Decorative chrysanthemums—or “mums” as we usually call them—are those gorgeous, large-flowered varieties you start seeing everywhere in late summer and early fall. Usually sold in pots, they’re the perfect way to add a long-lasting pop of color to your porch, patio, or even your living room windowsill. Plus, the color options are practically endless!
Versatile Fall Decor
There’s nothing like a lush bush of mums to brighten up a balcony or deck when the weather starts to cool down. Since they’re grown in pots, these flowers also make great houseplants, adding a much-needed splash of color indoors on those gloomy autumn days. If you take good care of them, you can even try transplanting them into your garden. Just a heads-up: wait until after the last frost in spring to move them outside, as these decorative varieties can be a bit sensitive to the cold.
Location and Care
Mums are actually perennials, and that includes these showy decorative types. It’s definitely worth trying to get them established in your garden beds! They thrive in bright spots, but you’ll want to keep them out of harsh, direct midday sun. They’re happiest when temperatures stay between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 20°C).
Watering and Feeding
The golden rule for watering mums is to wait until the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. I always recommend the “finger test”—just stick your finger an inch into the soil to check the moisture level. When you do water, make sure the excess can drain away quickly. To keep your mums happy, keep these tips in mind:
- Always use a pot or planter with a drainage hole.
- Use loose, well-draining potting soil.
- Add a layer of gravel or clay pebbles at the bottom for extra drainage before planting.
- Empty any standing water from the saucer or decorative pot about 20 minutes after watering.
- Fertilize in the spring when you see new growth starting, but stop feeding them once fall hits.
Extra Maintenance Tips
Once those beautiful blooms finally fade, you’ll want to cut the stems back to just above the soil line. If the plant makes it through the winter, it’ll reward you with fresh new shoots next season.
If you’re keeping your potted mums indoors for the winter, move them to a cool, frost-free room (ideally between 40°F and 50°F). Once they’re cut back, they don’t need much light. Water them sparingly—just enough so the root ball doesn’t completely dry out—and skip the fertilizer entirely during this dormant phase.
Want to overwinter them outdoors? It’s possible, but they’ll need some extra TLC. Make sure they’re planted in a spot protected from harsh winds. After cutting back the spent stems, cover the base of the plant with a thick layer of mulch to tuck them in for the winter.