As the crisp air of fall sets in and the threat of frost looms, the vibrant beauty of mums can seem fleeting. However, with the right techniques, you can extend your fall mum season well past the first frost and even overwinter your plants indoors. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for growing mums successfully inside your home, allowing you to enjoy their colorful blooms for longer.
Choosing the Right Mums
Not all mums are created equal when it comes to indoor growing. Look for hardy perennial varieties that are more likely to adapt well to the indoor environment. Some popular choices include Chrysanthemum morifolium, which comes in a wide range of colors and forms. When selecting your mums, choose plants with healthy foliage and plenty of unopened buds. Avoid those with yellowing leaves or signs of pests or disease.
Preparing Your Indoor Space
Before bringing your mums indoors, you need to create a suitable environment for them. Mums thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a south - or west - facing window where they can receive at least six hours of sunlight per day. If natural light is limited, you can supplement with artificial grow lights. The temperature in the room should be kept between 60 - 70°F (15 - 21°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Good air circulation is also important to prevent the development of mold and mildew. You can use a small fan on a low setting to keep the air moving around the plants.
Transplanting Your Mums
If your mums are in a nursery pot, it's a good idea to transplant them into a slightly larger container with well - draining soil. A potting mix formulated for flowers is ideal. Gently remove the mum from its original pot, being careful not to damage the roots. Place it in the new container and fill in around the roots with soil, pressing down lightly to secure the plant. Water the newly transplanted mum thoroughly to help the soil settle around the roots.
Watering and Fertilizing
Proper watering is crucial for the health of your indoor mums. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture daily by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Water at the base of the plant to avoid getting the foliage wet, which can lead to disease. During the blooming period, fertilize your mums every two weeks with a balanced, water - soluble fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct dosage.
Pruning and Deadheading
Regular pruning and deadheading will encourage your mums to produce more blooms and maintain a compact shape. As soon as a flower fades, use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove it. This will redirect the plant's energy towards new growth and the development of additional buds. You can also pinch back the tips of the stems in the early stages of growth to promote bushier plants.
Overwintering Your Mums
Once the blooming period is over, you can overwinter your mums indoors. Reduce watering and stop fertilizing. Move the plants to a cooler location, such as a basement or garage, where the temperature stays between 35 - 45°F (2 - 7°C). The mums will go dormant during this time. Check on them periodically to make sure the soil doesn't dry out completely. In the spring, when new growth appears, gradually move the mums back to a warmer, brighter location and resume regular watering and fertilizing.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Indoor mums can still be susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. If you notice any signs of pests, such as small insects on the leaves or a sticky residue, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plants. For diseases like powdery mildew, make sure the air circulation is good and avoid over - watering. Remove any infected leaves immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
In conclusion, growing mums indoors is a rewarding way to extend the fall season and enjoy these beautiful flowers year after year. By following these tips on choosing the right mums, preparing the indoor space, and providing proper care, you can keep your mums healthy and blooming for a long time. With a little effort and attention, your indoor mums will become a stunning addition to your home decor.