3.8k saves
Aster
We track 39 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Aster varieties
See all 39 Aster varieties →Search this genus →
8 species of Aster
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Aster in Sow
Save the Aster you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Aster
Whats common across all Aster varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 39 most-grown of them.
The Aster year
- DivideMarch and September100% of varieties
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- Pinch TipsApril and May87% of varieties
Pinch stem tips until early July for bushier, shorter plants
- Spring CleanupFebruary67% of varieties
Cut old stems to the ground before new growth emerges
- Check for PestsJune–August49% of varieties
Monitor for spider mites during hot, dry conditions
- FertilizeMarch31% of varieties
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring
Do
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
- Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Aster
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Powdery Mildew | White powder on leaves | Use a fungicide or improve air circulation |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide if needed |
| Aster Leaf Miner | Deformed or discolored leaves | Remove affected foliage and apply neem oil |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Apply fungicidal spray and improve air circulation |
| Root Rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves with soft roots | Ensure well-drained soil and reduce watering |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Aster
Division
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall.
- Replant divisions immediately at the same depth.
Seed
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
- Keep soil consistently moist for 2-3 weeks until germination occurs.
Aster questions
How many types of Aster are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 39 distinct Aster varieties. The most popular — ranked by 3.8k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Aster grow in?
Across its varieties, Aster covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Aster bloom?
Most Aster varieties bloom in late summer, late summer to fall, early fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Aster should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.