Overwintering guide
How to overwinter new england aster
Winter watering
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
The mistake that kills new england aster in winter
Cutting new england aster hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.
More new england aster care
Overwintering new england aster — FAQ
Does new england aster need to come indoors for winter?
New England Aster is hardy to roughly USDA zone 3 — winter lows around -40°C. That means it can stay outside all winter in most temperate gardens. New England Aster is properly hardy and overwinters outside without fuss. Tidy away anything dead or diseased, apply a mulch over the crown to steady soil temperatures, and otherwise leave it alone — many hardy plants actually need a cold period to flower and grow well the following year. Save hard pruning for the right season rather than doing it in autumn.
When should I move new england aster for winter?
Tidy and mulch in late autumn; leave the plant undisturbed until spring.
How often should I water new england aster in winter?
No winter watering needed in open ground. Containers only need water in long dry, frost-free spells.
What kills new england aster over winter?
Cutting new england aster hard back in autumn "to tidy up". That removes the growth that shelters the crown, and on some plants removes next season's flower buds entirely.