Pollination Info for Purple Dome New England Aster

The Purple Dome New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome') is a pollinator-friendly plant that attracts a variety of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden with its bright purple flowers.

The flowers of the Purple Dome New England Aster are rich in nectar and pollen, making them an important food source for pollinators. Bees in particular are attracted to the asters' sweet nectar, while butterflies are attracted to both the nectar and the bright colors of the flowers.

The Purple Dome New England Aster blooms in mid to late summer, providing an important source of food for pollinators during a time when many other plants are finished flowering. The plant's dense, bushy growth habit also creates a sheltered habitat for beneficial insects to rest and lay eggs.

By planting Purple Dome New England Asters in the garden, you can help support local pollinator populations, improve biodiversity, and create a beautiful and vibrant garden space.

Purple Dome New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome') FAQ

General Information

What is the Purple Dome New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome')?

The Purple Dome New England Aster is a herbaceous perennial plant that is part of the Asteraceae family. It is a compact variety of the New England Aster and is known for its vibrant and prolific display of purple flowers which bloom in late summer and early fall.

What are the growing requirements for the Purple Dome New England Aster?

The Purple Dome New England Aster prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some shade, but its growth and blooming may be affected. It also prefers moderate moisture, but not overly wet conditions. It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.

How big does the Purple Dome New England Aster grow?

The Purple Dome New England Aster typically grows to a height of 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) and a width of 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).

Care and Maintenance

How often should I water my Purple Dome New England Aster?

The Purple Dome New England Aster prefers moderate moisture, but not overly wet conditions. It is important to water deeply and infrequently rather than frequent shallow watering. In general, it is best to water the plant once a week, but adjust according to your specific growing conditions.

How often should I fertilize my Purple Dome New England Aster?

The Purple Dome New England Aster does not require heavy fertilization, but applying a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring can help promote healthy growth and blooming. Alternatively, applying a layer of compost around the base of the plant in early spring can also be beneficial.

How do I prune my Purple Dome New England Aster?

Pruning your Purple Dome New England Aster is not necessary, but you can deadhead the spent blooms to encourage further blooming. In late fall or early spring, you can cut back the plant to about 6 inches (15 cm) above ground level to promote healthy growth the following year.

Pests and Diseases

What pests and diseases are common to the Purple Dome New England Aster?

The Purple Dome New England Aster is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and aster yellows. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and promote good air circulation by spacing the plants appropriately. Aster yellows is caused by a bacteria-like organism that is spread by leafhoppers. Infected plants should be removed to prevent the spread of the disease.

How do I treat powdery mildew on my Purple Dome New England Aster?

If powdery mildew is present, remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide according to the instructions on the label. Alternatively, you can use a homemade solution of 1 tablespoon of baking soda mixed with 1 gallon of water and sprayed on the leaves. Repeat as necessary until the powdery mildew is under control.

How do I prevent aster yellows on my Purple Dome New England Aster?

To prevent aster yellows, keep the plants healthy and avoid over-fertilizing. Monitor the plants for leafhoppers and remove any infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.

Planting & Care for Purple Dome New England Aster (Aster novae-angliae 'Purple Dome')

Purple Dome New England Aster is a beautiful and hardy perennial that produces masses of stunning purple flowers. Here are some tips for planting and caring for this plant:

Planting

• Choose a site with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
• Plant in the spring or fall, spacing plants about 18 inches apart.
• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
• Position the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and press firmly to remove air pockets.
• Water thoroughly.

Care

• Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid over-watering.
• Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Pinch back the stems in early summer by about half their length to promote bushier growth and more flowers.
• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers and prevent reseeding.
• In colder climates, apply a layer of mulch to protect the roots in winter.

With proper planting and care, your Purple Dome New England Aster will reward you with an abundance of beautiful blooms for years to come.