Azumi XL Pink Aster Seeds

Azumi XL Pink Aster is an impressive F1 cut flower aster prized for its exceptionally large, fully double, pompon-style blooms in a beautiful clear pink. The substantial flowers are carried on tall, strong stems, giving them excellent presence both in the garden and in floral arrangements. Plants are vigorous growers, reaching approximately 36 to 48 inches tall under favorable conditions, and the first flowers can reach around 3 to 4 inches across. For exhibition-quality blooms, plants may also be disbudded so their energy is directed into producing fewer but even larger flowers.

Developed especially with the cut flower grower in mind, Azumi XL Pink combines impressive flower size with sturdy stems and good plant vigor. The long stems make the flowers excellent for bouquets, wedding arrangements and other floral work, while the soft pink coloring blends particularly well with white, lavender, blue and pastel flowers. Another important advantage of the Azumi XL series is its resistance to Fusarium, a troublesome soilborne disease of China asters. This added resistance makes Azumi XL Pink a particularly worthwhile selection for gardeners and flower growers who have experienced disease problems with traditional asters.

Grow Azumi XL Pink in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil, providing consistent moisture while avoiding constantly wet conditions. Seeds may be started indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost or direct sown after danger of frost has passed. Good air circulation and crop rotation are beneficial when growing asters, and plants grown for cutting may appreciate support as their tall flowering stems develop. Harvest when the flowers are beginning to open fully but before they become overly mature. With its extra-large pink blooms, strong cutting stems, vigorous growth and useful Fusarium resistance, Azumi XL Pink is an outstanding new aster for both the cutting garden and professional-quality bouquets.