Description

China Aster ‘King Size Apricot’

Callistephus chinensis

Perfect for late season weddings and stylish arrangements . Pale apricot flowers in a range of single, double and semi double blooms.

Not to be confused with the perennial Aster, this showstopper is from Northern China.

How to Grow:

China Aster ‘King Size Apricot’ is both cold and light sensitive so don’t start them too early.

Seeds will benefit from ‘a bit of warmth’ to germinate, 20-22°C is ideal, a warm kitchen or a heat mat.

I sow one seed per cell on to the surface of the compost only covering with a clear propagator lid to retain moisture and humidity.

Plant 22cm apart after the last frost.

For more detailed growing instructions join our ‘Grow-A-Long’ on Instagram  and for busy gardeners you can now plan ahead with our Spring Grow-A-Long Handbook

Details:
Variety: Callistephus chinensis
Type: Half Hardy Annual
Position: Plants require full sun
Sow: Spring
Height: 70-80cm
Spacing: 22cm
Harvest: dramatic displays from July until September
Seeds per packet: 50 (approx. counted by weight)

Cutting /Vase Life:

A fabulous cut flower, producing large blooms on strong slender stems. Pick as soon as flowers begin to open and rest stems in a bucket of water for a few hours (preferably overnight), this is called conditioning. Excellent vase life.