September Birth Flowers: Aster and Morning Glory

As September arrives on the calendar, nature presents us with two enchanting birth flowers: the Aster and the Morning Glory. These floral treasures not only bring vivid colours to the changing scenery but also hold deep symbolism and historical importance. The Aster, characterised by its delicate petals and significant cultural meanings, and the Morning Glory, known for its fleeting beauty and wide range of types, unite to represent the intricate layers of emotions and experiences that define the lives of individuals born in this fall month.

Birth flowers are frequently utilised by individuals in a range of manners, such as presenting them as presents, integrating them into bunches of flowers and floral assortments, and incorporating them as decor for birthdays and noteworthy events. Birth flowers possess not only visual appeal but also a profound symbolism that can deeply connect with individuals and their distinct characteristics.

September Birth Flower 1: Aster

Asters, with their delicate petals and vibrant colours, take the spotlight as one of September's birth flowers. These charming blossoms hold a rich history and a variety of meanings that make them truly special. Asters belong to the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and sunflowers. Their star-shaped flowers, available in various hues such as pink, purple, blue, and white, are what they are renowned for.Their centre disks are usually golden or yellow, adding a striking contrast to the petals.

1. Symbolism and Historical Significance

• Love and Affection: Asters are frequently linked with feelings of love, commitment, and tenderness. In the past, they were thought to hold enchanting qualities capable of attracting love into one's existence. 
• Wisdom and Patience: In certain societies, asters represent intelligence, endurance, and a thirst for knowledge. These attributes make them a considerate present for educators or learners. 
• Positive Energy: Asters are believed to provide a boost of positive energy and create a sense of enchantment. They have the potential to be presented to others as a symbol of good fortune and optimism. 

2. Varieties of Asters

• New England Aster: The native plant of North America exhibits vivid purple flowers and is greatly preferred by pollinating insects. 
• China Aster: Renowned for its majestic and vibrant blooms, the China aster is available in diverse hues, making it a popular choice in floral compositions.  
• Michaelmas Daisy: The plant native to Europe begins to bloom around the time of the St. Michael celebration towards the end of September, which is why it is named after this event. It displays small, flower-like blooms in shades that range from blue to purple. 

3. Cultural Uses and Traditions Related to Asters

• Ancient Greek Tradition: The origin of the word "aster" can be traced back to the Greek term for "star." During ancient Greece, there was a belief that asters came into existence when cosmic particles, released by the goddess Astraea and eventually turning into the Virgo constellation, fell onto the Earth. 
• Native American Healing: The indigenous people of North America employed asters for their therapeutic qualities, such as managing respiratory conditions and skin issues. 
• Floral Arrangements: Asters add an element of elegance to flower arrangements and bouquets. They are often combined with other fall flowers to create a vibrant and harmonious composition. 

September Birth Flower 2: Morning Glory

September brings with it the enchanting presence of the Morning Glory, a flower known for its vibrant colours and captivating symbolism. As the second birth flower for September, Morning Glory holds a special place in the hearts of those born during this month.

A. Overview of Morning Glory Flowers

Morning Glory plants, scientifically referred to as Ipomoea, are famous for their trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the morning and shut in the afternoon. These flowers are available in a variety of hues, encompassing tones of blue, purple, pink, and white. 

B. Symbolic Meanings and Cultural Associations

• Renewal and Growth: The Morning Glory flowers' action of unfurling at sunrise and wilting at sunset represents rebirth, development, and the repeating pattern of existence. 
• Love and Affection: Love and affection are symbolised by Morning Glory flowers in numerous cultures. These blossoms are commonly given as expressions of love and friendship. 
• Spiritual Significance: Various societies link Morning Glory with the experience of spiritual awakening, enlightenment, and the quest for deeper understanding. 

C. Different Types and Colours of Morning Glory

• Heavenly Blue: This particular type is well-known for its vibrant sky-blue blossoms and leaves in the shape of a heart. 
• Grandpa Ott's: Famous for its vivid purple blooms featuring a crimson star in the middle, this type of flower was named in honour of the individual who brought it to the United States. 
• Scarlet O'Hara: With its striking crimson flowers, this breed brings a fiery element to gardens and outdoor environments. 

D. Uses of Morning Glory in Gardening and Landscaping

• Vertical Gardening: Morning Glory's climbing nature makes it an excellent choice for vertical gardens, fences, and trellises.
• Garden Enhancer: These flowers can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens, attracting butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
• Container Gardening: Compact Morning Glory varieties are suitable for containers and hanging baskets, adding beauty to balconies and patios.

Growing and Caring for September Birth Flowers: Aster and Morning Glory

Both Aster and Morning Glory are stunning flowers that bloom in September, bringing brightness and allure to gardens, yards, and even indoor environments. Providing them with the right attention and nurturing will guarantee their prosperity and growth not only during September but also in the future. 

