Stokes' aster 'Klaus Jelitto' Stokesia laevis 'Klaus Jelitto'

Water

Stokes’ Asters should be watered regularly, aiming for at least one inch of water weekly. During the growing season, if rainfall is not sufficient, supplement with additional watering. Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot. It's best to water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water Stokes’ Asters twice a week to maintain consistent soil moisture.

Light

Stokes’ Aster thrives in full sun to partial shade. It performs best when planted in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. When grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers. Choosing a location that gets morning sun and afternoon shade can help prevent the leaves from scorching in areas with intense heat.

Temperature

Stokes’ Aster prefers a temperate climate and can usually withstand temperatures as low as 0°F and as high as 90°F. However, it flourishes in temperatures ranging between 60°F and 80°F. To ensure good health and flowering, avoid placing the plant in locations where temperature extremes are common.

Pruning

Stokes’ Aster benefits from pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, cutting back the previous year's growth to about 4-6 inches above ground level. Deadheading spent flowers during the blooming season can also promote further blooms.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Stokes' Aster is well-drained loam with a high organic content to retain moisture. It prefers soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.

Repotting

Stokes' Aster, being a perennial, does not require frequent repotting and is typically repotted only when divided every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container.

Humidity & Misting

Stokes' Aster prefers average humidity levels and does not have specific high humidity requirements; it is generally adaptable to the humidity found in typical garden settings.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light and keep soil moist for best indoor growth.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, water regularly, but avoid waterlogging.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Stokesia laevis 'Klaus Jelitto', commonly known as the Stokes' aster, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in the spring when soil temperatures warm up. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the emergence of its first true leaves, and as it matures, it develops a basal rosette of leaves. During its vegetative stage, the plant focuses on growing larger and stronger, preparing for the flowering stage which typically occurs in late spring to summer, showcasing its distinctive lavender-blue flowers. After pollination, usually by bees and butterflies, the plant will produce seeds in late summer to fall, completing its reproductive cycle. During winter or in response to harsh conditions, the Stokes' aster may enter a dormant stage, where growth slows down or ceases temporarily. With the return of favorable conditions in spring, the plant will break dormancy and the life cycle starts anew, with some plants also capable of vegetative reproduction through clumping.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Stokesia laevis 'Klaus Jelitto', commonly known as Stokes' aster, is commonly propagated by seed. For successful propagation, one should sow the seeds in late winter to early spring. The seeds need to be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within a couple of weeks at a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). No pretreatment of the seeds is necessary, and once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots and later moved to the garden after the risk of frost has passed. Seed propagation is popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness, allowing gardeners to produce numerous plants relatively easily.