Fall chrysanthemums, or garden mums, are a tradition in many autumn landscapes. They are unbeatable for adding a fresh burst of color to the late season garden. Yellow and gold varieties glow in the lower light of fall and echo the burnished leaves of trees and shrubs. Warm reds and oranges are more prevalent in the fall landscape and are a natural balance to the cooler temperatures. The cool pinks and lavenders – my personal favorites – soften the burgundy and purple tones of changing foliage.
There are many ways to incorporate mums into the fall garden. One way is to interplant them with spring-flowering bulbs. After the mums turn light brown in early winter, leave their foliage for winter interest. Their dried flower heads hold snow beautifully. In March, cut down the foliage to showcase the flowering bulbs. Complete the cycle of seasonal color by planting summer annuals.
Mums can give new life to containers that may look tired in the fall or need a color update. To do this, gently pull out the summer-worn annuals. Keep any grasses or spikes for height. If your trailers still look good, leave them to soften the edges of your container. Mums are large, so one of two will easily fill the center of a pot. Dig out some of the soil to make room for the mum, then plant, loosening the roots gently. Water thoroughly to refresh the planting. Place pots in clusters by your front door, and include some pumpkins and cornstalks for a welcoming fall vignette.
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