Asters 101

I wanted to keep a database of the flowers in my garden and thought maybe it would help you too. I’m starting with asters because they are still blooming in some areas and are a great native fall flower.

About Asters

• PERENNIAL (comes back year after year)
• Zones 3-8
• Full to partial sunlight
• Loamy neutral to slightly acidic soil 6.0-7.0 pH
• Blooms late summer into fall
• Can be anywhere from 12-60″ tall & wide
• Likes moist but well drained soil
• Pest and disease resistant
• Pollinator friendly

Maintenance

• Fertilize in early early spring with a well balanced fertilizer that has mostly equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. (10-10-10) (15-16-17)
• For bushier plants, you can prune in early spring before the new growth begins. Otherwise, cut back in the fall to 1-2 inches above ground.
• Deadheading will help produce more blooms
• Divide every few years and cut back woody stems

Seeds and Propagation

• Can collect and grow from seed
  • Allow seed heads to mature on the plant in the fall. When they are brown and dried out, cut seed heads (old flowers) and place in a paper bag to dry out. When completely dried, shake seed heads in paper bag to release the aster seed. Store in a cool, dry envelope or container (make sure to label). Can be stored for several years.
• Can propagate from stem cuttings
  • Choose a healthy stem that is not flowering. The stem should be healthy with several leaves and nodes (where leaves and branches attach to the main stem you’re holding). Cut stem just below a node. Remove lower leaves and trim other leaves to half the size (this helps the plant put energy into making roots rather than making flowers and leaves). Stem should be 4-6 inches. Can use rooting hormone before putting into small pot of compost, burying it up to the first node. Water well and cover with plastic bag or plastic dome to create a humid environment. Keep soil moist and place in a spot that gets bright but indirect light. Wait until roots form before planting. This can take 1-3 months.
• Does well with dividing (ideally in early spring)
  • Use shovel to split down the middle. Separate and remove any dead or old woody stems. Can divide into several separate plants. Re-plant divided bunches and water and fertilize well. Mulch to protect roots and maintain moisture.

Asters are one of my favorite additions to my garden this year. They are safe around my chicken coop and so far have provided extra contrasting color in the fall. The main color I have seen is purple with yellow centers but there are several color options. Asters are easy to find at big box nurseries if you’re just starting out. There are different size varieties but can be used for cut flowers if you get the right kind. These ones may need to be staked for support. Asters are great for English cottage gardens.

FREE PLANT INFORMATION PRINTABLE

Print out this printable and keep in your notebook . I like to keep them alphabetical and refer back to them when I have a question. I also like to keep a gardening calendar and keep track of when I need to prune, fertilize and cut back my plants.