A. Growing and Caring for Asters:

• Planting Asters: Choose a location with well-draining soil and good sunlight exposure. Plant young asters in the spring or early summer, giving them enough time to establish their root systems.
• Sunlight: Asters thrive in full sun to light shade. They generally require about 6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Watering: Ensure that the soil remains uniformly damp but not overly saturated. Especially during the growing season.Water at the base of the plant to prevent foliage diseases.
• Soil: Asters prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0) with good drainage.
• Fertilising: To promote vigorous growth and plentiful blossoms, apply a well-balanced, multipurpose fertiliser throughout the period of plant growth. 
• Pruning: Pinch back asters in early summer to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheads bloom to promote continuous flowering.
• Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Use appropriate measures to control them. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

B. Growing and Caring for Morning Glory:

• Planting Morning Glory: To begin the process of cultivating Morning Glory, either sow the seeds directly into the soil once the final frost has passed, or initiate growth indoors several weeks prior to planting. It is recommended to establish a support system such as a trellis or fence for the types of Morning Glory that involve climbing. 
• Sunlight: Morning Glory flourishes in abundant sunshine. Make sure they get a minimum of 6 hours of unobstructed sunlight every day. 
• Watering: Maintain a consistently damp soil throughout the growth phase, but be cautious not to water excessively as Morning Glory thrives in soil that drains well. 
• Soil: Morning Glory requires soil that has good drainage. Sandy or loam soil is most suitable for its growth. 
• Fertilising: During the period of growth, it is recommended to utilise a well-proportioned fertiliser that can dissolve in water once every month in order to promote robust development and blooming. 
• Training and Pruning: Train different types of climbing plants onto their supporting structure.
  Trim off any dead or diseased growth in order to preserve the plant's overall well-being. 
• Pests and Diseases: Stay vigilant for aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars. Employ either natural or chemical treatments as needed.
  Maintaining appropriate spacing and ensuring proper air circulation can aid in the prevention of fungal infections. 

September Birth Flower Celebrations and Events:

 Aster and Morning Glory, which are the flowers associated with September, are commemorated in diverse manners and are included in cultural events and festivities. Here are a few examples of how these flowers are revered and incorporated into specific occasions throughout the month: 

•  Aster and Morning Glory Festivals: Numerous municipalities and urban areas organise flower carnivals or botanical exhibitions that exhibit an extensive range of blossoms, such as Asters and Morning Glory. These festivities frequently display remarkable flower arrangements, provide gardening seminars, and commemorate the loveliness of the natural world. 
• Gardening and Floral Exhibitions:  Numerous gardens specifically reserve areas for showcasing different types of flowers. During the time when Asters and Morning Glory are in bloom, visitors have the opportunity to closely admire their attractiveness. 
• Birth Flower-Centric Workshops: Participants can acquire the necessary skills to produce exquisite bouquets and centrepieces through engaging in creative workshops that specifically revolve around the art of crafting floral arrangements using Asters and Morning Glory. 
• Special Occasions and Birthdays: Giving bouquets or potted plants featuring Asters and Morning Glory is a meaningful way to celebrate September-born individuals and their birth month.
• Seasonal Decorations: Asters' warm colours and Morning Glory's diverse hues make them excellent choices for fall-themed decorations, such as Thanksgiving table arrangements and autumnal displays.
• Cultural and Regional Celebrations: Asters are commonly connected with the Christian observance of St. Michael the Archangel's feast, also called Michaelmas, observed on the 29th of September. Asters are occasionally called "Michaelmas Daisies" because they bloom around the same time as this occasion. In some cultures, the arrival of September and its birth flowers signifies the transition from summer to autumn. Festivals and gatherings may be held to mark this change.
• Personal Celebrations: September-born individuals can incorporate their birth flowers into their birthday celebrations by choosing them for decorations, centrepieces, or even as a theme for the party.

Beyond Birthdays: Other Uses of Asters and Morning Glory 

Asters:

1. Medicinal and Herbal Properties: Certain species of Asters have been used in traditional herbal medicine for their potential healing properties. They have been utilised for the treatment of respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal problems, and skin ailments. 
2. Floral Arrangements and Decor: Asters are highly appreciated in the flower business due to their enduring flowers and lively hues. They are frequently used in wedding bouquets, event decorations, and home adornments. 
3. Wildlife and Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are attracted to Asters, making them a favoured choice for pollinators. Including Asters in gardens helps sustain the local ecosystem as they serve as valuable nectar sources for these significant insects. 
4. Art and Literature: Artists, poets, and writers draw inspiration from asters. The fragile elegance and wide range of colours they possess have been portrayed in art, poetry, and literary works, representing a myriad of feelings and concepts. 
5. Symbolism in Different Cultures: Asters hold various meanings across cultures. In some societies, they symbolise patience, elegance, and remembrance, making them suitable for sympathy arrangements.

Morning Glory:

1. Traditional Medicine: In traditional medicine, Morning Glory has been used for its potential properties, including as a laxative and for alleviating headaches and other minor ailments.
2. Cultural Symbolism: Morning Glory's opening at dawn and closing in the afternoon has inspired associations with renewal, spirituality, and fleeting moments, making it a symbol in various cultural contexts.
3. Food and Drink Colouring: Some species of Morning Glory have been used as natural dyes to colour food and beverages. However, caution is needed as some Morning Glory species can be toxic if ingested.
4. Spiritual Practices: In some cultures, Morning Glory is associated with spiritual practices and rituals, often used as an aid for meditation or in ceremonial contexts.
5. Invasive Plant Species: It's important to note that certain Morning Glory species can be invasive and may pose a threat to native plants in some regions. Always choose non-invasive varieties for gardening.

As we welcome the Aster and the Morning Glory, let's not only honour the attractiveness of these blossoms but also acknowledge the inner beauty in ourselves and those near us. May these birth flowers motivate us to navigate the complex range of emotions, appreciate the present moment, and nurture relationships that flourish with affection and wisdom, just like the Aster and Morning Glory in the constantly evolving garden of existence. Best Florist in Melbourne can offer you fresh flowers and beautiful flower displays for all types of events and celebrations.