Callistephus chinensis, 'Thousand Wonders Salmon Rose'

Germination

Sow indoors in spring. Sow directly from April. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp. 16-18°C. Germination takes 1-2 weeks approx. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out from May. Directly, sow 6mm deep in drills 30cm apart in prepared soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Thin as required.

Growing

Prefers a rich, well-drained soil in full sun. Do not allow soil to dry out, but also do not over-water. Prone to aphids, treat as desired.

Cultivation

Deadhead or cut flowers regularly to extend the flowering window. Plants must not be placed in the same ground two years in a row to avoid Fusarium Wilt, a soil borne disease which can affect Asters.