Aster alpinus Mixed Colours - Alpine Aster (Aster alpinus) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower
Aster alpinus Mixed Colours - Alpine Aster (Aster alpinus) Non-GMO - Organically Grown - Flower
Perennial
Description:
Aster alpinus Mixed Colours is a vibrant perennial that produces an assortment of daisy-like flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. These colorful blooms rise above compact, green foliage, creating a striking display. Perfect for rock gardens, alpine landscapes, or border plantings, this hardy plant thrives in cool climates and well-drained soils. Its mix of vibrant hues adds seasonal interest and attracts butterflies and pollinators to the garden, making it a beautiful and wildlife-friendly choice.
Growing Instructions:
1. Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Full sun ensures the most abundant and vibrant blooms, while partial shade provides a longer blooming period in hotter climates.
2. Soil: Grows best in well-drained, fertile soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. It can adapt to poorer soils but performs best in humus-rich, rocky soils with good drainage.
3. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Once established, the plant is moderately drought-tolerant.
4. Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and abundant flowers. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to overly lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
5. Pruning: Remove dead or spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and a tidy appearance. Prune any damaged or weak stems in early spring to promote fresh growth.
6. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots from temperature extremes, especially in colder climates.
Stratification:
For best germination, Aster alpinus Mixed Colours benefits from cold stratification. Soak seeds for 24 hours and then refrigerate them in a moist paper towel or seed-starting mix for 2 to 4 weeks at 35–40°F (1–4°C). After the stratification period, sow the seeds in a light, well-draining soil mix, covering them lightly. Keep them at room temperature until germination, which typically occurs within 10–14 days. Once seedlings are large enough, transplant them to their permanent location in the garden.
Seed count: 20