Astilbe flower - planting and care in the open field, the best varieties and methods of reproduction. Wonderful astilba: growing and caring for Astilba the first year
Astilba is appreciated by both professional gardeners and amateurs for its unpretentiousness, as well as lush and long flowering. A sprawling flower looks spectacular, even if it does not bloom - beautiful green leaves of an attractive shape can decorate any household plot. In this article, we will consider how to properly grow astilbe in open ground, planting features, care and photos of different varieties of this bush.
Morphological features and characteristics of the flower
Astilbe looks quite original and presentable, and when flowering, it simply transforms the entire backyard area. It's decorative bush with split leaves bright green, located on the branches of a reddish hue.
Astilba is preferred by gardeners not only because of its lush flowering, but also because, unlike many other plants, it can be in constant shade when planted, creating magnificent colorful blooms. But strong darkening is contraindicated even for this plant. Best planting in partial shade.
Astilbe can sustainably endure severe frosts, it is almost not exposed to diseases, and even many harmful insects fly around it. This is the most the best way for the beginner grower.
Astilba is a perennial flower, native to Asia and Japan. In total there are more than 300 species, each of them has its own size, shape, color and splendor of flowering. The growth of this plant can be in the range of 15-250 cm. The flowers are in panicles 15260 cm long, after flowering, "boxes" appear on them, in which there are small seeds. Almost all types of astilba begin flowering in June.
The ground part of this plant winter time dies off, and the root system waits out frosts and begins to grow in spring. Every year, buds form on top of the roots, giving a constant increase of about 4 cm, and Bottom part dies off after a while. To ensure comfortable development of the formed buds, after dying, soil is poured onto the exposed root.
As mentioned above, the breeders really liked the lush astilba, so that they created more than 300 of its species. We will not describe the advantages of each, but consider only the most common and beautiful.
Astilba Arendsa
This is a whole family of astilbes, which is represented by 50 hybrids that appeared as a result of the selection of the giant astilbe of David. They differ in developed trunks up to 160 cm high. They have a cone-shaped or spherical shape with lush vegetation. Flowers come in completely different shades from pure white to bright purple.
Hybrid bushes differ both in size and long flowering time - more than a month. The most attractive plant species were created by G. Arends, therefore the class of hybrids was named after this scientist. For example, astilba Gloria - perennial up to 90 cm long during flowering. This shrub easily winters and growing, perhaps, on almost any soil, except sandy. It is characterized by fluffy pink inflorescences in the form of a rhombus, a delicate sweet aroma and openwork foliage. Gloria is water loving, therefore it is best to plant it on the coast of the lake or artificial pond. Other hybrids:
- Liliput is a small plant up to 30 cm long. Dense pinkish inflorescences begin to bloom in late July. Liliput is great for equipping an alpine slide or a small backyard flower garden.
- Jump & Jive - a bush up to half a meter long, blooming at the end of June. Produces large, branched pinkish buds that contrast beautifully with the green foliage.
- Boogie Woogie is also a hybrid species that grows 60-75 cm. In July, it will delight you with contrasting pink diamond-shaped flowers, giving the bush a magnificent shape.
Chinese astilba
This plant can be up to 120 cm long, it has large leaves near the roots and smaller ones near the inflorescences. Starts flowering quite densely packed inflorescences up to 30 cm with small purple flowers.
There are undersized varieties of Chinese astilba up to 30 cm long and species with pyramidal flowers. This variety of bushes feels more confident when grown in unshaded areas and in partial shade.
Japanese astilba
This is not a tall bush, as described above (up to 75 cm) and is characterized by small, densely located leaves with a pronounced pattern. Flowers pink and white color bloom much earlier than other varieties, while even after drying, the inflorescences practically do not lose their shape and decorate the flower bed until the end of autumn.
Japanese astilbe is a hybrid that bred by Arendson in 1838. Since that time, several more species have been cultivated, characterized by frost resistance and excellent survival in any region.
simple astilba
This hybrid does not perceive a dry climate very well and requires periodic abundant watering. The plant can be up to half a meter long and forms thinned inflorescences.
Astilba propagation methods
Growing astilba in a summer cottage is an easy task. The plant propagates by seed and vegetative method. During the latter, the division of the plant and reproduction by the kidneys is possible. And if this method is suitable for beginners, then the seed method allows you to breed new plant varieties.
Propagation with seeds
Seeds are located in boxes that come to replace beautiful flowers. It is necessary to sow them in March, subjecting them to stratification before that. Why the seeds are placed in a container with sand and peat in a ratio of 1: 1, put on top snow layer 1 cm(suitable "snow" from the freezer).
Snow thaws over time, moistening the earth, enriching it with useful elements and immersing seeds in the soil. When the snow has completely melted, the container must be covered with a film and placed at the bottom of the refrigerator for 3 weeks. During this period, the first shoots are formed, they will be hardened and will perfectly endure the next wintering.
