Stokes Asters: Easy-Care Plants for Sustainable Gardens
Stokes asters (Stokesia laevis) are beautiful, low-maintenance plants that are perfect for sustainable and xeric gardens. With their long blooming period and drought tolerance, they are a great choice for gardeners of all levels.
Benefits of Stokes Asters
- Provide a burst of spring and summer color
- Attract butterflies and bees
- Native to the southern United States
- Easy to grow and care for
- Can be propagated by seed or division
How to Grow Stokes Asters
Stokes asters are easy to grow in a sunny location with well-draining soil. They can tolerate partial shade, but will bloom best in full sun.
Planting:
- Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, spacing them 12-18 inches apart.
- Water deeply after planting.
Care:
- Water regularly, especially during the first growing season. Once established, Stokes asters are drought tolerant.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth and flowering.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
Varieties of Stokes Asters
There are many different varieties of Stokes asters available, each with its own unique color and bloom time. Some popular varieties include:
- ‘Blue Star’: Electric blue flowers with frilly petals
- ‘Purple Parasol’: Shorter variety with purple flowers
- ‘Mary Gregory’: Muted yellow flowers
- ‘Rosy Pink’: Rosy pink flowers
- ‘White Cloud’: Silvery white flowers
Companion Plants for Stokes Asters
Stokes asters look great when planted with other native plants, such as:
- Blanket flower
- Coreopsis
- Black-eyed Susan
- Purple coneflower
- Yarrow
Using Stokes Asters in the Landscape
Stokes asters are a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the landscape. They make great additions to:
- Flower beds
- Borders
- Containers
- Butterfly gardens
- Wildlife gardens
Tips for Success
- Protect Stokes asters from afternoon sun in hot climates.
- Water Stokes asters deeply after planting.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth and flowering.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
With their easy-care nature and beautiful blooms, Stokes asters are a great choice for any gardener. Whether you are looking to add a splash of color to your garden or attract pollinators, Stokes asters are a perfect choice.
