Astilba planting from seeds and care in the open field

Unpretentious perennials are especially appreciated by flower growers, which adorn the site with bright quivering inflorescences year after year. Such crops include astilba, planting and care in the open field for which will not be difficult for a beginner.

One has only once to see the delicate foliage and the inflorescences soaring above it, like airy foam, it is already impossible to forget the appearance of a perennial ornamental plant! Even outside the flowering season, Astilba are graceful and attractive. It is not surprising that the plant is becoming more and more popular with gardeners in various regions of the country. There are flower enthusiasts, for example, in Siberia, where, it would seem, one can only dream of planting and caring for astilba.

In order for the beauties that appeared on the site to feel comfortable, grow and bloom to the delight of the owners, you need to know something about the culture itself and the conditions acceptable for it.

Garden beauty astilba

Astilba is a herbaceous ornamental perennial, various species of which came from Asia and North America. Depending on the cultivated variety, the height of the plant can vary from 20 cm to 2 meters, the shades of tiny flowers collected in paniculate inflorescences are incredibly diverse. Well-chosen plants will cover the garden with a cloud of milestones of white, pink, red, purple and lilac. Leaves, like inflorescences, are decorative. Not only do they have an exquisite falsely dissected shape, the color of the leaf blades ranges from the usual green to a burgundy or purple-bluish hue.

If you make a little effort in growing and caring, astilba, as in the photo, from June to August will surprise with a friendly and long flowering.

Astilba in the open field is a very grateful plant that perfectly responds to attention, the correct selection of a planting site and effortless care. This is one of the few cultures that not only tolerate, but also prefer partial shade. Astilba has very few enemies in the garden, and the flower is extremely rarely affected by diseases.

When to plant astilba in open ground: in spring or autumn

After hibernation, the plant wakes up a little later than other perennials. In order for astilba to start a stable growing season, the average daily air temperature should not fall below +10 ° C. In warm areas, young leaves of astilba, when planted and nursed in the open field, appear in late April or early May.

In the north, where the spring is delayed, the development of the plant is delayed until the end of May or the beginning of June.

If a florist wants to replenish his collection of luxurious plants, it is important not to rush so that the flower culture does not freeze after transplanting, and not to delay. Otherwise, it will be more difficult for astilbe to acclimatize in hot weather.

The beginning of the growing season is the time when it is better to plant astilba in open ground in the spring.

Some summer residents practice the autumn planting of a flower, but in this case, the plant needs to be given time to root and adapt to a new place.

Place for planting astilba in open ground

When choosing a place for astilba, you need to remember that the plant:

• prefers diffused light;
• can grow and bloom in the shade of trees and buildings;
• unpretentious when choosing a soil that should retain moisture well and not be overly heavy;
• however, it does not tolerate stagnant moisture, which threatens root rot, and in springtime increases the risk of decay.

So that the flowering perennial does not suffer from too dry air, for planting astilba in open ground and facilitating maintenance, it is useful to choose areas near water bodies where the humidity is slightly higher.

Features of planting an astilba flower in the ground in spring

On the flowerbed, a place for astilba is calculated so that about 30-40 cm remains between the bushes. Add to the pre-prepared planting pits up to 30 cm deep and wide:

• 30 grams of complex fertilizers for ornamental crops;
• about a glass of bone meal;
• humus.

Planting is carried out in moistened soil to a depth of about 20 cm, while the soil layer above the points of future growth should not be more than 3-5 cm.

Planted adult plants and cuttings during vegetative propagation of the astilba on top are thickly mulched so that the soil retains moisture better, and the plants are protected from the germination of weeds.

A variety of materials are suitable as mulch, which include:

• chopped straw;
• large chips or pieces of bark;
• pebbles or expanded clay;
• low-lying peat.

As needed, the mulch layer is renewed in summer, and when planting astilba in open ground in the fall, it helps the perennial culture to winter calmly.

