Aster

Genus: Aster

Introduction to Aster

Asters stand out against many other plants because of their varied floral displays created by their long, thin and pointed petals. They are a truly stunning addition to any home garden. Asters range from pure white to pink, red, lavender, blue, yellow and gold. The leaves of the plant are often dark green and, like the flower petals, can also be long, thin and pointed. The Aster finds its home in North America and Southern Europe. The Aster derives its name from the Greek word for star, and it makes sense that it does so. It's hard not to notice the explosive quality of bright colors and dramatic blossom shape that this type of flower presents. While some species of Aster shoot their petals out in a more or less level trajectory, others form a ball of thin colorful petal strips which shoot outward in all directions, strongly resembling fireworks. Indeed, one of the subcategories of asters that is especially shaped in this manner goes by the name of Aster Fireworks. Another species that is worth mentioning is one with a blue-tinted, daisy-like appearance known as the Bluebird Aster (Aster laevis). This exceptional flower strikes many as unnaturally beautiful, and makes a wonderful addition to any home garden. Interestingly, many of the white Aster species are likened to Daisies due to the fact that their petals are shaped liked spears and fan out around a yellow dot in its center, much in the same way that a daisy does. Included among these is the plant known as Delight (Aster lateriflorous), which grows by spreading out its leaves to a width of three feet and a height of five feet. The flowers it produces are tiny little stars which twinkle above the dark green canopy of the bush, delivering a pleasing and delicate appearance. Another daisy look-alike is the White Swan (Aster novi-belgii), which produces its blossoms from heads that are compacted in the months of autumn. The careful observer will notice that the petals of the White Swan are actually a light, pastel pink color, adding to the charm and mystery of this ornate plant. Overall, however, there are an estimated 600 varieties of Aster, making this one of the more varied plant types around.

Features of Aster

The Aster is oftentimes a prime target for birds, bees and butterflies because it is fragrant and colorful. Watering astersshould be done regularly but not excessively. Many species of Aster are drought resistant which is an added an bonus to the home gardener who lives in drought-prone regions. Some species are resistant to deer. They can be noxious due to their seed propagation and weed-like qualities. However, many species of Aster are non toxic and safe to handle without gloves as well as grow around pets and children.

Aster Hardiness

The Aster is a very robust perennial which can flourish within a wide range of climate zones. The range extends from Zones 3 to 10.

Growth Habit of Aster

Asters can grow to heights of up to 8 feet. Certain species grow as small as 12". However, it is generally a thinly growing plant requiring spacing of 18" at the most and as little as 9". Interestingly, certain varieties of the Aster can potentially be a nuisance to the home gardener. The extremely high Tartarian Aster (Aster tartaricus), for example, is capable of self seeding to the point of becoming weed like. For this reason it might be wise to keep this perennial at a distance from other plants in the garden.

Bloom Time of Aster

Expect flower blossoms from the Aster any time between summer and fall. These are generally the blooming seasons for most varieties of Aster. It is an excellent addition to the garden when spring and summer flowers have died away. There are some Aster species, such as the Monte Casino (Aster pringeli) that have two blooming cycles. It is advisable to cut back two-cycle Asters so that the next cycle produces vigorous blossoms.

How To Propagate Aster

Asters are simple to grow. They are self seeding. One good method of planting is by doing so outdoors in the middle of winter. Place the seeds in covered containers, in coldframes or in unheated greenhouses. Seeds started indoor should be chilled for two weeks. Indoor sowing is best done before the last frost of the season. Dividing is also a viable method of propagating Asters. This should be done in the spring or in the fall. Germinating the seedlings is best done through stratification if indoors. The process should take place during the middle of winter, and never after the first frost of the season.

Transplanting Aster

Transplant Aster seedlings in early spring after the last frost of the season.

Soil for Aster

The soil should be infused with the rich organic materials and drain well. The pH levels for the soil that Asters grow in can reach relatively acidic levels to essentially neutral levels. Certain species do well within a pH range extending from 6.1 to 7.8.

Watering Aster

Excessive moisture can attract a mildew that seems to be one of this plant's worst problems. The soil should be slightly dry most of the time.

Sunlight for Aster

Asters thrive in either complete sun and slightly shady settings.

Care and Maintenance of Aster

Asters may be trimmed to keep the plant tidy.

Pests of Aster

Common pests include thrips and whiteflies. They can be dealt with by using a variety of chemicals dispensed by spraying.

Diseases of Aster

Uncontrolled dampness or humidity can cause a number of diseases. Some of the most common are powdery mildew, botrytis, rust and Rhizoctonia foliage blight.

References