When To Plant Mums In Michigan

If you want to enjoy the vibrant colors of fall in your Michigan garden, knowing when to plant mums is the key to success. For Michigan’s autumn gardens, timing is everything to ensure these hardy perennials survive the winter and return year after year.

Chrysanthemums, or mums, are the classic sign of autumn. Their rich golds, deep reds, and bright purples are a perfect match for Michigan’s fall landscape. But planting them at the wrong time can lead to disappointment. Let’s get your timing right for a beautiful display.

The ideal time to plant mums in Michigan is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. This gives the plant a full growing season to establish a strong root system. However, the most common time people buy and plant mums is in the fall.

Fall-planted mums are often treated as annuals. They look stunning for the season but may not have enough time to root deeply before the ground freezes. If you want them to come back, you need a smart strategy.

Spring Planting vs. Fall Planting

Understanding the difference between these two planting times is crucial for your garden’s success.

Spring Planting (Best for Perennials): Planting in May or early June is ideal. The warm soil and long days encourage vigorous root growth. By the time fall arrives, the plant is well-established and much more likely to survive the Michigan winter. You might not get a huge bloom show the first fall, but it’s an investment in future seasons.
Fall Planting (For Instant Color): If you buy mums in full bloom from a garden center in September, treat them as temporary color. To improve there chances of returning, plant them the moment you get them home. Don’t wait! Choose a spot and get them in the ground so they have at least six weeks before a hard freeze to settle in.

Choosing the Right Mums for Michigan Winters

Not all mums are created equal when it comes to cold hardiness. Look for these clues when shopping:

Check the Label: Look for terms like “garden mum” or “hardy mum.” The USDA hardiness zone should be listed; Michigan ranges from zones 4 to 6. Select mums rated for at least your zone, or one zone colder for extra insurance.
Look at the Shape: Hardy garden mums often have a more low, spreading habit. The florist mums sold in pots are usually bred for a single, perfect show and are less cold-tolerant.
Ask a Local Nursery: They stock plants that thrive in your specific area. They can recommend proven varieties for Michigan gardens.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Follow these steps for the best results, whether planting in spring or fall.

Pick the Perfect Spot: Mums need full sun. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Less sun leads to weak stems and fewer flowers. They also require soil that drains well. They hate having “wet feet,” especially in winter.
Prepare the Soil: Michigan soil can be heavy clay. Amend the planting hole with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and add nutrients. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is best.
Plant Correctly: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Gently loosen the roots if they’re pot-bound. Place the mum in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with your soil mix and firm it gently.
Water and Mulch: Water deeply immediately after planting. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, like shredded bark, around the plant. This keeps the soil moist, suppresses weeds, and insulates the roots. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stems to prevent rot.

Caring for Your Mums After Planting

Consistent care after planting makes a huge difference.

Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first growing season and during dry spells in the fall. Aim for the soil to be moist, not soggy.
Pinching for Bushier Plants: For spring-planted mums, pinch off the top inch of new growth when the stems are about 6 inches tall. Repeat this until early July. This encourages branching and many more flowers in the fall. You don’t need to pinch fall-planted mums.
Fertilizing: Feed spring-planted mums with a balanced fertilizer in early summer. Stop fertilizing by August so the plant can harden off for winter. Fall-planted mums don’t need fertilizer.

Winter Protection is Key in Michigan

This is the most important step for ensuring your mums return. Even hardy varieties need help against Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles and bitter winds.

Do Not Cut Back in Fall: Leave the dead foliage and stems standing over winter. They provide valuable insulation for the crown of the plant.
Add Extra Mulch: After the ground has frozen hard, usually in late November or early December, pile on extra loose mulch like straw or shredded leaves. Cover the entire plant base. This keeps the soil consistently frozen and prevents heaving.
Spring Cleanup: In early spring, once you see new growth starting at the base, carefully remove the winter mulch and cut the old stems down to the ground.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with good care, you might encounter a few issues.

Winter Die-Off: This is the most common complaint. The solution is always better timing (spring planting) and proper winter mulching. If the center of the plant dies out, divide the healthy outer parts in the spring.
Leggy Growth: This means not enough sun or a lack of pinching. Move the plant to a sunnier location next season and remember to pinch.
Pests: Watch for aphids or mites. A strong spray of water from the hose is often enough to dislodge them. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

FAQ: Your Michigan Mum Questions Answered

Can I plant potted mums in the fall in Michigan?
Yes, you can plant them for immediate fall color. For them to survive winter, plant as early in fall as possible and provide heavy winter mulch. Spring planting is still more reliable for perennial success.

What month is best to plant mums?
In Michigan, aim for May or early June for perennial planting. For fall planting, get them in the ground by early September at the latest.

How do I get my mums to come back every year?
Choose hardy varieties, plant them in the spring, ensure excellent drainage and full sun, and protect them with a thick layer of mulch after the ground freezes.

Should you water mums in the fall?
Absolutely. Continue to water them regularly until the ground freezes. They need moisture to establish roots, especially newly planted ones. Dry plants are more susceptible to winter injury.

Can I divide my mums?
Yes, and you should every 2-3 years in the spring. Dig up the clump, use a sharp knife or spade to divide it into smaller sections, and replant the healthy pieces. This revitalizes the plant and gives you more mums for free.

With the right timing and care, your mums can become a long-lasting highlight of your Michigan autumn garden. By focusing on early planting and winter protection, you’ll enjoy their cheerful colors for many seasons to come. Remember, a little planning in the spring leads to a spectacular reward each fall.