Coombe Fishacre Aster Symphyotrichum 'Coombe Fishacre'

Water

The Michaelmas daisy should be watered deeply and thoroughly, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. This should be done once a week during active growth periods, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but not completely. During the hot summer months, watering may need to be increased to twice a week, especially if there are extended periods of drought. In terms of water quantity, aim to provide at least one gallon per plant for each watering session. It's crucial to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot in these perennials.

Light

Michaelmas daisies thrive in full sun and should be planted in a spot where they receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. They will tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can result in fewer blooms and weaker growth. The best spot for these plants is in an area with unfiltered, full sun exposure to promote vigorous growth and plentiful flowering.

Temperature

Michaelmas daisies prefer moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate a range from 40°F to 80°F. However, temperatures above 85°F may stress the plant, particularly if accompanied by high humidity. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. Michaelmas daisies are frost-hardy and can survive short periods of colder temperatures, down to about 20°F, but prolonged exposure to extreme cold can damage or kill the plant.

Pruning

Michaelmas daisies should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Prune in early spring by cutting back last year's growth to about 12 inches above the ground. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong bloom time and maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning is needed annually; however, if plants become leggy during the growing season, a mid-summer trim can encourage a fresh flush of growth and flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Michaelmas Daisy is well-draining soil with a good amount of organic matter that retains moisture but does not get waterlogged. A blend of loamy garden soil, peat or compost, and perlite or sand works well. This plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.0 to 7.0.

Repotting

Michaelmas Daisies, being perennial plants, don't require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. They should be repotted if the plant outgrows its current pot or if the soil becomes depleted, approximately every 2 to 3 years.

Humidity & Misting

Michaelmas Daisies prefer moderate humidity levels and can adapt to outdoor ambient humidity. They are quite tolerant of humidity fluctuations as long as the soil moisture is adequately maintained.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light, ensure good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade, mulch, and space well.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The Symphyotrichum 'Coombe Fishacre', commonly known as the Aster, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in the soil, usually in spring or early summer. Once the seedling emerges, it develops into a rosette of leaves at the soil surface, focusing on root system growth before vertical growth occurs. As the plant matures, it develops a sturdy stem and foliage, entering the vegetative stage where it grows rapidly in favorable conditions of light, moisture, and nutrients. The next critical phase is the flowering stage, typically in late summer or fall, where the Aster produces daisy-like flowers with vibrant colors that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during the winter, with the above-ground parts dying back, and the cycle begins anew with the next growing season as the plant re-sprouts from perennial underground parts, like roots or rhizomes.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Summer-Early Fall

• Propogation: The Symphyotrichum 'Coombe Fishacre', commonly known as the Aster 'Coombe Fishacre', can be propagated most successfully through division. The best time to propagate asters by division is in early spring when new growth begins to emerge. To propagate by division, dig up an established aster clump and gently separate it into smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has a portion of the root system and several shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth they were originally growing, spacing them about 1 to 2 feet apart to allow room for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method allows gardeners to quickly expand their aster collection and refresh older plants that may have become woody or less vigorous.