Aster Seeds,
Valkyrie Yellow

SKU #FL643 · 35 seeds
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Description

(Callistephus chinensis). Soft yellow blooms unfold in quilled, textured layers across neatly shaped plants about 2 feet tall. Branching low with sturdy stems, it produces a steady supply of cut-worthy flowers. Its even color and reliable performance make it ideal for both beds and bouquets. A bright, cheerful addition that lifts garden palettes with ease.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Callistephus chinensis
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
110–120
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
12–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–70°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Allow 110 to 120 days from sowing to the first blooms. It is not frost hardy and its planting window is spring. Sow ¼ inch deep and expect sprouts in 7 to 14 days.

How to Sow and Plant

  • Seeds germinate in 10-20 days.
  • Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost, or direct seed outdoors after last frost.
  • Ideal germination temperature is 70 F.
  • Special note: When sowing your own saved seed, it is helpful to stratify (cold treat) seeds for 2 weeks before sowing.

How to Grow

  • Prefers full sun to light shade, well-drained soil, and moderate moisture.
  • Space plants to 8-12 inches apart.
  • Plants will not rebloom after cutting.
  • Succession plant every few weeks for continuous blooming.

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Asters can be susceptible to disease and pests.

  • Asters Yellow is a bacteria that is transmitted by leafhoppers. This bacterium has virus-like symptoms and is not treatable, but it can be prevented by covering plants with row cover until bloom time to keep the hoppers off of your plants when they are young and most vulnerable.
  • Rust and Botrytis, aka gray mold, are both caused by excessive moisture at the crown of the plant; avoid this by spacing plants 12 inches apart and keeping the garden weeded to encourage better airflow. Serenade is an organically approved spray that will treat fungal issues such as rust and mold.

How to Save Seeds

  • China asters are insect pollinated; they can become cross-pollinated if not grown in isolation of at least 1/4 mile or caged with bags over the blooms and hand-pollinated to prevent insects from meddling and crossing pollen.
  • Seeds are ready to harvest as soon as they become fuzzy. Cut plants and hang dry over a tarp to catch the seeds.
  • Seeds will remain viable for up to 3 years.

FAQ

How tall does Valkyrie Yellow grow?

About 2 feet, in a neat pyramidal shape. It is a ray-type China aster that branches low and carries an abundance of pastel yellow quilled blooms in a uniform color.

Will Valkyrie Yellow come back the following year?

No. Callistephus chinensis is an annual, so it completes its life in one season.

How far apart should I space the plants?

Space them 12 to 18 inches apart in full sun. The stems are strong and cut-worthy, and the plants branch low.

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