Chrysanthemums, or mums, are those gorgeous flowers you see blooming in gardens every fall. They’re easy to grow, come in so many colors, and can add a pop of color to your outdoor space.

If you’re looking to create a cute, vivid, low-maintenance balcony garden for mums, this guide comes in handy. Here, we’ll talk in length about:
- What are Chrysanthemums?
- The Different Types of Chrysanthemums
- How to Plant and Care for Chrysanthemums
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in.
Mums: An Overview
Mums, the short name for chrysanthemums, are fall flowers that bring a sudden burst of color to gardens and homes. These beautiful flowers are so popular that gardeners and landscapers alike love to use them for decorating.
From purple to golden-yellow mums, the colorful varieties are perfect for gardens, pots, or dried arrangements. Chrysanthemums are flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. They originated in China and Japan and have been cultivated for centuries. In many cultures, they are symbols of optimism, joy, and long life.
Chrysanthemums come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, and white, making them a great choice for both garden and home use. They also have many bloom shapes, ranging from daisies and spider mums to pom-pom types, and are considered some of the most brilliant flowering plants.
Types of Mums: Annual or Perennial

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether mums are annuals or perennials. Well, the answer depends on the variety of Chrysanthemums you’ve picked, the climate zone, and how to take care of them.
1. Florist Mums: The Annuals
Florist mums are typically sold as seasonal flowers during the fall. These Chrysanthemums are bred for their colorful blooms, often seen in pots for use, have a delicate root system, and are not cold-hardy.
As a result, they are considered annuals in most regions. Once the cold temperatures hit, florist mums do not survive and need to be replaced the following year. They are perfect for temporary fall displays or indoor decoration but do not have the longevity or resilience of garden mums.
2. Garden Mums: Hardy Perennials for Your Garden
In contrast, garden mums are true perennials, meaning they can live for several years in the right conditions. These are much harder than florist mums and are bred to thrive outdoors in temperate climates.
In USDA Zones 5-9, garden mums are capable of surviving the winter, making them a great addition to your garden for long-term enjoyment.
Garden mums can be planted in the fall to provide immediate seasonal color, but they will also continue to grow, bloom, and return year after year if cared for properly. With the right protection during the colder months, such as mulching and pruning at the right time, these plants will come back stronger each year, offering fresh blooms every autumn.
How to Ensure Your Chrysanthemums Become Perennials?
If you’re in a cold climate and want to ensure your garden mums return every year, keep the following tips and considerations in mind.
1. Climate Zone
Garden mums are hardy in specific USDA Zones, typically Zones 5-9, though this can vary depending on the variety. If you live in a colder zone (below Zone 5), you may need to take extra precautions to help them survive the winter or treat them as annuals.
2. Planting Depth
When planting your garden mums, make sure they are placed at the proper depth. Plant them deep enough so that the roots are protected from frost. You may need to adjust planting depth based on your local climate.
3. Winter Care
In colder regions, garden mums may need additional protection during the winter. Mulching around the base of the plant can help insulate the roots from freezing temperatures. Avoid pruning back the stems in the fall as they act as a natural form of protection during the winter months.
4. Dividing Mums
To keep your garden mums healthy and encourage more vigorous growth, divide them every 2-3 years. Dividing mums helps to rejuvenate the plants and prevents overcrowding, which can reduce the overall vitality of the blooms.
Types of Mums: Exploring Varieties and Colors