When is it useful to plant astilba in open ground in the fall?

The peculiarity of astilba is the upper growth of the root system, which in several years leads to the appearance of a dense island under the bush, towering above the general soil level. Without a regular, every 4-5 years transplant:

• astilba roots weaken;
• the number of renewal buds formed annually decreases;
• the flowering of such a plant is shorter and poorer, the leaves are smaller.

After the flowering of an adult astilba, it is useful to undertake its autumn transplant, combining the procedure with dividing the bush into several young ones.

If you have to plant and care for astilba in the Urals, Siberia, the Non-Black Earth Region, you need to calculate the transplant time so that the plant has time to acclimatize. Autumn mulching will be a good help, which will partially replace or enhance the effect of hiding a flower for the winter.

Vegetative propagation and planting of astilba seeds

In the conditions of an amateur garden or a summer cottage, astilbe reproduce vegetatively, that is, by dividing an adult bush or with the help of individual renewal buds. Planting astilba seeds is a rarity used to obtain new varieties or hybrids, as well as in the presence of varietal seed.

The easiest way is to divide an adult bush. This is done in spring or autumn so that on each part there are several promising growth points and enough roots for nutrition.

Places of cuts on the root system should be treated with chopped charcoal. Planting in open ground and caring for astilba in this case has no peculiarities, except that young specimens are watered every day. If you do not be late with the transplant, in the second half of summer astilba will delight you with the first flowers.

The separation of promising buds, which will become an independent shoot next year, will also help to get young astilba. And here it is worth taking care that the renewal bud has a healthy root.

The future bush is planted in a separate seedling bed in a loose, moisture-consuming substrate. Film covers are often used. They will help maintain a comfortable temperature, high humidity, and help the plant take root faster. In the fall or the next vein, such seedlings are ready for planting in a permanent place.

Astilba care after planting in open ground

Caring for the beautiful astilba will not complicate the busiest summer resident. If the planting site is chosen correctly, during the spring, summer and autumn, while the growing season is in progress, the flower needs:

• watering, providing the plant with its favorite water;
• top dressing with a predominance of potassium and phosphorus;
• measures to keep the soil clean and loose, such as maintaining a layer of mulch.

The soil under the astilbe must not be covered with a dry crust. The plant immediately reacts to this with lethargy leaves, shedding flowers and "tears" in lush inflorescences.

Astilba is not afraid of the cold, so in most regions it is not specially covered, but it is worth checking the mulch layer in the fall. When spring comes, mulching is done again. It will protect the sprouts from frost and simplify the care of the astilbe after planting the flower in the ground.

Experienced flower growers who have been growing crops for a long time recommend removing fading inflorescences along with peduncles. This measure will preserve the strength of the astilbe and improve the appearance of the entire flower bed. Before the onset of cold weather, the aboveground part of the plants is carefully cut off, leaving petioles 5-10 cm above the ground level.

Interesting about charming astilbe - video

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 astilba 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 agronomic 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 astilba 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

Keep your plants healthy. If pests appear, start fighting them right away.

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

Astilba is a genus of perennial herbaceous plants that are highly decorative. Its small bright flowers, collected in graceful panicle inflorescences, give the garden plot a special charm. One of the advantages of growing astilba is its undemandingness to the bright sun. On the contrary, the scorching rays of the sun harm the delicate foliage and inflorescences of perennials. Astilba will feel comfortable not only at their summer cottage, but also at home, decorating a balcony or loggia.

Astilba is a genus of perennial herbaceous plants that are highly decorative. Its small bright flowers, collected in graceful panicle inflorescences, give the garden plot a special charm. One of the advantages of growing astilba is its undemandingness to the bright sun. On the contrary, the scorching rays of the sun harm the delicate foliage and inflorescences of perennials. Astilba will feel comfortable not only at their summer cottage, but also at home, decorating a balcony or loggia.

