Astilba planting and care in the open field for the winter

13 December 2016 Flowers Alienteu

The glossy sheen of the leaves of this flower formed the basis of the name. If we literally translate the name "astilba" from the Greek language, we get - "very brilliant". This winter-hardy, unpretentious plant deserves the attention of both gardeners and professional landscape designers.

general description

This plant is perennial and has a rhizome. For the winter, the vegetative part dies off, and the rhizomes remain in the ground. This perennial came to us from the countries of East Asia, it is found in Japan and in North America in deciduous forests, along rivers and in places where water accumulates. Can withstand temperatures as low as -37 degrees Celsius. Different species have different peduncle heights and leaf widths. The bush looks beautiful and unusual in part due to its leaf, which deserves special attention. Due to the feathery leaves (there are double- and triple-pinnate), the plant acquires an extraordinary charm. Astilba flowers are collected in panicles, the length of the peduncle itself depends on the species. The timing and duration of flowering also depends on the species. Some varieties bloom in June and are considered early, others are medium and bloom in July, others are late blooming in August. The color of the inflorescences is varied: white, pink, red and purple. Fruits are capsules, which can hold up to 20 thousand seeds. During flowering, this perennial is especially good. In their shape, astilba inflorescences are: pyramidal, paniculate, rhombic and drooping. This feature is also taken into account by designers when designing flower beds, beds and flower beds.

Growing astilba

Growing is not a big deal. Quite an unpretentious plant that loves shaded areas with constantly moist soil. Planting time is end of March - May. Before planting, you need to dig up the land, remove weeds and add compost or humus to it, at the rate of: 2 buckets of fertilizer per 1 m2. It is best to plant astilba on the north side of the house, in the shade. Some varieties, however, have adapted to live in sunny places. Flowering in these varieties is plentiful, but short. Astilbe will still bloom longer, growing in shade: under the crown of trees and shrubs, near the pool is generally an ideal place, since astilbe loves moisture.Loamy soil with an acidity of pH 5.5-6.5 is suitable for planting.

Planting and aftercare

The permissible distance between the astilba bushes is 30 cm.The depth of the planting pit is 20-30 cm.It is best to add a tablespoon of mineral fertilizers to the planting hole, then plant the astilba so that the buds are covered with earth no more than 4-5 cm.After that it is necessary to compact ground and mulch with peat or humus. Then water abundantly. A feature of this perennial is the death of the lower part of the rhizome due to its growth in the upper part. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the plant does not dry out, and that it is always spud. Mulching helps to retain moisture and also protects the rhizomes from overheating and relieves the grower of constant loosening. If the summer is dry, watering must be done twice a day. Without transplanting, astilba can grow in the same place for up to 7 years, but only if the following actions are performed: watering, timely fertilization and mulching. With this kind of care, she can reach the age of 20 years.

The scheme and order of fertilization: in the spring - nitrogen fertilization or humus, in mid-June - add potash, and before the end of flowering - phosphorus fertilizers. After fertilization, the soil must be loosened.

Transfer

To rejuvenate astilba bushes, it is necessary to divide the rhizome and transplant the divisions to new places. You can transplant in the summer, but not at the time of flowering. If the delenka is planted in its original place, then it will be necessary to dig up and add peat or humus and only after that plant it. Astilbe pruning begins in the fall, before wintering. Astilbe must be cut flush with the ground, and then mulched. The rhizomes must be divided so that there is at least one bud on the dividend, this is done so that the astilbe blooms next year. Delenki that have just been transplanted, it would be good to cover them with spruce branches for the winter in order to protect the plant from frost. It will also give confidence that in the spring the plant will not die from temperature extremes.

Reproduction of astilba

Astilba reproduces in three ways: division of rhizomes, seeds and germinating buds.

The most common way of reproduction of astilba is by dividing the rhizome. Each section should be at least 5 cm long and have from one to three growth buds. It is good if this division has adventitious roots. If you want to see this bush bloom in the fall, then divide it in the spring. Astilba can be transplanted at different times of the year, the main thing is to ensure abundant watering for several days after transplanting.

"Species" specimens are propagated by seeds. The seeds are very small, they set well, but they do not always ripen. If the seeds have matured, then in September they will need to be shaken out of the inflorescences. Having prepared in advance boxes with a nutrient mixture of sand and peat, sowing can begin in March. Seeds sprout 3-4 weeks after sowing and grow rather slowly. Only at the end of the year it will be possible to see a small rosette of leaves. If astilbes do not interfere with each other's growth, then is it necessary to replant them this season? Of course not. Better to transplant next spring to a previously prepared place. Plants grown from seeds will bloom only in the third year.

