New England Aster

New England asters prefer moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5-7.5 and moderate fertility. Add compost in spring, avoid heavy nitrogen feeding, and pinch stems early in the season to reduce flopping.

Sun

Full sun

Water

1 in/week

Spacing

18 in

First harvest

Perennial; fall bloom

Tips

• Surface-sow seeds with a light dusting of mix or plant nursery starts at their original depth about 18 inches apart, farther for large cultivars.
• Supply about 1 inch of water weekly during dry weather and avoid prolonged drought as buds develop.
• Top-dress with compost in spring and use balanced fertilizer only where soil fertility is low.
• Watch for powdery mildew and improve air circulation by thinning crowded stems.
• Pinch shoot tips through early summer for bushier plants and divide clumps every 2-3 years in spring.