Asters — New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) Seeds
A fall-blooming meadow aster with bright purple or pink flowers and yellow centers. Dark green foliage can be cut back in mid-summer to control height. Flowers supply abundant nectar for late-season bees and butterflies. Foliage important for many species in their larval stages. Excellent garden and landscape plant with late season interest.
Native to Maine: Yes
Growing conditions: Sun to part shade in medium to wet soil
Grows up to: 2-5'
Blooms: In late fall
Natural habitat: Meadows, roadsides, and ditches with fertile, moist soils
Seeds per packet: 50-100
Germination Code(s): A
These seeds do not need a winter or cold period to germinate - the rate of germination may be higher if the seeds are exposed to a period of cold, but it is not required. Sow outdoors in pots November through early April. A great species for beginner seed-sowers.
Each seed package carries a specific germination code along with the plant description. These codes indicate specific sowing instructions.
- A Seeds can be sown outdoors in fall or early spring.
- B Seeds need a winter or cold period to germinate. Sow outdoors in fall or winter.
- C Seeds need light to germinate; sow on soil surface and leave uncovered.
- D Seeds need alternating cycles of warm-to-cold-to-warm to germinate. They can be sown either outdoors in spring or summer and will germinate the following year or in a flat in a warm place for 3 months, then moved to a refrigerator for 2 months, then moved outside in the early summer warmth.
- E Seeds can not be allowed to dry out. Sow immediately.
- F Seeds take two years to germinate. Sow outside in the fall or winter and look for germination in the second spring. A shady location prevents the flats from rapid drying and reduces weeding
- G Large seeds should be soaked overnight in water.
- FERN: Sow spores in a warm bright location in a sealed container and keep moist. Directions enclosed with package. Challenging.
If you have specific questions about seeds and germination guidelines please contact us at email@example.com.
All seeds can be sown and placed outdoors in fall or winter bypassing the need for an artificial indoor cold stratification (refrigerator) required for some species when planted in spring. This is the simplest method. See How to Grow Natives From Seed for detailed instructions.
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