Grow Mums From Seed: A Complete Guide

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Want to add a burst of color to your garden? Growing mums from seed is easier than you might think! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from sowing to blooming.

Why Grow Mums From Seed?

While many gardeners purchase established mums, starting from seed offers several advantages:

  • Cost-effective: Seeds are much cheaper than buying mature plants.
  • Variety: You'll have access to a wider range of colors and flower forms.
  • Satisfaction: There's nothing quite like the pride of growing plants from seed to flower.

Getting Started: What You'll Need

Before you begin, gather these essential supplies:

  • Mum seeds (choose your favorite varieties!)
  • Seed starting trays or small pots
  • Seed starting mix (a fine, sterile soil)
  • Spray bottle
  • Warm, sunny location or grow lights

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Mums From Seed

1. Sowing the Seeds

  • Fill your seed starting trays or pots with seed starting mix.
  • Moisten the soil gently with a spray bottle.
  • Sow the mum seeds thinly on the surface of the soil. They need light to germinate, so don't bury them too deeply.
  • Lightly press the seeds into the soil.
  • Cover the trays or pots with a clear plastic lid or plastic wrap to maintain humidity.

2. Germination

  • Place the trays or pots in a warm, sunny location or under grow lights.
  • Maintain a temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C).
  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mist with a spray bottle as needed.
  • Seeds should germinate in 10-14 days.

3. Seedling Care

  • Once the seedlings emerge, remove the plastic covering to improve air circulation.
  • Provide plenty of light. If using grow lights, keep them a few inches above the seedlings.
  • Water gently when the soil surface feels dry.
  • Thin the seedlings, if necessary, to give them enough space to grow. Aim for about 2 inches between plants.

4. Transplanting

  • Once the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves (usually after 4-6 weeks), they are ready to be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
  • Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week before transplanting.
  • Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
  • Space the plants 18-24 inches apart.

5. Ongoing Care

  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Pinch back the tips of the stems regularly to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Stop pinching back about 2 months before the first expected frost.
  • Deadhead spent flowers to promote continued blooming.

Common Problems and Solutions

  • Leggy seedlings: Insufficient light. Provide more light or move the seedlings closer to the light source.
  • Damping off: A fungal disease that causes seedlings to rot. Use sterile seed starting mix and avoid overwatering.
  • Aphids: Small, sap-sucking insects. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Tips for Success

  • Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
  • Choose mum varieties that are suitable for your climate.
  • Provide well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
  • Water deeply but infrequently.
  • Mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Bring on the Blooms!

Growing mums from seed is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a vibrant display of color in your garden. With a little patience and care, you'll be rewarded with beautiful blooms that will brighten up your fall landscape. So, grab your seeds and get planting!