Aster

Asters get their name from the Latin word for "star," and their flowers are indeed the superstars of the fall garden. Not all asters are fall bloomers. Extend the season by growing some of the summer bloomers, as well. Some are naturally compact; tall types that grow more than 2 feet tall benefit from staking or an early-season pinching or cutting back by about one-third in July or so to keep the plant more compact. Plant Asters into a full sun to part sun location in loamy, well-draining soil. Keep new plantings moist and continue watering until blooms cease. Appropriate care of Asters includes watering at the base and not splashing the foliage. Getting water or fertilizer on the leaves encourages powdery mildew and other fungal diseases.

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