Aster Angelica

Maximizing yield for cut flower production

For professional growers, the 'Angelika' aster—developed by the Institute of Horticulture of the NAAS—represents a reliable choice for late-summer market demands. With a plant height of 50–80 cm and a striking 10–15 cm flower head, this variety is engineered specifically for commercial florist use, where stem rigidity and petal density are non-negotiable.

Cultivation best practices

To achieve the high-quality, large-diameter red blooms characteristic of this variety, growers should focus on these operational stages:

• Establishment: As an annual crop, ‘Angelika’ thrives when started in a controlled nursery environment. Transplanting hardened seedlings into well-drained, nutrient-rich soil allows for uniform development.
• Soil Management: Avoid replanting in the same location for several consecutive years to manage soil-borne disease pressure, a common challenge with commercial aster production.
• Harvesting Strategy: The ideal harvest window is when the bloom is 75–80% open. This ensures the longest possible shelf life in a vase while maintaining the vibrant red saturation of the petals.

In practice, ‘Angelika’ is favored for its predictability. Because it does not overwinter, the lifecycle is concentrated into a high-intensity growth phase, making it perfect for crop rotation schedules following early-season vegetable harvests. Its substantial flower size removes the need for excessive filler foliage in arrangements, providing a cost-effective solution for creating high-impact floral displays.