Aster 'Salmon Valkyrie'

Salmon Valkyrie Aster (Callistephus chinensis)
Salmon Valkyrie aster is a breathtaking late-summer treasure, gracing the garden with tall, statuesque stems and fully double blooms that enchant with their finely quilled petals. Each flower unfolds in warm, peachy-salmon tones—soft yet vibrant—radiating a gentle glow that adds both texture and grace to garden borders and floral arrangements alike. The elegant blooms hold their shape beautifully when cut, making them a favourite for long-lasting bouquets that carry a whisper of rustic romance indoors.

Though not frost tolerant, Salmon Valkyrie rewards patient gardeners with a season of radiant colour when given a sunny, sheltered spot. Pair these refined blooms with creamy whites, dusty lavender, or soft green foliage to craft arrangements and garden scenes that feel timeless, warm, and inviting.

A stately bloom that brings a serene, glowing presence to the waning days of summer and early autumn gardens.

DETAILS:

QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1/8"

GERMINATION: 10-14 days at 21-22°C

HEIGHT: 28-32”

MATURITY: 110-120 Days

SPACING: 9-12”

PINCH: Not Necessary

HOW TO GROW:

Transplanting (recommended): Start seeds indoors in trays 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Do not bury seeds deeply; lightly cover with soil or vermiculite, as light aids germination. To avoid displacing the seeds, mist or bottom water gently. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for 7–10 days before transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seeding (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors once soil temperatures consistently reach 18–$21°C$. Thin seedlings to a final spacing of 6–12 inches apart, depending on the variety.

Pinching and Support: Pinching isn't strictly necessary for asters, it is a tool you can use to encourage branching and a more abundant harvest of blooms Provide support with stakes, a trellis, or netting, especially for taller varieties.

Soil Preference and Watering: China aster prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during germination and establishment. Once mature, water regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to disease.

Fertilizing: China aster is a heavy feeder. Amend the soil with compost before planting. For optimal growth and blooms, fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the flowers are about three-quarters of the way open. Cut in the early morning or late evening and immediately place in a vase of water.