Mums, or chrysanthemums, are the quintessential fall flower, bringing vibrant colors and cheerful blooms to gardens, porches, and patios. But not all mums are created equal—some thrive all season long, while others fade quickly. If you want to enjoy your mums from early fall through the first frost, it’s important to choose the right plants from the start. In this guide, I’ll share six expert tips for selecting mums that will last all season, so you can make the most of your autumn garden.

1. Look for Healthy, Bushy Plants

When choosing mums, the first thing to look for is a healthy, bushy plant.

• What to Look For: Avoid plants that look leggy or sparse. Instead, choose mums with dense foliage and plenty of buds.
• Why It Matters: A bushy plant indicates strong root development and healthy growth, which means it’s more likely to thrive throughout the season.
• Pro Tip: Gently shake the plant. If it feels sturdy and the soil stays in place, it’s a good sign the roots are well-established.

2. Check for Unopened Buds

The key to long-lasting mums is choosing plants with plenty of unopened buds.

• What to Look For: Look for mums that have more buds than open flowers. Ideally, about 75% of the buds should still be closed.
• Why It Matters: Mums with mostly open blooms may look beautiful at the store, but they’ll fade quickly. Buds ensure a longer display of color as they open over time.
• Pro Tip: Avoid plants with brown or wilted buds, as they may not open properly.

3. Inspect the Foliage

Healthy foliage is a good indicator of a mum’s overall health.

• What to Look For: Choose plants with deep green, lush leaves. Avoid mums with yellowing, spotted, or wilted foliage.
• Why It Matters: Healthy leaves mean the plant is getting the nutrients it needs to support blooming and growth.
• Pro Tip: Check the undersides of the leaves for pests like aphids or spider mites, which can weaken the plant.

4. Choose the Right Size

Size matters when it comes to mums—bigger isn’t always better.

• What to Look For: Select mums that are proportionate to their container. A plant that’s too large for its pot may be root-bound and stressed.
• Why It Matters: A well-proportioned plant is more likely to have a strong root system and adapt well to transplanting.
• Pro Tip: If you’re planting mums in the ground, choose smaller plants that have room to grow and establish roots.

5. Consider the Variety

Not all mums are the same—some varieties are hardier and longer-lasting than others.

• What to Look For: Look for garden mums (hardy mums) rather than florist mums. Garden mums are bred to withstand outdoor conditions and cooler temperatures.
• Why It Matters: Florist mums are often grown for short-term displays and may not last as long in your garden.
• Pro Tip: Popular hardy varieties include ‘Sheffield Pink,’ ‘Clara Curtis,’ and ‘Autumn Moon.’

6. Check the Roots

The root system is the foundation of a healthy mum, so don’t overlook it.

• What to Look For: Gently remove the plant from its container to inspect the roots. They should be white or light brown and evenly distributed throughout the soil.
• Why It Matters: Avoid plants with dark, mushy, or tangled roots, as these are signs of root rot or being root-bound.
• Pro Tip: If the roots are circling the pot, gently loosen them before planting to encourage outward growth.

Bonus Tips for Keeping Mums Thriving All Season

Once you’ve chosen the perfect mums, follow these care tips to keep them looking their best:

1. Plant in the Right Spot: Mums need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and well-draining soil.
2. Water Wisely: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves.
3. Deadhead Spent Blooms: Remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms and prevent the plant from going to seed.
4. Fertilize Lightly: Use a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to support healthy growth.
5. Protect from Frost: Cover your mums or bring them indoors if frost is forecasted.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right mums is the first step to enjoying a season full of vibrant blooms. By following these six tips from the pros, you can select healthy, long-lasting plants that will brighten your garden from early fall until the first frost. Whether you’re planting them in the ground or displaying them in pots, mums are a beautiful and rewarding addition to any autumn landscape. Happy gardening!