Planting Mums in the Ground

Q: I received a beautiful big pot of mums as a gift. Can I plant these outside now? Just cut off the flowers & maybe separate into a few clumps?

A: Yes, your mum can be planted out now but you will need to give it some extra TLC through the winter months. Cut the spent flowers off but leave as much of the plant intact as possible. Plant in a location that receives at least 5-6 hours of direct sun per day during the growing season. Water it in well and apply a 3-4” deep layer of mulch around the perimeter of the plant extending at least a foot in all directions. Every 2-3 weeks be sure to give it a good drink of water if the ground isn’t frozen. I suggest at least ½ gallon. This is essential for the plant’s survival through the winter. Do not divide it at this time. Wait until spring when the new growth is 2-3” tall. Dig the entire plant up and divide it down into pieces with at least 3-4 growing stems. Replant your new divisions at least 12” apart and keep them well watered and fed. Pinch the tips when the plants are 6-8” tall to encourage them to branch out and produce more flowers later in the fall.

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Read our Q & As with Keith Funk answering common Colorado gardening questions here. You can also hear him on the Garden Wise Radio Show