Heirloom Mums: Timeless Beauty at 19 Birch Lane
By Aric Odone, Owner & Head Gardener at 19 Birch Lane

At 19 Birch Lane, we celebrate every season in our gardens, but there’s something truly magical about the fall. As the crisp autumn air settles in, one plant stands out for its vibrant colors, rich textures, and timeless elegance: heirloom chrysanthemums, or “mums.” These classic beauties are more than just a garden staple—they’re a statement of history, resilience, and unparalleled charm. Whether used as a garden accent or a cut flower for indoor arrangements, heirloom mums shine in Maine’s grow zone 6a.

Why Heirloom Mums?

Heirloom mums have been cultivated for centuries, cherished for their intricate blooms, variety of forms, and rich colors. Unlike modern hybrids bred for uniformity and mass production, heirloom varieties retain their unique characteristics, offering a softer, more natural look. Their robust stems, intricate petal structures, and ability to thrive in cool climates make them ideal for both ornamental gardens and floral arrangements.

At 19 Birch Lane, we love heirloom mums for their ability to extend the beauty of our gardens well into the fall. These late bloomers bridge the gap between summer’s fading flowers and the quiet dormancy of winter, providing a vibrant display when most plants have finished their show.

Heirloom Mums as a Garden Accent

1. Stunning Autumn Displays

Heirloom mums are perfect for creating dynamic fall displays. Their wide range of colors—deep reds, warm oranges, golden yellows, and soft pinks—complement the changing foliage of autumn. We use them to line pathways, enhance borders, and frame garden features like pergolas and fountains.

Their mounded growth habit and abundant blooms make them excellent companions for ornamental grasses, asters, and sedums. The combination of textures and colors creates a garden that feels alive with the season's energy.

2. Low-Maintenance Elegance

One of the reasons we recommend heirloom mums is their relatively low maintenance. Once established, they require little more than well-drained soil, regular watering, and occasional pruning to maintain their shape. At 19 Birch Lane, we prepare the soil with compost before planting to ensure healthy growth and strong blooms.

3. Wildlife-Friendly Blooms

Heirloom mums are not just beautiful—they’re also beneficial to pollinators. In late fall, when other nectar sources are scarce, bees and butterflies flock to their blooms. Planting heirloom mums supports local wildlife while adding a dynamic layer of activity to the garden.

Heirloom Mums as a Cut Flower

1. Long-Lasting Blooms

One of the standout features of heirloom mums is their longevity as cut flowers. When properly harvested and cared for, they can last up to two weeks in a vase. Their sturdy stems and vibrant colors make them a favorite for floral designers and home decorators alike.

At 19 Birch Lane, we often incorporate heirloom mums into wedding arrangements, autumn centerpieces, and bouquets. Their intricate blooms add texture and drama to any floral design.

2. Harvesting Tips

For the longest vase life, we harvest mums early in the morning when the blooms are just beginning to open. After cutting, we strip the lower leaves and place the stems in clean water with a floral preservative. This simple process ensures that our mums remain fresh and vibrant for days.

Growing Heirloom Mums in Zone 6a

Maine’s grow zone 6a provides the perfect conditions for heirloom mums, with its cool fall temperatures and well-defined growing seasons. Here are some tips we follow at 19 Birch Lane to ensure our mums thrive:

1. Planting Location

Heirloom mums thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. We choose locations with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases, which can affect mums in humid conditions.

2. Soil Preparation

Well-drained, slightly acidic soil is ideal for heirloom mums. We amend our soil with compost and organic matter to improve fertility and drainage. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

3. Pinching for Fuller Growth

In late spring and early summer, we pinch back the growing tips of our mums to encourage bushier plants with more blooms. This simple technique results in a more abundant and compact display.

4. Winter Protection

Although many heirloom mums are sometimes hardy in zone 6a, we take extra precautions to protect them during harsh winters. A layer of mulch or straw around the base of the plants helps insulate the roots and prevent frost damage. Along with those precautions we also dig up a few plants and over winter the in our basement as a add way of saving our stock for the next growing season.

Favorite Heirloom Mums at 19 Birch Lane

Here are a few of our favorite heirloom varieties that thrive in Maine’s climate:

‘Sheffield Pink’: Soft, peachy-pink blooms that bring a romantic touch to fall gardens.
‘Clara Curtis’: Bright pink flowers with a daisy-like appearance, perfect for borders and arrangements.
‘Old Gold’: Golden-yellow blooms with a rich, warm tone that complements autumn foliage.
‘Bronze Elegance’: Deep bronze flowers that add a dramatic flair to both gardens and bouquets.

The Legacy of Heirloom Mums

Heirloom mums carry a sense of history and tradition, connecting us to gardeners of the past who cherished these timeless blooms. At 19 Birch Lane, we honor that legacy by incorporating them into our gardens and floral designs, showcasing their beauty and resilience.

Whether you’re planning a garden redesign, hosting an autumn event, or simply looking for a way to brighten your home, heirloom mums are a versatile and rewarding choice. Their vibrant colors, intricate blooms, and seasonal charm make them a standout addition to any space.

“At 19 Birch Lane, heirloom mums remind us that beauty can thrive even in the waning days of the season. They bring warmth, elegance, and timeless appeal to our gardens and celebrations alike.”
– Aric Odone, Owner & Head Gardener at 19 Birch Lane