China Asters in Barnton
Callistephus chinensis
A half-hardy annual grown for long-lasting late summer colour. Sow under cover in the UK, harden off carefully, then plant out once frost risk has passed in a sheltered, sunny spot with free-draining soil.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing China Aster
Planting Calendar
Sow Seeds Indoors
28 Feb – 24 MarSow seeds in trays or modules around 28th February - 24th March in a light seed compost. Cover with a shallow layer of compost and keep at until they germinate. Keep the compost just moist, not wet.
Prick Out Seedlings
26 Mar – 9 AprWhen seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out from 26th March into small pots. Handle them by the leaves and keep them growing on in bright light so they do not go leggy.
Harden Off
31 Mar – 14 AprStart hardening off from 31st March and give them around 10 days to adjust. Put plants outside during the day at first, then leave them out for longer so they settle before planting.
Transplant Outdoors
28 Apr – 12 MayPlant out from 28th April into fertile, well-drained soil once all frost risk has passed. Space plants apart, water in thoroughly straight after planting, and keep them sheltered from strong wind.
Deadheading & Maintenance
4 Jun – 6 OctStart deadheading from 4th June and keep going until 6th October. Remove fading flowers regularly so the plant does not set seed, which keeps it producing more blooms right through to the autumn frosts. Keep the soil evenly moist in dry spells and pinch out any weak or floppy growth.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with China Aster.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of China Aster to consider
Matsumoto
A reliable group with large, single flowers on strong stems, good for cutting and borders.
Milady
Compact plants with double flowers, useful in pots and at the front of a border.
Princess
Tall, cutting-type plants with full flowers and good stem length.
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Brussels Sprouts
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Calabrese
Calabrese (broccoli) produces a large central head of tightly-packed green buds, followed by smaller side-shoots after the main head is cut. It’s a cool-season brassica crop. Grow it in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil and keep plants watered during dry spells. Harvest the heads while firm, then leave the stem in the ground to allow side-shoots to develop.