Symphyotrichum laeve aka Smooth Blue Aster
Taxonomy
Common names
Smooth Blue Aster, Glaucous Aster, Smooth Aster, Glaucous Michaelmas DaisyHow to care for Smooth Blue Aster
Difficulty
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Smooth Blue Aster due to its easy-going nature.
Water
Smooth Blue Aster should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Smooth Blue Aster loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Smooth Blue Aster thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Smooth Aster.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Smooth Blue Aster is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
Smooth Blue Aster grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
More info:
Wikipedia