ASTERS

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 810, 2 November 1929, Page 32

ASTERS

FOR SUMMER DISPLAYS Now that spring time is with us again and tender young seedlings are just showing signs of growth, garden lovers must not forget a few asters, as no garden is complete without them. They are easily grown and with a few planting each week blooms may be had for a very long period. On account of their long stems and free flowering, they are very suitable for indoor decoration as cut flowers. Seed Sowing.—The seed pans or boxes should contain good sandy loam, which has been firmed and thoroughly watered before the seeds are sown. Care should be taken to see that good drainage is provided for. After the surplus water has drained, the seed may be scattered over the surface and lightly covered with some of the same s6il Place a piece of glass over the box, or put in a warm corner of a cool frame, but cover first with a piece of brown paper; this must be removed immediately the young plants appear, otherwise they will become drawn and spindly, and are of little use.

Once the seeds are sown in the boxes or pans, they must on no account become dry, as half an hour sometimes will cause the loss of the whole planting; but if the soil is well watered before the seeds are sown, no other watering will be found necessary until the plants appear. Pricking Out. —When the fourth leaf appears they may be “pricked out” into a box containing similar soil. This process not only makes them hardy, but induces a good root system, and when they are planted out into their permanent beds, a good ball of earth can be lifted with each plant. They receive very little check in the operation, provided they have been watered before the transplanting is to take place. Planting Out.—The bed or borders where the plants are to bloom should be of a sandy loam to get the best results, not over-manured. Well-rotted stable manure is the best if it is used in moderation. Asters like a good sunny position, and should be planted out on a dull day, about 18in apart. Once established, they grow' very quickly, providing there is enough moisture in the soil. A good mulch of well-decayed manure or lawn clippings help them very much, as it not only keeps the soil cool and prevents evaporation, hut acts as a fertiliser.