Question
I HAVE JUST PURCHASED 5 36" TALL ASTERS FROM THE LOCAL NURSERY.  DO I NEED TO PLANT THEM NOW OR CAN THEY STAY IN THE NURSERY POTS, COVERED WITH SOME TYPE OF PROTECTIVE MATERIAL, AND PLANT THEM IN THE SPRING.  I LIVE IN LONG ISLAND NY WHICH IS ZONE 7

Answer
Hi Katherine,
Thanx for your question.  I would plant my asters as soon as possible.  The more you expose them to possible frosts the more danger there is of permanent damage or death of the plant.  You may want to put a thin mulch around them also after planting.  I hope this helps.
Tom