Which growth stage of an aster is generally considered the most appealing to herbivores?
Answer
Young, tender spring growth on any perennial.
The palatability of any perennial plant, including asters, shifts dramatically depending on its developmental stage. Herbivores, such as rabbits, display a strong preference for plant material that is newly emerging and succulent. Young, tender spring growth is highly appealing because it is soft, easy to chew, and typically contains a higher concentration of desirable nutrients compared to older vegetation. Established, robust foliage that has matured or begun to develop woody structures tends to be significantly less attractive to grazers.
#Videos
Plan Ahead for Deer Resistant Gardening | Purple Asters!
Related Questions
What is the general reputation of asters regarding browsing by deer?How do rabbits' grazing habits differ from deer's browsing habits concerning aster foliage?Which specific aster variety is frequently touted as being durable against both deer and rabbits?What characteristic is linked to the resistance of the Aromatic Aster against deer and rabbits?Under what context might deer consume plants typically classified as deer-resistant?Which growth stage of an aster is generally considered the most appealing to herbivores?What temporary physical barrier strategy is recommended for protecting tender aster growth from persistent rabbits in early spring?What pragmatic compromise do native gardeners often adopt regarding aster protection versus ecological benefit?If a garden lacks alternatives, how might the calculus change regarding a plant typically rated as five-star resistant by deer?What is the primary ecological benefit provided by asters blooming late in the season?