And finally, the third way: reproduction by the buds of renewal. This method can be used in early spring by cutting out the growth bud with part of the rhizome. This method is also called heel reproduction. You can keep the queen cell for reproduction. 1/3 of the mass of the entire bush can be divided without harm to it. Rooted in greenhouses in a soil similar to soil for sowing seeds, pouring it with a layer of 5-7 cm on ordinary fertile soil. It is better to plant astilba in a permanent place in the spring of next year. It will bloom in the same year.

There is another way - this is propagation by green cuttings in early spring, but it is not effective enough and therefore is rarely used.

Pests and diseases

Basically, all types of astilba are resistant to disease. Of the pests, the plant can be affected by the slobbery penny and strawberry or rootworm nematode, but quite rarely.

In the axils of the leaves, you can find frothy discharge, in which the larvae of the slobbering penny develop. They feed on leaves, thereby weakening the development and growth of peduncles.

The strawberry nematode is very dangerous, as it infects the buds and leaves, and it is not easy to get rid of it. Complete elimination of infected plants is required. Gall nematode lives in the roots. It can be dealt with by removing the affected roots.

Diseased plants are immediately recognizable by their appearance. They develop poorly and bloom unevenly.

The use of astilba in garden design

Astilba has long won the respect of landscape designers and amateur gardeners. This beautiful plant can be planted in groups or singly. It will grow best near water bodies or in damp, semi-shady places.

Excellent classic partners of astilba are hosts, ferns, irises. But astilbe will go well with other plants. For example, with badan, heart-leaved tiarella, blood-red geranium, paniculata phlox, heuchera, which you can learn more about here. They also look great next to astilba and complement it with doronicum, various primroses, gravilat, iberis, bathing suit. If you plant low-growing perennials in the foreground: saxifrage, crumbs, lamb, creeping tenacious, umbilical, then the picture will acquire an unforgettable charm. Some types of sedum (white and false) will also look good in the foreground.

Astilba curbs are an idea of ​​amateur gardeners from Vilnius. It's pretty original and doesn't give you a lot of worries. Astilbe can become a decoration not only for your garden. Its peduncles are well suited for cutting, and the dried inflorescences can be used to make winter bouquets.

As noted above, the timing of flowering depends on the type of astilba. If you apply this quality in flower beds, you can achieve a long, almost continuous flowering through the selection of different varieties. It is necessary to arrange the plants so that they are tall in the background, and low in the foreground and with different flowering periods. Astilbe does not lose its decorative effect even after flowering. Its openwork leaf adorns the flower bed until the frost. After flowering, seed pods will form, and they will also decorate the garden with their unusual shape and color. The panicles do not need to be cut for the winter, they decorate the flower bed in the winter and look quite original.

Astilba. Preparing for winter

Astilba winter preparation begins in the fall. If the plant was planted in the current season, then it should not be left unattended in any case. After working on it this year, you will get abundant bloom next year. In the first year, it is necessary to cut off all inflorescences before flowering so that astilba can form renewal buds on the rhizomes, then this will have a positive effect on rooting. To prevent the formation of a soil crust and weeds, it is necessary to weed out young seedlings. Over time, the rhizomes will grow and interfere with the emergence of weeds.

After the first frost, you need to cut the plant to the base. The aboveground part will still die off for the winter. It is better to spud and mulch the stumps, thereby preventing freezing of the rhizomes in winter. Peat, tree bark, or compost are suitable for mulch. Young plants (one-year-olds) and those that are older than 5 years require careful preparation for winter.This is the most critical time for astilba, since with age it rises, thereby increasing the rhizomes, and exposes it on the surface. The soil becomes not a sufficiently reliable shelter, and the plant may freeze slightly.

It will not be superfluous to also feed the plant. Potassium-phosphorus fertilizers will help Astilbe prepare for the cold season. They need to be brought in since August. Organic fertilizers have a prolonged effect. After the autumn application, they will begin to act only in the spring, which is required. Hilling with rotted manure in late autumn will serve as additional insulation in winter and nutrition in spring.

If astilba is not planned to be transplanted after it turns 5 years old, then it is advisable to play it safe and make additional efforts to prepare for the winter. To do this, you will need to make a shelter by placing planks around it, and cover the structure with covering material. Astilba is a fairly frost-resistant plant. If a southern landing site is chosen, and in general the location of the site does not allow it to be planted on the shady sides, then such a reinforced shelter will not be required.

Most shaded flower beds will include astilbe. The perennial has long gained popularity as an unpretentious plant. Today we will reveal the topic of planting astilba and caring for it in the open field, since novice and experienced gardeners are interested in the basics of agricultural technology and the peculiarities of growing a flower.

An unpretentious culture for a shady flower garden loves a cool climate.

Consumer qualities

Summer residents probably would not have paid attention to the panicles of wild astilba. Tiny buds, nondescript colors, resemble weeds, which are around in abundance. However, the breeders managed to accomplish the incredible - to bring out such bright varieties of astilba that simply cannot go unnoticed.

