aster
Aster 'Little Carlow'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Blue rays and yellow center disks Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Aster 'Little Carlow' should be watered gradually and deeply to establish a strong root system. Water whenever the top 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. If plant is in a container, water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. In hot or dry conditions, water more often. Avoid getting the foliage wet if possible to prevent fungal diseases.
sunlight
Aster 'Little Carlow' is best grown in a location where it receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is preferable over afternoon sun as it provides the plant with energy for the rest of the day. The plant should be sheltered from strong winds to ensure full sun exposure and any shade trees should be located at least 5 feet (1.5 m) away to prevent shadows from reaching the plant. With proper sun exposure, this plant will thrive and develop its best colors and blooms.
pruning
Aster 'Little Carlow' can be pruned after flowering for a neat and attractive plant. It should be cut back by up to a third in early spring, before the new growth emerges. This will encourage strong new growth, resulting in denser foliage and more abundant flowers the following year. Remove any dead or damaged stems and then lightly prune all of the remaining stems, cutting just above a node or leaf bud. As flowering finishes, old blooms should be cut away to prevent the formation of seedpods. This will also encourage more blooms. For a lush plant, aster 'Little Carlow' may need to be pruned again in late summer.
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.
