The Best Mum Border

Under 12 Inches Tall

• Low-growing mums whose mature height is under 12 inches are ideal ground-cover plants. They give the front border of flower beds a finished look while making it difficult for weeds to grow. One of the best mums for gardeners looking for something unique is Chrysanthemum pacificum, or "silver and gold" as this plant is fondly called. The creamy-white variegation on the edge of the dark-green scalloped leaves adds season-long color even when the plant is not in bloom. For those who prefer a low-growing, long-blooming mum with a traditional look, try Chrysanthemum weyrichii, which flowers from August through the first hard frost. The single white or pink petals surround a vivid yellow center.

12 to 18 Inches Tall

• Mums with mature heights of 12 to 18 inches are ideal for use in front borders that require a bit more height or creating a border a little further back in the flower bed. One of the best mums for late fall and early winter is Chrysanthemum "Sweet Peg." The semi-double pinkish-purple flowers bloom in October and November, making this plant the best choice for gardeners wishing to create year-round interest in the flower border. Chrysanthemum "Poncho," which produces pompom flowers in a glorious bronze shade, is the best cut flower mum with this color of flowers in the 12- to 18-inch division. Chrysanthemum "Barbara" has a bushy habitat and striking fuchsia flowers. This particular variety produces fragrant leaves, flowers that are ideal for cutting and adaptable to a number of growing conditions.

18 to 36 Inches Tall

• Depending on the mature height of the other flowers in your garden, mums between 18 and 36 inches are often ideal for the back of the border. Chrysanthemum "Penelope Pease" produces daisy-like white flowers from mid-October through the first hard frost. This particular mum is the best option for gardeners looking for late-season blooms and one that multiplies quickly. Chrysanthemum "Venus" produces soft pink or white flowers that are lightly fragrant, making it a good choice for gardeners who prefer scented plants. Because this cultivar looks best in groups, it's ideal for the back of the border. Chrysanthemum x morifolium "Debonair," one of the best heavy-flowering mums, keeps its compact, uniform cushion habitat all season long.

Mums Over 36 Inches Tall

• In the event you prefer taller plants, plenty of mums have mature heights over 36 inches. Chrysanthemum "Emperor of China" produces dark pink flowers with quilled petals from the end of October through the end of November, if no frost occurs. Chrysanthemum "Mei-kyo" grows in a shape resembling shrubs, with flowers that start out medium lavender-pink then fade to pale pink as they age. If vibrant colors are what you want, the best tall mum is Chrysanthemum "J.C. Weigelan." Blooming in October and November, its magenta-red flowers are a real standout in fall gardens.