Aster turbinellus seeds -(Symphotrichum turbellinum , Smooth Violet Prairie Aster)

Description

Picture thanks to Jelitto Seeds https://www.jelitto.com

This easy care plant produces very pretty arching sprays of lavender blue daisy shaped flowers in autumn when there is very little else in the garden. It is a winner of the prestigious Award of garden Merit From The RHS for its garden qualities. It flowers for weeks on a bushy plant, and it is mildew resistant. It works well in mixed borders and attracts beneficial insects, such as birds and butterflies and bees, being a great source of nectar for them. It can also withstand approx -15 dec C and can also be grown in dry areas, being a good plant for areas which are naturally dry. It makes a good speciman plant, to grow in a container. It grows in fun sun but will also grow in partial shade.If you pinch the stems back before mid summer you can encourage a bushier plant with more flowers and this will also reduce the plant height. Divide the plant every 3-5 years.

Sowing advice
Sow in spring in trays or pots
Sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Press seeds lightly into soil but do not cover. Ideal temperature 20°C. Germination takes 10 days approx. Seeds must be kept damp at all times or germination will cease. If germination does not occur cold stratify. Move to 4°C.(door or veg compartment of fridge) for 2-4 weeks then return to warmth. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 100cm spacing.

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