Q.growing chrysanthemums
We bought a large container of chrysanthemums but had a freeze last night. We have had them in the house in a sunny window and they seem to do good. Should I plant them outside or leave them in house? They told me at the store they would be alright outside in the container but I feel like they will freeze just in the container unless planted in ground with mulch on top. Can you help me? Mona Roberts
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
This article will help with winter care for you mums: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/chrysanthemum/wintering-mums.htm
I've found that mums with color at purchase generally aren't perennial. Usually mums planted in August or very early September, showing very little, if any color, have time to get a root system growing to survive the winter. The plant will eventually die to the ground. A nice collar of mulch around the plant, not over it, helps protect from the wind. I suggest using oak leaves or pine needles if you just "have to" mulch the top of the plant. Anything else could smother the mum.
