Aster Duchess Mixed

Wonderful in borders from midsummer through to autumn

Large, incurved, chrysanthemum-like heads in strong colours are the hallmark of this upright, strong growing aster seed blend. Duchess Mixed makes a magnificent show in borders from midsummer onwards and is long lasting as a cut flower.

Aster is a half-hardy annual, which flowers the same year as sowing. If desired it can be grown to maturity in pots in an unheated greenhouse for late autumn colour.

Height: 60cm(24in)
Plant Class: Half Hardy Annual (HHA).
Habit: Bushy, Medium.

Sow indoors for surest results, February-April, 0.5cm (¼") deep, in trays of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20°C (60-68°F) is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 14-21 days. Transplant seedlings, 5cm (2") apart, to other trays when large enough to handle (always hold by a leaf, never by the stem). Grow on in cooler, but not cold conditions. Gradually accustom young plants to outside conditions (avoid frosts), before planting out into well-drained soil, May-June, 30cm (1') apart, when frosts are over. Or, sow outdoors for ease, April-May, where they are to flower, 0.5cm (¼) deep, into finely-prepared, well-drained soil, which has already been watered. Thin seedlings to 30cm (1') apart. Water well until plants are established. Flowers: July-October.