Asters Callistephes chinensis Carmine Red' and Violet Blue' performed very well in our 1997 trials. The plants were extremely vigorous producing multiple stems. Flowers were produced from late July through mid-September. As the humidity increased in September, rust was reported at all of the growing sites. We did not have any problems with aster yellows virus in 1997.
Asters prefer a well drained soil and produce vigorous plants if they receive adequate irrigation.
Like the others, the stems length at our Research and Education Center was greater than most of the growers. Remember, we were providing maximum moisture conditions with slightly raised beds, and providing liquid fertilizer through the irrigation system. The flower colors were the typically outstanding vibrant colors of aster. You can't beat an aster for color. All of the growers liked these asters from Pan American.