How to Grow China Aster (Callistephus Chinensis)

This native Chinese plant is popular for its gorgeous, mum-like blooms in deep rich colors. Like chrysathemums, it comes in a variety of flower forms, including pompon and spider-like flowers. A wonderful late summer or early fall annual, China aster grows 6 to 36 inches tall, depending on the variety.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Compost Makers
• Fertilizers
• Garden Spades
• Garden Trowels
• Seeds
• Sphagnum Peat Moss
• Watering Cans

1. Look for seedlings at your local nursery in spring. However, if you want to take advantage of the broad range of flower colors and forms available, comb the seed catalogs and start from seed.

2. Choose a sunny planting site with rich, well-drained soil. Work in plenty of compost or sphagnum peat moss.

3. Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date or directly in the soil after your region's last frost date.

4. Place seedlings 6 to 12 inches apart after your region's last frost date.

5. Pull plants up after the first frost.

Tips & Warnings

• China aster does well in Zones 2-11 of the U.S.D.A. Plant Hardiness Zone Map.

• For a steady supply of cut flowers, replant seeds every two to four weeks.

• China aster is susceptible to a variety of disease, including wilt and aster yellows virus. To avoid these, plant in a different location each year.