Aster Giant Ray

Soil & Sowing

Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost in cooler regions. 

Soil prep:

• Use well draining soil enriched with compost or aged manure.
• For pots, choose a 10L+ container with premium potting mix. 

Sowing depth:

• 3 – 6 mm (trays/punnets recommended). 

Germination:

10 – 15 days at 20 – 25°C. Keep soil moist but not soggy. 

Transplanting 

• Harden off seedlings for 7– 10 days before planting outdoors. 
• Space plants 30 cm apart in full sun (6+ hours daily). 

Care Tips 

Watering:

• Water deeply when soil is dry 5 cm below the surface.
• Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases. 

 Fertiliser:

• Apply high potassium liquid fertiliser every 1 – 2 weeks. 

Support:

• Use stakes or flower netting for tall varieties (up to 75 cm) to prevent wind damage. 

Deadheading:

• Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering. 

Harvesting 

• Cut flowers in the cool morning/evening when bottom florets open.
• Vase life: 7 – 10 days. 
• Seed to bloom time: 100 – 110 days. 

Companion Planting Guide 

Asters thrive with plants that deter pests, attract pollinators, or complement their growth habits: 

• Marigolds: Repel aphids and nematodes. 
• Zinnias: Share similar sun/soil needs and add colour contrast. 
• Nasturtiums: Act as ground cover, deter slugs, and retain soil moisture. 
• Rosemary: Deters slugs/snails. 
• Rudbeckia: Complements tall aster varieties with contrasting yellow blooms. 

Avoid: Planting asters in the same spot annually to prevent soilborne diseases. 

Seed Saving Guide 

Timing: Harvest seeds when flower heads turn brown and fluffy. 

 Methods: 

• Stalk Harvesting: Cut entire stalks, dry upside down in a cool, airy place. 
• Head Snipping: Snip dry heads into a paper bag. 
• Crumbling: Rub dried heads over a bag to collect seeds. 

Processing & Storage 

Drying:

• Spread seeds on newspaper for 1 week in a dry, dark location. 
• Debris Removal: Gently blow away chaff or use a fine sieve. 

Storage:

• Use airtight containers (glass jars, zippered bags) in a cool, dry place.
• Label with date/variety. 
• Use seeds within 1 – 2 years for best viability. 

Troubleshooting Common Issues 

• Aphids: Spray with soapy water or encourage ladybugs. 
• Slugs/Snails: Use beer traps, copper tape, or organic pellets. 
• Powdery Mildew: Improve airflow, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicide if needed. 
• Yellowing Leaves: Check for overwatering or nutrient deficiencies (use balanced fertiliser).