Will Garden Mums Come Back and How To Know?
Have you ever planted garden mums and wondered, will garden mums come back next year? It’s frustrating when your vibrant fall blooms fade, leaving you unsure if they’ll return. You’re not alone! Many gardeners struggle with keeping mums healthy and thriving after winter.
The truth is, some mums are annuals, while others are perennials. With the right care, perennial mums can return year after year. If yours didn’t come back, it might be due to how they were planted or cared for.
Don’t worry—fixing this is super easy. Here, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make sure your garden mums survive and thrive.
Key Points
- Garden mums can be annuals or perennials—know which you have.
- Early planting gives mums the best chance to survive winter.
- Protect your mums with mulch and pruning to shield them from the cold.
- Hardy mums are more likely to come back year after year.
- Potted mums need extra care to survive the winter.
- Regular watering and good drainage are key for healthy growth.
- Deadheading spent flowers boosts blooms and plant health.
- Proper care ensures your mums return and thrive every fall.
Will Garden Mums Come Back? Know the Details
Yes, garden mums can come back every year if they are perennial and cared for properly. Perennial garden mums thrive when planted early, given enough sunlight, water, and mulch, and protected during winter. Annual mums, however, won’t return, as they complete their life cycle in one season.
Here are the conditions that help Garden Mums come back year after year:
Planting Time and Location
Garden mums should be planted in early spring or summer, as this gives them enough time to establish strong roots before winter. Mums planted late in the season might not survive the cold. Always choose a sunny spot, as mums need at least six hours of sunlight daily to grow well.
Planting at the right time ensures roots grow deep and stable, which helps them survive tough weather. In my experience, planting them early works wonders because they adapt better and resist frost better. If you plant late, the roots remain shallow, and the plant becomes vulnerable.
Location is equally vital. Mums planted in a spot with too much shade tend to grow weak and leggy. That’s why sunny locations make a big difference in their ability to come back year after year.
Soil Quality and Drainage
Mums thrive in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Poor drainage can cause roots to rot, especially in winter when soil stays wet. I always mix compost into the soil before planting to improve its texture and drainage, which makes a huge difference in their survival.
Good drainage also prevents fungal diseases, which are common in overly damp conditions. In my opinion, spending time on soil prep is essential if you want mums to return every year.
Winter Protection
Winter can be harsh, and protecting mums is crucial. After the first frost, cutting back stems to about 6 inches and applying a thick layer of mulch (straw or leaves work well) helps insulate the roots. This keeps the soil temperature stable and prevents freezing.
I’ve seen how mulch acts like a cozy blanket for the plants, helping them survive even during tough winters. The thicker the layer, the better the protection.
Regular Watering During Growing Season
While mums don’t like soggy soil, consistent watering is crucial, especially during dry spells. Deep watering helps roots grow stronger and deeper. Always water at the base to avoid wet leaves, which can lead to disease.
I always check the soil moisture level before watering.
Avoiding Stress During Growth
Healthy mums are more likely to return. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer, removing dead flowers (deadheading), and keeping pests away all contribute to their health. Stressed mums have a harder time surviving winter.
When I focus on these details during the growing season, my mums look fuller and are more resilient when the cold weather arrives.
How Do I Know If My Garden Mums Are Perennial or Annual?
Perennial garden mums, also called hardy mums, are bred to survive winters and come back year after year. Annual mums, or florist mums, are grown for one blooming season and don’t return.
Check the Variety Name
Perennial mums are often labeled as hardy mums, while annual mums are called florist mums. Look for tags when you buy them. If you don’t see the label, research the specific variety to confirm.
I always ask nursery staff about the type because they often know which mums can survive in your region. It saves a lot of guesswork.
Examine Root Strength
Hardy mums have robust, deep-growing roots that anchor them in cold weather. Annual mums have smaller, weaker root systems, as they aren’t designed to overwinter. You can gently examine the roots when repotting to check their condition.
Healthy, strong roots are a good indicator of a perennial mum. In my experience, weak roots almost always mean the plant won’t survive past fall.