Getting to know the plant

In the natural environment, astilbe can be found in the countries of North America, East Asia, and Japan. It also grows in Russia, mainly in the Far East. Vivid representatives of the genus prefer swampy low-lying places, the banks of rivers and streams, deciduous forests, where there is no lack of moisture.

The stem of the plant is erect and reaches a height of 8 cm to 2 m, depending on the species. Cirrus basal leaves are colored dark green or reddish green. For the winter, the aboveground part dies off, and the branchy woody roots winter well in the ground. Astilba rhizome is able to withstand frosts down to -35 ... -37 ° С.

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A perennial is grown for the sake of spectacular apical inflorescences. Flowering usually lasts 30-40 days from June to August - at this time, you can admire the red, white, pink, lilac or purple panicles. Varieties with drooping inflorescences (astilba Thunberg) look gentle. After flowering, very small seeds ripen - in 1 g they can be counted up to 20 thousand. As a result of selection, about 200 hybrid varieties of astilbe were obtained, from which you can choose the most suitable one for a balcony box or container.

Sowing seeds for seedlings

It is possible to grow astilba at home from seeds, since there is a great choice in flower shops and agricultural firms now. When buying, you need to choose miniature and undersized varieties that will look beautiful in flowerpots or containers. The seed purchased in specialized stores is of high quality and good germination (70-85%).

Growing astilba from seeds is a longer process compared to reproduction by dividing a bush, because a young plant will bloom only in the third year.However, with seed reproduction, it is easy to feel like a breeder: the end result can be completely unexpected, since the varietal characteristics of the mother plant are not always transmitted.

To achieve the desired result, astilba seeds are pre-stratified - kept for a certain time in the dark at low temperature and high humidity. Start stratification in February-March:

• A mixture of sand and peat, taken in equal proportions, is poured into a shallow box or bowl. Alternatively, use a ready-made seedling growing medium purchased from a store.
• The surface of the soil is moistened and astilbe seeds are scattered over it, without sprinkling it with earth.
• Collect some clean snow and spread it in a thin layer (1 cm) over the surface of the ground. The snow will begin to melt and slightly pull the seeds into the substrate.
• The container is covered with glass or placed in a plastic bag and placed in the refrigerator for 3 weeks. If there is no free space on the bottom shelf, any room with an air temperature of 0 + 4 ° C will do.

After 21 days, the container with astilba is removed from the cold storage and transferred to a warm room. If suddenly the seeds hatch before the end of the stratification period, you should not worry - they adapt well and form into strong healthy plants.

Transplanting seedlings to a permanent place

For the emergence and normal growth of seedlings, an air temperature of + 18 + 22 ° C is required, good lighting without direct sunlight and constantly damp ground. Special care must be taken when watering seedlings. The emerging green sprouts, similar to hairs, are best watered from a syringe or spray, trying not to break fragile seedlings. Seedlings, after the appearance of 2-3 true leaves, dive into small pots to plant on a site, in a balcony box or a decorative flowerpot.

Even a novice florist can handle the planting of astilba:

• Choose a shaded spot in your garden next to sprawling trees and shrubs. The north side of the house is also suitable, where other garden crops will wither. A close proximity to a reservoir or an area with a high groundwater table is a win-win option, since the plant needs life-giving moisture. When placed on a balcony or loggia, the north, north-east or north-west side is suitable.
• The soil on the site is preferably loamy with an acidity index of pH 5.5-6.5. The site is dug up before planting, adding 2 buckets of compost or rotted manure for each square meter. m.
• Dig holes 20-30 cm deep, observing the distance between them 30 cm. Add 0.5 cups of wood ash and 1 tbsp to each hole. l. mineral fertilizer.
• The seedlings are placed in the holes, covered with soil so that the plants remain at the same level in relation to the surface of the earth.
• The soil around the astilba is lightly tamped and watered.
• The beds are mulched with a layer of peat 3-5 cm thick.

