Callistephus chinensis 'Light Blue'
China aster
Suitable for cool or pastel themed schemes, Callistephus ‘Light Blue’ makes a big impact from an early sowing under glass, right through to the first frosts when other plants have started to look a little tired.
An easy to grow China aster for sunny borders, pots and the cut flower vase, the ruffled, incurved lavender-blue flowers are long lasting and held aloft on sturdy stems.
An easy to grow China aster for sunny borders, pots and the cut flower vase, the ruffled, incurved lavender-blue flowers are long lasting and held aloft on sturdy stems.
How to care for Callistephus chinensis Light Blue:
Plant Chinese asters in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. Avoid planting in the same spot each year to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases like aster wilt. Choose a sheltered position to protect the stems from wind, especially for taller, cultivated varieties, which may also benefit from light staking.
Water regularly in dry spells and apply a balanced liquid feed every few weeks to encourage strong growth and flowering. Deadhead faded blooms to keep the plants looking tidy and to prolong flowering. Remove plants promptly at the end of the season to prevent disease carry-over and avoid composting if the plants show signs of infection.
Water regularly in dry spells and apply a balanced liquid feed every few weeks to encourage strong growth and flowering. Deadhead faded blooms to keep the plants looking tidy and to prolong flowering. Remove plants promptly at the end of the season to prevent disease carry-over and avoid composting if the plants show signs of infection.
Sowing instructions:
Sow undercover from February onwards in trays or pots of well-drained seed compost at 16-18°C (61-64°F). Germination takes 1-2 weeks. Transplant seedlings to pots and grow on in cooler conditions, planting outside when the threat of frost has passed.
Sow directly outside from April, approximately 6mm deep (30cm or 12in apart) in finely raked soil. Thin as required and deadhead regularly to keep plants flowering.
Sow directly outside from April, approximately 6mm deep (30cm or 12in apart) in finely raked soil. Thin as required and deadhead regularly to keep plants flowering.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.75m
Eventual spread:
0.35m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Frost tender
approx 100 seeds
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