Growing Aster seeds is the perfect way to have enough of these stunning annuals that are late-season bloomers. Just when other flowers in the borders are about done, Aster Callistephus starts blooming in the latter part of summer and into the fall. This tall Unicom rose Aster is a lovely shade, and it grows on strong, upright plants that reach about 24 inches in height. The stems are sturdy and make these spider-like blooms great for cutting and arrangements. Blooms will last 6 - 8 days in the vase.

Aster plants are not picky about soil types, but they do require full sun to partial shade to do their best. It is recommended to grow Aster flowers in a different location each summer to avoid disease.

To get a jump start on the growing season, start the Aster seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last frost is expected. For areas with long growing season, Aster seeds can also be started directly outdoors in prepared seedbeds. Make sure that frost danger has passed before either directly sowing flower seed or transplanting Aster plants started indoors. Press the flower seeds gently into the soil and lightly cover.

SOWING:

Season: Annual

Sowing: March - April

Height: 60 cm (24 inch)

Blooms Time: Summer to Autumn

Environment: Full sun to partial shade

Germ temperature: 15C (60C)

Water: Medium

Depth: Cover seed with topsoil thinly after sowing

Plant Spacing - 40cm (16 inch)