Question
Can you tell me how to pinch back mums and if I can root the pinchings?  Also, can you tell me step by step how to take root cuttings from a mum and how to root it? Thank you, Melissa

Answer
As the flowers fade, pinch back only the stem with the spent bloom and only cut below the top set of leaves on that stem. In the fall, just after the first frost, you can cut the mums down to a few inches, and then mulch them with shredded leaves or straw to protect them over the winter. They should come back again next spring.

To root from cuttings, simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long.  Remove the lower sets of leaves.  Dip the cutting in a rooting compound. You can purchase this product at any garden center.  Stick the cutting one inch into a good potting mix.  Be sure to thoroughly wet the soil prior to planting.

Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic.  Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window seal or under fluorescent lighting.  After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem.  If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering and be sure to keep the soil moist.  The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.


Regards,


Mike