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 think! While often purchased as established plants, starting mums from seed offers a rewarding experience and allows you to cultivate unique varieties.

Why Grow Mums From Seed?

  • Cost-Effective: Seeds are generally cheaper than buying mature plants.
  • Variety: Explore a wider range of colors and forms not always available as starter plants.
  • Satisfaction: Enjoy the process of nurturing plants from tiny seeds to blooming beauties.

Getting Started: What You'll Need

  • Mum seeds (choose your favorite varieties!)
  • Seed starting trays or small pots
  • Seed starting mix (fine-textured and well-draining)
  • Spray bottle with water
  • Grow lights (optional, but helpful)
  • Warm, sunny location

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 mix thoroughly with a spray bottle.
  • Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of the soil.
  • Gently press the seeds into the soil – they need light to germinate, so don't bury them too deeply.
  • Cover the trays with a humidity dome or plastic wrap to retain moisture.

2. Germination

  • Place the trays in a warm location (around 70-75°F or 21-24°C).
  • If you're using grow lights, position them a few inches above the trays.
  • Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Mist with a spray bottle as needed.
  • Seeds typically germinate in 10-14 days.

3. Seedling Care

  • Once the seedlings emerge, remove the humidity dome or plastic wrap.
  • If using grow lights, continue to provide light for 14-16 hours per day.
  • Thin the seedlings, if necessary, to provide adequate spacing.
  • Water gently when the soil surface feels dry.

4. Transplanting

  • Once the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves, they're ready to transplant.
  • Choose a sunny location in your garden with well-draining soil.
  • Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week.
  • Dig holes slightly larger than the root balls and gently place the seedlings in the holes.
  • Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.

5. Ongoing Care

  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
  • Pinch back the stems regularly to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
  • Deadhead spent flowers to prolong the blooming season.

Tips for Success

  • Choose the Right Seeds: Select varieties that are suitable for your climate.
  • Provide Adequate Light: Mums need plenty of sunlight to thrive.
  • Don't Overwater: Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • Pinch Regularly: Pinching encourages branching and more flowers.

Enjoy Your Homegrown Mums!

Growing mums from seed is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy beautiful blooms in a variety of colors and forms. With a little patience and care, you can create a stunning display in your garden. Happy gardening!