J C PLANTS LLC	HOMEPAGE
Telford & Topton, Pennsylvania	Perennials
Telephone: (267) 371 - 3050	Grasses

Aster novi-belgii 'Alert'

Common name	Dwarf aster
Hardiness Zone	3 - 8
Sun	Full sun
Soil	light - medium
Flower color	purplish-red
Bloom time	Early fall
Height	1'
Spread	1'

General Culture:
Asters prefer full sun and a rich well drained soil. To combat powdery mildew do not let the plants dry out during summers heat. If mother nature goes through a dry spell - provide a little extra water for your asters. Does well in sandy or clay soil. Generally tolerates poor soils and some drought. Pinching is not required due to compact size. Plants do not come true from seed, so consideration should be given to cutting back stems after flowering to prevent self-seeding.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
‘Alert’ is a compact aster that typically grows in a mounded clump to 12-14” tall. Purplish red flowers (to 1” across) bloom in late summer to early fall. Glossy dark green leaves have excellent disease resistance.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Reportedly has excellent mildew and rust resistance.
Uses:
Sunny locations. Also may be grown in containers.