Chrysanthemums (Mums) Care Guide: How to Grow and Decorate for Fall

Learn how to choose, care for, and decorate with Chrysanthemums (Mums) this fall. Tips on extending bloom time, overwintering, and creating stunning seasonal displays.

Few plants capture the spirit of fall quite like Chrysanthemums, better known as Mums. With fiery shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple, they bring instant seasonal color to porches, gardens, and patios. Affordable and easy to find, Mums are one of the most popular fall flowers for home and garden décor. But to enjoy them at their best, it’s important to know a few simple care tips.

Choosing the Best Mums at the Store

When shopping for fall Mums, look for plants with plenty of unopened buds. While fully blooming plants may look tempting, they won’t last as long once you bring them home. Choosing Mums that are just starting to open ensures you’ll enjoy weeks of vibrant color. Check the foliage as well — healthy leaves should be deep green, free from spots, and full of life.

The Secret to Longer Blooms

Placement is key to keeping Chrysanthemums in bloom for as long as possible. These flowers thrive in bright light but appreciate protection from harsh afternoon sun. The ideal spot is one with morning sun and light afternoon shade. Keep the soil evenly moist, but never soggy — letting it dry out completely can cause blooms to fade quickly. For best results, practice “deadheading” by removing spent flowers, which encourages new blooms and keeps the plant looking fresh.

Can Mums Survive Winter?

Many people treat Chrysanthemums as seasonal décor, but they can actually survive year after year if planted in the ground. Garden Mums, unlike florist Mums, are hardy perennials in many regions. To help overwinter Mums, plant them in well-drained soil before the first frost, water them well, and add a layer of mulch for insulation. Even if they die back in winter, they often return in spring with new growth.

Decorating with Mums in Fall

Mums shine brightest when paired with other fall plants. Arrange them alongside pumpkins, ornamental kale, or cornstalks for a festive porch display. Their bold colors also make them a striking standalone centerpiece for entryways, patios, or garden beds. Mixing several colors together — such as golden yellow with deep burgundy — creates a vibrant, layered look that enhances any seasonal décor.

Final Thoughts

Chrysanthemums (Mums) are the perfect way to bring autumn’s signature colors into your home or garden. With the right care, they’ll reward you with weeks of brilliant blooms — and if planted early, they can return year after year. Whether you’re decorating for the season or building a long-term garden, Mums are truly the showstopper of fall.