Popular qualities of culture:

• decorative openwork leaves;
• catchy strong inflorescences;
• abundant and long flowering;
• winter hardiness;
• shade and moisture-loving.

This flower is widely grown in central Russia. Moreover, in the south, astilbe often burns and dries, and tamed to the specific climate of Western and Eastern Siberia, it is successfully cultivated in the Altai Territory, the Urals, as well as in the Far East (in the Primorsky, Khabarovsk Territories).

Conclusion: astilba is not a culture for hot regions.

Flower garden companions

Gardeners plant astilba together with coniferous and decorative deciduous shrubs, create original sites around the perimeter of reservoirs, combining varieties adjacent in color and height.

Low-growing perennials successfully manifest themselves as a pot culture, and dwarf astilbe perfectly take root in rocky areas of rockeries or rock gardens.

Undersized A. Arends "Fanal" opens the flowering season

Astilbe is comfortable in the circle of the following plants, tolerant of the lack of sunlight:

• hydrangeas;
• hosts;
• Siberian iris;
• fern;
• badan.

It is noteworthy that even the absence of astilba flowers will not make such a flower bed boring. The leaves of the "neighbors" are distinguished by their unique decorative shape and different colors. Moreover, for all plants to live, it is enough to see the sun only at sunrise or closer to sunset. Moisture, diffused shade and minimal care are all that is needed for the healthy growth and prosperity of Astilba.

Typical company for a rocky garden

Growing a crop from seeds at home

Astilba is propagated vegetatively and by seeds. Novice growers prefer the first method. The second one often raises a number of intractable questions such as: "how to collect and germinate tiny seeds", "when to sow for seedlings", etc.

Many experimenters are stopped by the low percentage of germination of astilbe (which is often indicated on the packaging label), as well as possible problems when transplanting seedlings into open ground. Agree, it is much easier to buy ready-made roots with buds in a nursery and not bother with unnecessary efforts to create a greenhouse, stratify and pick young plants, followed by "moving" astilba to a flower bed.

However, those who like to take risks often receive well-deserved rewards. It is the seed method of growing astilba that allows you to become an amateur breeder, experiment and get an unpredictable result - new varieties.

On a note! The polymorphic properties of astilba lead to natural consequences - the seedlings partially retain the characteristics of the parent plant. Be prepared for the fact that by propagating by seeds a white low-growing flower, you will end up with a tall perennial with pink panicles.

Astilba seeds for seedlings are sown in early March. A mixture of peat and sand (in parts 3: 1) is placed in a wide container 15 cm high. A handful of snow is scattered on top, on which small seeds are distributed. Thus, conditions are artificially created for the stratification of seeds and an increase in their germination. Together with the melting snow, astilbe penetrates into the soil.

1 g of perennial inflorescence contains about 20 thousand tiny seeds invisible to the naked eye

Then the pot is placed in a transparent bag and sent to the refrigerator for 15-20 days. After the expiration of the specified period, the "greenhouse" is taken out, taken out to a warm (+18 degrees), well-lit place, for example, on a balcony. Astilbe shoots should appear within 3-4 weeks. The soil should not be allowed to dry; a pulverizer is used to moisten it.

Perennial seedlings grow very slowly. If necessary, the sprouts dive into separate containers after the appearance of 2-3 leaves. Practice shows that in most cases a full-fledged outlet barely has time to form by the end of the year, and therefore astilba is transplanted into open ground only next spring.

Young bushes will throw out the first peduncles no earlier than in the third year of life.

There are several options for breeding astilba at their summer cottage:

• planting with seeds in open ground;
• planting seedlings obtained with your own hands at home;
• rooting of perennial divisions (renewal buds).

The greatest debate among florists is caused by the first two methods, the last one does not bring much trouble and 99.9% gives a good result.

How to root the renewal buds purchased in February, and when to plant astilba in the ground, is described in detail in the video on the Garden World website:

Planting seeds in open ground

This method of growing perennials in personal plots is practically not used. However, it is inappropriate to exclude it from floriculture practice forever. Some gardeners are ready to give real examples of astilba self-seeding - cases when new, distinctive in appearance, but generally wonderful plants appeared next to a varietal perennial. By the way, this is the only way of breeding Astilba in the wild.

In other words, growing a perennial from seeds at home is possible. After the panicles have faded, they do not need to be cut off. By the fall, the seed will leave the astilba bolls on its own. From 50 or more thousand dust-like seeds will fall to the ground. In winter, wilted greens will become a natural protection of a perennial from freezing.

On a note! Experts note that many varieties of astilba do not freeze and do not dry out. Most often they die due to natural aging of the rhizome. Plants are vitally in need of root division and its regular deepening into the soil. Such a measure rejuvenates the perennial, stimulates growth.

