If your asters are only budding up now, then it'll take a good long while before they produce mature seed ... though, you can always give it a try under lights as you say ... just be diligent to keep the spidermites and aphids at bay. Since there won't be any bees to pollinate them, it's a good idea to brush the flower parts with your finger to help assist seed set.

Gil try Park's seeds for the violet striped aster seeds (matsumoto violet stripe). I have done the red striped ones off and on for several years....Jean

Here is a link that might be useful: violet striped aster seeds

Thanks Jean! Have you ever ordered from Park? I thought it would be a hassle with them being in the States.

Well my asters are blooming really nicely now, they look great and we haven't had any F still. There are still bees around so maybe I will get some seeds yet.

I have ordered from Parks quite a few times and never had a problem. I have kept my orders around $50 or less and have never had to pay duty on them. A friend ordered $100 and her order was held at the post office until she paid the duty on it. They are always prompt sending the order....Jean