Alpine Aster (Aster alpinus)

Aster alpinus

Originates from the eastern part of North America, where it grows in drier locations in forest clearings and edges of woodlands. There is an endless variety of Aster species. Some are tall and therefore excellent for cutting, while others are low-growing and compact. Typical colors for this flower are purple and blue, but white also suits it beautifully, standing out wonderfully among warm autumn shades. In the garden, we combine them with yellow-flowering species such as Rudbeckia, Helenium, Coreopsis, Solidago, etc. They are suitable for group plantings, border edging, or as solitary perennials.

Alpine aster originates from Europe but occurs from Europe to Siberia. It grows to approximately 20 cm in height. The flowers are blue-violet. It blooms from May to June. Varieties with white, blue, and pink flowers are cultivated.

How to Grow Asters

• They require sunny to partially shaded locations. They can also be grown in drier positions, but watering must be regular. Loosen the soil around the plant regularly. Remove spent flowers. The reason is that the plant grows in clumps, which could lead to rotting. Grow plants in groups with spacing of 20-30 cm between individual plants.

• Sow seeds from March to April on the surface of the substrate. Any substrate suitable for sowing is appropriate. Keep seedlings at 18 to 22°C for 2-3 weeks. Then for 4 weeks at -4 to +4°C. As soon as we transfer them to warmth, they will begin to germinate.

• Suitable soils are deep, nutritious, permeable, and slightly moist.

• Apply fertilizer during intensive growth in spring and then for proper tissue maturation and flower formation during and at the end of summer. We can use well-matured compost or any universal NPK fertilizer or fertilizers for flowering plants.

• Plants are attacked by powdery mildew and grey mold in higher humidity. Therefore, treat them curatively and preventively with suitable fungicides.