Astilba is planted in open ground in May-June, when the threat of return frosts has passed. Despite the fact that the roots of perennials endure severe frosts, delicate shoots can die from the cold.

Perennial care

Astilba is undemanding to light, but the constant presence of moisture is vital for it. Therefore, caring for the plant consists, first of all, in regular and abundant watering. The soil surface should always be slightly damp. On hot dry days, watering is recommended twice a day - early in the morning and in the evening.

In addition to watering, you will need:

• Hilling. The root system of astilba grows upward, and the lower parts of the rhizome gradually die off. Therefore, it is necessary to huddle the bushes so that the roots are not left without food.
• Mulching. Protects the soil surface from drying out and helps maintain the necessary moisture. Prevents weed growth and overheating of perennial roots.
• Top dressing.For the successful development of bushes in early spring, it is necessary to apply mineral fertilizers with an increased nitrogen content, which is necessary to build up green mass. During the flowering period, the composition of fertilizers will have to be changed, giving preference to phosphorus ones. By the end of flowering, you can feed the astilba with potassium fertilizer.

With the onset of cold weather, closer to winter, shrub shoots are cut flush with the soil surface, and the site is mulched.

In the astilbe cut, there are only a few days. But dried inflorescences are perfect for creating a "dry" bouquet in combination with other dried flowers. Despite the fact that the color of the panicles fades a little when dry, astilba inflorescences look quite presentable.

Reproduction

It is easier and safer to propagate astilba by dividing the bush. Work on the digging of the mother plant and planting the cuttings can be carried out as early as March. The advantage of this method is not only simplicity - young plants will bloom in the same year.

The division of the bush is carried out according to the scheme:

• Carefully dig up the mother bush, being careful not to damage the rhizome.
• With a sharp disinfected knife, the rhizome is divided into divisions so that each of them has 2-3 buds.
• All sections are sprinkled with crushed coal.
• Delenki are planted in prepared holes in the same way as when planting seedlings.

Further care of young plants is carried out as described above.

It is useful to divide the rhizome every 5 years. Over time, the central part of the bush dies off, and it "breaks up" into several separate bushes, losing its former decorative effect.

Conclusion

Astilba is considered an easy-to-care plant and is perfect for inexperienced growers. It is resistant to disease and pests and will not cause much trouble. The main thing is to remember about regular watering. With the help of graceful multi-colored panicles, you can decorate a summer cottage by planting a perennial next to conifers or against the background of a green lawn. And miniature and dwarf varieties can be safely planted on the balcony, unless it faces the south side.

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Not all shade-loving plants have a luxurious bloom, like a bright spot against a background of dark green foliage. Astilba differs from its herbaceous shade-tolerant relatives by its lush panicle-shaped inflorescence. The dullness of the leaves gives the plant a special look, allowing the bright colors to show off.

About the meaning of the name of astilba and a little history

Astilba got its name for nondescript matte leaves: "A" - without, negation; "Stilba" - shine, it turns out "without shine". Scottish botanist Lord Hamilton was the first to include the plant in the herbaceous classification, which now has about 40 species, including perennial and annual varieties.

In nature, it is found along the banks of water bodies, more often it grows in deciduous forests, but can grow on the shady slopes of highlands. The homeland is considered to be East Asia, North America, the Japanese islands, where astilbe was first discovered. Wet places made the green color dull, inconspicuous, but the inflorescences conquer gardeners.

European gardens got acquainted with the plant thanks to travelers who were looking for interesting, unusual things in different countries.Karl Thunberg and von Siebold brought the flower from Japan along with other exclusive goods. The end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th century is marked by the development of park culture in Russia, recreation and outdoor walks are becoming popular among the population. Having found its application in decorating shady gardens, pond banks, small artificial reservoirs, astilba has become popular among landscape designers and florists.

