Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’
£5.95
A compact, bushy, perennial producing clusters of lilac-white daisies with yellow centres in late summer into autumn. Full sun/partial shade. Height and Spread 60cm. Hardy. Attracts bees.
Description
Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ is a compact, bushy perennial renowned for its clusters of lilac-white daisy-like flowers with sunny yellow centres. This versatile plant blooms profusely from late summer into autumn, providing a touch of elegance to borders, containers, and pollinator-friendly gardens. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ thrives.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
- Spring: Plant Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ in spring to allow its roots to establish before the blooming season begins.
- Autumn: Early autumn planting is also effective, giving the plant time to acclimate before winter dormancy.
Site Selection
- Sunlight: Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Select a spot that offers at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal flower production.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’. Avoid waterlogged areas, and improve soil quality with organic matter such as compost.
Planting Instructions
- Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball to allow room for root expansion.
- Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage.
- Planting: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface. Backfill gently, firming the soil around the roots to remove air pockets.
- Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and encourage root establishment.
Watering Requirements
- Growing Season: Aster prefers consistently moist soil during its active growth phase. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but let the top layer of soil dry slightly between watering to prevent overwatering.
- Dormant Season: Water sparingly during winter dormancy, providing just enough moisture to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
Feeding
- Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring to promote vigorous growth and prepare your Aster for a healthy blooming season.
- Mid-Summer: A light feeding mid-season can encourage sustained flowering and maintain the plant’s vitality.
Pruning
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage new flower production and keep Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ looking neat and tidy.
- Autumn Pruning: Once flowering has ceased, cut back the plant to ground level to prepare it for winter dormancy and encourage fresh growth in the next season.
Mulching
- Spring: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ in spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Winter: Add additional mulch in late autumn to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and frost heaving.
Supporting the Plant
Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ has a naturally bushy and compact growth habit, so staking is usually unnecessary. However, in areas prone to strong winds, consider adding light support to protect the stems.
Final Tips
Aster ageratoides ‘Asmo’ is a hardy perennial that requires minimal maintenance to deliver a stunning display of blooms year after year. By planting it in a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil, you can enjoy its lilac-white flowers from late summer into autumn. This plant is not only an attractive garden feature but also a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. With proper care, this Aster will bring enduring beauty and ecological benefits to your outdoor space.
Additional information
Pot Size | |
---|---|
Plant Botanical Type | Perennial (herbaceous) |
Flower Colour | Lilac, White |
Leaf Colour | Green |
Varigated Leaf | No |
Scent | No |
Height | 0.6m |
Spread | 0.6m |
Blooms/foliage interest in | Summer, Autumn |
Evergreen | No |
Hardiness | mild winter to – 5C |
Container | Borders |
Sun/shade | Full sun, Partial Shade |
Soil Type | Loam (normal) |
Soil PH | Neutral |
Drainage | Well drained soil |
Hazerdous | No |
Insect Attraction | Bees |
Lynda Marwood (verified owner) –
Aster healthy plants planting in the garden now