Asters have been firm favourites with gardeners for planting in beds, mixed borders and containers where their rich, bright colours, grown in either mixed or single shades, have proven themselves time and again especially when massed displays of decorative flowers are required.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
They symbolise love, good luck and patience.
These annuals, biennials and herbaceous perennials come in a range to suit every situation, be it a single, semi-double, or a double form in colours of white, pink, red, blue, purple and lavender, mostly with yellow centres.
To grow stunning blooms of the annual species some care is necessary in growing them. They are best grown in a good loamy soil that has had some compost dug into it. Don’t use any fertilisers or rich manures.
Plant seedlings out into the garden in spring when all danger of frosts is over.
They prefer a well-drained soil in a sunny, airy, position preferably away from cold winds. Space plants about 20 to 30 centimetres apart.
In hot weather mulch around the plants after watering to keep the roots cool and moist. It is essential that the soil never dries out.
Given regular care and attention they should begin to flower within a couple of months of planting.
The perennial asters known as Easter daisies are among the mainstays of the autumn garden and will bloom into early winter providing plenty of flowers at a time when most perennials have finished.
Perennial asters grow to different heights which can be used to good effect. They look great when placed in borders with other plants of similar height and colour and make excellent background plantings.
Perennial asters are planted in winter while they’re dormant.
They require similar soil conditions to the annual varieties. The clumps can be lifted every year, thinning out, leaving at least three of the best on each clump to be replanted.
This splitting up is essential to produce bigger and better quality flowers.
Mighty Mints
The mints are a resourceful family of aromatic herbs with a number having distinct flavours and scents.
The history of mints goes back to Greek mythology and biblical times where they were widely used for health purposes and as strewing herbs for their perfume and insect repellent qualities.
Mints like a rich, moist soil in semi-shade and are best grown in containers to curb their rampant, wandering habit.
They are pest deterrents and great neighbours with vegetables.
English spearmint has elongated smooth leaves and is probably the most popular variety grown for its many culinary uses, most commonly with buttered potatoes.
Applemint can be mixed with spearmint to make mint sauce and a few leaves added to fruit salad gives it a lift.
Eau-de-cologne mint has a strong flavour.
A few bunches in a vase on a hot summer’s day seems to cool the surroundings and a few sprigs added to a hot bath delivers a relaxing mood.
DIARY
August 15: The Australian Plant Society meets at the Max Fry Hall on Gorge Rd, Trevallyn at 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. For more information visit www.apstasnorth.org
August 16: The Launceston Horticultural Society meets at Windmill Hill Hall, High Street, Launceston at 8pm. Visitors welcome. Supper is provided.
August 17: The Launceston Orchid Society meets at the Newnham Uniting Church Hall, George Town Road, Launceston at 7pm. New members welcome.