Description of astilba

How to grow astilbe in the Astilbe ‘Bressingham Beauty’ (x arendsii) photo

Astilba belongs to herbaceous perennials, the upper part of which dies off for the winter, and the rhizome remains in the ground. Roots exposed during the summer period need to be covered with an additional layer of soil, and the harsh climatic conditions require additional cover with special industrial material or foliage.

Plant height ranges from 8 cm to 2 m, you can choose a representative for any flower bed or architectural structure. Miniature dwarf species barely reach 30 cm, their flexible stem forms an arc shape, for which they called the flower "drooping". There are known varieties with drooping inflorescences Tenberg, Lemoine. Despite the variety of colors, the choice remains on bright, saturated ones, which will look impressive on the shady side of the garden.

The leaf plate is not uniform, depending on the variety and place of growth. The hue can vary from dark green in summer to brownish red in autumn. The leaf is planted on a long petiole, some varieties have a pinnate shape, others have a jagged edge. Most species are represented by a complex leaf structure, consisting of several pointed cordate leaves.

The underground part of the plant is distinguished by its heterogeneity: there are species with a loose soft root, and some are strong treelike. Many processes depart from the central rhizome, the lower ones die off, and new ones form on top. The plant increases the root system upwards by 3-5 cm, so the roots are exposed in autumn.

Astilbe is especially valuable for rich purple, red, lilac, pink, white inflorescences in the form of a panicle or pyramid. They can be erect, resembling a fiery torch, or drooping, bowed to the ground in an arc. After flowering, they form a fruit - a box with seeds. The flowering time depends on the variety: early (June), medium (July), late (August-September).

Advice! To form a continuously flowering flower bed, it is better to use varieties with different degrees of flowering. Remove faded brushes, preserving the aesthetic appearance of the composition.

Planting astilba in open ground

How to plant astilba in the ground photo

You can settle astilba on a flower bed in two ways: by dividing rhizomes or seedlings. Plants grown from seeds will bloom a little later, but a divided bush will please with flowers right away, and there will be less hassle.

Ready planting material is planted all May and early June. It is better to choose the north side behind the house, shady places in the garden. Some varieties quite tolerate sunny flower beds, even bloom more abundantly, albeit not so long. The presence of an artificial reservoir, a fountain, a pool close to the astilba will be a huge plus. The plant loves high groundwater levels and slightly acidified soil (pH 5.5-6.5).

Hostas are excellent companions for astilbe: this ground cover covers the entire surface with leaves, which retains moisture in the ground and creates a cool microclimate for the roots.

To plant astilba in the spring, dig up the area well, select the roots of perennial weeds, and let the earth settle. It's good if you add organic fertilizers (humus, compost) at the rate of a couple of buckets per square meter. This is all thoroughly mixed with a shovel with the garden soil and broken with a rake.

How to plant astilba:

• Wells are prepared, 25-30 cm deep, about the same diameter.
• The distance between the holes is at least 30 cm.
• Add half a glass of wood ash and a nitroamofoska matchbox to the bottom of the hole.Such dressing will provide the plant with all the necessary substances, just sprinkle a little earth on top so that the roots do not get to the "surprise" immediately after transplanting, since mineral dressing can burn damaged roots and the plant will hurt for a long time.
• Astilba is planted so that the root collar is deepened by 5 cm.
• The roots need to be straightened when planting, well covered with earth.
• After it is watered abundantly, the hole is mulched with a layer of humus.

It should be remembered that astilba loves moisture, therefore, the earth is not allowed to dry out in the future.

How to care for astilba after planting

The flower has the ability to "climb to the surface" by the roots: gradually the lower roots die off, and the upper part forms an increasingly powerful upper part, which should be spud.

A prerequisite for the full development of the plant is regular watering, and during periods of hot dry weather - twice a day - in the morning and in the evening, when the sun does not bake so well.