After 3 weeks, the sprouts of the bush are transferred to a bright room with a temperature of + 22C. Plants should be watered very carefully, using a syringe without a needle and directing water only under the root.
When the seedlings are a little stronger and a few leaves appear, transplant them into small pots.
Attention: varietal astilbes will not be able to propagate using seeds, as hybrids cannot store their characteristics. Bushes grown by this method are used only in breeding.
Propagation by plant division
As a rule, astilba is propagated by dividing the plant. This is a fairly simple and effective option.
Plant division:
- Carefully remove the soil near the plant with a diameter of 17-25 cm and remove the earthen ball with the root system.
- Remove excess soil to clear the roots.
- Cut the root into pieces with a knife, and each part must have at least 3 buds.
- Plant bushes at a distance of 25 and arrange for sufficient watering every day.
If you divide the plant at the end of February, then by autumn the bush will already delight you with its flowers.
Reproduction with the help of kidneys
This reproduction is the fastest. It should be carried out in the spring, when the shoots grow. Carefully cut off the buds from the root and fill the cut on the branch with coal, so harmful organisms do not get inside.
Plant the cuttings in a peat and gravel mixture in a 3: 1 ratio and cover with foil. Before transplanting a bush into open ground, it must get stronger and begin its development. A bush can be planted on the site only in the fall.
Landing
Planting this plant in open ground and care will not require great skills and costs. The most important thing is to choose the optimal location and organize the necessary conditions. It is necessary to plant plants at the end of May on the northern side of the site in partial shade.
If there is a pond in the backyard, then plant an astilba near it. It is desirable to select a fertile loamy soil. Acidity is essential in the range of 5.4-6.4 pH. If there are hostas next to the astilba, then their leaves will not allow the bush to overheat in the summer.
When choosing a place for planting a plant, you need to take into account the flowering time of different species. Thus, astilba, which blooms in July, loves dark places more, while other species feel equally good in the shade and in the sun.
By and large, any soil is suitable for astilba, but if you want to get lush and long flowering, then you need to choose a site in which groundwater is near the surface. You also need to take care of the presence of phosphorus and potassium in the soil. When digging holes for breeding, add complex fertilizers at 35 gr./sq. m and 2 presses of bone meal. If you plant astilbe in a flower bed, then make a recess of 35 cm and put the additives listed above mixed in with humus.
Astilbe landing stages:
- Dig up the area and remove all weeds.
- Fertilize the soil.
- If necessary, make liming with dolomite flour.
- Make indentations 35 cm with a distance of 40 cm.
- Add fertilizer and water them.
- Plant the sprouts and sprinkle so that the thickness of the soil above the buds is at least 5 cm.
- Pack the soil and mulch with compost.
Care
A feature of this plant is that the roots grow upwards, and do not tend downwards, like in other bushes. In this case, the lower processes die after a while. And if you do not organize normal feeding for new roots, the plant will die. Therefore, every year you need to sprinkle the bare roots with soil and prevent them from drying out.
The main requirement during care is constant watering. Regular mulching of the earth will protect the roots from the sun, and also make it possible to control emergence of weeds.
Do not forget that the frequency and amount of watering will depend on the type of astilba, so study the characteristics of the selected variety, watch the training video and photo on planting this plant. During the formation of flowers, all species require enhanced watering, and if the summer is hot, then it must be done twice a day. You need to feed the bush from spring, adding nitrogen fertilizers. After top dressing, the earth needs to be mulched.
Pests
Since the homeland of astilba is far beyond the borders of our country, it has no enemies here, but still like some insects. There are quite a few of them, but still they can bring significant damage to the plant.
The main pest is penny. This is a small flying insect that secretes a mica-like foamy solution, and lays its larvae in it. Finally, due to certain chemical composition given secretions and the presence of larvae, the leaves of the plant curl and covered with various stains. From which the bush partially withers or completely dies. Special chemistry will help get rid of this pest - rogor, aktara, confidor or karbofos.
Two more pests are strawberry and gall nematodes. The first is settled in leaves and flowers, as a result, the leaves curl and become stained, the bush slows down its growth, begins to wither and dies.
Summing up, we can say that due to the variety of species, astilba looks great as a single plant, flower beds and borders. This shrub perfectly coexists with various flower and herbal crops, such as daylilies, hostas, lilies and geyhers. Due to the ease of care, these spreading bushes will really decorate any backyard territory.