Having spent the winter in the open field, the seeds will undergo stratification and give rare shoots in the spring. The intervention of the summer resident in the process will not play a role. For example, this is an uncontrolled way of reproduction of astilbe, where you should rely not on your own knowledge and skills, but at random.

If the goal is to grow a perennial from purchased varietal seeds, you need to turn to the second method - getting astilbe seedlings.

Botanists claim that the vitality of the plant can be envied.

Planting home-grown seedlings

Julia shares her experience of sowing seeds:

What are the further actions of the grower who managed to grow strong seedlings? How to plant astilba in open ground? Compliance with the following rules of agricultural technology will be the key to the successful rooting of a perennial.

Firstly, astilba prefers loamy soil with a high groundwater table. The optimum acidity is 5.5 / 6.5 pH. Secondly, while the young perennial adapts to the new environment, it is important to protect the seedling planting site, both from frost and from the active sun and dry wind.

When to plant? When choosing the time, you should trust the thermometer, not the lunar calendar. If there is a threat of return frost, it is better to postpone the event. Even a light frost can destroy astilbe seedlings. In May-June, with consistently warm weather, seedlings are transplanted into the open ground from the north side of the house, in partial shade by the transshipment method.

On a note! Shelter of plants will not be needed if you pre-harden the astilba, bringing it out to an open loggia, a balcony.

Holes are dug in the flower garden, keeping a distance of 35-40 cm. The bottom is flavored with ash. The astilba root is lowered to a depth of 20 cm.It is important to ensure that the renewal buds are covered with soil, with a layer of up to 3 cm.

Within a week, Astilba adapts and grows

After transplanting, the soil around the seedling is well mulched. Use peat or humus. Uncovered ground quickly evaporates water, and perennials are very fond of humid places. Watering astilba is carried out regularly for 10-15 days until clear signs of rooting appear. Top dressing is not needed.

More information about the rules of transplantation on the website "7 Dachas":

Astilba care basics

Growing perennials in the open field does not cause problems and worries for gardeners. The main thing is that the place is right for the plant.

We remind you that an ideal plot is characterized by:

• diffused shadow created by shrubs or trees;
• humid air provided by a pond or stream.

Astilba is especially luxurious near ponds and streams

Water availability as a vital requirement

Changes in humidification conditions are instantly reflected in the appearance of the astilba. Growth in sunny areas, combined with a lack of moisture in the soil, leads to a smaller size of bushes and panicles.

Additionally, the following consequences are observed:

• delay in the growth of rhizomes;
• falling leaves;
• shorter flowering period;
• loss of general decorativeness.

With low air humidity and constant windiness, the plant can fold and shed foliage, astilbe burns and dries.

In this case, it is necessary:

• re-mulch the soil;
• water the plant abundantly and regularly;
• spray greens;
• organize artificial shading during hot hours;
• take care of a more dense planting of a perennial.

On a note! Astilba tends to drive out weeds. The flower garden will always look well-groomed.

Drought tolerant varieties

Today, breeders have managed to develop perennial samples that are tolerant of an arid climate. So, the Japanese astilbe is able to survive even in conditions of lack of water. The scorched greens will die, but in the spring the plant will again throw out young growth. Do not rush to uproot the flower that was ruined this year. At least give the rhizome a chance to show its strength next season.

The relatively dry soil will not harm the Chinese Astilbe Superba and Purpurlance.

Beauty Superba

Flowering period

The flowering time of astilba depends on the variety and climatic conditions. In general, panicles mature within 60-120 days after awakening (exiting the dormant period).

Usually, Japanese astilba and all low-growing varieties are revealed first, followed by the common-leaved, Thunberg, as well as medium-sized hybrids of Arends and Lemoine. Chinese perennials close the flowering season.

The duration of a riot of colors directly depends on the climatic features of the area and varies within 12-35 days. At the end of flowering, individual astilbes do not lose their natural palette, creating the effect of an incredibly long flowering.

The lower the variety, the earlier it ripens.

On a note! Gardeners note that panicles fade faster in sunny areas than in shady areas.

If there is no goal to stock up on seeds, the semi-dry astilbe brushes are cut off. At the same time, the bushes do not lose their decorative effect. Red, brown, brown-green and green foliage retains its beauty until the very frost. The main thing is that the autumn is warm, the air is regularly saturated with moisture, the temperature decreases slowly (gradually).

A monochromatic flower garden in this form will last September and October

How to properly cut faded astilba will teach "Good advice":

Loosening

Astilba loves soft and loose loam

Mulching allows you to retain moisture in the soil, but it is not able to saturate the soil with oxygen. Spring and summer rains very compact the earth, making it difficult for plants to "breathe".

