China Prince Aster

1. Sow Indoors: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix and sow seeds 1/8 inch deep. Press them gently into the soil but don’t cover, as they need light to germinate.  

2. Germination: Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 65–70°F (18–21°C). Germination typically takes 7–14 days.

3. Transplant: Once the seedlings are large enough to handle and all danger of frost has passed, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Transplant them into the garden, spacing them about 12–18 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.

4. Sunlight and Care: China Prince Asters prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially in dry periods, but ensure the soil is not waterlogged. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

5. Support: These asters can grow tall, so you may need to stake them to prevent them from falling over, especially in windy or rainy conditions.

China Prince Aster is a beautiful, upright variety with large, vibrant blooms in shades of pink, purple, or white. It’s perfect for garden borders or as a cut flower in bouquets, attracting pollinators like butterflies and bees.