Aster Plants.
Often lumped together, Asters actually fall into 13 different groups. Many of them look similar to one another, however all varieties have their own appeal.
Asters flowers are a fantastic addition to any garden. With so many species and culivars these are a versatile plant for the garden, bright daisy like flowers in profusion throughout summer make asters a 'must get' for any garden.
Widely used in cottage style gardens and often referred to as 'Michaelmas Daisies' the best known is A. novi-belgii (picture right) one of the most common species with cultivars ranging from small to tall (1ft - 4ft or 300cm -1.2 m).
Asters prefer a well drained soil and can easily be divided once clumps become to large.
- Aster laterfolius is a taller growing species to over 1.2m (4ft).
- A. x frikartii is another popular species as is the New England aster A. novae-angliae.
Aster Plant Care
Asters vary greatly in growing habit from plants that will reach over 6ft (2m) to low growing species and cultivars that will stay at around 1ft (.3m). In general they require little care after planting other than a tidy up after flowering and pruning to shape.
We suggest digging in some well rotted compost and aged manure before planting in a sunny well drained position. Water in well with your favorite seaweed fertilizer and remember to mulch in spring to help maintain a cool root run and conserve moisture. Larger clumps can be divided in early spring.
For a mass planting effect plant asters at around 70cm apart. However take note of potential heights of different varieties. Taller plants to back of the border please.
Care Summary
- Sunny position.
- Humus rich moist soil, with good drainage.
- Prune early in the season to promote a more bushy habit with more flowers.
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You can buy Aster flowers or plants online from the following suppliers
MOUNT FOLLY NURSERIES
Southwick Road North Boarhunt Near Wickham Hants PO17 6JH
Phone : 01329 832294 : : 07000 M-O-U-N-T-F :: 07000 F-U-C-H-S-I-A
Young plants specialists. Growing Fuchsias, Geraniums, Patio Plants and Plug Plants. One of the best selections available in the UK direct from the grower!
www.mountfolly.co.uk
CLAIRE AUSTIN HARDY PLANTS Hardy Plants
Tel: 01939 251173 - FAX: 01939 251637
Edgebolton, Shawbury, Shropshire, SY4 4EL
Mail order specialists of herbaceous perennials : Bearded irises, herbaceous & tree peonies. The catalogue and website list over 700 different varieties.
www.claireaustin-hardyplants.co.uk
