prairie aster

For Prairie Aster (Symphyotrichum turbinellum) watering should generally take place every 7 to 10 days. Water should be given slowly and deeply to give the plant time to absorb and utilize what it needs, and any excess should run off and not pool in the soil. Try to water at the base of the plant, rather than from overhead, to avoid any possible foliar diseases. During periods of hot, dry weather, water more often. During colder months, when the plant is dormant, no additional watering should be necessary.

Prairie aster (Symphyotrichum turbinellum) requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. However, it can still survive with less sunlight than this. If given a range of 4-8 hours of direct sunlight, the plant will be able to grow and thrive. Prairie aster will also tolerate partial shade, however, it will need a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight in order to bloom successfully. When it comes to the time of day for the sunlight, it is best for the prairie aster to receive most of the sunlight in the morning. This will help the plant to quickly absorb and use the sunlight for photosynthesis and growth. It is also helpful for the plant to be exposed to sunlight in the afternoon, which will help it to dry out quickly after a rain or heavy dew.

Prairie aster should be pruned in the spring when the shrub is still dormant before growth begins. Prune back the shoots of the previous year to 8-12 inches from the crown of the plant. Remove any dead, diseased, or weak stems. Cut stems that have crossed and are rubbing against each other, as this can cause disease. Thin the plant to about 6-8 stems per foot of width and shape the plant for a more full and attractive form. After blooming it is also beneficial to prune stems back to the base and give the plant a light shaping for a fuller and more attractive plant.