how to care for mums?

Question

i live in mn and am wondering about how to care for mums...i can't leave them outside can i?

what if it frosts..won't that kill the plant?

Answer 1

You can definitely leave them outside. Make sure they are watered regularly and pinch off the "dead heads" once in a while. They are pretty harty plants as long as they have sun and water.

A frost may kill off some of the flowers but not the plant itself, that's if you have planted it. If it is in a pot then maybe you should bring it it because the roots might get too cool. If you want to protect the flowers and you know the frost is coming, throw a sheet or something light over them. Remove it in the morning. Tada...You still have beautiful flowers and everyone elses are no longer looking their best.

Answer 2

I live in Tennessee, and just bought 2 HUGE potted mums....the lady that sold them to me told me that before the first frost plant them in the ground...putting small rocks or gravel in the ground before you plant them (this prevents the roots from freezing when water absorbs in the ground). You then cut them off to the ground and cover with thick mulch.

In the Spring, you should be able to move the mulch away and see new growth.

I believe that mums are meant to be outside all the time. I have never seen one in a pot that comes back year after year...they will get root-bound, I imagine.

Answer 3

Danette has it. They do best planted in the ground. Don't know if they'll survive your winter in pots.