It is also important to mulch the root space. Such a “litter” of leaves, straw, cut grass or even fallen needles will do a great job: it will retain moisture longer, create excellent conditions for the development of beneficial microfauna in the ground and protect it from weeds. There will be no need for frequent weeding and loosening, which will reduce the time spent on caring for astilba.

When to transplant astilba Reproduction of astilba by dividing the bush

How to divide the astilba bush photo

When can astilba be transplanted? If you see that the roots are already just on the surface and hilling does not help, it's time to transplant the bush. Usually, after 4-5 years, the bush is aging and needs to be updated.

• It is best to replant and divide astilba in early autumn or late August. Then the flowering of the new bush will be the next year.
• The rhizome of the main bush is divided so that there is a growth bud on each process.
• It is difficult to separate the woody root, so young 2-3 year old shoots are selected.

The planting pattern is 30 by 40 cm, so enough space is left for the lush growth of the green mass. The hole should be 25-30 cm deep, it is important not to forget about the deepening of the root collar by 4-5 cm. The soil is pre-fertilized with compost and mineral concentrates. Later, feeding is done once a year: in spring or autumn.

Watering is necessary regular, but moderate: the flower does not like stagnant water, the root and stems begin to rot. A typical procedure for a plant is hilling and adding soil to the flower bed. This is due to the peculiarity of root growth - upwards with the death of the lower part. For good air permeability, the earth is mulched with peat, sawdust, dry grass, and pine needles. The main care is loosening, eliminating weeds, watering, hilling, feeding if necessary (especially for 3-5 years of growth in one place).

How and what to feed astilba:

• in the spring - nitrogen fertilizers are applied (ammonium nitrate, urea, organic - fermented manure or chicken droppings), applied during hilling;
• in summer when flowering - potash, concentrate is suitable for flowering plants;
• in the fall after flowering - phosphoric, 20 g of superphosphate under a bush

Before use, be sure to read the instructions, the compositions of different manufacturers have their own concentration of the substance.

Preparing Astilba for winter

Before winter, the upper part of the bush is cut flush with the ground and mulching is done with organic residues (leaves, etc.). This method of wintering will protect the plant from freezing and rejuvenate old bushes.

After harvesting the mulch in the spring, it will be easier for the sprouts to break through to the sun, and growth will increase. In the middle lane, astilbe can easily overwinter without shelter, the main thing is that the roots are not exposed. After all, they have young buds, from which the development of the bush will go in the new season. To avoid freezing, be sure to spud the bare rhizomes and mulch the ground with humus with a layer of 3-4 cm.

In Siberia and the Urals, astilbe needs to be covered much better.They make a good slide of earth above the bush, cover it with hay or straw with a layer of 20-30 cm, and on top of it a wooden box, which is pressed with heavy stones or bricks. In the spring, the box is removed, leaving the mulch and soil until the frost recedes, and only then the organic matter and excess soil are removed so that the plant grows quickly.

Growing astilba from seeds

Planting astilba seeds Photo seedlings

Sowing of astilba for seedlings is carried out in March, the seeds are placed in prepared nutrient soil (suitable for universal or for flowering plants). Stratification can be carried out, which will strengthen the biomaterial, the plant will be ready for temperature changes.

On a soil of sand and peat in a 1: 1 ratio, 1 cm of snow is placed, which, when melted, will immerse the seeds in the ground, strengthening them. For hardening, the container with non-germinated seeds is placed in the refrigerator for 15-20 days, thereby preparing the future plant for low winter temperatures. After the container is placed in a warm, well-lit place.

Germination and growth of seeds will be better at a temperature of 18-20 ºС. Water the seedlings carefully, without stagnant water, without damaging the weak shoots. When sowing in a common box, a pick is required, therefore, after the formation of 2-3 true leaves, the plants are seated in spacious boxes or individual containers for seedlings, a distance of at least 6-7 cm.

