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.
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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.