Loosening allows you to increase the air permeability of the soil around the astilba, to control weeds. It is useful to hold the event 2-3 times per season.

During loosening, the soil is not turned over. The main task is to destroy the crust on the surface of the hole. The procedure is carried out neatly with an ordinary pololnik, focusing on a depth of 5-10 cm.

Top dressing

Ash is used every time when planting seedlings and divisions

How to grow a healthy and robust plant? You just need to root a quality seedling in the ground, create a shaded environment and ensure a regular flow of moisture to the roots. Astilba will grow, bloom and delight the eyes of the gardener.

It cannot be said that a perennial is in vital need of regular feeding. However, pampering your favorite bush with "goodies" is also not forbidden.

Gardeners feed astilba 3 times a year: in spring - with nitrogen fertilizers, in June (when it blooms) - with complex complexes, until August 10-15 - with phosphorus-potassium compounds, ash. In the latter case, the plant's resistance to pests and diseases increases, as well as its winter hardiness.

Reason for dividing the rhizome and transplant time

In a favorable atmosphere, astilbe grows soon. The root collar rises 3-5 cm above the ground in a year. At first, it must be earthed (sprinkled with soil), otherwise the perennial will stop blooming. After 4-5 years, the plant must be transplanted.

The peculiarity of the astilba rhizome is such that the growth of renewal buds occurs not horizontally, but vertically, and at the very surface of the earth. If young roots are left without an earthen shelter, they will die: they will dry out in the summer or freeze in the winter.

Astilbe is sold in this form in nurseries.

On a note! Shredding of peduncles and perennial bushes is a direct signal about the exposure of the root collar and shoots.

In one place, astilbe can grow up to 20 years. However, in this case, it is better not to wait for a lush vegetative mass and large panicles. If the gardener wants to increase the decorative effect of the bush, he should regularly (at intervals of 3-4 years) divide the rhizome into parts and transplant the delenki to a new place of residence. This is the most common breeding method of Astilba and a separate story that deserves attention (link).The benefits of the event are obvious - there are more flowering bushes, the garden is more beautiful.

It is believed that the best period for transplanting is spring (no frost) or autumn (late August - September). Before wintering, Astilbe strips must have time to take root. To reduce the stress of the transplanted plant, greens can be sprayed with epin or phytosporin. The adaptation will take place faster and with less losses.

On a note! Horticultural practice has shown that, contrary to literary instructions, astilbe takes root well at any time of active growing season, even during the flowering period!

How to care for a transplanted cut? In the usual way:

• maintain soil moisture by mulching;
• feed after engraftment three times a year;
• cut off discarded peduncles 1 time after transplanting to enable the plant to grow stronger.

Preparing astilba for wintering In a mild climate and abundant snow, the bush does not need to be covered

Caring for a plant in the fall involves a number of activities:

• feeding with phosphorus and potassium;
• updating the mulch over the rhizome;
• a cut of dried greenery that has lost its decorative effect;
• shelter from frost if necessary.

Astilbe stems are cut almost to the root. From above, the "stumps" are spud and covered with mulch with a layer of 5 to 20 cm. They use hay, leaves, sawdust, high-moor peat, spruce branches.

In autumn, these materials will protect the soil and roots of astilba from weathering, as well as leaching due to heavy rains. In winter, the shelter will eliminate the risk of soil freezing, becoming the key to the healthy development of the bush for the next season.

Practice has shown that in warm regions, astilba is not prepared for winter. The work is reduced to putting things in order on the personal plot. In the Far East, in areas with severe winters, it is better to play it safe and “warmly” cover the perennial. Then, in frost and snowlessness, you can calmly sleep.

Moscow, Russia, on the site since 11.01.2017

An exotic plant brought to Europe from Japan captivated flower growers with long and lush flowering. Astilba, planting and care in the open field, which has its own characteristics, has become an adornment of shady gardens, being a shade-tolerant plant and resistant to high soil moisture.

Astilba: cultivation features

Astilba is a herbaceous plant from the Saxifrage family, the height of which can vary from 0.1 to 2 m. The erect stem is covered with large basal leaf plates of dark green, burgundy and bronze color. During the flowering period, which is celebrated during the summer season, white, red, pink, purple flowers bloom, collected in panicles of various lengths, depending on the variety and species. The genus includes almost 400 varieties and a similar number of varieties. Among the most popular are astilba Arends, Chinese, common and Japanese.

An openwork bush of leaves on cuttings of a red shade, decoratively decorated during the growing season, is not difficult to grow if you know a number of key characteristics of the culture:

• the need for higher humidity;
• vertical growth of the rhizome and the death of its lower part;
• negative attitude to spring temperature changes, therefore, proper care for astilba in autumn is required.

Landing in open ground

The flower belongs to a rather unpretentious plant. but to obtain lush greenery and abundant flowering, a number of rules should be followed, starting with the preparatory work before planting.

