Contents
HOW TO GROW ASTER PLANTS
Aster description
Aster descriptionAster is a botanical genus belonging to the Compositae family of plants, which includes more than 200 different species of plants.
The size of these plants usually ranges from 15cm. up to 1.5m., depending on the different species.
The leaves can also have different shapes and different shades of green.
The flowers are showy and beautiful, reminiscent of daisies, and of very varied colors.
This plant has become a popular garden plant due to its beautiful and showy flowers, which vary in colors from white, lilac, violet, pink, carmine,…. with the center or flower bud in yellow.
Tips for buying Aster
Tips for buying Aster- Choose specimens with good-looking leaves, without spots on the leaves and without withered flowers.
- Gardening experts take care that the flowers are all of the same height, that they do not stand out over each other. The entire plant has a harmonious shape when it has been well cared for and is healthy.
Climate and soil
Climate and soil- Generally undemanding and rustic plant. It adapts to all types of weather conditions.
- Fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Avoid sandy soils.
- It grows in full sun. It must be kept in mind that the opening of the flowers occurs with sun exposure, and that the plant shows heliotropism, that is, the flower heads are oriented to the sun throughout the day, and close at night.
- It is resistant to cold but not frost.
- Cool and airy place.
Watering
Watering– Keep the soil moist. Water abundantly especially in dry weather.
Flowering
– Depending on the variety, we can acquire spring, summer or autumn plants.
Propagation of Aster
PROPAGATION BY SEEDS:
– Seeds can be purchased in specialized gardening stores or flower shops.
*See: sowing
PROPAGATION BY CLUMP DIVISION:
- Aster is a botanical genus with rhizomatous roots, that is, it forms several colonies of clumps, which can be divided by their roots.
- An adult aster plant should be removed when it is not in bloom.
- Each clump rootball should be gently separated and transplanted into a new pot.
Aster species
– China aster or annual aster (Callistephus chinensis): annual plant of the Callistephus genus. It blooms between August and October.
– New England aster (Aster novae-angliae): Late flowering species, grows in full sun.
– European Michaelmas daisy (Aster amellus): blooms in autumn. It is one of the easiest species to grow because of its easy cultivation and its characteristics, which adapts to climate changes and different seasons of the year.
– Alpine aster (Aster alpinus): small and ephemeral flowers, perennial variety that resists winter cold.
Aster care
- Prune frequently: it is recommended to cut off the wilted flowers to encourage the flowering of the new shoots of the plant.
- Removing the top part of the sprig: to encourage the sprouting of the other branches. This operation will be carried out approximately when the branch reaches its final height, cutting 2-3 fingers in length.
- Stake: Taller varieties of asters need a tree or wall to act as a stake.
Fertilization
Fertilization– Aster plants are nutrient demanding. They require rich soils, so we must take care to supply them with nitrogen and especially potassium frequently.
– Do not fertilize if the plant is sick. If the plant shows wilting of leaves or flowers, it is possible that it has been attacked by some kind of fungus.
Pests and diseases
Pests and diseases– Fungi: plants exposed during the rainy season are especially susceptible.
A preventive fungus treatment should be applied before the spring rainy season against powdery mildew, rust and downy mildew.
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