aster
Aster frikartii 'Monch'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 10
Flowers:
Lavender blue Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Aster (Aster frikartii ‘Monch’) plants need a regular watering schedule to grow and flower properly. They should be watered deeply every 7 to 10 days, depending on soil conditions and local climate. During hot weather, you may need to water more often. Water until the soil is noticeably moist, but not soggy. Avoid overwatering, which can cause the plant to rot. If you’re unsure how often to water, stick your finger in the soil about an inch deep. If it feels damp, then you’ve got enough moisture. If it feels dry, then it’s time to water.
sunlight
Aster (Aster frikartii 'Monch') prefers 4-6 hours of direct sunlight every day. It can thrive in full sun and partial shade and does not require direct sunlight. This plant should not be placed in a location that receives direct sunlight for more than 6 hours per day, as this may cause the leaves to become burned or damaged. If grown in partial shade, it will prosper and bloom but not as profusely as in full sun.
pruning
Aster (Aster frikartii 'Monch') should be pruned in late winter or early spring, just before the plant begins to grow actively for the season. To prune, use pruning shears to cut off old stems at their base, leaving only new growth. Deadhead any faded flowers to encourage more blooming. Then, remove up to 1-third of the older, more woody stems. These should be the largest stems, about pencil thick in diameter. Cut the stems to within a few inches of the soil. Finally, tidy up the overall shape of the plant by trimming back any outlying straggly stems.
FAQ
Is gerbera a member of the Asteraceae family?
Yes, gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) is a member of the Asteraceae family, commonly known as the daisy, sunflower, or composite family. Gerbera is a genus of about 30 species of flowering plants native to tropical regions of South America, Africa, and Asia. They are grown as ornamental garden and indoor plants, earning them the popular nickname "Gerber Daisy." They usually have a long flowering season and can come in a variety of colors, making them a popular choice for bouquets and floral arrangements.
Do aster flowers attract butterflies and bees?
Yes, aster flowers definitely attract butterflies and bees. Asters are bright, bold garden favorites due to their delicate blossoms, which often feature curved petals that fan out like a star. Their colors range from violet and purple to pink, white, and blue, so they offer a wide range of colors that attract butterflies and bees. Additionally, aster flowers are usually clustered close together, which providesa perfect landing spot for both butterflies and bees.
Is aster flower a good option for landscape design?
Aster flowers are an excellent option for landscape design because of their bright color, attractive shape, and ease of maintenance. Asters have deep colorings that range from purple, to white, to pink, with some varieties having variegated petals. They also come in multiple heights and widths, which makes it easy to fit them into your landscape plan. Finally, asters are quite low-maintenance, only requiring occasional trimming and occasional fertilizing for optimal growth.
Should aster flowers be grown in pots or in the ground?
Aster flowers can be grown both in pots and in the ground depending on the needs of the gardener. When grown in the ground, asters provide homeowners with a stunning border for flower beds or a vibrant addition to any garden. For those who prefer to have plants that move with them, or have limited outside space, asters can be grown in pots. Asters do need well-draining soil and adequate sunlight when planted outdoors, and a larger pot size will be needed to accommodate their deep roots. Whichever method you choose, make sure that your potted or in-ground asters receive the proper care and maintenance to keep them blooming brightly.
Is the aster flower a perennial or an annual plant?
The aster flower is a perennial plant, meaning that it will regrow each year for multiple years. Asters bloom in late summer and fall and can range in color from white and pale pink to deep purple. They are popular flowers for outdoor and indoor gardens, and since they are fairly hardy, they can thrive in a range of soils and temperatures.
Do aster flowers have a strong scent?
Aster flowers typically have a mild scent, though some varieties, such as the purple aster, may have a slightly stronger one. Astilbes, which are closely related to asters, are known to have a more "fragrant" smell. But overall, asters typically do not have an overpowering fragrance.
Should aster flowers be planted in the fall or spring?
Aster flowers should be planted in the fall. By planting asters in the fall, their roots will have time to become established during the colder winter months. This gives the flowers a head start when the warmer spring weather arrives. The blooms will then flower for several weeks. If asters are planted in the spring, they may not have enough time to become firmly established, compromising the flower's longevity and bloom size.
Could aster flowers grow in a rock garden?
Aster flowers can absolutely be grown in a rock garden. They are versatile and are able to adapt to many different growing conditions. The plants thrive in well-drained soil and appreciate the heat reflected off of rocks and stones. A moderate supply of water is required, so regular watering will be necessary. Rock gardens are becoming increasingly popular, and aster flowers are an ideal choice for this type of garden because of their bright colors and long lasting blooms.
