The Perfect Time to Buy Mums for Stunning Fall Color

Mums (Chrysanthemum) are the rockstars of fall gardens. Their bold colors—think fiery reds, warm oranges, sunny yellows, and deep purples—scream autumn. But it’s not just about looks. Mums are hardy, affordable, and easy to care for, making them a go-to for gardeners across the U.S.

But when is the perfect time to buy mums for that jaw-dropping fall curb appeal? Timing is everything, and I’ve learned this through years of experience and a whole lot of gardening passion. Before we dive in, here’s why mums are a fall favorite:

• Vibrant colors: They come in nearly every shade, complementing pumpkins, hay bales, and other fall decor.
• Long-lasting blooms: With proper care, mums can bloom for weeks, keeping your garden lively through Thanksgiving.
• Versatility: Use them in pots, garden beds, or even as part of your porch display.
• Low maintenance: Mums don’t demand much, making them perfect for busy homeowners.

But to get the most out of these beauties, you need to buy them at the right time. Let’s break it down.

When Is the Perfect Time to Buy Mums?

Timing your mum purchase is like catching the perfect wave—you want to ride it just right. Based on my experience and expert advice, the best time to buy mums for fall color in American homes is late summer to early fall, specifically from mid-August to mid-September. Here’s why this window works so well:

Mid-August to Early September: The Sweet Spot

In most parts of the U.S., garden centers and nurseries start stocking mums in late summer. I’ve found that shopping around mid-August gives you the best selection. The plants are fresh, healthy, and just starting to bud. This means you’ll get weeks of blooms as they hit their peak in September and October.

• Why it works: Buying early ensures your mums are at their prime for the entire fall season. They’ll have time to establish roots before cooler weather sets in.
• Pro tip: Look for plants with tight buds rather than full blooms. This guarantees longer-lasting color.

Regional Timing Matters

The U.S. spans multiple climate zones, so the ideal time to buy mums varies slightly by region:

• Northeast (USDA Zones 4-6): Aim for early to mid-August. Cooler fall temperatures arrive sooner, so you’ll want mums settled in before frost hits.
• Midwest (Zones 4-6): Mid to late August is perfect. The moderate fall climate gives mums plenty of time to shine.
• South (Zones 7-9): You can wait until early September, as warmer weather extends the growing season.
• West Coast (Zones 8-10): Late August to mid-September works well, especially in cooler coastal areas.

Last year, I waited too long to buy mums in my Zone 6 garden, and by October, the selection was slim, and the plants looked tired. Lesson learned: shop early!

Avoid Late-Season Purchases

By late September or October, many garden centers are selling off their remaining stock. These mums might be heavily discounted, but they’re often past their prime. I made this mistake once, and my mums barely lasted two weeks before wilting. If you’re buying late, inspect the plants carefully for signs of stress, like yellowing leaves or droopy stems.

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Where to Buy Mums for the Best Quality

Not all mums are created equal. I’ve bought from big-box stores, local nurseries, and even farmers’ markets, and the quality varies. Here’s where to find the best mums for your fall display:

• Local Nurseries: These are my go-to for healthy, well-cared-for plants. Staff often provide expert advice tailored to your region.
• Garden Centers: Chains like Home Depot or Lowe’s offer a wide selection at competitive prices, but check plant health carefully.
• Farmers’ Markets: You’ll find unique varieties and support local growers. I once scored a stunning purple mum from a market that became the talk of my neighborhood!
• Online Retailers: If you’re looking for specific varieties, sites like Burpee or Proven Winners ship mums directly to your door. Just factor in shipping time to align with early fall planting.

Pro tip: Wherever you shop, choose mums with dark green foliage, sturdy stems, and plenty of unopened buds. Avoid plants with wilted leaves or signs of pests.

How to Choose the Best Mums for Fall Color

Picking the right mums can make or break your fall display. Here’s what I look for when shopping:

1. Color Coordination

Mums come in a rainbow of colors, so think about your existing fall decor. I love pairing deep orange mums with white pumpkins for a classic look, or mixing purple and yellow for a bold contrast.

Consider your home’s exterior colors too—red mums pop against white siding, while yellow mums brighten up brick homes.

2. Plant Size

Mums come in various sizes, from compact potted plants to larger garden varieties. For porches or small spaces, go for 8- to 12-inch pots. For garden beds, choose larger plants that can fill out the space.

