Michaelmas daisy 'Fellowship' Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Fellowship'

Water

New York asters require regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plants deeply once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water, depending somewhat on the weather conditions. More frequent watering might be necessary during particularly hot or dry periods, possibly increasing to twice a week. Ensure that the water penetrates the soil to reach the roots rather than merely wetting the surface. During the winter or in cooler weather, reduce watering frequency as the plant's water needs will decrease.

Light

New York asters thrive best in areas with full sun exposure, meaning at least 6 or more hours of direct sunlight per day. They can tolerate partial shade but full sun is ideal for promoting healthy growth and abundant blooms. If possible, position them in a spot that receives unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day for the best results.

Temperature

New York asters prefer moderate to cool temperatures and will thrive best when daytime temperatures range between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit during dormancy in winter but sustained cold below this can damage the plant. Ideal growing conditions will avoid the extremes of both heat and frost.

Pruning

Pruning New York asters helps to promote bushier growth and more abundant flowering. Prune in the early spring, removing any dead or damaged stems, and to shape the plant. You can also pinch the tips of the growth in late spring to early summer to encourage branching. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage continuous blooming. After the first frost, cut back the stems to a few inches above ground level as part of the plant's winter preparation.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

New York Aster 'Fellowship' thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of loam, peat, and perlite can provide the ideal balance of moisture retention and drainage. Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 6.8 for optimal growth.

Repotting

New York Aster 'Fellowship' should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Repotting in the spring allows the plant to establish its roots before the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

New York Aster 'Fellowship' prefers moderate humidity, typically between 40-60%, which is common in outdoor environments and can also be achieved indoors.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial sun, well-drained soil; mulch in winter.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the New York aster 'Fellowship', begins with seed germination, which occurs when conditions are favorable, typically in the spring after the last frost. As the seedlings emerge and develop, they form a rosette of leaves at the base and begin to grow vegetatively, producing stems, leaves, and a developing root system throughout the spring and summer. In late summer to fall, the plant enters its flowering stage, where it develops characteristic daisy-like flowers with purple petals and yellow centers which attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers will produce seeds that mature, and by late fall, the plant disperses them into the surrounding environment. Over winter, the aerial parts of the plant die back, but the root system may remain dormant underground, ready to regrow the following spring if the plant is a perennial variety. The cycle repeats itself as new seedlings grow or as the plant resprouts from its root system if it has a perennial life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer to early autumn

• The New York aster 'Fellowship', botanically known as Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Fellowship', is typically propagated by dividing the plants in the fall or early spring. To propagate by division, you would carefully dig up an established aster clump, shaking off the excess soil. You'd then separate the clump into smaller sections making sure each division has a good amount of roots attached. Plant these divisions immediately into well-prepared soil, spacing them about 1 to 3 feet apart to allow for growth and air circulation. It's important to water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to help establish them. This method is favored because it maintains the genetic identity of the cultivar and allows for the expansion of the garden display or the sharing of plants with friends and neighbors.