Mums come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Each variety has unique features, and their vibrant colors add an array of beauty to any garden. Here’s an overview of different mum types and color options.
1. Daisy Mums
Daisy mums resemble daisies. These have simple, white-colored petals that effectively add sophistication to any outdoor area. They come in a spectrum of colors, from bright yellow to mellow pink. Daisy mums make for a great choice for informal gardens, blending beautifully in mixed flower beds.
2. Spider Mums
Spider mums are known for their long, spidery petals that give them a dramatic, elegant look. These mums can be found in vibrant colors such as red, yellow, and orange. Dried spider mums are also popular for creating wreaths and floral arrangements due to their unique appearance.
3. Pom-Pom Mums
Pom-pom mums comprise small, round blooms that give away the typical puffball look. They are ideal for container gardening or small garden spaces and look stunning in flower arrangements. These mums are available in a multitude of colors, including white, purple, and pink.
4. Quilled Mums
Quilled mums have a place of their own for their tubular, curled petals. These textured flowers are a favorite for gardeners who enjoy creating visually interesting arrangements. They are often seen in colors like red, yellow, and lavender.
5. Anemone Mums
Anemone mums have a striking appearance with a central disc of small, tightly packed petals surrounded by flat, broad petals. These mums come in various colors, including rich purple, white, and pink, making them a standout feature in any garden.
6. Button Mums
Button mums feature small, densely packed blooms that form tight, button-like clusters. They are perfect for adding depth and texture to flower beds and containers. Button mums come in an array of vibrant colors, such as red, yellow, and orange.
7. Chrysanthemums by Color

Mums are available in almost every color you can imagine. Popular color varieties include:
- Yellow Mums: Bright and cheerful, perfect for fall displays.
- Pink Mums: Soft and elegant, often used for more delicate garden arrangements.
- White Mums: Classic and clean, ideal for minimalistic or monochromatic gardens.
- Purple Mums: Deep and rich, adding a regal touch to any garden.
- Red Mums: Bold and dramatic, perfect for creating contrast and visual interest in the garden. Pretty red flowers can make your garden visually appealing.
- Green Mums: Unique and uncommon, green mums offer an interesting twist to traditional fall colors. They are great for creating a modern, sophisticated look.
How to Take Care of Mums?

To make sure your bed of mums thrives and lasts for a long time, you must follow some planting tips for success as outlined below.
- Spring Planting: Ideal for garden mums, as it allows the roots to be established before winter. Spring planting also gives your mums more time to bloom and grow before the cold weather arrives.
- Fall Planting: Although mums are often planted in the fall, this is generally a short-term solution. Fall-planted mums may not survive the winter unless they are properly protected.
- Choose a sunny location: Mums need a good amount of sunlight to bloom at their best. When planting them, make sure these beauties get at least six hours of sunlight each day to thrive.
- Prepare the soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining and enriched with compost to promote healthy growth.
- Plant properly: Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the mum’s pot. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole, then backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
- Watering Right After Planting: Once planted, water your mums thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist, but never soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
Caring for Mums
Though mums tend to be easy-going plants that need minimal care, taking care of their watering, nutrients, and lightning needs will help you gain the best results.
- Watering: Mums require about an inch of water per week once established. Water deeply, ensuring the roots are thoroughly moistened.
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. Mums don’t like wet, soggy roots, which can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize garden mums in spring with a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks. Avoid fertilizing mums planted in the fall, as this encourages new growth that may not survive the cold.
- Pruning and Pinching: To encourage full, bushy growth, pinch back the stems when they reach about six inches tall. Continue pinching back until mid-July to ensure your mums bloom beautifully in the fall.
Winterizing Chrysanthemums: How to Protect Your Mums During the Cold Months?
Winterizing mums means helping the flower survive the brutality of the cold months. From adding more mulch to doing away with the need for fertilization during the fall, here are a few essential tips you can adapt to help your mums stay healthy and in full bloom.

