Aster Pink
Aster Pink
Couldn't load pickup availability
π 1. When to Start Pink Aster Seeds
-
Indoors: Start 6β8 weeks before last frost
-
Outdoors: Sow directly after last frost, or late fall for natural cold stratification
βοΈ 2. Cold Stratification (Optional but Helpful)
-
Some perennial asters benefit from cold stratification to improve germination.
-
How:
-
Place seeds in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag
-
Refrigerate for 2β4 weeks
-
Then sow indoors or directly outdoors
-
Note: This step is usually not required for China Aster (Callistephus chinensis), which is an annual.
π± 3. Sowing Indoors
-
Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with drainage
-
Soil: Use a sterile, well-draining seed-starting mix
-
Sowing Depth: Press seeds lightly into the soil β do not cover heavily (they need light to germinate)
-
Water: Mist gently or bottom-water
π 4. Germination Conditions
-
Light: Bright light or grow lights (12β14 hours/day)
-
Temperature: 65β70Β°F (18β21Β°C)
-
Time: Seeds germinate in 7β21 days, depending on variety
πΏ 5. Seedling Care
-
Thin once seedlings have 2β3 true leaves
-
Water regularly but avoid soggy soil
-
Harden off: About 1 week before transplanting, gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor conditions
π· 6. Transplanting Outdoors
-
When: After danger of frost has passed
-
Where: Full sun (6+ hours of direct light per day)
-
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile
-
Spacing: 12β18 inches apart depending on the variety
π» 7. Direct Sowing Outdoors
-
When: After frost, or late fall for perennials
-
How:
-
Scatter seeds over prepared soil
-
Press lightly into the soil surface (donβt bury deeply)
-
Keep moist until germination
-
π Extra Tips
-
Deadhead spent flowers to prolong bloom time
-
Staking may be needed for tall varieties
-
Asters attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
-
Bloom time is typically late summer to fall
Share
