Mums, also known as chrysanthemums, are a popular flowering plant that is widely grown for their colorful blooms. While mums can tolerate a range of temperatures, there are certain temperature thresholds that can be harmful to their growth and survival. In this article, we will explore the temperature range that mums prefer and the effects of extreme temperatures on their growth.
Temperature Range for Mums
Mums are native to China, where they grow in a temperate climate with mild winters and moderate summers. As a result, mums are well adapted to growing in a range of temperatures, from around 60°F to 75°F during the day, and 50°F to 65°F at night. These temperatures are ideal for promoting healthy growth and flowering in mums.
However, mums can also tolerate temperatures outside of this range, up to a point. For example, they can tolerate temperatures as low as 28°F for short periods of time without sustaining damage to their foliage or buds. Mums can also tolerate higher temperatures, up to 90°F, as long as they are well-watered and protected from direct sunlight.
Effects of Cold Temperatures on Mums
While mums can tolerate cooler temperatures, prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can be harmful to their growth and survival. When the temperature drops below 28°F, mums may sustain damage to their foliage and buds, which can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
One of the main effects of cold temperatures on mums is frost damage. Frost occurs when the temperature drops below freezing, causing ice crystals to form on the plant’s surface. When ice crystals form on the leaves or buds of mums, it can cause the plant cells to rupture, leading to brown or black spots on the foliage and buds.
Another effect of cold temperatures on mums is root damage. When the soil temperature drops below 40°F, the roots of mums can sustain damage, which can lead to reduced growth and flowering. This is because cold temperatures can slow down the plant’s metabolism, reducing its ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil.
Protecting Mums from Cold Temperatures
To protect mums from cold temperatures, it is important to take a few precautions. Here are some tips for protecting your mums from cold temperatures:
Cover the Plants: Covering the plants with a frost cloth or blanket can help protect them from frost damage. This will help trap heat and prevent ice crystals from forming on the leaves and buds.
Water the Plants: Watering the plants before a frost or freeze can help protect the roots from damage. This is because water can absorb and retain heat better than dry soil, which can help keep the soil temperature above freezing.
Mulch the Soil: Mulching around the base of the plants can help insulate the soil and protect the roots from cold temperatures. This will also help retain moisture in the soil, which can be beneficial during dry spells.
Bring the Plants Indoors: If you have potted mums, you can bring them indoors during cold weather to protect them from the elements. Just make sure they are placed in a well-lit area and watered regularly.
Conclusion
In summary, mums prefer temperatures between 60°F to 75°F during the day and 50°F to 65°F at night. They can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 28°F for short periods of time, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause damage to their foliage, buds, and roots. To protect your mums from cold temperatures, it is important to cover the plants, water them, mulch the soil, and bring them indoors if necessary. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your mums thrive and produce beautiful blooms year after year.