Beautiful astilba at their summer cottage
Isn't it because we are so eager to go to the dacha in summer that we are madly attracted by the mythically fabulous world of ornamental plants. Astilba stands out among them - the bright queen of the shady garden, which, as if fascinates with its multi-colored lush Christmas trees, and makes you sincerely wait for magic. Without this plant, it is difficult to imagine any garden. It looks very picturesque in the spring, when lacy leaves of various shades appear, and during the colorful summer flowering, and after it in the fall, keeping shiny beautiful leaves until the very end of the season. It has a unique, like honey, aroma.
Astilba is one of the most unpretentious plants that can survive in the harshest conditions. Therefore, it is often called a plant for beginner gardeners.
The most popular types and varieties of astilba can be grouped into the following:
- Arendsa (Amethyst, Brautschleier, Faynel, White and Weiss, Gloria, Gloria Purpurea , Color Flash, Color Flash Lime, Erika);
- Chinese (Series Vision, Hip Hop, Veronika Kloz, Superba);
- Thunberg (Straussenfeder);
- Japanese (Montgomery, Bronzelaub);
- Curly (Lilliput, Perkeo, Moulin Rouge).
As for choosing the height of the astilba, if you want to plant a shrub in the background of a flower bed or against a fence, then it is better to choose a higher variety. For example, sort Amethyst is the perfect choice.
Amethyst
If astilba is needed for a mini-garden, then miniature (dwarf, ground cover) varieties are suitable for you, for example, Lilliput or perkeo.
Lilliput
When designing a flower garden, it is important to consider the shape of the inflorescences. It is also very diverse in astilba, for example, in the variety Aphrodite and Ericathe flowers are very airy and rhombic.
Erika
And the series Visionon the contrary, the flowers are very dense and powerful.
Vision in Pink
Variety Gloria Purpurea- big and fluffy.
Gloria Purpurea
Very original inflorescences in the variety Straussenfeder- similar to large and drooping ostrich feathers.
Straussenfeder
Video: types and varieties of astilba
Astilba propagation methods
Astilba can be propagated in several ways:
- seeds (for the species);
- dividing the bush (for a variety);
- renewal buds with part of the rhizomes (for the variety).
Reminder! In the garden store you can buy seeds and rhizomes with renewal buds. You can propagate by dividing the bush after you grow astilbes from seeds or rhizomes, or your neighbor will share with you.
Growing astilba from seeds
Planting astilba with seeds is easy enough, but growing is not so easy. First, the seeds must be stratified, in other words, the container with the crops will need to be put in the refrigerator for 3 weeks. It is worth laying down for stratification in January.
For sowing, you will need a loose soil mixture (for example, peat and sand in equal proportions), on top of which you need to evenly distribute astilbe seeds, which are very small, so you will have to use a slightly moistened clove for planting. At the end of the sowing should be lightly sprinkled from the sprayer cold water(possible with the addition of biohumus for seedlings). And then cover with a plastic bag or film (shoe cover) and put in the refrigerator.
Advice! Experienced flower growers recommend that instead of spraying with cold water, sprinkle the crops with a small layer of snow (1 centimeter). And when it has already melted, then remove the crops in the refrigerator.
In February and March (depending on when you sowed the seeds), the hatched seeds are already planted in the ground and the containers are placed in a bright and warm place, where the temperature is about + 18-20 degrees. As a rule, shoots appear in 2-3 weeks. Then they are looked after, as well as ordinary seedlings of flowers, in other words, they are watered and illuminated until the optimal 12-hour daylight hours. In order not to dive, it is better to immediately sow in individual containers. In May, planted in open ground.
Worth knowing! Astilba grown from seeds will only bloom in the 2nd or 3rd year!
Video: sowing astilba seed for seedlings
As a rule, with the help dividing the bush an overgrown astilbe is transplanted, which should be performed at least once every 5 years. The bush should be divided so that each division has from 3 to 5 renewal buds. Astilba can be transplanted in this way both in spring (preferably early), and in late summer (in August) or early autumn. Moreover, it is optimal to seat at a distance of at least 30-40 centimeters between the bushes.
The most popular way is reproduction kidney renewal and part rhizomes. It is this method that will be discussed next.
How to keep astilba at home before planting in the ground
If you bought a sleeping plant, then you can perfectly store it in the refrigerator until the very landing in open ground.
If you see that the growth buds have woken up, that is, the growth process has been started, the plant should be placed in a pot with soil as soon as possible, otherwise it will simply have nowhere to take nutrients from. Astilba rhizomes are not designed for long-term storage, so if they start to dry out, then from these roots you will hardly be able to grow a healthy plant.
Container and soil
In advance, you should take care of acquiring the necessary capacity for planting. It is good to plant astilba in plastic buckets with a volume of about 1 liter. In such a container it is very convenient to observe the condition of the roots of the plant and soil moisture.
As for the soil, it is best to use a universal soil for flowers, in which to improve soil properties and maintain air-water balance, add a little vermiculite.
