Lesson 3
Growing & the Chelsea chop
Growing image…
In late May (the 'Chelsea chop'), cut perennial asters back by a third. They will flower a fortnight later but on shorter, sturdier stems and won't flop.
Stake taller varieties early with a few brushy twigs — by the time they need it, you've missed the moment.
Asters reward division every 3 years. The middle of the clump dies out; split it in spring, replant the outer pieces in fresh compost.