Alpine Aster (common name)
Plant family: Asteraceae
Genus: Aster
Species: alpinus
100 mg Packet
Plant type: Perennial
Colors: Pink, Violet, Dark Purple, White
Bloom time: Late spring - mid summer
Height: 6" - 12"
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil needs: Moderately fertile, well drained, consistently moist soil with a ph of 5.5 - 7.5.
Care: Plant established plants 15" - 18" apart. Root stimulator will encourage quicker rooting and stronger root system. Use a slow release fertilizer at planting time or begin using water-soluble fertilizer at planting time and continue to use every 3 weeks throughout the growing season. Apply 3 inches of vegetative mulch around plants in summer to help retain soil moisture. Water Deeply when soil begins to dry. Dead head to keep plants neat and prevent self seeding. Don't cut back after frost.
Propagation: Sow indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to last frost or direct sow into garden after last frost. Sprinkle seeds over soil mix and leave exposed to light. Thoroughly moisten soil and keep moist throughout germination. Soil should not be soggy. Transplant to garden when all danger of frost is gone.
