Can I Over Winter A Large Mum I Purchased From A Store?

Question

I have a large pot. Can I buy a Mum & set the potted mum on top of soil that’s in my large pot or should I repot the mum I purchase?

Answer 1

You can set it on top of the soil in the pot if you want to display it that way for fall. If you want it to come back next year, though, it will need to be planted or overwintered in an unheated garage. Mums you buy in the fall may not return in the spring. They often don't have time enough to get well established before winter. Spring planted mums are more likely to return.

If you planted it in the ground and kept it watered and mulched, it may return. Here is more:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/chrysanthemum/how-long-do-mums-last