Controlling Height of Aster 'Wild Romance' (4.5 ft)

Gardener's Aster 'Wild Romance' reaches 4.5 ft, wants it under 3 ft. Asks if topping works.

Pinching, Not Topping

Pinch back 6–8 inches at least once before July 4. Like mums, this creates bushier, shorter plants with more flowers.

Timing Critical

After July 4, pinching removes fall flower buds. Do it early.

Result

Stockier plant, more blooms, height controlled naturally.