Scientific Name: Aster amellus
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Aster
Plant Type: Perennial
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-8
Soil pH Level: 6.0-8.0
Soil Texture: Loamy
Sun Exposure: Full or Partial
Bloom Time: Summer, Fall
Appearance Description: Asters can grow anywhere from 8-inches to 8-feet tall depending on the variety. They are typically red, pink, purple, blue or white. They are similar to daisies with a star-shaped flower head.
How to Plant:
1. Work soil until it has a smooth and broken up consistency.
2. Mix a compost or manure into the native soil.
3. Sow each seed 1-inch deep.
4. Space each plant 1-3 feet apart depending on the variety.
5. Water generously after planting.
How to Maintain:
1. Water regularly during the summer, 1-inch a week is sufficient.
2. Add a layer of compost and mulch every spring.
3. Tall varieties may need to be staked to encourage upward growth.
4. Pinch back young shoots to encourage new blooms.
5. Cut back after the winter foliage dies.
6. Divide every 2-3 years in the spring.
Top Varieties:
1. King George (purple)
2. Silver Spray (pink)
3. Nanus (blue)
Fun Facts:
1. Asters attract butterflies.
2. Asters were once smoked in order to ward off serpents.
3. The Aster is the September birth flower.
4. The flower represents patience, love, daintiness, and good luck.
Related Soil:
Schultz Moisture Plus Potting Mix
Related Plant Food:
Schultz All Purpose Water Soluble
Schultz Bloom Plus Water Soluble
Schultz Flower & Vegetable Extended Feed
Schultz All Purpose Extended Feed
Schultz Granular Rose & Flower Plant Food
Schultz Granular All Purpose Plant Food
