While Mums are a very popular fall plant and decor item, the best time to plant them is in the spring. If they're planted after the last frost, they have plenty of time to grow their roots deep into the soil. If planted in the fall, they are not guaranteed to survive the winter.
If you do decide to plant in the fall, surround the Mums in mulch (four inches is suggested). Straw, chopped leaves, pine needles and shredded hardwood make for great mulch.
Mums grow best when they get three to six hours of sunlight daily.
Mums have many meanings across the world - and sometimes color is a code as well. Here in the United States, Mums are a sign of optimism, joy and longevity. Red Mums signify love, while yellow Mums are a symbol of rejection or sadness. White Mums reflect steadfast loyalty and devoted love.
