Watering Tips
1. Frequency:
- General Rule: For garden mums in the ground, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically every 5 to 7 days during the growing season. For mums in planters, check moisture levels daily, as containers can dry out faster. Water when the top half-inch of soil feels dry. More often than not, mums in planters will require daily watering.
- Adjusting for Conditions: In hot, dry weather, you may need to water more frequently (up to twice a week for ground plants, and daily for container plants). Reduce frequency if there are consistent rains.
2. Method:
- Deep Watering: Aim to saturate the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches for garden mums. For planters, ensure the water seeps through the drainage holes, indicating the entire root ball is moist.
- Soaker Hoses or Drip Irrigation: These systems can be effective for both garden and container plants, delivering water directly to the roots while minimizing moisture on the leaves.
- Avoid Overhead Watering: This can lead to fungal diseases; focus on watering at the base of the plants.
3. Signs of Need:
- Visual Cues: Look for drooping leaves or browning edges, indicating the plant is thirsty.
- Soil Check: For ground plants, stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep. For container plants, feel the top half-inch of soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
4. Time of Day:
- Best Time to Water: Early morning is ideal, allowing foliage to dry out during the day and reducing disease risk.
Deadheading Tips
1. When to Deadhead:
- Timing: Begin deadheading as soon as blooms start to wilt. This keeps the plant looking fresh and encourages new growth.
- Continual Process: Check your mums at least once a week throughout the blooming season.
2. How to Deadhead:
- Tools: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to avoid transmitting diseases.
- Technique: Cut the stem just above the first set of healthy leaves below the spent bloom. This encourages new flowers to develop.
3. Post-Deadheading Care:
- Inspect for Pests or Disease: After deadheading, check for any signs of pests or disease and address them as needed.
- Encourage Growth: Deadheading redirects energy from seed production to new blooms, enhancing overall flower display.
4. Frequency:
- Consistent Checks: Make it a habit to deadhead weekly, especially after a bloom cycle, to maintain continuous flowering.
Fertilizing Tips
1. Type of Fertilizer:
- Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) to provide essential nutrients.
- Organic Options: Consider using organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil health.
2. When to Fertilize:
- Early Spring: Apply fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins to emerge.
- Mid-Summer: A second application in mid-summer can help support continued blooming.
3. Application Method:
- Granular Fertilizer: Apply according to package instructions, spreading evenly around the base of the plant and watering it in well.
- Liquid Fertilizer: If using a liquid fertilizer, dilute as directed and apply directly to the soil to minimize leaf burn.
4. Signs of Nutrient Deficiency:
- Yellowing Leaves: This may indicate a nitrogen deficiency, suggesting it's time to fertilize.
-Reduced Flowering: If blooms are fewer or smaller than usual, additional nutrients may be needed.
By following these helpful tips for watering, deadheading, and fertilizing, you can ensure your garden mums thrive whether they’re in the ground or in planters!
Comments