Site and soil preparation

When choosing a place, it should be borne in mind that astilba is a plant that prefers partial shade: the direct rays of the midday sun have a destructive effect. You should not plant bushes in areas unprotected from the scorching sunlight. Although some varieties adapt in sunny areas, while shortening the flowering period.The culture grows well on any type of soil, giving preference to loamy soils, the acidity of which ranges from 5.5 to 6.5, with a high occurrence of groundwater. An excellent option would be to plant a plant near natural or artificial reservoirs.

How and when to plant?

Spring is considered the best time for planting bushes. If circumstances force the procedure to be carried out in the fall, then this is done long before the onset of frosty weather, otherwise the plant may not have time to take root.

When disembarking, the following algorithm should be followed:

1. Organic fertilizers are applied at the rate of 2 buckets of compost per m2 to the previously dug up and cleared of weeds.
2. Planting pits of 25x25 cm are prepared at a distance of 30 cm from each other.
3. Before planting, ½ cup of wood ash and a tablespoon of complex mineral fertilizers are poured into each hole, after which they are well moistened.
4. A seedling is placed in the hole so that the soil layer above the growth point is 4 cm.
5. After planting, the site is mulched with a 3 cm layer of peat, which allows you to retain moisture in the soil and protect the plant rhizome from overheating.

Astilba: rules of care

If the planting was carried out in compliance with agrotechnical requirements, then it will be much easier to care for the plant. When implementing comprehensive care, you should be aware of the basic rules.

Hilling

Due to the gradual vertical growth of the rhizome, after a certain time, the root system is deprived of the opportunity to feed. To prevent this, astilbe needs systematic hilling.

Watering the plant

When growing an exotic flower, water plays an important role: perennials require systematic watering. The multiplicity of moisture can reduce periodic mulching, which also helps to get rid of weeds, frequent loosening procedures and prevent overheating of the rhizome. Depending on the type of flower, the amount of irrigation is regulated - from medium to high.

However, there are some general rules:

1. In the budding phase, any species needs large and systematic volumes of water.
2. During a drought period, watering is carried out twice a day - in the morning and in the evening.

Important! Even the slightest drying out of the soil should not be allowed, which has a detrimental effect on the culture.

Top dressing

When applying fertilizers, you can use the following plan:

1. In the spring, the plant requires a higher nitrogen content, which is present in urea, ammonium nitrate or humus: when hilling, the soil is enriched with one of these fertilizers.
2. At the beginning of summer, to ensure long-term flowering, the culture needs potash feeding: half a liter of a solution prepared from 2 tablespoons of potassium nitrate per bucket of water is used for one copy.
3. At the end of flowering, the dressing should include phosphorus, which helps to endure the winter easier: 20 g of superphosphate is applied under each bush.

Attention! After each top dressing, the soil under the flower is loosened and mulched.

Pruning astilba

When flowering is over, it is not recommended to cut the inflorescences: drying flowers retain their decorative effect for a long time and decorate the garden plot. Pruning astilbe shoots, in which they become flush with the ground, is carried out in preparation for winter.

Transfer

The average life span of a culture is 5-7 years, after which it is transplanted by dividing the rhizome, as in reproduction.

Advice! If you carry out proper care with systematic fertilization, you can extend the growth period of astilba in one place up to 20 years.

Autumn care, preparation for winter

Astilba belongs to frost-resistant plants that have adapted to Russian winters. However, spring temperature drops remain fatal for her.To prevent freezing, the plant is covered with natural material - spruce branches, garden foliage.

Advice! If possible, the soil between the specimens should be mulched with pine needles.

Protection against diseases and pests

When viewed on an exotic perennial, sometimes lesions are noted with a slobbery penny, gall and strawberry nematodes. Pennitsa colonize the sinuses between the leaves, where after a while foamy discharge with larvae appears. Yellow spots are formed on the leaves, which provoke the gradual wilting of the perennial. Gall nematodes also attack the aerial part of the plant, which makes it easier to control this pest. As a protective measure when such lesions are detected, Astilba is treated with insecticidal preparations according to the manufacturer's instructions - "Aktara", "Confidor" and other analogues. The strawberry nematode infects the rhizome, which nullifies attempts to save the plant. Such specimens should be removed in a timely manner so that the pest does not spread to neighboring bushes.

Reproduction of astilba

An exotic plant propagates by vegetative and generative methods.

Dividing the bush

The most popular and simplest method, in which:

1. The rhizome is dug up and divided into parts, each of which should have 3 growth buds.
2. Places of cuts are processed with charcoal.
3. New specimens are planted in accordance with the agricultural technique of planting and watered daily.

Important! If the procedure is carried out in early spring, by the end of summer, new plants can delight the gardener with flowering.

