As the crisp autumn air rolls into New England, residents across the region look forward to the vibrant fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and the seasonal burst of color that comes with chrysanthemums—better known as mums. These hardy, versatile flowers are a favorite for New England gardeners, thriving in the region’s unique climate and bringing bright, bold hues to gardens, porches, and landscapes. Here’s what’s new for fall mums in New England in 2024, along with tips on how to keep them thriving through the season.
New Varieties for the New England Climate
New England’s climate, with its cool nights and warm days in early fall, creates the perfect environment for mums to thrive. Gardeners in the area are particularly drawn to varieties that are not only beautiful but can withstand the fluctuating weather. Here are some of the latest trends and varieties to consider for your fall garden this year:
- Cold-Hardy Perennials for Year-Round Beauty
While many consider mums an annual, new cold-hardy perennial varieties are becoming increasingly popular in New England. These mums, such as the ‘Igloo’ and ‘Mammoth’ series, are designed to survive the region’s harsh winters with proper care. Plant them in late summer, and they’ll return year after year, brightening your garden with less effort.
- Rich Autumnal Colors with a Twist
Traditional fall hues like orange, yellow, and burgundy remain favorites, but 2024 brings a shift toward unexpected shades that complement New England’s famous fall foliage. Look for bi-colored varieties, such as yellow petals with red centers or burgundy edged in gold, to create a layered, dynamic look in your garden. These shades harmonize beautifully with the reds and oranges of maples and oaks that dominate New England’s fall landscape.
- Compact and Container-Friendly Varieties
Space-conscious gardeners will appreciate new compact mum varieties that fit perfectly in containers and window boxes. These smaller mums pack a punch of color and are ideal for city dwellers or those looking to decorate porches and decks.
Displaying Mums in New England Style
New England homes, with their charming colonial architecture, stone walls, and rustic barns, provide the perfect backdrop for fall mums. Here are some regionally inspired ways to incorporate these flowers into your seasonal decor:
- Classic Porch Displays with a Coastal Twist
For a quintessential New England look, place mums alongside pumpkins and cornstalks on your front porch. This year, try mixing in coastal elements, such as driftwood or weathered lanterns, for a uniquely local twist. The combination of vibrant mums with these neutral, natural elements creates a welcoming fall display that reflects both the foliage and coastal charm New England is known for.
- Stone Wall Plantings
If you have a traditional New England stone wall, mums can add a pop of color against the neutral backdrop of the stones. Planting mums in clusters along a stone wall or rock garden creates a beautiful contrast with the rugged natural landscape. This setup mimics the look of wildflowers while offering the structure and vibrant color of cultivated mums.
- Layered Garden Beds with Late-Season Perennials
In New England, fall gardens are all about maximizing color before the first frost. Pair mums with other late-season perennials like asters, sedums, and ornamental grasses to extend your garden’s bloom time. The diverse texture and height of these plants, combined with the bright blooms of mums, create a layered, eye-catching effect in any flower bed.
- Rustic Planters and Window Boxes
Whether you’re in a rural farmhouse or an urban townhouse, rustic planters filled with mums are an easy way to bring autumnal charm to your home. Consider using wooden crates, galvanized metal tubs, or vintage baskets for a New England-inspired container display. Add in ornamental cabbage or kale to complete the look.
Care Tips for Fall Mums in New England
New England’s unique weather patterns, with warm days and cool nights, require a bit of extra attention to keep mums looking their best throughout the season. Here are some tips for keeping your mums healthy in the region’s variable climate:
- Early Planting for Overwintering
If you want your mums to return next year, timing is key. Plant perennial mums in late summer or early fall, giving them enough time to establish roots before the first frost. New England winters can be harsh, so the sooner your mums are in the ground, the better chance they have of surviving the cold.
- Maximize Sunlight
Mums need plenty of sunlight to thrive, and in New England’s fall months, shorter days mean you need to be strategic about placement. Ensure your mums receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If you’re planting in containers, consider moving them to sunny spots as the season progresses and the sun’s angle shifts.
- Water and Drainage
New England’s fall rains can sometimes lead to soggy soil, which mums don’t appreciate. Make sure they are planted in well-draining soil, whether in the ground or in containers. Water consistently, but avoid waterlogging the plants, which can lead to root rot.
- Frost Protection
In northern New England, where frost can arrive early, you’ll need to be prepared to protect your mums from freezing temperatures. Covering them with frost blankets or moving container mums inside during overnight frosts can extend their bloom time and keep them looking fresh longer.
- Mulching for Winter Survival
For perennial mums, a thick layer of mulch after the first hard frost will help protect the roots from freezing. Mulching helps regulate soil temperature, reducing the chances of frost heaving during New England’s unpredictable winter thaw cycles.
Conclusion
Fall mums are a beloved staple of the New England landscape, offering vibrant color that complements the region’s stunning autumn foliage. With new varieties and trends for 2024, there’s no shortage of ways to incorporate these flowers into your garden or home decor. Whether you’re looking for hardy perennials that will return year after year or simply want to brighten your porch with a seasonal display, fall mums remain a versatile and beautiful choice for celebrating autumn in New England. With the right care, these blooms will be a lasting highlight of the season.