Look for Blooming Season
Hardy mums tend to bloom later in the year, often in September or October, while annual mums bloom earlier. The later bloom time helps hardy mums survive the first frost.
When you see early blooming, it’s often a clue that the plant might not be perennial. I learned this from trial and error when picking mums at garden centers.
Observe Growth Pattern
Perennial mums are more compact and sturdy, while annual ones grow tall and leggy. If your mums grow evenly and look bushy, they’re likely perennials.
I noticed that hardy mums in my garden have a neat, rounded shape, making them easier to identify.
Check Your Region’s Climate
Hardy mums are bred for colder regions, so if you live in a warmer climate, there’s a chance you might have annual varieties. Ask local gardeners or your nursery for advice based on your area.
I’ve often asked neighbors about their mums’ growth to confirm if certain varieties return in my zone. It’s an easy way to learn about what works best nearby.
Are you growing Morning Glory plants as well? People also ask whether they come back every year or not. On this, I’ve written another guide – Do Morning Glories Return Every Year?
How to Encourage Garden Mums to Come Back? Proven Tips
Yes, you can encourage garden mums to come back by planting them early, giving them proper care during the growing season, and protecting them in winter. Simple steps like pruning, mulching, and watering make a big difference in ensuring they return the next year.
Planting Early in the Season
Early planting allows garden mums to establish strong roots before winter. This strengthens their foundation, making them more likely to come back.
When I plant mums in spring or summer, they have months to settle in and grow. By fall, they’re healthy and ready to handle cold temperatures.
Choosing the Right Location
To grow Garden mums, pick a spot that has two things:
- Plenty of sunlight
- Well-draining soil.
Mums thrive in sunny areas and struggle in shade or soggy soil.
I’ve seen how planting in the wrong spot, like near trees where roots compete for nutrients, can weaken mums. Choosing the right location sets them up for success.
Adding Mulch for Winter Protection
You should apply three-inch mulch around the base of mums after the first frost. This keeps roots warm and reduces freezing risk. I’ve found that straw or shredded leaves work best because they’re breathable and easy to remove in spring.
Watering Consistently but Not Overwatering
Regular watering during the growing season strengthens roots. Avoid letting soil dry out completely, especially in summer.
For me, watering deeply once a week in normal conditions keeps my mums healthy without risking rot.
Fertilizing to Promote Growth
For Garden mums, I recommend using a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer Why? To encourage healthy growth. Stop fertilizing by early fall to let mums prepare for dormancy.
When I fertilize my mums every two weeks during active growth, they grow fuller and look more vibrant. I also use Potato water from time to time. It’s organic, which is why there are no noticeable side effects.
Pruning at the Right Time
Pruning helps mums grow bushier and healthier. Cut back stems to about 6 inches after blooming and remove dead flowers during the season.
In my experience, regular pruning keeps mums strong and increases their chances of coming back year after year.
Can Mums Survive the Winter in Pots? Will They Come Back After Winter?
Yes, mums can survive the winter in pots, but they need extra care. Potted mums are more exposed to cold since their roots don’t have the insulation that ground soil provides. Perennial mums, often called hardy mums, have a higher chance of surviving and coming back after winter if treated correctly.
To help them survive, you need to move the pots to a protected spot before the first hard frost. A garage, basement, or even a covered porch can provide enough protection. This keeps the soil and roots from freezing, which is a common cause of death for potted plants in winter.
If you don’t have indoor space, you can bury the pots in the ground. This gives the roots the insulation they need. Once spring arrives, you can unearth them and either replant them in the garden or continue growing them in pots.
Lastly, water sparingly during the winter. The soil should stay slightly moist, but overwatering can lead to root rot. If your mums survive and begin sprouting again in spring, you’ll know you’ve given them the proper care they needed.
When Do Mums Come Out in Stores?
Mums typically appear in stores during late summer or early fall. Most stores begin stocking them in August or September, which is their peak blooming season. During this time, mums are a popular choice for gardens and fall decorations.
Stores often sell mums when they’re already blooming. This makes them look more appealing to customers. However, buying mums that still have unopened buds is a better idea. Plants with buds last longer and bloom over time, so you’ll enjoy their flowers for weeks rather than just a few days.
