If you're like us, you have probably received or purchased some gorgeous fall mums to decorate you front steps or home this fall! The question now is; as winter is on the horizon, how do I take care of these potted mums?
The good news is, mums are perennials and grow back each year, so you can enjoy them the following season! They are also a very hardy plants, and can withstand our harshest Maryland winter weather. Just follow our tips and you'll find yourself a mum pro in no time.
Much like indoor mums, planting outdoors or in the garden requires abundant sunlight.
Be sure to plant your mums in well-draining soil; organic soil or compost will produce vigorous, healthy mums.
Give mums plenty of space. It's wise to plant your mums about 18 inches from other plants so their roots have room to expand.
Water, but not too much. Water beneath the foliage at soil level, as watering the blooms and leaves can result in fungi. After the first week when you'll want to water frequently, ensure mums get an inch of water per week.
Deadhead! Removing wilted blooms and dead stems or leaves helps your mums bloom for an extended time.
In colder climates like Maryland, your mums may need to mulched using leaves, wood chips, or straw. Mulch should be about three or four inches high and surround the entire base of your mums.
If frost gets your mums, don't fret. Just prune them back to the point there's only about an inch of stems above the ground, and leave the mulch remaining around the plant. Come spring, your mums will regenerate.
To discuss all things lawn and garden, or to schedule your Fall Clean Up, please contact us at 443-846-0199 or info@rootedinnaturemd.com.
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