Photo: The Cosmonaut, CC BY-SA 2.5 ca · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
New England aster: when and how to prune
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
New England aster is best pruned in March and May.
| Pruning months | March and May |
|---|---|
| Flowering | August–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
New England aster: when to prune it?
Cut the old stems down in March, and cut the new stems back by a third at the end of May.
New England aster: how to prune it?
- In March, cut the old stems down to just above the ground.
- At the end of May, cut all stems back by a third: the plant stays shorter, branches more and needs less support.
- If you cut back only some of the stems, you spread the flowering.
- Leave the spent stems standing over winter.
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?
- New England aster flowers in August–October, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
Caution: Do not cut back after mid-June, or you will lose flowers.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium)
- Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium)
- Bushy aster
- Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum)
- Heath aster
- Smooth aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
Plant profile: New England aster · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.