Aster Seed Growing
Asters are a group of perennial flowers that belong to the Asteraceae family, also called the daisy family. Many species and varieties, both wild and cultivated, are available to gardeners. This means you have a lot of options, including tall or short plants with flowers in many different shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. In North America, asters provide valuable food sources for butterflies, native bees, and other insects. They are a great choice for wildflower and butterfly gardens and for planting in meadow habitats. Most asters prefer cool, moist climates, especially at night. Many need a cool or cold winter to grow back the following year. For example, the New England aster is very cold hardy and grows best in zones 3 to 8.
When to Plant Aster Seeds
The best time for outdoor aster seed sowing is just after the last frost in your area. You can also start seeds indoors using a good seed starting mix four to six weeks before the last frost. Indoor aster seed care involves keeping the seeds at a temperature of 65 to 70 degrees F. (18-21 C.) and providing seedlings with ample light as soon as they emerge.
How to Grow Aster Flowers from Seed
First, choose an appropriate planting site. Asters will do best in full sun, but many varieties can also grow in partial shade. Well-drained soil is best. Prepare the planting site, especially if it’s a new garden bed, by mixing in compost, composted manure, or another source of organic matter and nutrients. If you’ll be planting outdoors, follow the seed spacing instructions for your variety. Many asters can be spaced 3 inches (8 cm.) apart, then thinned to 12 inches (31 cm.) apart after they emerge. Whether planting indoors or outdoors, cover the seeds with 1/8 inch (3 mm.) of fine soil. Aster seed sowing by scattering the seeds in a wildflower planting is also perfectly fine. Water the seeds after planting, then keep them evenly moist until seedlings emerge. This can happen between 7 and 21 days after sowing, depending on the aster variety.
