Their long-lasting cut flowers also are a welcome bonus to any room in your house. Size differs among cultivars, but can be manipulated by the gardener. If you would like extra-large blooms, remove all of the flower buds on the stem except for the large terminal bud in the center of the cluster. This will greatly reduce the total number of flowers, but the one that does open will be larger and more showy. This method, in combination with careful cultivar selection, is used to produce the large mums you see at football games.
Many garden centers have a wide array of mums available in full bloom.
These mums, grown in gallon containers, can easily be planted in a well-drained site in full sun to produce an instant show. However, careful site and cultivar selection and proper cultural practices are needed for maximum show. Greenhouse-grown mums received as potted plants are not hardy and won't survive even the mildest winter. If pest problems occur, consult your local Clemson Extension agent or Master Gardener for recommended control measures. As you enjoy the mums in bloom around your neighborhood, take note of your favorites.