Nothing Symbolizes Fall Like a Garden Full of Mums

Mum’s the word, a favorite in fall North Fork gardens. And what would area farm stands be without that spectacular blaze of color at a time when even the hardy sedum is past its prime? Though the name chrysanthemum comes from the Greek, meaning ‘gold flower’, it seems a misnomer considering the wild range of colors and varieties of this perennial. First grown in China in the 15th century, it was imported to Europe in the 17th century. These historic flowers have even found their place on royal banners and flags over the centuries.

Mums certainly reign supreme in late fall gardens in our area. Pinching the plants back outdoors before they begin to bud will result in bushier, sturdier growth and more blossoms. Rule of thumb seems to be---the FIRST pinch-back at 6-8 inches and then a SECOND pinch-back when those new lateral stems reach 6-8 inches. I’ll admit, I let mine sprawl which can make the stems susceptible to breaking. As a result, I wind up postponing the raking as long as possible, knowing that the results will be dismembering those living symbols of the late fall growing season. The verdict is out, but based on a recent tip from a master gardener, I leave the stems in place until spring to keep nutrients flowing through those woody stems. Some advise mulching as well. Whatever techniques used for growing them successfully, it's worth the effort.

Mums = Fall. Not a lot of plants can claim that pride of place.