If you're garden is still looking a little post-winter dreary then you need to plant asters. These retro looking daisies come in a wide ranging selection of colours including blue, purple, red and pink, and will add the vibrancy your garden needs.
They're a perfect companion plant for growing next to roses, petunias, marigolds and cosmos because they all like the same conditions - full sun and free-draining soil.
Asters also come in different sizes. The dwarf variety grows to about 25cm high and the tall variety grows to around 75cm high.
Did you know these bright flowers are popular with bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects too? Which makes them great for planting in a spot where you need extra pollination - like your vege garden.
And what I love best about asters, is they're fantastic cut flowers too.
I'm pretty sure I don't need to list any more reasons why you need to plant asters. So, grab some seedlings from your local supermarket, Bunnings or The Warehouse. Alternatively, head to our online store and get some Awapuni Nurseries seedlings delivered direct to your door.
Once you've found the perfect spot to plant - they're also great for brightening up the space around your mailbox - dig in some compost and blood and bone fertiliser.
Now you're ready to plant. To get a good effect plant them quite close together - no more than 20 cm apart for dwarf and 40cm for the regular variety. Once you've planted all your seedlings, apply a bit of mulch, or some more of your compost to prevent them drying out. Remember, not to overhead water to avoid them catching any diseases. In around six to eight weeks your asters will provide the colour your garden, or home, needs.