Cuttings

Another simple technique, for which you can use the following algorithm:

1. With the arrival of spring, after the awakening of the renewal buds (the buds responsible for the development of new stems), the regrown shoots are cut off with a part of the rhizome.
2. Places of cuts are sprinkled with wood ash or coal.
3. Cuttings are planted in a mixture of peat and gravel in a ratio of 3: 1 and covered with glass or foil.
4. In the fall or next spring, astilba is transplanted to a permanent place.

Seed propagation

The generative method is not used for propagation of varietal flowers due to the impossibility of preserving the characteristics of the variety of the parent specimen. However, when buying a varietal seed, it is possible to grow a crop.

Shade-loving astilba will look great on alpine slides, shaded flower beds and in ridges along the lawns. The exotic representative will adorn even the sunless corners of the garden.

This perennial culture grows beautifully and adorns a shady garden with its unusual flowers. Within the framework of this article, we will figure out how to plant and care for astilbe in the open field. Observing the simple rules of agricultural technology, you can achieve excellent results in growing this plant.

Description of the plant - varieties and varieties

Astilba is a rhizome perennial of the saxifrage family. In summer, curly bushes with lovely inflorescences are very decorative, in winter the herbaceous aboveground part of the plant dies off. Different plant varieties have different heights - from 8 cm to 2 m. Astilba leaves are feathery, complexly dissected, green or brownish in color. There are varieties with white, pink and lilac flowers.

Astilba has many shades

Astilba bloom begins in early summer and lasts for about a month. During this period, the plant is most decorative. Astilbe with curly inflorescences - panicles - serve as an excellent decoration for parks, gardens, squares and are often used to decorate territories in landscape design.

The culture is characterized by high resistance in winter: the rhizomes withstand wintering at temperatures down to -37 ° C without the threat of freezing.

Important! When grown outdoors, Astilba prefers moist, nutritious soil and even watering from time to time.If this condition is met, caring for a flower culture does not present any particular difficulties.

Areas of distribution of natural species of astilba

The plant is found naturally in Japan, America and East Asia. In Russia, the area of ​​the plant is the Far East, where there are 2 types of astilba natural varieties.

All modern cultivated varieties of flower culture belong to the species - Astilba Arends. Medium and tall forms of the plant bloom with bright inflorescences of pink or white flowers with numerous transitions and shades.

Astilba in landscape design

Astilba hybrid cultivars are widely used in landscape design. During flowering, the bushes form airy curtains of pink or purple hues. Plants are characterized by compact size and abundant flowering. Planting hybrid astilba in groups with other species allows you to perfectly shade lawns and conifers during flowering. The combination of plants with different color tones enlivens the parkland areas.

An interesting type of astilba Thunberg, which has not typical for the species, drooping brushes of yellowish or pink flowers.

Early flowering astilbe of a wide range of colors of white and pink tones belong to the species "Japanese Astilba". This type of astilba is highly decorative.

Astilba: planting and care

When planting plants, the quality of the planting material is of great importance. In order for the plant survival rate to be one hundred percent, it is worth considering some of the requirements for the rhizomes intended for planting.

Landing astilba

Important! Astilba rhizomes should not have dead, rotten parts. Overdrying or excessive moisture of the planting material is not allowed during storage. Young shoots should not be elongated, curved or wrinkled.

Of course, specimens with elongated sprouts can also take root, but then the plant can lose its decorative effect and hurt for a long time.

Choosing a comfortable place for a flower

It should be remembered that astilba is a plant for partial shade, bright sunlight is destructive for it. Planting a flower culture in open, unprotected spaces from sunlight is undesirable.

In addition, flowers do not respond well to areas with high groundwater levels and stagnant water. This leads to the soaking and damping of the rhizomes. Cultivation of a crop in such areas will not do without a reliable drainage device. And if it is not possible to equip it, you need to choose a higher place for planting plants.

Planting astilba in the open field: determine the size of the holes

The depth of the planting pit is required to be provided individually for each plant, taking into account the size of the rhizome. The root system of the astilba should be freely placed in the planting pit, while deepening the bush or filling the growth point with soil is not allowed. A hydrogel can be added to the bottom of the pits, it will help maintain soil moisture; as well as bone meal, ash and mineral fertilizers - 1 matchbox each.

Astilba should be planted in a well-moistened soil.

The surface of the earth can be mulched with bark or peat chips, which will keep the soil evenly moist, and in the future, will protect the roots of the plant from drying out.

Plant care

Astilbe bushes grow by about 3-5 cm in height per year. Plant care measures are reduced to adding soil under the bare parts of the rhizome. Fertile soil is added in a layer of 2-3 cm.

