Are there hardy asters or are they all sensitive to frost and lose out in ice and snow? Read below that hibernation is not always necessary and which specimens should receive winter protection!

Asters are hardy and do not usually need winter protection

Different species and their hardiness

Basically, no special winter protection is necessary for asters, as they tolerate frost. Here is the frost hardiness of the most well-known species in a sheltered location:

  • Cushion asters: down to -40 °C
  • Bacterial asters: -45 °C
  • Smooth-leaf asters: -45 °C
  • Mountain Asters: -28 °C
  • Alpine asters: -40 °C

When it makes sense to overwinter

But there are also circumstances that make hibernation or winter protection sensible. On the one hand, sensitive varieties should be equipped with winter protection. On the other hand, specimens that are cultivated in pots should be protected from frost in the root area.

Even if you live in a cooler/harsh region such as a mountainous region, on the coast or on a hillside, you may want to protect your asters over the winter. In addition, asters should be protected during longer and severe periods of frost.

Winter protection - what is suitable?

To prevent frost from creeping up to the root ball, you should protect your asters in the event of one of the reasons mentioned above. A thick layer of:

  • leaves
  • Mulch (239.00€) eg from bark or compost
  • brushwood
  • or fir show

Only cut back in spring

Important: Do not cut back your asters in autumn! Although these perennials don't look much in winter with their bare stems and seed pods, autumn pruning is not recommended.

The stems and old leaves serve as natural winter protection for the plant. They should therefore not be removed. They not only protect against severe frost, but also against moisture. In March, asters can then be cut down to the ground without hesitation. In addition, these perennials can be divided in spring, for example with the aim of propagating.

tips

Asters in pots should be placed against a protected house wall over the winter and the pot area should also be wrapped with fleece.

Category:

Vegetable garden