The China Aster (*Callistephus chinensis*) is a Half-Hardy Annual.

The 'Duchess' series is defined by its petal structure. Unlike the shaggy 'Ostrich Plume', these petals curve upwards and inwards, hiding the centre of the flower. This protects the pollen, meaning the flowers last longer in the rain and in the vase.

The "Grandma's Favourite": These are traditional cottage garden plants that have seen a huge resurgence recently thanks to the "slow flower" movement and sustainable floristry.

Asters need a little warmth to germinate but bloom best in the cooler days of autumn.

Germination:
Sow indoors from March to April. Sow onto the surface of moist compost and cover with a fine sprinkling of vermiculite (approx 3mm). Keep at 18-21°C. Germination takes 10-14 days.

Where to Sow:
Plant out after the last frost (late May/June). They need full sun and rich, well-drained soil. They hate sitting in wet clay.

Care While Growing:
Rotation is Key: To prevent Fusarium wilt (a soil disease), never plant Asters in the exact same spot two years in a row. Move them around the garden.
Support: The heavy, peony-like heads catch the rain. Stake them or grow them through netting to keep them upright.

The rounded, formal shape of 'Duchess' Asters contrasts well with looser, wilder plants:

• 🌸 Cosmos 'Sensation': The Relaxed Partner. The simple, open daisies of Cosmos provide a relaxed backdrop to the formal, complex heads of the 'Duchess' Aster.
• 🌿 Bupleurum (Hare's Ear): The Zesty Filler. The acid-green foliage of Bupleurum makes the pastel pinks and violets of the Asters pop. It adds a modern florist touch to the border.

Sow indoors in spring. Plant out in June. Flowers August to October.