3. Hardy vs. Florist Mums

• Hardy Mums: These are perennials that can survive winter in many U.S. zones (typically 5-9) and return next year. I plant these in my garden beds for long-term color.
• Florist Mums: These are treated as annuals, often used in containers for one-season displays. They’re cheaper but won’t survive winter.

4. Variety Selection

Some popular mum varieties for fall include:

• Igloo Series: Cold-hardy and compact, perfect for northern climates.
• Mammoth Series: Large, bushy plants ideal for garden beds.
• Belgian Mums: Known for vibrant colors and long bloom times.

Last fall, I planted ‘Mammoth Coral’ mums in my front yard, and they were still blooming at Thanksgiving! Choose varieties suited to your USDA zone for the best results.

Planting and Caring for Mums: My Tried-and-True Tips

Once you’ve bought your mums, proper planting and care are key to maximizing their fall color. Here’s how I keep my mums thriving:

Planting Mums

• In the ground: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. I dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, mix in compost, and plant at the same depth as the pot. Space plants 18-24 inches apart for good air circulation.
• In containers: Use a pot with drainage holes and fill with a mix of potting soil and compost. I love grouping three pots of different colors for a stunning porch display.

Watering

Mums like consistent moisture but hate soggy roots. I water mine deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. If you’re in a dry region, check the soil daily—especially for potted mums.

Fertilizing

Feed mums with a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) every two weeks until buds start to open. I made the mistake of over-fertilizing once, and my plants grew leggy with fewer blooms. Less is more!

Deadheading

Pinch off spent blooms to encourage new ones. I spend a few minutes each week tidying up my mums, and it keeps them looking fresh.

Winter Prep

For hardy mums, mulch around the base with straw or leaves after the first frost to protect roots. I cut back the foliage to 2-3 inches above the ground. Florist mums won’t survive winter, so enjoy them as annuals or compost them.

Creative Ways to Display Mums for Fall

Mums are incredibly versatile, and I love experimenting with ways to showcase them. Here are some ideas to elevate your fall decor:

• Porch Perfection: Place potted mums on either side of your front door, paired with pumpkins and lanterns.
• Garden Borders: Line walkways with hardy mums for a colorful path.
• Mixed Containers: Combine mums with ornamental grasses or kale for texture.
• Hanging Baskets: Use trailing mum varieties for a unique look.
• DIY Centerpieces: Cut mum blooms for indoor arrangements. I made a stunning Thanksgiving centerpiece with mums and pinecones last year!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying and Caring for Mums

I’ve made plenty of mistakes with mums over the years, and I don’t want you to repeat them. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Buying too late: Late-season mums may not last. Shop early for the best selection.
• Overwatering: Soggy soil leads to root rot. Check soil moisture before watering.
• Ignoring pests: Aphids and spider mites love mums. Inspect plants regularly and use neem oil if needed.
• Planting in shade: Mums need at least 6 hours of sun daily for vibrant blooms.
• Skipping winter prep: If you want hardy mums to return, mulch them properly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When should I buy mums for fall?

A: The best time is mid-August to mid-September for the freshest plants and longest bloom time. Adjust slightly based on your region’s climate.

Q: Can mums survive winter?

A: Hardy mums can survive winter in USDA Zones 5-9 with proper mulching. Florist mums are treated as annuals and won’t return.

Q: How long do mums bloom in the fall?

A: With proper care, mums can bloom for 4-8 weeks, typically from September through November.

Q: Where can I find the best mums?

A: Local nurseries, garden centers, farmers’ markets, and online retailers like Burpee offer high-quality mums. Check for healthy foliage and tight buds.

Q: How do I keep mums blooming longer?

A: Deadhead spent blooms, water consistently, and fertilize every two weeks until buds open. Place them in full sun for the best results.

Q: Are mums toxic to pets?

A: Yes, mums are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets.

Wrapping It Up

There’s nothing like the glow of mums to make your home feel warm and inviting during fall. By buying mums in mid-August to early September, choosing healthy plants, and giving them a little TLC, you’ll have a stunning display that lasts through the season. Whether you’re a gardening newbie or a seasoned pro, mums are the perfect way to celebrate autumn’s beauty. 

References

1. University of Minnesota Extension. (2023). Growing Chrysanthemums in the Home Garden. extension.umn.edu.
2. Burpee. (2025). Chrysanthemum Growing Guide. burpee.com.
3. Proven Winners. (2024). Mums for Fall Color. provenwinners.com.
4. ASPCA. (2023). Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Chrysanthemum. aspca.org.