The care information provided in this section represents the kind of practical advice is available for all the plants in this web site if you subscribe to the monthly customized newsletter Yardener’s Advisor. Click here for details.
Watering Asters
For growing asters, the soil should be moderately moist with well-drained soil to wet soil, never flooding, for best flower production. Make certain the plants receive water during drought conditions. Try to keep water from the leaves because asters are susceptible to leaf fungus.
Fertilizing Asters
No need to fertilize if asters are planted in decent soil that is mulched year round. Too much nitrogen promotes excessive foliage growth and floppy stems. A light sprinkling fertilizer on the soil each spring is sufficient. For more information see file on Choosing Fertilizers.
Mulching Asters
Spread a 2 to 4 inch layer of some attractive organic material on the soil around the asters to protect their roots. Wood chips, chopped leaves, or shredded bark by themselves or over landscape fabric will discourage weeds and help retain moisture in the soil. A good mulch can reduce the rate of soil moisture loss by as much as 50 percent, depending on the material used. For more information see file on Using Mulch.
Staking Asters
May need staking, especially the taller New England aster and most plants if they haven’t been pinched Pinch taller types starting in June or July to reduce need for staking and stimulate blooming. Cut stems back by one-half in June and again in late July to delay bloom for 2 weeks but plants will be more compact. ‘Alma Potschke’ does not need pruning to stimulate lots of blooms.
Pruning/Grooming Asters
When asters have finished blooming, cut off the flower heads before the seeds mature and (drop)to the ground. When the growing season is complete, cut aster back to the ground.
Winter Protection for Asters
Spread fresh mulch for winter protection. For more information see file on Winter Protection for Plants.
