Astronomical Asters!

I am sure you are all enjoying this Autumn sunshine but for me the high point has been the Asters. Always gorgeous in Autumn - this year they have been phenomenal. My lovely blue Aster x frikartii 'Monch' started flowering in early July and has not stopped blooming. In August, Aster Novae Angliae 'Mrs S. T. Wright began her outstanding display in lilac at the back of my border and is still at it! I suppose my very favourite is Aster 'Alma Potschke' - rather an acquired taste as it is shocking pink -but it is such an amazing colour and looks gorgeous next to any autumnal foliaged plant. And I am just waiting for my later and smaller Aster 'Purple Dome', which is a lovely dark purple, to open up and complete my aster package. Have a look at some in My Portfolio in the set 'Asters'

I do urge everyone to invest in asters. As proved conclusively this year they are drought tolerant and perform best in well drained soil. Although they should not be divided until Spring, new plants in containers are quite suited to being planted now. Indeed those planted now will be fully establish by next summer to provide an excellent display in your borders.

If you need further inspiration take a day out and visit Upton House near Banbury in Warwickshire. Apart from an amazing art collection in the house, the garden has the National Collection of Asters.

If however you would like to plant some Asters, give me a call and I can advise and purchase for you.