Troubleshooting
Aster 'Fellowship' problems — and how to fix them
Aster 'Fellowship' (Symphyotrichum novi-belgii 'Fellowship') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Powdery mildew
The main challenge for novi-belgii asters; plant in full sun with excellent airflow and consider preventative sulphur-based fungicide from late June.
Stem lodging
Can flop in sheltered or fertile gardens; support with pea sticks or ring stakes, or carry out the Chelsea chop in late spring.
Aphids
Common in spring on new growth; address early before colonies establish to prevent distorted buds.
Septoria leaf spot
Brown spots on lower leaves; remove affected material and improve air circulation.
Wilt and crown die-back
Old clumps deteriorate quickly; divide every 2 years in spring to maintain the large, clean flowers this cultivar is valued for.
Prevent aster 'fellowship' problems before they start
Most aster 'fellowship' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Aster 'Fellowship' problems — FAQ
Why is my aster 'fellowship' powdery mildew?
The main challenge for novi-belgii asters; plant in full sun with excellent airflow and consider preventative sulphur-based fungicide from late June.
Why is my aster 'fellowship' stem lodging?
Can flop in sheltered or fertile gardens; support with pea sticks or ring stakes, or carry out the Chelsea chop in late spring.
Why is my aster 'fellowship' aphids?
Common in spring on new growth; address early before colonies establish to prevent distorted buds.
Why is my aster 'fellowship' septoria leaf spot?
Brown spots on lower leaves; remove affected material and improve air circulation.
Why is my aster 'fellowship' wilt and crown die-back?
Old clumps deteriorate quickly; divide every 2 years in spring to maintain the large, clean flowers this cultivar is valued for.