Photo: davecz2, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Heath aster: when and how to prune
Symphyotrichum ericoides
Heath aster is best pruned in March and May.
| Pruning months | March and May |
|---|---|
| Flowering | September–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Heath aster: when to prune it?
From late February to March, before the new shoots appear; optionally a light trim at the end of May.
Heath aster: how to prune it?
- Cut the old, dead stems down to 10 cm above the ground.
- Leave the spent flower sprays standing over winter: they decorate the garden and give birds and insects food and shelter.
- Pinch back the shoot tips by a third at the end of May for denser growth and less flopping.
- Clear dead leaves from around the base.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and May. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Heath aster flowers in September–October, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium)
- Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium)
- Bushy aster
- Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum)
- New England aster
- Smooth aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
Plant profile: Heath aster · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.