Origin and Common Names
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus (Greene) Kittell, commonly known as the mountain aster, is native to the Western United States. It can be found in the Rocky Mountains, as well as the Sierra Nevada range. The plant typically grows in high elevations, ranging from 5,500 to 10,000 feet above sea level.
Appearance
The mountain aster is a perennial plant that grows up to two feet tall. It has green, lance-shaped leaves that are glabrous or slightly pubescent. The plant produces small lavender to blue flowers, about 1.5 inches in diameter, that bloom in late summer or early fall. The flowers are arranged in clusters or sprays at the end of the stems. The plant is deciduous, meaning that it sheds its leaves in the winter.
Uses
The mountain aster has a few uses that make it beneficial to humans and the environment. It is often used as food and shelter for wildlife, including bees and butterflies. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes by Native American tribes. The dried leaves and stems are made into teas that are believed to be effective in treating stomach problems, colds, and headaches.
The plant is also used in landscaping and home gardening. Its delicate flowers and foliage make it an attractive addition to gardens and flower beds. As a hardy plant, the mountain aster can tolerate droughts and harsh weather conditions.
Light Requirements
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus requires full sun to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but blooming may be reduced in shaded areas. In order to promote healthy growth, it is recommended to plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus is a hardy plant that can withstand a range of temperatures. It can tolerate moderate frost and temperatures as low as -10°C. However, it prefers a warmer climate and grows best in temperatures between 15°C and 28°C.
Soil Requirements
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus thrives in well-draining sandy or loamy soil. It can grow in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It is important to ensure the soil is fertile and nutrient-rich to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus (Greene) Kittell is a perennial plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade, in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. It is best grown from seeds or propagated by cuttings. You can plant seeds in the early spring or fall, in a seed tray or directly in the ground.
Once the seedlings or cuttings establish roots, transplant them to their permanent location, spacing them 12 to 18 inches apart. Water the plants well, keeping the soil moist until they become fully established.
Watering Needs
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus (Greene) Kittell requires regular watering, particularly during long periods of drought. However, it is essential not to overwater, as excessive moisture can cause the roots to rot.
The best way to water Aster glaucodes is to water deeply, enough to reach the root zone, and then allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Aster glaucodes is not essential, but it can help enhance its growth and flowering. A slow-release granular fertilizer applied in spring or early summer can provide necessary nutrients every time you water.
Aster plants also benefit from the use of organic fertilizers such as compost or aged manure. Apply a layer of compost around each plant in the spring and fall.
Pruning
Pruning Aster glaucodes is essential to maintain its shape and help it flower prolifically. Cut the plant back to half of its height in late spring or early summer before new growth begins. This pruning method stimulates more branching and creates more vigorous growth.
In the fall, after the plant has finished blooming, cut the stems back to the ground. This method helps the plant stay healthy and ensures that the plant comes back more robust every year.
Propagation of Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus (Greene) Kittell
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus (Greene) Kittell, commonly referred to as Great Basin aster, is a perennial species of the Asteraceae family that is native to the western United States. Propagation of this plant can be accomplished through several different methods including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation of Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus can be done easily by scattering seeds on top of a well-draining soil mix in the fall or early spring. It is important to ensure that the seeds receive direct sunlight and are kept moist until germination, which should occur within one to two weeks. Once the seedlings have reached a height of around 2 inches, they can be transplanted outdoors into their permanent location.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus. This method involves digging up an existing plant and dividing the rhizomes into smaller sections, each with a few stems and roots attached. These sections can then be transplanted into a new location and watered well. This method is best done in the fall or early spring.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are a simple and effective way to propagate Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus. This method involves taking a cutting from an existing plant, typically in the summer or early fall. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and should be approximately 4-6 inches in length. The bottom of the cutting should be dipped into rooting hormone before being placed into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and position the cutting in a bright location with indirect sunlight. Roots should begin to form within a few weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted outdoors once it has established a healthy root system.
Disease Management
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus (Greene) Kittell is generally a hardy plant that's not usually plagued by diseases. However, some factors such as poor cultural practices, weather conditions, and plant stress can result in the development of diseases such as:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as black spots with yellow rings around them. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and reduce overhead irrigation to prevent water from splashing from plant to plant.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as white powdery patches on the leaves and stems of the plant. To control mildew, spray the plant with a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil. It's also essential to keep the plant dry by avoiding overhead watering.
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It appears as brown or blackened roots and can cause the plant to wilt. To prevent root rot, ensure soil drainage is proper, and avoid overwatering the plant. Consider using a fungicide to manage this disease.
- Verticillium wilt: This is a fungal disease that affects various plant species, including Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus. It appears as wilting leaves and stunted growth of the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected plants and do not replant susceptible species in the same soil.
Pest Management
Aster glaucodes Blake var. formosus is relatively pest-resistant, but it can still be attacked by some pests. Some common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and deformed leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or a solution of neem oil and water.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are larval stages of moths and butterflies that can eat the plant's leaves, causing significant damage. They can be managed by handpicking them from the leaves and applying Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to the plant. Bt is a natural bacterium that kills caterpillars but is harmless to humans and other animals.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause extensive damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. They appear as stippling on the leaves and may spin webs on the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a solution of neem oil and water or introduce predatory mites to feed on them.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that can cause mottling on the leaves of the plant and can spread viruses. To manage them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or a solution of neem oil and water.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of disease or pests is critical in early detection and management of any issues that may arise.
