Button mums, also known as chrysanthemums or mums, are technically perennials. This means that they have the ability to come back year after year. However, in many regions, mums are often grown as annuals. This is because they may not survive the harsh winter conditions in certain areas.
In the United States, the USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3 through 6 are known for their frigid winters. If you live in one of these zones and want to grow mums as perennials, it is important to choose early-blooming varieties. These varieties are more likely to have a chance of coming back in subsequent years.
Early-blooming mums have a better chance of establishing their root systems before the winter cold sets in. This allows them to store enough energy to survive the winter and regrow in the following spring. Late-blooming mums, on the other hand, may not have enough time to establish themselves before the cold temperatures arrive, leading to their demise.
When selecting mums for your garden, look for varieties that are labeled as hardy or winter-hardy. These varieties are specifically bred to tolerate colder temperatures and have a better chance of surviving the winter. It is also a good idea to choose mums that are native to your region, as they are more adapted to the local climate and may have a higher chance of coming back year after year.
To give your mums the best chance of survival as perennials, it is important to provide them with proper care. This includes planting them in well-draining soil, watering them regularly but not excessively, and providing them with adequate sunlight. Mulching around the base of the plants can also help insulate the soil and protect the roots during the winter.
In my own experience with growing mums as perennials, I have found that early-blooming varieties tend to be more successful in coming back year after year. I have also noticed that providing some protection, such as covering the plants with a layer of straw or leaves during the winter, can help increase their chances of survival.
While button mums are technically perennials, they are often grown as annuals in regions with frigid winters. If you live in an area with cold temperatures, choosing early-blooming varieties and providing proper care can increase the chances of your mums coming back year after year.
