is a rewarding experience that combines environmental responsibility with financial savings. By following these tips, you can ensure your mums thrive year after year, adding beauty to your garden and saving money in the process. For more expert advice and exclusive deals, visit savewhere.net today and join our community of savvy gardeners.
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