Growing Aster (Aster)

Pronunciation: ass'ter

Grow in full sun (or partial shade in the South) in moist but well-drained soil (A. amellus tolerates drought). A. novae-angliae varieties are susceptible to powdery mildew in dry soil and require division every year or two to remain vigorous. They may need staking; alternatively, pinch back by 1/3–1/2 before the end of June (July in the South and Southwest) to keep them compact. In the South, A. × frikartii 'Monch' may stop blooming by midsummer; shear back by half for a second flush through fall.