Callistephus chinensis 'King Size Apricot'
China aster
- approx 50 seeds
- £2.09 £2.79
- In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
Delivery options
- Seed Packets (only) £2.99
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moist, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Hardiness: half-hardy annual
Charming pale yellow blooms in bud opening to apricot ruffles up to 10cm (4in) across mark Callistephus 'King size Apricot' as a standout China aster with a long vase life. Sunny borders and pots benefit from the late season colour that stands up to autumnal conditions when other plants have started to look a little tired.
Start under glass for an early display and continue to sow throughout the spring to provide a succession of beautiful flowers through to October.
Start under glass for an early display and continue to sow throughout the spring to provide a succession of beautiful flowers through to October.
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.
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.
