Tips for Keeping Fall Mums in a Container Alive Longer
Keeping mums alive in containers is tricky business! I got a little excited last week when I saw mums at my local grocery store and I just had to snatch them up for our porch.
Well I didn’t take into account how many more HOT week’s we are going to have in my neck of the woods and a few days in, I was already starting to see wilting leaves resulting from some toasty afternoons.
So I asked the PDH community on instagram for tips and boy did they/you deliver! So for our convenience I thought I’d round up some of your tips below so everything is in one place for easy access this year and and for years to come.
Deadhead your Mums
This simple video will show you how to dead head your mums. Deadheading your mums will allow the energy from the plant to be directed to the new flower buds. It extends the life of your mums too!
Repot your Mum
Taking the mum and potting it in new, rich, soil in your own slightly larger pot will help give the roots more room and freshen up the nutrients your plant is receiving.
Water the Soil not the Flowers & Water Often
Mums don’t mind the heat and the blossoms are okay being dry, so be sure to water the soil not the mums! This video explains everything. Such a great tip, no one wants rotted blooms.
Mums like their soil moist. They don’t want a dry bed. Check your containers frequently and water as often as needed. Which might be up to twice a day if your climate is warm.
Keep the Weather in Mind, Unlike Me
Depending on your weather in September and October, you may still be in for some warm weeks. So pay attention to the daytime temps and precipitation. Mums are a little temperamental and like to be watered often when it’s hot and sheltered from a hard rain.
I got a little excited and bought mine a couple weeks too early I think, so I’m in for some maintenance.
Move from the Container to Soil
I know this is all about mums in containers, but they do love being in the ground too!
So consider moving them from your container to the soil. They enjoy microclimates, large rocks around their growing space, and a light mulching in fall.
Great tips from a Great Crew!
Check out all the great tips from the community over on instagram below!
Do you have any great tips for thriving mums?! Please tell us in the comments! We’d all love know.
Happy Mum Season!
With hope for you and your intentional home,
