Aster

Growing Asters is easy. Perennial Aster flowers grow well in average soils, but needs full sun. Blooms are 2 inches in diameter, and are wilt resistant. Aster flowers come in blues, purples and a variety of pinks. All. Asters are yellow in the center of the flower. They are daisy-like in appearance, even though they are a member of the sunflower family. Did you know? The yellow center of Asters is actually comprised of many tiny flowerets. Asters come in a wide variety, with some less than a foot tall, while others are two feet tall or more. Both large and smaller varieties make good cut flowers for vases and arrangements.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS: USDA hardiness zones: 3 through 8

CARE INSTRUCTIONS WATER: Water plants during the summer if rainfall is less than 1 inch per week.

FERTILIZER: Apply a thin layer of compost each spring, followed by a 2-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.

FLOWERING: Summer/Fall.

SOIL: Aster flowers grow well in average soils, but needs full sun.

DISEASE: Asters are somewhat resistant to insects and disease. If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.