The soil where the seedlings will be planted should be loamy, preferably next to groundwater or an artificial reservoir. Some species can adapt to the sunny side, shortening the flowering period, but the northern shady side is preferable for the flower. Hosta is considered an ideal neighbor, its leaves cover the ground, carefully protecting from the hot afternoon.

Important! Planting is best done in May, when the risks of frost have passed. Pre-adapt the bushes to the outdoor night temperature, taking the seedlings out into the open air.

Propagation of astilbe by cuttings

How to propagate astilbe by cuttings photo

Astilba cuttings are carried out in the summer, cutting out cuttings with a piece of rhizome. You can treat cuttings with root or heteroauxin (according to the instructions) to accelerate root formation.

• Cuttings are planted in separate containers with a loose nutrient substrate and watered abundantly.
• You can put the cuttings cups in a closed aquarium or cover with bags to create a greenhouse. This will speed up root formation, but remember to ventilate every day.
• It is also important to provide drainage so that the water does not stagnate. Punch holes in the bottom of the container if there were none.
• After a month, signs of plant growth will appear, the bags can be removed. It is better to plant in a permanent place at the end of August so that the plants have time to take root well.

Before wintering, astilba from cuttings should be fed with potassium nitrate to increase winter hardiness, as well as to spud and cover the plants with mulch.

Diseases and pests of astilbe

Astilba boxwood and hydrangea photo in the garden

Failure to comply with the conditions for watering and feeding makes the plant vulnerable to pathogenic microorganisms and pests. Some can be eliminated with the help of pesticide treatment (slobbering penny), others (nematodes) require a radical solution - a transplant with disinfection of the root system and soil.

The stump is visible on the axils of the leaves, similar to saliva, but much denser in consistency. The cicada larvae hide in the cocoon, the more such pennies, the worse the flower feels. They are removed by washing the leaves with soapy water, followed by treatment with actara, karbofos, confidor.

The strawberry nematode is easily recognized by the deformation of the leaves with the appearance of brown or dark red blotches. The growth of the affected plant slows down, flowers and green mass lose their aesthetic appearance.

Gall nematode parasitizes on the roots, it can be recognized by slow growth, poor development of the bush.If the roots were exposed, you can see the kidney-shaped growths that hide the larvae of nematodes. The infected bush is subject to elimination, and the space is disinfected with a solution of potassium permanganate. Weeds can become the cause of damage, so it is important to regularly weed the flower bed, to loosen the earth for free air exchange.

Phytoverm and a weak solution of potassium permanganate will help to remove the strawberry and root nematode. The extensively infested area of ​​the flower bed will require a complete soil replacement with preliminary sanitization.

Useful properties of astilba

Florists and landscape designers are not the only ones who have found use of the herbaceous flowering plant. The indigenous people of Japan use the flower as a healing extract against inflammation and irritation. To do this, prepare a decoction of leaves and flowers, insist, and then lubricate the affected areas, add to baths, drink like a drink.

Eastern peoples use dried flowers as a seasoning for meat and vegetable dishes. For this, not only flower-bearing panicles are collected, but also ripe fruit-boxes. The pleasant aroma and sweetish taste of the flower is transmitted to the meat through sauce or juice.

Astilba in landscape design Photo compositions

Hosta and astilba in landscape design photo of flowers in a flower bed

It is not at all difficult to create a unique composition with astilbe, especially if you use the classic combination with hosts: you can plant ordinary green hosts or variegated ones, with white edges along the leaves, which will add a little exoticism. Ferns and lilies will look beautiful next to them.

Astilbes and hosts in landscape design photo mixborder

Rustic flowers like a matron's evening dress will look good next to it. By the way, the night violet will add charm not only to its appearance: its aroma will fill the site, which will appeal to you especially if there is a shop next to it.

Astilba photo of flowers in a flowerbed combination with hosts and irises

A very beautiful combination with astilba will be not only the host planting, you can place irises, flowering barberry, creeping juniper, ornamental deciduous shrubs nearby. The composition will turn out to be very natural, the gaze will simply rest.

