Indoor Asters
Welcome back to our series of basement experiments! Today, I'm excited to share a fun development in our endeavor to utilize indoor spaces for year-round flower production. It's a journey of discovery, and one of the stars of the show this time around is none other than the charming aster. Specifically, we're focusing on growing them indoors to circumvent some common challenges like aster yellows, which have been a bit of a hurdle outdoors.
A New Approach to Growing Asters
Down here in the basement, I've been experimenting with asters, and I'm thrilled to see them starting to flower. While we're not entirely there yet, and the plants don't seem as robust as outdoor ones, this experiment has proven quite illuminating. Despite some of the plants blooming short, a factor likely influenced by the extended daylight exposure they receive, their beauty cannot be denied. They stand straight, strong, and seem more vigorous than other flowers like the toadflax and Bachelor’s buttons I've tried growing here.
The First Signs of Success
Now, let me take you on a little tour. These asters were planted in March, and here we are, witnessing them bloom by mid to late June, which is unusual compared to their typical end-of-summer timeline. This variation is very intriguing as it provides us with more opportunities and questions to explore further.
The first variety under the spotlight is the Tower White. It stands out as the tallest among the trio of varieties being tested. Although the blooming period hasn't been particularly expedited, understanding the nuances of why they're blooming now is crucial. Our goal is to determine how to cultivate healthier and stronger plants indoors. Nevertheless, the ability to successfully grow them under artificial lights is promising.
Delightful Discoveries and Future Directions
I can't help but envision them as charming additions to corsages or short vase arrangements. We have three varieties here: the lovely lavender, the striking Tower White, and the peach-hued valkyrie Each holds its unique charm and potential for our floral endeavors. I purchased the seeds from Johnny’s Select Seeds.
This experiment opens new doors, not only for indoor cultivation but also for growing asters outdoors in a more controlled environment. By utilizing crates above ground, perhaps within tunnels or simply in rows, we can manage their conditions more effectively and aim for superior outcomes.
I appreciate you joining me in the basement for this latest chapter in our botanical experiment series. Your curiosity and support mean the world to me. If this inspires any questions or further thoughts, please let me know. Together, we're on a continuous journey of learning and discovery. Until next time, happy growing!
Warm regards and shared passions,
Linda