As we approach the autumn season, many of us are looking for ways to brighten up our outdoor spaces. Mums are a popular choice for their beautiful, vibrant blooms that last for several weeks. However, keeping them alive and thriving can sometimes be a challenge. That’s where my simple tips come in – with these easy steps, you can keep your mums from dying and make them flourish this year.
Choose mums with closed buds that are about to bloom
When selecting mums from your local nursery or garden center, choose those with closed buds that are about to bloom. This means they are fresh and have not yet fully bloomed. What’s more, it provides a longer blooming period for your mums.
Soak 30mins to 45 minutes as soon as you get them home
Once you have made your purchase, it is vital to give your mums a thorough soak to ensure they are well-hydrated. Soak them for between 30 minutes to 45 minutes as soon as you get them home. This will help them to acclimate to their new environment and will provide the necessary hydration that they need to flourish.
Give them sun if they haven’t bloomed
Mums require a sufficient amount of sunlight to thrive. If your purchased mums have not bloomed yet, place them in a sunny spot to ensure that they get enough sunlight to bloom. While it is true that mums can thrive in partial shade, complete failure to give them sun could limit their growth and make them less vibrant.
Put them in a large pot with holes so they have room to grow and don’t get soggy
Plant your mums in a large pot with enough holes to allow excess water to drain. This will prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and poor growth. Mums require ample space to grow and expand their root system. Thus, planting them in a large pot will provide the necessary support for their growth.
Water your mums every other day
Proper watering is integral to mum growth and overall health. Water your mums every other day, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Thorough watering will ensure that the plant roots are well-hydrated, and the plant will have sufficient water to survive.
Water your mums from bottom not the top
When watering your mums, it is best to water from beneath, not from the top. This will help in preventing fungal growth on the plant’s leaves, which can lead to significant damage and even death of the plant.
If one dies, flick off the head, prune
Finally, if one of your mums dies, don’t worry. Simply flick off the head and prune any dead or wilted leaves. This will encourage new growth and ensure your other mums continue to thrive.
In conclusion, keeping your mums healthy and vibrant throughout the year can be achieved by following these simple tips. Ensure you provide your plants with adequate sunlight, water them well, and plant them in large pots with proper drainage. By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful and healthy mums in your garden all year round.
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