Astra Blue Platycodon Plant

Astra Blue Platycodon is a dwarf variety with flowers that appear first as a puffed up balloons before bursting open to beautiful, blue flowers. The blooms appear atop stems that rise above its clumping foliage. The 3-inch flowers bloom in clusters throughout the summer.

Our Platycodon (Balloon Flower) Plants are grown with care and free from harmful pesticides, making them a safe and delightful addition to your garden. Guaranteed to arrive healthy and ready to thrive!

Planting Instructions:

• - Best planted in spring or fall for optimal root establishment
• - Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for mature growth

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.5
• - Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates sandy or loamy soils

Watering Specifics:

• - Water thoroughly when first planted, allowing soil to dry out between waterings
• - Once established, Platycodon is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth
• - Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth

Pruning and Training:

• - Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering
• - Cut back in late fall or early spring to maintain shape and promote new growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Platycodon is generally pest-resistant but may attract slugs or snails; monitor as needed
• - Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues, though it is highly disease-resistant

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms from mid-summer through fall with balloon-shaped buds that open into star-like flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, tolerates both heat and cold once established

Companion Plants for Platycodon:

• - Echinacea: Complements Platycodon with its vibrant, daisy-like blooms and pollinator appeal
• - Salvia: Adds vertical spikes of blue or purple that pair beautifully with Platycodon’s star-shaped flowers
• - Coreopsis: Provides bright, continuous blooms that contrast well with Platycodon’s colors
• - Achillea: Complements Platycodon’s delicate flowers with its clusters of long-lasting blooms
• - Rudbeckia: Adds bold yellow flowers that enhance the summer display of Platycodon