Photo: Nadiatalent, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium): when and how to prune
Symphyotrichum cordifolium
Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) 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 |
Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium): when to prune it?
Asters need little pruning. Cut the old stems down in February–March; for a shorter, sturdier plant, cut the stems back in late May.
Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium): how to prune it?
- In late winter, cut the dead stems back to just above the ground.
- In late May, cut the stems back by a third to a half: the plant stays shorter, branches more and flowers a little later.
- In autumn, feel free to leave the faded stems standing; they look lovely with frost.
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?
- Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) flowers in September–October, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
Caution: Do not cut back after the end of June, or the plant will flower less.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium)
- Bushy aster
- Calico aster (Symphyotrichum lateriflorum)
- Heath aster
- New England aster
- Smooth aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
Plant profile: Blue wood aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.