Are Mums Annuals or Perennials in Cincinnati?

It’s fall, and one of the most common questions we receive is: “Are mums annuals or perennials in Cincinnati?” As Cincinnati’s larger mum grower, Natorp’s experts answer your question and provide growing tips.

Why We Treat Mums as Cold-Hardy Annuals in Cincinnati

While some mums are classified as Zone 6 hardy, we sell them as cold-hardy annuals. Why? Several factors limit their chances of surviving the winter in Cincinnati. Typically, gardeners in our area plant mums in late summer or fall, leaving little time for root establishment. The plant then faces subzero temperatures, fluctuating freeze-thaw cycles, and improper late-season care, as well as challenging soil conditions. Additionally, most mums are planted in containers, which limits insulation for their roots. Given these conditions, mums are best treated as cold-hardy seasonal annuals in Cincinnati.

Although we can’t guarantee that mums will survive through winter to bloom again in spring, here are some tips to help you overwinter your mums and potentially enjoy them again next year.

Tips for Growing and Overwintering Mums:

1. Plant Earlier- Plant mums in the ground earlier in the season and follow proper planting procedures.
2. Feed Regularly: Use plant food to nourish your mums.
3. Deadhead: Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
4. Keep Foliage: Leave green foliage intact to supply nutrients to the roots.
5. Water as Needed: Continue watering throughout the fall season.
6. Leave Foliage Over Winter: Allow the foliage to turn brown and stay in place over the winter.
7. Mulch in Late Fall: Apply mulch to help insulate roots and maintain soil temperature.

Another Option for Wintering Mums:

For added protection, follow the care tips above, but instead of mulching for winter, dig up and re-pot your mums. Move them to a cold, protected location, such as an unheated garage or shed. Water them about once a month during winter dormancy. In late March or April, replant them in the garden.

Seasonal Maintenance Tip:

Some mum varieties naturally bloom in late spring or early summer. To keep plants compact and full, pinch back the stems by one-third in late May and again in early July. This practice encourages stocky growth and helps the plant develop buds for late summer and fall blooms.

Explore Cincinnati’s Largest Mum Collection Here!

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