Aster Colour Carpet Mix - 20 Seeds

Aster 'Colour Carpet' is a low-growing, bushy variety that produces an abundance of daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, and blue. These compact plants create a stunning floral display, making them perfect for borders, rock gardens, and containers. They attract butterflies and bees while being resistant to many pests and diseases.

Sowing Instructions:

Best Time to Sow:

Indoors: Start seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost.

Outdoors: Direct sow in late spring when the soil temperature is above 15°C.

Location: Full sun to partial shade, in well-draining soil.

Sowing Steps:

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots 0.5 cm deep in light, well-draining soil.

Outdoors: Sprinkle seeds on prepared soil and cover lightly with fine soil or compost.

Water gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Germination: 7-14 days at 18-22°C.

Growing Instructions:

Watering: Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. Allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.

Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade.

Temperature: Prefers mild temperatures (15-25°C), but established plants can tolerate light frost.

Thinning & Transplanting:

When seedlings have 2-3 sets of leaves, transplant them 20-30 cm apart for proper air circulation.

Feeding:

Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks for continuous blooms.

Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leaf growth over flowers.

Pest & Disease Control:

Aphids & Spider Mites: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Powdery Mildew: Ensure proper spacing and avoid overhead watering.

Flowering & Deadheading:

Blooms from mid-summer to early autumn.

Regularly deadhead faded flowers to encourage more blooms.

Additional Tips:

Great for Pollinators: Asters attract bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.
Companion Planting: Pair with marigolds, zinnias, or petunias for a colorful display.
Winter Care: In colder climates, mulch around the base to protect roots from frost.