Trim off the
small side branches also, to throw the strength of the plant into these
chosen blooms. Most people prefer more flowers and less size.

There are generally a few promising late Asters that are not yet in
bloom when frosts come. Lift these in the same careful manner for the
house. They do not do well in hot rooms. In cool rooms, not above 60 to
65 degrees by day, they thrive. They like some sunshine, but will get
along with little of it if they have good light beside. They do finely
in halls and bedrooms where the temperature is almost to the frost line
at night, and no fire heat at all during the day. An Aster will not
bloom all winter. Its period of bloom is quite long enough, however, to
make it a welcome guest in the plant window, and when through blooming
it can be thrown away.

THE ASTER AS A CUT FLOWER

An Aster is at its very best as a cut flower, and remains in good
condition for two weeks. It comes in the late summer season before
Chrysanthemums are ready and after Lilies are gone. It is a time of
dearth of really fine flowers. Florists are growing it more and more for
their sales, and to use in decorations for August and September weddings
and parties. White Asters are much used for funeral wreaths also.

Amateurs cannot make up elaborate floral pieces like florists, and it is
not wise to attempt it. But it is well enough for us all to remember
that a simple spray of white Asters in a setting of green Ferns, or of
lace-like Asparagus plumosus, is a gift of remembrance that no loving
hand need be ashamed of placing on the coffin of a friend. A loose,
careless nosegay of Asters, bright with its pretty pinks and blues, and
a deep crimson one or two to bear its white companions company, will
cheer up a sick friend. Always remember the touch of color in flowers
for the sick. They need cheer and brightness, and sunny flowers give
them both.

[Illustration: NEW ROSE ASTER]

The taller Asters are fine to cut for vases and for pulpit bouquets, if
the longest stems are chosen. Use plenty of pretty greenery, and arrange
the flowers so that each stands out airily by itself, not wedged
between its neighbors. Asters can be over-crowded in a bouquet until
heavy and clumsy looking. It is the one fault to avoid. The remedy is to
use more foliage with them, and to put fewer flowers in the bouquet.
Enough is better than a surplus in arranging cut-flowers.

[Illustration: ASTER AS A POT PLANT]

LEADING