Fall Mums

Many gardeners are under the impression that mums are perennials, which is true!  However, there are many varieties that are not hardy.  Even if they are sold as perennials in our area, the plant usually has to little of growing time to become established in order to survive the winter temperatures.  If you are willing to give it a try, plant your mums earlier in the fall season giving it more time to acclimate.  Make sure the variety is hardy in Zone 5.  Install a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant to insulate roots.  Plant them in full sun, they will need at least 6 hours of sun a day to set blooms.  The plantings require well drained soil and water only sparingly when ground is dry.