Learning Download: How to Grow Xeranthemum

Xeranthemum is most commonly known as the “mum,” and it is an excellent, easy-to-grow option for beginning gardeners. These flowers are seen most often in the fall time, but they can also be an excellent flower for the spring. Mums are easy to grow, making them an excellent flower for gardeners to try to grow.

Before Planting: Mums have a long growing season, so start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date.

Planting: Once the mums reach a height of six to eight inches, you can transplant them outdoors.

Watering: Water mums frequently.

Fertilizer: Fertilize mums with nitrogen and potassium before the flowering phase.

Days to Maturity: Mums will bloom late summer to fall.

Harvesting: Cut the flowers in the early mornings or later in the evening, because this is when the flowers are fully hydrated. The best cut flowers are the ones in which the bloom has not yet fully opened.

Tips: Since mums can be grown as perennials, when winter arrives, cover the plants with several inches of mulch.