As the garden fades, there’s a star that rises when the weather cools.

Now that it’s officially the end of the line for summer, our gardens show signs of wear– blooms are fading, some have died all together. In the fall, there are a few great blooms we know very well, the ever-popular mums that you see at every big box and garden center, along with the interesting decorative kale. However, there is one bloom you may see in all its glory this time of year, particularly in the wild. Fortunately, you can have one for your garden as well.

Meet the Aster, a member of the Asteraceae family, can look very much like Daisies, come in many colors, and are the “gateway flower” to the cooler seasons that are coming our way. Another great addition to the “year-round garden” we are all pining for.

Why add an Aster to your garden?

• They are a pollinator favorite. Especially great for attracting the late-season bees, butterflies and insects.
• They are deer resistant. If you live in an area that tends to have a lot of deer around, then you will definitely want to consider an aster as part of your botanical layout.
• There are great for any kind of garden, wonderful in containers and borders.
• There are more than 170 types of asters, so finding one that works for you is not difficult. You can find them online or in your local garden center, depending on your hardiness zone.

If you are getting your garden ready for fall, take a look at the aster and see where it would fit into your garden. What other great blooms would you consider for fall?