ASTER BONITA SCARLET
- Fully-double pompon flowers that colour completely
- Can be grown as a single stem or as a spray
- The flowers are held at a perfect angle for maximum impact and have flower size that is similar to Matsumoto
- High tolerance to Fusarium
Life Cycle: Annual (grown as a cut flower)
Use: Cut flower, bouquet focal or filler, borders, pollinator gardens
Height: 60–80 cm
Spacing: 20–30 cm between plants
Transplant to finish: 14–18 weeks
Transplant after the danger of frost has passed. Pinch plants when 15–20 cm tall to encourage branching and increase flower production.
Photoperiod: Facultative long-day—flowers earlier under longer day lengths.
Exposure: Full sun (6–8+ hours daily)
🌾 Soil & Fertility
Soil: Well-drained, fertile loam or quality potting mix
pH range: 6.0–6.8
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during active growth.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can produce lush foliage and fewer blooms.
💧 Watering
Keep evenly moist during establishment.
Once established, water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil becomes dry.
Mulching helps conserve moisture and keeps roots cool during warm weather.
✂️ Harvesting & Post-Harvest
Harvest stage: Harvest when the first 2–4 flowers on each stem are fully open and remaining buds show good colour.
Stem length: 50–70 cm ideal for bouquets.
Post-harvest:
Remove lower leaves.
Place immediately into clean water with floral preservative.
Vase life is typically 7–10 days with proper post-harvest care.
These are supplied as small seedling plugs ready to plant