Astilbe in the garden design photo cultivar Astilbe japonica ‘Peach Blossom’ combination with vesicle

Gently pink astilbe looks luxurious against the background of a purple bubble or elderberry. As they say, I don't want to take away or add anything.

Astilba Japanese, hybrid and lensa in the general planting of a photo of a flower bed

A beautiful combination of various varieties of astilba with different shades of flowering, and you can plant euphorbia as background plants.

Astilba in garden design Astilbe Japonica ‘Europa’ group photo of mixborder

An original combination will be a landing together with Astilbes and hosts of Aruncus, or Volzhanka. The result is a delicate composition with different types of paniculate inflorescences. Just airy mood!

Types and varieties of astilba with photos and names

Thanks to the many years of work of breeders, several hundred hybrid varieties of astilba have been bred. There are varietal groups specially designed for warm or cold climates. Some species get along well with spreading plants, others need space. Before choosing seeds, you need to focus on the weather conditions of the climatic zone, neighboring flower beds, the degree of watering.

No more than 12 species are popular; Arends, Chinese, Japanese, simple-leaved are suitable for growing in the garden. They do not require special conditions and are unpretentious in care.

Astilbe Arendsii

Astilba Arends Astilbe arendsii Europa photo of flowers in the garden

Created by crossing David's Astilba with others, it has about 40 varieties with a long flowering period. Its inflorescences appear in early July, and closes the flowering season at the end of August. In autumn, it perfectly sets off other flowering plants with dark green foliage. The bushes are powerful, reaching 1 m, with diamond-shaped or paniculate inflorescences.Famous varieties: Amethyst, Weiss Gloria, Rubin (up to 80 cm), Diamant (up to 1 m).

Chinese Astilbe Astilbe chinensis

Astilba Chinese cultivar Astilbe chinensis ‘Vision in Pink’ photo of flowers in the garden

It is a herbaceous bush of more than 1 m with a heterogeneous green mass. The lower leaves are wide on long petioles, after flowering they have a neat appearance, filling the flower bed with a dark green lush mass. From above to the inflorescence, the leaves are short with a shiny texture. The stem ends with a 30-35 cm panicle of small, brightly colored flowers. It is represented by varieties not only of standard height (Purpulance, Pink, Red), but also undersized varieties (Pumila hort, up to 15 cm).

Astilba Japanese hybrid Astilbe japonica hybrids

Japanese Astilbe ‘Montgomery’ (japonica hybrid) photo in the garden

A compact plant, the ornamental value of which is the green mass of green, shiny leaves. Inflorescence panicles begin to bloom by mid-June, which is several weeks earlier than other species. Excellent cold resistance made the species popular in the territory of a risky climate with a variable temperature regime. Terry astilba Montgomery is famous among flower growers, its inflorescences can be bright burgundy or red. There are varieties of white - Deutschland, pink - Reyland, pale lilac - Europe.

Simple-leaved hybrid astilbe Astilbe simplicifolia

Astilbe leafy Astilbe Simplicifolia ‘Hennie Graafland’ photo of flowers in the garden

It is not at all suitable for dry and hot climates, therefore, in the steppe zone, where the scorching sun is, the plant will have no place. The visiting card of the species is the drooping varieties of Thunberg, Prikoks Alba, their inflorescences create a floating cobweb in a flower bed. Low growth, 25-50 cm, openwork panicles of inflorescences make the plant popular in border flower beds. Most often used as an accent on corners or central areas. This species can grow on the sunny side, but the tone of the leaves will be lighter and the flowers are not so saturated.

Dwarf varieties can be grown in pots, they tolerate the home climate very well. Some blooming arrangements are perfect as a gift. It feels better outdoors, so it is advisable to take out flowerpots with room astilba in the summer to the balcony or terrace of a private house.