Callistephus Mix

🔍 About Callistephus Mix

• Type: Annual

• Height: 8–36 inches (20–90 cm), depending on variety

• Bloom Time: Mid to late summer through fall

• Light: Full sun

• Soil: Well-drained, fertile

📅 1. When to Sow

• Indoors: Start 6–8 weeks before last frost

• Outdoors: Direct sow after last frost (less common due to transplanting ease)

🌱 2. Starting Seeds Indoors

• Containers: Use seed trays or pots with drainage

• Soil: Use a fine, sterile seed-starting mix

• Sowing Depth: ¼ inch (6 mm) deep

• Water: Mist gently or bottom-water

🌡️ 3. Germination Conditions

• Temperature: 65–70°F (18–21°C)

• Time: Germinates in 7–14 days

• Light: Not required for germination; provide bright light after emergence

🌿 4. After Germination

• Keep seedlings under bright light or grow lights

• Thin or transplant to individual cells once they have 2–3 true leaves

• Avoid overwatering — China asters are prone to damping off

🌷 5. Transplanting Outdoors

• Timing: After last frost and hardening off (7–10 days outdoors gradually)

• Spacing: 9–15 inches apart, depending on variety

• Location: Full sun, with good air circulation to reduce disease

🌼 6. Direct Sowing Outdoors (Optional)

• After last frost: Sow directly ¼ inch deep in well-prepared soil

• Keep moist until seedlings emerge

• Thin to final spacing when large enough to handle

📌 Tips for Success

• Rotate planting locations yearly to prevent fusarium wilt (China asters are susceptible)

• Water at soil level to reduce fungal disease

• Deadhead regularly for continued bloom

• Excellent as cut flowers (harvest when flowers are half-open)