This time of year in the greenhouse, our focus turns to fall mums and asters. Actually, we have been growing the plants since the end of May, but by now, they have flourished into grown plants already beginning to pop with color. Several questions we get on a daily basis revolve around mum care, color and longevity, so allow me to address them now!
How often should I water my mums?
Mums prefer to be in the dry side of the watering spectrum. We do the “lift” test and visually inspect the plants to determine their watering needs. If you lift your mum and it is still hefty, it will be okay to wait another day before checking the plant again. Another good sign that your mum is ready for a good drink is if the leaves are starting to look droopy. Don’t panic! As soon as you give the plant a long soak with a hose, it will bounce back as good as new!
How long will they bloom?
We have a wide variety of mums ranging from early bloomers (Allegra Yellow & Girona Purple) to late bloomers (Aluga White & Amiko Bronze). To choose a plant that will bloom the longest, I usually select a color that has just a peek of color showing out of one or two buds. Holding back on using fertilizer can also help the blooms last longer. Ultimately, Mother Nature and the temperatures will dictate how long each mum will hold its color!
Will the mums come back every year if planted in my yard?
The decorative mums we grow at Culver’s are primarily an annual plant. Plant breeding of these Belgian mums has turned the focus to size, color & variety as opposed to winter hardiness. HOWEVER, there are a few people who come in each year to tell us how tickled they were to have the mums return the following season. If you want to try beating the odds, your best chance of winter survival is to plant the mum along a south-facing wall or foundation, mulch it well in the fall, and do not cut back the dead stems and foliage until the spring. Our perennial department also grew several varieties of hardy mums that would be a great addition to your perennial gardens!
If mums don’t suit your fancy, perhaps one of our hardy fall asters would be right up your alley.
Come visit us this fall to tour our wide selection of fall mums and asters. We would be happy to point out a few of our faves and hope to add them to your favorites list too!
