Garden Mum

Garden mums need fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Add compost and feed during early growth, then plant hardy varieties in spring so roots establish before winter.

Sun

Full sun

Water

1 in/week

Spacing

18 in

First harvest

Perennial; fall bloom

Tips

• Set plants at their nursery depth about 18 inches apart, keeping the crown above any persistent wet spots.
• Provide about 1 inch of water weekly, increasing water as needed during hot weather and bud formation.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer during spring and early summer according to its label, and stop late-season feeding.
• Watch for leaf spots and aphids, removing damaged foliage and keeping irrigation at soil level.
• Pinch shoot tips until early summer for bushiness, stopping by about early July in many northern climates so flower buds can develop.