Overview
Aster blakei, also known as Porter's aster, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a perennial herb that is native to North America, particularly in the Rocky Mountains region.
Common Names
Besides Porter's aster, Aster blakei has other common names, including Blake's aster, mountain aster, and blue mountain aster. The plant is named after James Blake, who was a renowned American botanist.
General Appearance
Aster blakei typically grows up to two feet tall and has an upright habit. It has thin, hairy stems that are often reddish-brown in colour. This plant features oblong to linear leaves that grow in an alternate pattern and are three inches long and a half-inch wide. The leaves are dark green in colour and covered with a thin layer of hair. The flowers of Aster blakei are blue or purple and consist of a central disk of small flowers surrounded by overlapping petals. The plant blooms from July to September.
Use and Cultivation
Aster blakei is sometimes used for medicinal purposes by some Native American tribes; however, there is limited scientific research on its potential health benefits. In the garden, Aster blakei is a stunning addition to rock gardens, borders, and naturalized areas. It thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and prefers full sun or partial shade. The plant is low maintenance and requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for novice gardeners.
Light Requirements
Aster blakei thrives in areas where they receive bright indirect sunlight or partial shade. It does not require direct sunlight but needs sufficient light to grow. The plant can tolerate some afternoon sun if the soil remains moist.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Aster blakei falls between 15°C to 25°C. The plant can tolerate below freezing temperatures for a short period. However, extreme heat will cause the plant to wilt and die.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is suitable for growth. Aster blakei can also tolerate poor soil but thrives in fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.
Water Requirements
Aster blakei requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. During the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering, especially during heatwaves.
Cultivation Methods for Aster blakei (Porter) House
Aster blakei is a native flowering plant to western North America, and it's mostly found in open, sunny areas in the wild. When planted in the garden, it's recommended that it's sown in the spring or fall. To ensure a successful planting, it's important to prepare an area with well-drained soil, loosen the soil, and amend it with organic matter. Additionally, it should be planted in an area that receives ample sunlight, ideally about 6 hours per day.
Watering Needs for Aster blakei (Porter) House
Aster blakei requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. However, it's important to ensure that the soil isn't waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and the plant's death. To meet its watering needs adequately, water the plant when the soil starts to feel dry to the touch, avoiding overhead watering to prevent water from accumulating on the foliage that may lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization for Aster blakei (Porter) House
Aster blakei needs to be fertilized regularly, especially during the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 fertilizer would be ideal. It's recommended to apply the fertilizer once in the spring and another time in mid-summer to provide adequate nutrition throughout the growing season. Follow the package instructions for application rates, and avoid over-fertilization, which could harm the plant instead of doing it any good.
Pruning Aster blakei (Porter) House
Pruning is not necessary for Aster blakei but it can be helpful to deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Cut back the spent blooms as soon as they fade to keep the plant's energy focused on producing fresh blooms. Additionally, pruning in the fall can be helpful to keep the plant tidy and prevent any diseases from overwintering, and it should be done to the plant's basal foliage without cutting it back to the ground. It's essential to use sterilized pruning shears to avoid the spread of diseases during pruning.
Propagation of Aster blakei (Porter) House
Aster blakei (Porter) House, commonly referred to as Blake’s aster, can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for Aster blakei. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall, producing small, light-colored seeds. You can collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season. In the spring, sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them moist until germination. Germination should occur within two weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
You can also propagate Aster blakei through stem cuttings. Take stem cuttings in mid-summer from a healthy plant and root them in a well-draining soil mix. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and place the cutting in a rooting hormone. Keep the soil moist and do not let it dry out. After roots have formed, the cutting can be planted in its permanent location.
Propagation by Division
Division is another method of propagating Aster blakei. The best time to divide the plant is in early spring before new growth appears. Dig up the plant and separate the clumps gently, making sure each clump has roots attached. Replant the clumps in their permanent location, making sure to water them well.
Disease and Pest Management for Aster blakei (Porter) House
Aster blakei (Porter) House, commonly known as Blake's aster, is a North American wildflower that can be grown in gardens for its showy blue-purple flowers and attractive foliage. However, like all plants, it is vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and appearance. Here are some of the most common problems that may occur and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can stunt growth, reduce the plant's vigor, and even cause the leaves to fall off. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts, increase air circulation around the plant, and spray with a fungicide containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes circular brown or black spots on the leaves, which can merge and kill the affected leaves. It is usually caused by wet conditions and poor air circulation. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide containing copper or mancozeb.
Crown and Root Rot: This fungal disease attacks the roots and crown of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventual death. It is usually caused by poor soil drainage and overwatering. To manage this disease, improve soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and apply a fungicide containing trichoderma or bacillus bacteria.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing distortion, stunting, and yellowing of the leaves. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and encourages the growth of sooty mold. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests are barely visible to the naked eye but can cause significant damage by piercing the plant cells and sucking out the contents, causing speckling, yellowing, and eventually, leaf drop. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can spread rapidly. To manage this pest, increase humidity around the plant, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, introduce natural predators like predatory mites or thrips, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Slugs and Snails: These slimy pests can cause damage by feeding on the leaves and stems of the plant, leaving ragged, irregular holes. They are most active at night and prefer wet conditions. To manage this pest, handpick the pests during the day or evening, set up beer traps to attract and drown them, or apply an iron phosphate-based bait.
With proper care and attention, Aster blakei can thrive in the garden and provide plenty of color and interest. By being vigilant for signs of disease and pests, and taking appropriate measures to manage them, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your plant.
