"Sometimes You Need A Little TLC!"
Chrysanthemums—aka “mums”—are one of fall’s biggest showstoppers. But did you know you can grow your own mums from seeds or cuttings and enjoy the process from start to full bloom?
Whether you're planning ahead for next season or just curious about how those gorgeous fall blooms get their start, we’ve got all the essentials for growing mums in Zone 5—from planting to pinching.
Start Early, Reap Later
If you're growing from seed or cutting, start indoors in late winter or early spring. Mums need a long growing season, so give them a head start under lights or in a warm window.
Once the danger of frost has passed, transplant outdoors into rich, well-draining soil in a sunny location. Mums love full sun—6 hours minimum!
Don’t Skip the Pinch ✂️
The secret to those full, bushy blooms? It’s all in the pinch.
Pinch back the first growth in early June, when plants are about 6 inches tall.
Repeat the pinch every 2–3 weeks until mid-July—this encourages branching and helps delay blooms until fall.
No pinching = early, lanky flowers. But a few well-timed trims? That’s how you get that full, rounded mum look.
Feed & Water With Purpose
Mums are hungry, thirsty plants—but they hate soggy feet.
Use a balanced fertilizer every 2–3 weeks until flower buds appear.
Water deeply and consistently, aiming for the soil (not the leaves!) and mulch to conserve moisture—especially during August heatwaves.
Know When to Plant for Fall Blooms
If you’re starting with young nursery plants, transplant them by early summer to allow time for root establishment before blooming. Planting too late often means fewer flowers or poor overwintering.
Can Mums Survive Winter?
Yes—with a little love. Garden mums in Zone 5 can return next year if:
They're planted in spring or early summer, not fall.
You mulch well before the first freeze.
You leave the dead growth as insulation until spring.
Treat them right, and your mums may reward you with a second (or third!) act.
Let Your Garden Shine, Season After Season
Growing mums from scratch takes patience, but it’s worth every pinch when your yard explodes with color each fall. From seed trays to full bloom, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of homegrown beauty.
🌼 Want help choosing varieties or timing your garden for fall blooms?
Come see us—we’d love to chat mums with you.
📍 The Landscape Connection
4472 S. Mulford Rd.
Rockford, IL 61109
(815) 874-8733
www.TheLandscapeConnection.net