If you want perennial mums to plant in your garden, shop for them early in the season. By planting in late summer, the plants have enough time to establish their roots before the frost arrives. This increases the chances that they’ll survive the winter and come back the next year.
Florist mums, which are sold in grocery stores and garden centers year-round, are a bit different. These are potted varieties meant for indoor use. They are beautiful but aren’t bred to survive outdoor conditions, so they won’t come back after winter.
What Do Mums Look Like When They Grow Back?
When mums grow back in spring, they start as small, green shoots pushing up from the soil. These shoots are close to the ground and look like clusters of tiny leaves. The new growth is fresh and vibrant, showing that the plant is coming out of dormancy.
As the season progresses, the stems grow taller and more leaves appear. The foliage is usually a bright green color and has a bushy, rounded shape. By late spring or early summer, the plant begins to resemble the dense, full look that mums are known for.
By mid-summer, the plants are often about half their full size. At this stage, it’s a good idea to pinch back the stems. Pinching makes the plant fuller and prepares it to produce more flowers later.
As the weather cools in late summer, buds begin forming at the tips of the stems. These buds are tight and small at first. Over time, they grow larger and eventually burst into colorful blooms.
Once in full bloom, the mums look like the vibrant, cheerful plants we associate with fall. Their dense flowers create a beautiful display that lasts for weeks. Seeing them grow back each year is a rewarding sign that your care has paid off.
What to Do With Potted Mums After Blooming?
After potted mums finish blooming, cut back the spent flowers, trim the stems, and prepare the plant for winter storage. Move the pots to a protected location if you’re in a cold area. Water the plant sparingly during dormancy and replant or refresh the pot in spring.
Deadhead Spent Flowers
The first step after your mums finish blooming is to remove the dead flowers. This process, called deadheading, prevents the plant from wasting energy on seed production. Instead, it redirects nutrients to the roots and foliage, keeping the plant healthier.
Deadheading is simple but makes a noticeable difference. Be sure to remove any wilted or rotting parts as well. This helps prevent fungal issues, which can harm the plant during the winter.
Prune Back the Stems
Once you’ve removed the flowers, cut back the stems to about 6 inches tall. Pruning makes the plant more compact and manageable. It also prepares the mums for their dormant phase.
In my experience, trimming the stems after blooming improves the plant’s chances of growing back stronger. Without pruning, the plant may become leggy and weak.
Move to a Sheltered Location
If you live in a region with cold winters, you need to protect your potted mums from freezing. Move the pots to a spot like a basement. Basement is a good choice because the temperatures stay above freezing. This keeps the roots alive and healthy through the dormant months.
If indoor storage isn’t an option, consider burying the pots in your garden. This provides extra insulation for the roots, making it easier for the plant to survive.
Water Sparingly
During dormancy, mums don’t need much water. Check the soil occasionally and water only when it feels dry to the touch.
A light watering schedule is enough to keep the roots alive without risking damage. This is a critical step to ensure the plant survives until spring.
With proper care, the mums will begin growing again. By mid-summer, they’ll be well on their way to producing vibrant blooms for another season.
When Do Mums Bloom? (Know the Details)
Mums typically bloom in late summer and fall. Their peak flowering season is September and October. This timing makes them one of the most popular plants for fall gardens and decorations.
The exact blooming time depends on the variety. Early-blooming mums can start flowering as soon as late July. Mid-season and late-blooming varieties, on the other hand, might not flower until late September or even October. Choosing a mix of varieties allows you to enjoy blooms for a longer period.
To get the best blooms, make sure mums receive enough sunlight and water during their growing season. Pinching back stems in early summer also helps produce more flowers. Healthy, well-cared-for mums will reward you with vibrant blooms that last for weeks.
Conclusion
With the right care, garden mums can brighten your garden year after year. Here’s what to do:
- Choose hardy perennial varieties and plant them early.
- Water regularly, but avoid soggy soil.
- Protect your mums during winter with mulch and pruning.
- Place them in a sunny spot for healthy growth.
- Keep deadheading and fertilizing to encourage blooms.
Enjoy the beauty of mums every fall.
