Aster Bluish

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Video: Aster Bluish

Video: Aster Bluish
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Aster Bluish
Aster Bluish
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Aster bluish (lat. Aster tongolensis) - flowering decorative culture; a representative of the genus Astra, belonging to the Asteraceae family, or Astrovye. Other names are Tongolenskaya aster, or Tongolian aster. The homeland of the species in question is considered to be the western regions of China, as well as India. Under natural conditions, bluish aster grows both on the plain and in the mountains, and is more common in the Himalayas.

Characteristics of culture

The bluish aster, or Tongolian, is represented by perennial herbaceous plants, which, during their growth, form rather dense, low-growing tussocks, which do not exceed 20-30 cm in height. The bluish aster has strong creeping rhizomes that form many stolons. The stems of the culture are in huge numbers, erect, low-leafed, almost not branching, sometimes pubescent with short hairs, - they bear oblong or lanceolate whole dark green foliage, collected in rosettes. Foliage can be either naked or pubescent.

Baskets-inflorescences are small, do not exceed 6 cm in diameter, are located on the tops of the stems, singly. The baskets consist of numerous central (tubular) flowers of a rich yellow color, and blue or lilac-blue reed (marginal) flowers, the length of which varies from 1 to 2.5 cm. The inflorescences are equipped with a bell-shaped wrapper, the leaves of which have an oblong shape. Bluish aster blooms in early summer, usually in mid-June, sometimes earlier. Flowering is always abundant and long lasting. Fruiting is usually active and annual.

One of the popular varieties of bluish asters is Violet Blue. The variety is represented by perennial plants with high frost resistance. In the process of growth, the plants form incredibly beautiful double inflorescences with purple-blue marginal flowers. In diameter, the baskets reach 4-5 cm. The variety is actually quite good, suitable for landscaping garden plots, suitable for flower beds and creating bouquets. Forms powerful bushes. Flowering is observed within a month. The variety prefers open sunny areas.

Features of culture and reproduction

Aster bluish, or Tongolian winter-hardy, drought-resistant and unpretentious. In one area, it can be grown for up to 5 years, later a transplant is required, if the plants are not transplanted during the time, the bushes will noticeably thin out and lose their former decorative effect. Aster bluish is undemanding to soil conditions, but to obtain abundant flowering, it is preferable to plant a crop on well-drained, loose, lime-containing soils.

Shelter for the winter is not required for the plant, but in anticipation of harsh winters, it is advisable to apply a thick layer of dry foliage. Astra bluish is ideal for decorating mixborders, curbs, alpine slides, rockeries and various landscape groups. The bluish aster looks great against the background of shrubs and dwarf trees. By the way, the species in question is a frequent visitor to city parks and gardens, because they do not need special care and ennoble any territory.

Aster propagates by seeds and vegetatively. Both methods are quite effective and allow you to get good results. Seeds are sown directly into the ground or for seedlings in early spring (late March - early April). Autumn sowing under cover is not prohibited. With this sowing, they will appear in early spring and bloom in mid-June.

Vegetative reproduction involves dividing the bush. This simple operation is carried out in the spring. The plants are dug up, divided into several parts, but so that each division has at least 3 shoots, a sufficiently developed root system and 1 bud. Immediately after dividing, the material is planted in a permanent place, observing a distance of at least 40-50 cm.

Crop care is a standard procedure, namely regular and moderate irrigation with warm water, weeding, shallow loosening, additional fertilizing three times per season and the fight against pests and diseases that rarely bother asters. Mulch is encouraged; any natural material can be used as mulch. Mulch will protect the root system from overheating and excessive evaporation of moisture.

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