Pion-shaped aster - growing from seeds

If you like to put cut flowers in vases in the fall, then it is worthwhile to cultivate the aster pion-shaped. What she is, and how to grow her, we will tell in this article.

Characteristics of the pion-shaped asters

A distinctive feature of this type of asters is the structure of the inflorescence, which is very similar to the peony . The flower itself has a vaulted-globular shape and can reach up to 10 cm in diameter. The outer petals are longer and broader, while the inner petals are narrower and shorter. All of them, except for the most extreme rows, are directed to the middle, creating such a form. The bush itself grows up to 40-50 cm. Its stems are slightly branching, so it preserves the colonial crown well.

Among the pion-shaped asters, such varieties as "Duchess", "Tower", "Lady", which can be of various colors, are popular. As for all varieties of asters, for pion-shaped cultivation is used from seeds, since this is an annual plant. For this, the seeding method is also suitable, and sowing in open ground.

Agrotechnics of cultivation of pion-shaped asters

To permanently place an aster of this species, it is necessary to choose a sunny place on the site, well protected from the wind. It does not tolerate stagnant water, so it should not be located near groundwater. To ensure that such an aster grows well, the soil for it should be chosen nutrient and drained.

The landing immediately on the bed can be carried out at the end of April, after covering it with a film. After emergence of sprouts, they must be thinned and opened on warm days. You can completely remove the covering material only at the end of May. Further care for asters is in simple procedures:

Blossoms pion-shaped asters usually from July to October.

If you want to plant the seedlings first, then you need to prepare a new nutrient mix for it. Sowing in this case is carried out in March. Seeds can simply be spread over the surface of the soil and sprinkled with earth. After that, pour with warm water, cover and put in the room. Sprout sprouts at a temperature of + 18-20 ° C, after their appearance it can be reduced to + 15 ° C. In the future, they need only a rare watering and ventilation after it.

Two weeks before the landing (at the end of May), it is necessary to carry out top dressing and begin hardening (accustoming to fresh air). During the first two weeks, planted seedlings should be kept under a film.

If you want to get a flower of a certain color and shape, then it is better to grow asters from purchased seeds, since those that you collect from plants can not preserve the characteristics of the mother's bush.