It is the season for chrysanthemums (mums) and asters. These cheery decorative plants are great color for the fall and beyond. Here are some helpful tips to keep them looking their best.
1) Deadhead - cut-off spent blooms at the nearest leaf junction. This encourages re-bloom.
2) Find Cover - The enemy of mum & aster flowers is rain, so if possible keep them under cover, for example under an eave, however it is also important to give them as much light as possible - both enjoy full sun.
3) Fertilize - While it's still relatively warm (Sept. and in to Oct.) fertilize once every two weeks or so. When it gets colder fertilize once a month. This will encourage flower production.
How long a mum or aster will look good varies from year to year on weather, but I have managed in the past to keep mine blooming and looking great well into January. Neither asters nor mums have to be "throw-away" plants the Chrysanthemums and Asters sold in most nurseries for outdoor use are hardy to -30 and -40 degrees F respectively. Once they're totally done blooming they can be planted in to the landscape if you desire. At least in western Oregon what kills them is being soggy, so allow them to dry-out a bit in between waterings.
