Growing Mums From Seed: A Complete Guide

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Want to fill your garden with vibrant chrysanthemums but not sure where to start? Growing mums from seed is a rewarding and cost-effective way to expand your collection. While they're often purchased as established plants, starting from seed offers a wider variety of options and a deeper connection to the growing process.

Getting Started with Mum Seeds

Choosing the Right Seeds

First, select high-quality chrysanthemum seeds from a reputable source. Consider the colors, bloom types, and plant sizes that fit your garden's aesthetic and space. Popular varieties include:

  • Cushion Mums: Compact and rounded, ideal for borders.
  • Decorative Mums: Large, showy blooms perfect for cut flowers.
  • Spider Mums: Unique, spidery petals that add texture to arrangements.

When to Plant

Mums are typically started indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. This gives them a head start and ensures they're strong enough to transplant outdoors. Alternatively, you can direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost, but expect a later bloom.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sowing Mum Seeds

  1. Prepare Seed Trays: Fill seed trays or small pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
  2. Sow Seeds: Sprinkle seeds thinly over the surface of the soil. Chrysanthemum seeds are small and need light to germinate, so don't bury them too deeply. Gently press them into the soil.
  3. Water Gently: Mist the soil surface with water to avoid disturbing the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Provide Light: Place the seed trays in a bright location or under grow lights. Mums need at least 6 hours of light per day.
  5. Maintain Temperature: Keep the soil temperature between 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal germination. A heat mat can be helpful.
  6. Be Patient: Germination typically takes 10-21 days. Once seedlings emerge, provide good air circulation to prevent damping-off.

Caring for Mum Seedlings

Thinning Seedlings

Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, thin them out, so there's enough space for each plant to grow. This prevents overcrowding and promotes healthy development.

Transplanting

When the seedlings are about 4-6 inches tall and the risk of frost has passed, they're ready to be transplanted outdoors. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Mums thrive in at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

Soil Preparation

Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mums prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.

Watering and Fertilizing

Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

  • Damping Off: Prevent this fungal disease by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
  • Pests: Watch out for aphids, spider mites, and other common garden pests. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Disease: Monitor for fungal diseases like powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and treat with fungicide if necessary.

Enjoying Your Homegrown Mums

Growing mums from seed is a labor of love, but the stunning blooms are well worth the effort. With proper care, your homegrown mums will provide a vibrant display of color in your garden throughout the fall. Don't forget to deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Are you ready to start your mum-growing adventure? With a little patience and care, you can enjoy a beautiful and bountiful display of chrysanthemums grown from seed. Happy gardening!