Matsumoto Blue (Aster)

(30 in/76 cm) Popular 2 in/5 cm semi double, flat, spray type dark blue blooms with contrasting yellow centers. Upright strong stemmed heat tolerant plants. Blooms 90 days from seed. Great cut flower! Pkt. contains 100 seeds.

ASTER

Annual 12,000 seeds per oz/28 gr.

GREENHOUSE SOWING: Sow seed 6 weeks before sale time. Seeds germinate between 65-80%, depending on color. For best results, germinate at 70°F/21°C. Maintain a 12 hour light period for earlier crops. Harden plants off at 55-60°F/13-16°C. Asters like a soil with a pH level of 6.5-7.0. To prevent Asters yellow, treat plants with a granular systemic.

HOME GARDEN: Sow outdoors in early May after danger of severe frost has past. Cover seed 1/4 in/ 6 mm with fine soil and firm. For continuous blooming into late fall, plant a new crop every two weeks. When plants are 2 in/ 5 cm tall, thin or transplant 12 in/31 cm apart. Asters like rich, moist soil. Asters bloom from late August to frost.

Deadhead for increased blooming and to prevent reseeding, if volunteer plants are not wanted. This plant attracts bees and butterflies, as well as resisting deer.