Chrysanthemums—or “mums” as we love to call them—look absolutely stunning in a garden bed, but don’t worry if you’re short on yard space! These fall favorites are perfect for container gardening on a balcony or patio. Just keep in mind that potted mums need a little extra TLC compared to their cousins in the ground.
Growing Mums in Pots
First things first: location is everything. Mums love a spot that’s sheltered from harsh wind and rain, which also helps protect them when those first chilly night frosts hit. If you have varieties still blooming in November, it’s a good idea to bring them inside at night since the flowers themselves are pretty sensitive to freezing temps. To get those big, beautiful blooms, make sure they get plenty of light, but try to avoid harsh, direct midday sun. A spot with bright, dappled shade is usually the “sweet spot.”
The Soil
Mums are what we gardeners call “heavy feeders,” meaning they have a big appetite for nutrients. When you’re potting them up, make sure your soil mix is:
- Fresh and nutrient-dense
- Rich in organic matter (compost is great!)
- Mixed with a little sand for texture
- Well-draining
Since mums absolutely hate “wet feet” (soggy roots), be sure to add a drainage layer of terracotta shards or pebbles at the bottom of your pot before adding the soil.
Ongoing Care
To keep your mums thriving, they need a steady supply of food and plenty of water. Check the soil regularly and water whenever the top layer feels dry to the touch. Pro tip: try to water at the base of the plant and avoid getting the leaves or flowers wet—this is the best way to prevent pesky fungal issues. During the blooming season, give them a dose of liquid mineral fertilizer every two weeks for a quick nutrient boost. Stop fertilizing at the end of August so the plant can start winding down for its winter nap.
To keep your plant looking fresh, cut back any spent or ugly stems close to the soil line. You should also “deadhead” (pinch off) dried-up flowers. This encourages the plant to keep producing new blooms and extends your flowering season. Just be careful when you’re pinching—new buds are often hiding right underneath the old ones!
When the season ends, you can actually overwinter your mums right in their pots. Move them to a cool, bright, and airy spot indoors or a frost-free greenhouse. Aim for temperatures between 40°F and 50°F (5-10°C). You won’t need to water nearly as often, but don’t let the soil dry out completely. Hold off on the fertilizer until you see new growth starting up again in the spring!
