Question
We recently received as a gift a pot of mums that came from a florist. We were told they could be planted in the ground. Assuming these are of the hardy variety, is it too late to plant them in the ground now, or should I wait till spring ? If I should wait, should I keep the plant in the basement as I'm sure it would freeze in the garage. No instructions came with the plant.  We live in southeast Iowa where temps usually are below freezing in the winter.

Answer
Hi David,
Thanx for your question.  Generally, potted mums from the florist will not be hardy in SE Iowa.  You can plant it outdoors in the spring or summer but it will not survive the winter.  Hardy mums purchased at your local nursery should be planted in the spring for best results.  Generally, mums planted in the fall have trouble making it through the winter.  Enjoy your florist mum as an indoor plant.  Eventually, it will wear itself out and die.  I hope this helps.
Tom