Seeds require a exposure to cold (aka “cold stratification”) before they will germinate. Sow seeds outside in late summer, fall or early spring (before Feb 15) so they are naturally exposed to the cold. Prepare area by loosening soil surface with a rake. Hand broadcast (sow) seeds evenly over area. Water seeds with a light sprinkle after sowing. Or sow seeds onto the snow!
To start seeds inside, mix the seeds into ½ cup of moist sand (or paper towel) and place in a sealed plastic bag and place in the refrigerator for 8 weeks before planting. Then start seeds inside 4/1-6/1, 1/16" deep. Days to germination: 14-21. Transplant outside May-July 2-3' apart.
Plant in full sun location. From seed, these plants can take 1-3 years to become established and large enough to flower. We recommend sowing several species of native plants together such as “Save the Bees” or “Good Bug Blend.” We also recommend sowing annual plant seeds to fill in the area until the native plants get established. Try Hopi Red Dye Amaranth, Dyer’s Coreopsis, Calendula, or Cosmos.
The whole plant is used for medicine by Native Americans.
Hand collect seeds late fall.
Our Recommendations with New England Aster Wildflower
