Mr Fothergills Aster Duchess Mixed

Large, incurved, chrysanthemum-like heads in strong colours are the hallmark of this upright, strong growing aster seed blend. Duchess Mixed makes a magnificent show in borders from midsummer onwards and is long lasting as a cut flower.
Aster is a half-hardy annual, which flowers the same year as sowing. If desired it can be grown to maturity in pots in an unheated greenhouse for late autumn colour.

Sow indoors for surest results, February-April, 0.5cm (¼") deep, in trays of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20°C (60-68°F) is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 14-21 days. Transplant seedlings, 5cm (2") apart, to other trays when large enough to handle (always hold by a leaf, never by the stem). Grow on in cooler, but not cold conditions. Gradually accustom young plants to outside conditions (avoid frosts), before planting out into well-drained soil, May-June, 30cm (1') apart, when frosts are over. Or, sow outdoors for ease, April-May, where they are to flower, 0.5cm (¼) deep, into finely-prepared, well-drained soil, which has already been watered. Thin seedlings to 30cm (1') apart. Water well until plants are established. Flowers: July-October.