Collection: Aster

Asters are a group of flowering plants belonging to the Asteraceae family, known for their daisy-like blooms that brighten gardens in late summer and autumn. These perennials are valued for their vibrant colours, which range from purple, blue, pink, and white, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Most asters are hardy perennials, meaning they survive UK winters without much fuss. However, here are some tips to keep them in top shape:

Leave the foliage intact until early spring – this protects the plant from frost damage.

Apply a layer of mulch (such as compost or bark chips) around the base of the plant to insulate the roots.

Cut back dead growth in early spring to encourage fresh, vigorous growth.

Collecting aster seeds is a great way to propagate new plants for free. Follow these steps:

Wait for the seed heads to dry out on the plant – they should turn brown and fluffy, similar to dandelions.

Snip off the seed heads and place them in a paper bag or on a dry surface indoors.

Separate the tiny seeds from the fluff by gently rubbing them.

Store the seeds in an envelope or airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Sow seeds in early spring for the best germination results, or store them over winter and plant in the following growing season.

It’s quite normal for the lower leaves of asters to turn brown and drop as the plant matures. However, if this happens too early, it could be due to:

Overwatering or underwatering – keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

Lack of sunlight – lower leaves often yellow in shaded areas.

Fungal diseases – good airflow and avoiding wet leaves can help prevent problems.

Regular deadheading and light pruning can help keep your asters looking fresh throughout the season.

Yes, autumn is a great time to plant asters, as it allows them to establish roots before winter. When planting in autumn:

Choose a sheltered, sunny spot with well-draining soil.

Water well after planting, but avoid waterlogging.

Apply a mulch layer around the base to protect roots from frost.

If planting from a container-grown aster, make sure to tease out the roots gently before placing them in the ground. While asters can be planted in spring too, autumn planting gives them a head start for next year’s blooms.