garden mum

Garden mums require regular watering in order to stay healthy and flower properly. During the spring and summer months, it is best to water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between each watering. In the fall when temperatures start to decrease and days become shorter, it is important to reduce the amount of water given to the plant so it can enter dormancy for the winter. Watering should be decreased to once every 2 weeks or less, as the plant will need less water during this time. It is important to ensure that the soil does not become sodden, as this can cause root rot and allow diseases to take hold. On particularly hot days, additional water being applied in the form of a light misting can be beneficial. In the winter, if you notice any wilting of the leaves and the soil is completely dry, water should be applied sparingly to prevent the plant from drying out.

Garden mums require full sun for optimum growth and bloom. During the summer months they require 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. When planting garden mums it’s best to locate them in a spot in the garden that receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily; however, in hotter months more sun will produce better flowers. As a rule of thumb, if the summer temperatures remain above 70 degrees Fahrenheit consistently, then garden mums may need 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In the spring and fall, when temperatures are lower, they require less sunlight and 3 to 4 hours of direct sunlight daily should be enough. During the winter months garden mums can typically survive with as little as 2 (2) hours of direct sunlight daily.

Garden Mums should be pruned twice a year for best results; once in late spring and once in late summer. In late spring, cut the plant back to about 6-8 inches, just above a pair of healthy leaves. Pruning in late summer should be done shortly after flowering has finished, and should involve cutting back the entire plant by about 1-third, again cutting just above a pair of healthy leaves. Deadheading spent flowers throughout the season will also ensure your garden mums keep flowering.