Tower Blue China Aster delivers the classic charm of peony-type blooms on compact, bushy plants that reach maturity in 110-120 days. This open-pollinated cultivar from the Asteraceae family produces flowers ideal for cutting or massing in garden borders, with a rich blue color that commands attention in any arrangement. Growing just 6 inches apart, these plants pack density into small spaces, making them practical for gardeners working with limited real estate while maintaining visual impact.
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Moderate
2-11
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High
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The peony-type blooms distinguish Tower Blue from single-flowered aster varieties, with layered petals that create a lush, full appearance perfect for cut-flower arrangements. Its open-pollinated nature means you can save seeds year to year, building a connection to your garden that hybrid varieties can't offer. The relatively short 110-120 day window from seed to bloom fits easily into most growing seasons, while the compact bush habit and tight 6-inch spacing allow you to grow abundance in small areas.
Tower Blue excels as a cut flower, valued for its peony-type blooms that add texture and depth to arrangements. The compact bush growth habit also serves borders and garden edges well, where its blue flowers create color blocks and visual interest without requiring much horizontal space.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep into 72-cell flats or preferred seedling containers 6-8 weeks before your intended outdoor planting date. Keep soil warm and provide adequate light. Heat and reduced daylength initiate flowering, so establishing plantings early avoids the short stems that result from late sowings.
Transplant seedlings outdoors once soil temperature reaches 65-70°F (18-21°C), spacing plants 6 inches apart. Harden off seedlings gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions over several days before final planting.
Direct seed once soil temperature reaches 65-70°F (18-21°C). Provide support for plants as they develop.
For fresh arrangements, harvest when the outer ray florets begin to open, then place stems immediately in water to maximize vase life. For dried flowers, wait until blooms are fully open before cutting and hanging to dry.
Pinching is not required for Tower Blue. Support the stems as plants fill out to prevent flower-laden branches from bending or breaking under the weight of the full peony-type blooms.
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