The Spruce / Leticia Almeida
Astilbes (Astilbe spp.)
are one of the easiest perennial flowers to grow.
Virtually pest-free and verylow maintenance, they can light up the shade garden or soften a sunny spot.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
you could plant astilbe in either spring or fall but avoid planting in the hottest part of summer.
If you must plant then, keep the plant well watered until new growth emerges.
These are relatively slow-growing plants, but once established will bloom for many years before needing division.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
It can also be grown in containers.
In hot, dry climates, they need to be planted in the shade and/or given plenty of water.
Different varieties will bloom anywhere from mid-spring to late summer.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
If you plant different types of astilbe, you could prolong the bloom almost all season.
Nodeadheadingis needed since they will not bloom again.
Astilbe will bloom in full shade, but the plants prefer some sunlight to achieve their full size.
The Spruce / Letícia Almeida
Soil
Astilbe plants prefer fairly rich, moist soil, with a slightly acidicsoil pHof around 6.0.
In the absence of rain, water astilbe weekly and deeply at the base, avoiding overhead watering.
Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
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After the first hard frost, put down 2 inches of mulch around the stem to protect the roots.
Astilbe can grow in a moderately humid climate but in humid weather conditions, it can developpowdery mildew.
Once the plant is established, fertilize every spring when the soil is moist.
Some established standards include:
Pruning
Little maintenance is required of astilbe plants.
The flower heads will dry on the plant and remain attractive for many months.
Propagating Astilbe
Divide astilbe plants every four to five years to keep the plants healthy.
In ideal conditions, astilbe plants can grow quickly and require more frequent division.
Astilbe seed is available, but it can be difficult to germinate.
It’s easiest to start with a plant or division.
Even a small plant will quickly fill out and perform well in its first year.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Astilbes are virtually trouble-free, bothered by few diseases or insects.
Astilbe grows in clumps that slowly get bigger and denser.
Astilbe is on the list of plants that are considered to be safe.
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