With all those mums and pumpkins at garden centers and farmers markets, how can we select the best and make them last?
For an immediate impact, many people choose chrysanthemums (“mums”) in full bloom. But I prefer to select plants with tight buds that are just starting to show color. Plants with the fewest open flowers now will have a showy display for much longer.
For best flowering, place your mums in a sunny location and water often. Letting them wilt will end the show. Although many gardeners regard mums as annual plants and “kick them to the curb” after they fade, most varieties will overwinter after transplanting into the garden and come back next year. For more information, see HGIC 1161, Chrysanthemum.
Here are some tips on picking the best pumpkins to display with your beautiful mums:
For more information on pumpkins, see HGIC 1318, Pumpkins & Winter Squash.
Read more on hgic.clemson.edu