Aster 'Mönch' Aster × frikartii 'Mönch'

Water

Frikart's Aster should be watered regularly, especially during prolonged dry spells, to maintain an evenly moist soil environment. They typically need about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or manual watering. It is best watered thoroughly to a depth of about 8 inches, rather than frequent shallow waterings, which encourages deep root growth. During the hottest part of the summer, you may need to water once or twice a week, while during cooler months or in well-established plants, the frequency may reduce to every other week.

Light

Frikart's Aster thrives in full sunlight to partial shade conditions. The ideal location is one where the plant can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Providing full sun is particularly important for healthy blooms and stout, sturdy stems, though in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent wilting.

Temperature

Frikart's Aster prefers moderate temperatures and can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F, while maximum temperatures should not exceed 90°F for prolonged periods. The ideal growing temperature for this perennial is between 60°F and 75°F. However, they are quite cold-hardy and can survive winter freezing with proper mulching.

Pruning

Pruning Frikart's Aster is essential for maintaining plant health and encouraging a bushier growth habit. Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the blooming season to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding. In late fall or early spring, cut back the entire plant to about 2 inches from the ground to promote vigorous new growth and improved air circulation.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Frikart's Aster thrives in well-draining soil with a mixture of loam, sand, and organic compost. Aim for a soil pH between 5.8 and 7.5, with a slightly acidic to neutral range being ideal. Ensure the soil mix is rich in nutrients and allows for proper moisture retention without becoming waterlogged.

Repotting

Frikart's Aster does not require frequent repotting; it is typically repotted only when it has outgrown its current container or if the soil quality has deteriorated. This usually occurs every 2-3 years. When repotting, choose a slightly larger pot to accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Frikart's Aster performs well in average outdoor humidity levels and does not require any special humidity adjustments. It is adaptable to the typical range found in most garden environments, which means no extra humidity control measures are necessary.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and well-draining soil for Frikart's Aster.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny spot with well-draining soil and space for growth.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Frikart's Aster 'Mönch' begins its life cycle when seeds are sown, usually after the danger of frost has passed in spring. Germination occurs over several days to a few weeks, depending on temperature and moisture conditions. Upon sprouting, the seedlings develop into juvenile plants, producing a basal rosette of leaves and a root system. Throughout the growing season, the plant grows vegetatively, developing a bushy habit with branches and an increasing number of leaves. Flowering typically occurs in late summer to early fall, when numerous lavender-blue, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers bloom. After flowering, seeds form and mature, which are then dispersed, starting the life cycle anew if conditions are favorable, or the plant may enter a period of dormancy during the winter.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer

• Propogation: The Frikart's Aster (Aster × frikartii 'Mönch') is most commonly propagated by division, which is ideally carried out in the spring as new growth appears. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and use a sharp spade or knife to divide the clump into several smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and several shoots. It's crucial to replant the divisions promptly at the same depth they were growing before and water them thoroughly to encourage establishment. Divisions should be spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45.72 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. This method promotes a robust new plant much faster than seed and keeps the desirable characteristics of the parent plant.