MUMS

Mums is the plural form of mum, a term for mother in British English. In horticulture, 'mums' is also a common shorthand for chrysanthemums, flowering plants in the genus Chrysanthemum. Because of this double usage, the word can refer to people or to plants; context usually makes the intended meaning clear.

Chrysanthemums are flowering perennials in the family Asteraceae. Native to Asia and northeastern Europe, they have numerous cultivars and a wide range of forms, including daisy-like, button, and pompon types. They typically bloom in late summer through autumn and are valued for their long-lasting flowers and seasonal color. Garden varieties are often bred for hardiness and repeat blooming, while florist's mums are bred for large, showy inflorescences.

Cultivation and care: Most mums prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Regular watering and balanced fertilizer help bloom production. In colder climates, they are often treated as annuals or overwintered with mulch; pinching in early growth promotes bushier plants. Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and thrips; diseases such as powdery mildew and Botrytis may occur in humid conditions. Propagation is commonly by stem cuttings or division.

Cultural significance: In East Asia, chrysanthemums symbolize longevity and autumn. In Japan, the flower is named kiku and is associated with the Imperial Family. In Western countries, mums are strongly associated with autumn and with funerals in some locales, though they are also popular garden flowers and festival plants.

Mums as a familial term: In everyday speech, 'mum' or 'mums' refers to one's mother; usage is regional, with 'mum' common in Britain and 'mom' in North America.