When it comes to the question of whether mums will come back next year if planted in the fall, the answer is not a straightforward “yes” or “no.” There are a few factors to consider, such as the type of mums you are planting and the specific growing conditions in your area.
There are two main types of mums: florist mums and garden mums. Florist mums are the compact, potted varieties that you commonly find at nurseries and florist shops. These mums are typically bred for their showy blooms and are often treated as annuals. While they can be planted in the ground in the fall, they are less likely to return the following year. Florist mums are usually not as hardy as garden mums and may struggle to survive the winter in colder regions.
On the other hand, garden mums are known for their ability to come back year after year. These mums have a looser growth habit and are more cold-hardy than florist mums. They are often used for landscaping purposes and can add a burst of color to your garden in the fall. When planted in the fall, garden mums have a better chance of establishing their roots before winter sets in, which increases their chances of surviving and returning the following year.
However, it’s important to note that even garden mums may not always come back reliably. Their survival depends on various factors, such as the specific variety, the growing conditions, and the care they receive. Some garden mums may be more sensitive to extreme cold or wet conditions, while others may be more resilient.
To give your mums the best chance of coming back next year, there are a few things you can do:
1. Choose a hardy variety: Look for garden mum varieties that are known for their winter hardiness. Some popular varieties include ‘Autumn Joy,’ ‘Sheffield Pink,’ and ‘Mary Stoker.’
2. Plant in well-draining soil: Mums prefer well-draining soil to prevent their roots from sitting in waterlogged conditions. If your soil tends to be heavy or clayey, consider amending it with organic matter to improve drainage.
3. Provide adequate water: While mums don’t like to sit in wet soil, they still need regular watering until the ground freezes. Keep an eye on rainfall and supplement with additional watering if needed.
4. Mulch for winter protection: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your mums in late fall to help insulate the roots and protect them from extreme temperature fluctuations. A 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded bark, should suffice.
5. Cut back after blooming: Once your mums have finished blooming, you can trim them back to about 4-6 inches above ground level. This will help prevent them from becoming too leggy and promote bushier growth next year.
While garden mums have a better chance of coming back next year if planted in the fall, there are still no guarantees. Factors such as the type of mums, growing conditions, and care provided all play a role in their survival. By choosing hardy varieties, planting in well-draining soil, providing adequate water, mulching for winter protection, and pruning after blooming, you can increase the likelihood of your mums returning next year. However, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the possibility that some mums may not make it through the winter.
