Aster Guide

Aster flowers, known as “stars” in Greek, create a galaxy of color in summer and fall. When other blooms have faded, bright, daisy-like Asters light up the sunny, late season garden.

Why We Love Asters

The highlight of the autumn landscape, Asters bloom in shades of blue, pink, purple, violet, and white.
Easy to grow.
Reliable and long-lived.
Offer late-season habitat and food for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Frost hardy; thrive in cooler temperatures.
Pair well with Goldenrod and Ornamental Grasses for a super display.
Outstanding in borders, containers, and mass plantings.
Sparkle in cut flower arrangements.

Growing Tips for Asters

The night before planting, give your Asters a good drink of water. Cut off plastic wrap (if any) on top of the Bluestone biodegradable pot. All our packaging can be recycled.

Light: Full sun to mostly sunny.

Soil: Humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil.

Water: Consistent moisture.

Fertilizer: An initial feeding at planting time is sufficient.

Dividing: Can be divided every 2-3 years in spring.

Pruning: Pinch back stems in early summer (until July 4), to promote bushier growth and more flowers. Avoid pinching or pruning in late summer or fall, as this can reduce flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Cut back stems to about 4-6 inches above ground level. Do not remove more than 1/3 of the plant to avoid stress. Avoid wet overwintering conditions. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and to prevent reseeding.

A Sampling of Aster Varieties

Following are a few of the varieties we offer:

Aster Wood's Blue Perfect for the sunny cottage garden. Rich violet blue petals are punctuated with golden button-shaped centers.

Aster Alma Potschke Reddish pink flowers framed by dark green foliage bring drama to the garden. Pair with ornamental grasses for even more grandeur.

Aster Purple Dome A New England Aster dwarf variety. Shiny purple ray-shaped petals are plentiful. Visually mesmerizing.

Aster September Ruby A tall variety that is ideal for the back of a border. Ruby-rose flowers cradle yellow-orange centers. Butterflies love the nectar.

Heroes of the Fall Garden

Add a festive and fun atmosphere to the late season garden with sweet Asters. Swirls of rich colors and dark green foliage are a visual delight. And who can resist the way Asters twinkle like stars? Take a look at all our Aster varieties to find the best choices for your garden.