1. Mulch for Protection
Mulching is essential for protecting the roots of your mums from freezing temperatures. Apply 3–4 inches of mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plant after the first hard frost. This layer helps insulate the roots and maintain soil moisture. Be sure to keep mulch away from the stems to prevent rot.
2. Leave the Stems Intact
Avoid pruning your mums until spring. The dead stems provide natural insulation and protect the plant from harsh winter conditions. Cutting them back too early can expose the crown and roots to freezing temperatures, risking damage.
3. Winter Care for Potted Mums
Mums in pots need special attention during winter:
- Move to a Sheltered Spot: Before the first frost, place the pots in a sheltered location like a porch or garage. Avoid areas with harsh winds or freezing temperatures.
- Water Sparingly: Mums in pots still need moisture, but overwatering can lead to root rot. Water is just enough to keep the soil slightly moist, but don’t let it dry out completely.
- Insulate the Pot: Consider wrapping the pot in burlap or other insulating material to protect the roots from freezing.
4. Avoid Fertilizing in Late Fall
Fertilizing mums too late can promote tender growth that may not survive the cold. Wait until spring to fertilize and encourage new growth.
Companion Plants for Chrysanthemums
Mums pair beautifully with other plants to create a stunning fall garden. Some great companions include:
- Ornamental Grasses: Add height and texture to your garden.
- Berry Shrubs: Offer contrasting colors and attract wildlife.
- Sedums: Provide interesting textures and colors to complement mums.
- Pansies: These cheerful flowers brighten up the fall garden.
Common Issues and Solutions for Chrysanthemums
Mums are generally hardy plants, but they can face a few challenges. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
- Pests and Parasites: Aphids and spider mites are serious pests. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used for controlling infestations.
- Disease: Root rot and powdery mildew are common problems. Proper drainage should be encouraged, and water on the foliage needs to be avoided to prevent them.
- Deer: Even though these types of flowers are not really what deer prefer to munch on, it will not stop starving deer from nibbling these flowers. Increased protection is through deer repellent.
Conclusion
Mums can rightly be referred to as the “Queen” of flowers for the kaleidoscopic variety, versatility, and longevity benefits it has. It suits every garden style and enhances the aesthetics of any given place.
With their ability to bloom year after year, mums are the right way to perk up any space during fall and beyond. So, don’t wait. Just place your bets on chrysanthemums and never let your garden be a dull space.
Mums Should Be Divided?
Perennials should indeed be divided for the sake of vigor every two or three recreational years. Dig the plant in spring; separate the healthy outer portions of the shrub and discard the woody center. This should result in better blooms and healthier growth.
Best Colors for Fall Decorations?
Warm tones like yellow, orange, and red mother cover beautifully with pumpkins, gourds, and fall foliage. Add white mothers for a more neutral appearance. They will bring class and contribute both to light and dark displays for autumn.
Are Mums Indoor Tolerant?
Florist Mums do quite well indoors, with bright but indirect sunlight and regular watering. These should not be used as long-term indoor house plants because they use outdoor conditions in order to rebloom.
How Long Do Mums Bloom?
Generally, Mums bloom between 4 and 8 weeks, depending on the kind and growing conditions. The spent heads can be pinched off to prolong the blooming period and keep the plant looking fresh.
Can Mums Grow in Pots?
Mums can grow quite well in pots; in fact, they are excellent for patio, porch, or balcony. For best results, use well-draining soil, and water frequently, and use a pot big enough to accommodate the roots.
How Do You Keep Mums from Getting Leggy?
Pinch the stems back by 1-2 inches every few weeks until mid-July to encourage dense, bushy growth. Adequate sunlight and proper spacing also help prevent legginess.
Are Mums Toxic to Pets?
Yes, mums are mildly toxic to pets like cats and dogs if ingested. Symptoms may include drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. Keep them out of reach of curious pets to avoid potential issues.
How Do You Overwinter Mums?
For garden mums, mulch the base with straw or wood chips to protect the roots. Avoid heavy pruning in the fall, as the stems provide insulation. For potted mums, move them to a sheltered location.
Can Mums Be Propagated from Cuttings?
Yes, mums can be propagated by taking 4-6 inch cuttings in spring or early summer. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and plant them in moist potting soil. With care, the cuttings will root within a few weeks.
Why Are My Mums Not Blooming?
Mums may fail to bloom due to insufficient sunlight, over-fertilizing, or planting too late in the season. Ensure they get at least six hours of sunlight daily and avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilizers close to the blooming period.