Planting maintenance requires maintaining soil moisture. To do this, add a mulching layer (peat, bark, expanded clay or landscape crushed stone) on top of the planting soil. In winter, mulch on the surface of the soil helps to protect delicate rhizomes from freezing.

The combination of uniform watering and keeping the soil moist is the key to plant health and lush flowering.

Caring for astilbe is very simple

The decorativeness of the plant is supported by periodic pruning of dead stems. It is necessary to regularly remove faded inflorescences from the bushes, this is especially true when using astilba in landscape design when decorating territories.

Fertilization and feeding

The introduction of fertilizers under the bushes of astilba during planting has already been mentioned above.

For the full development of the plant, it is required to carry out regular feeding with complex fertilizers. Considering that astilba can grow in one place without transplanting and dividing rhizomes for more than 5 years, it is necessary to feed the plants with nitrogen fertilizers from the beginning of spring. This helps new foliage grow quickly on overwintered bushes.

Do not forget to feed Astilba with mineral fertilizers

During flowering, the crop must be fertilized with phosphorus, and by the end of flowering - with potash fertilizers. This will help to increase the timing and splendor of flowering, and also stimulates the formation of full-fledged seeds.

Plant propagation

Seed propagation

To preserve the decorative and varietal characteristics of the plant, propagation of perennials by seeds is not accepted. Crops grown from seeds often do not correspond to the declared varietal characteristics:

• have a changed color;
• sparse flower tassels;
• low decorative effect;
• short flowering times.

For seed propagation, only high-quality seeds of varietal selection can be used.

Astilba seed sprouts

The seeds of the plant are sown on the surface of the moistened soil, without covering them up. For accelerated germination, high humidity is maintained (you can cover the crops with glass or keep them in a greenhouse). Growing astilbe seedlings is reduced to the timely watering of seedlings. At this time, it is especially dangerous to dry out young plants. They need to be protected from direct sunlight, providing a bright place without access to scorching rays.

Excellent results in increasing germination are achieved by performing preliminary seed stratification. This agricultural technique consists of placing the seeds in a cold place (+ 4 ° C to - 4 ° C) for 3 weeks. The hardened seeds are sown in greenhouses and kept at a temperature of + 20 ° C. Young plants can be planted in a permanent place in the open field within 2-3 months after sowing. Seedlings obtained from stratified seeds are distinguished by excellent survival rate and fast growth.

Reproduction of astilba by dividing the bush

The vegetative method of reproduction of astilba (dividing the bush) is the most reliable and familiar for flower growers. The mother plant is dug up with care, taking care not to damage the delicate rhizome. With a sharp knife, the rhizome is divided into parts with 2-3 buds. The slices are sprinkled with crushed coal.

Dividing the astilbe bush

Planting material is laid out in the prepared furrow and the soil is moistened. Excellent results when planting cuttings are achieved with the use of root formation stimulants. Caring for young plants includes regular watering and loosening the soil.

Planting of astilbe cuttings can be carried out in early spring, already in March. With this method of propagation, the first flowering of young plants will begin in early autumn.

Division by the kidneys

Reproduction of a perennial is carried out in another way, which is considered the fastest - by dividing by buds. In the spring, with the beginning of the growing season of the plant, the buds of renewal are separated with a sharp knife. Cuttings are planted in a greenhouse with moist soil mixed with coarse sand or gravel, after dusting the cut with ash. With this method of reproduction, a very high survival rate of young plants is noted. The only drawback is that getting a full-fledged plant takes almost a year.

Diseases and pests

Monitor the health of your plants. In the event of pests, immediately start fighting them.

Astilba attracts not only with its decorative effect, the plant is practically not damaged by pests and diseases.Rhizomes of some crops may occasionally be affected by rootworm nematodes. The pest does not respond to the use of drugs, so the fight against the nematode is reduced to the destruction of diseased bushes. In this case, it is required to remove part of the soil that came into contact with the roots of the diseased plant. It is advisable not to plant a crop at this place for several years.

Another pest that can threaten a plant outdoors is a drooling penny. The affected plant feels depressed, the development of the leaf mass slows down. Preventive measures - collecting the pest from the leaves of the plant by hand.

Astilba: combination with other plants

Growing astilba in group plantings with other plants is quite justified. Decorative plant panicles look great near conifers with their monotonous greenery. Such a neighborhood is very preferable for astilba: conifers provide shrubs with protection from the sun.

The combination of astilba of different colors in landscape design

Astilbe bushes are in perfect harmony with late tulips, irises, hosts, periwinkle. Single plantings of astilba on a green lawn in the shade are very decorative.

In landscape design, when planting in the shade, astilbe bushes fit perfectly. The plant is used for single and group plantings, creating complex landscape solutions for shady and semi-shady places. Caring for ornamental plants is absolutely no difficulty and consists in timely watering.

How to plant astilba correctly: video

Astilba: photo