Stokes' aster

Stokes’ aster should be watered weekly during the spring and summer months. Make sure to avoid getting water on the foliage when you water. A thorough watering every week should be sufficient during these months. In the fall, reduce the amount of water given to the plant, and only water when the top inch or 2 of the soil feels dry. During the winter months, it is recommended to stop watering altogether and allow the plant to go dormant.

Stokes' aster is a sun-loving plant species that requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. It does best in climates with long hot summers, where it can receive full sunlight for the majority of the day. To prevent sunburn, Stokes' aster should be given partial shade in the late afternoon hours. In colder climates, the plant should be given some winter protection to ensure adequate sunlight during the winter months.

Stokes' aster should be pruned twice a year; once in the early spring and once in late summer. To properly prune a Stokes' aster, remove up to about 1-third of the plant's height in early spring just as it begins to develop new growth. This encourages the plant to fill out and produces more blooms. In late summer, cut the plant back another 1-third to 1-half of its original height to keep it a manageable size. Remove any dead or diseased foliage to promote new growth. Trim away any stems that have already flowered to encourage more flowers.