Seed self-sows freely, to prevent dead head immediately after flowers are spent.
Sow seed indoors before last frost. Can also be direct sown after last frost.
Barely cover seed.
Seeds are very prone to dampening off, so be sure to keep air circulation high and keep soil on the dry side, watering from below.
By our calculations*, you should look at sowing China aster about 42 days before your last frost date .
Plant out 30 to 35cm apart in early summer after soil has warmed
Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as China aster is a tender plant.By our calculations*, you should look at planting out China aster about 7 days after your last frost date.
These estimates for how long China aster takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.
Average 5 days | Min 3 days | Max 8 days (12)
Average 26 days | Min 24 days | Max 30 days (3)
Average 127 days | Min 127 days | Max 127 days (1)
Our when to plant China aster estimates are relative to your last frost date.
Aster
Aster chinensis, Aster sinensis