By the way! It is not necessary to plant in the ground, it can also be planted in a coconut substrate. Its distinguishing characteristic is that it contains a lot of air, which means that the roots, which in February-March, as a rule, are not in very good condition, will receive good development.
Planting in a pot
Step-by-step instruction planting astilba in a pot to save the plant at home:
You don’t need to disturb the plant anymore, just water it promptly as the soil dries up. Top dressing for this stage not required.
It remains only to put the container with the astilba seedling in a bright and cool room, where the air temperature is kept within + 15-18 degrees.
Video: how to plant astilba that you bought early and want to save before planting in the ground
Planting astilba in open ground
Landing dates
Pickup times vary depending on where you live. As always, residents of the Middle Strip (Moscow Region) begin to plant earlier than gardeners in the Urals and Siberia, but noticeably later than the southern regions.
Astilbes in open ground, as a rule, are planted no earlier than May, when the earth warms up enough. And it does not matter whether you plant rhizomes with renewal buds or plant seedlings.
In general, astilbes can be planted both in spring and autumn, and even in summer, unless, of course, the weather is not very hot. It all depends on when you can get planting material.
Location and soil on the site
In order for astilba to please you with its lush flowering, you need to choose the optimal place on the site for its landing.
Astilba can grow both in the shade and in the sun. But still, this plant likes to grow in partial shade on loose and moist soils. It is optimal to plant a plant in soil with a predominant content of clay and a significant amount of sand, in other words, in loam.
As for a specific place, if you have a small reservoir on your site, then plant it nearby. If not, then the site on the north side of the house is perfect for landing, as well as shady places near trees and shrubs.
By the way! To accurately determine the place for planting astilba, you should pay attention to the flowering period of a particular plant variety. For example, early and late flowering plants can successfully grow both in the shade and under the scorching sun. But medium-flowering (also called July) is desirable to plant in more shady areas. If you want to extend the flowering period of varieties with white and pink flowers, then it is advisable to also plant them in partial shade.
Direct landing in the garden
To plant astilba in open ground, it is worth preparing a landing hole in advance, making it about 20-30 centimeters deep. A little wood ash, compost or humus should be added to the ground for planting, and then mix it all very carefully and water it abundantly. Next, plant a seedling, sprinkle it with earth, and then mulch for better moisture retention with a layer of about 3-5 centimeters. As mulch, you can use peat, tree bark, sawdust or the same straw.
By the way! Although this plant is not very demanding on the soil, but planting it in a pre-fertilized place, you will not need to feed it for a while. However, it will grow much better, which means that the flowering will be more magnificent and brighter.
As for the astilbe planting scheme, high varieties are planted at a distance of about 0.5 meters, and low ones - about 0.2-0.3 meters.
Astilba care in the open field
Astilba care consists in regular watering depending on the weather and timely hilling. The latter is required due to the fact that the roots of the plant constantly grow upwards, while their lower part eventually dies off.
Astilba loves moisture, so do not forget about irrigation and try not to let the soil dry out, especially during the hot late spring and summer periods. If the weather is dry and the sun is just sizzling, then it is recommended to water at least 1, and even better, 2 times a day.
top dressing
Astilba top dressing is carried out in spring, in summer - before and after flowering, as well as in autumn.
Note! Before fertilizing, the plant must first be watered. If it has rained before, then additional moisture is not required.
Spring top dressing is carried out using nitrogen fertilizers to increase the green mass of the plant. For example, you can bring a little humus into the ground, for example, during its hilling. Or it is great to use mullein infusion for these purposes.
In summer, before flowering, the plant needs potassium fertilizing. For this, potassium nitrate, 1 tbsp. l to be dissolved in 5 liters of water. The consumption rate is approximately 0.5 liters per 1 bush.
At the end of summer, after flowering, the shrub requires phosphorus fertilizer. To do this, you can perform dry top dressing with superphosphate: about 1 tbsp. spoon for 1 bush. But it is better to use exclusively phosphorus-potassium fertilizers, they are just designed to improve the winter hardiness of the plant.
Advice! After the end of any of the dressings, the soil near the shrub should be thoroughly loosened and mulch should be thrown.
Autumn care and preparation for winter
If you have already succumbed to the openwork charm of the fluffy astilbe, let it take its place in your flower bed in your own garden! And you are already aware of how and when to properly plant it and properly care for it.
Video: astilba - cultivation, care and reproduction
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The name astilbe comes from the Greek words "a" - very, "stilbe" - shine. Given, probably, for the shiny leaves.
Astilba description
The genus unites over 30 species distributed in East Asia, Japan and North America. Only 2 species are found in Russia (in the Far East and Kunashir Island). In nature, they grow in broad-leaved forests, along the banks of streams, in places where moisture is retained in summer.
Astilbes tolerate cold winters well. under a layer of snow, for example, in Canada, according to official data, they go north to zones 3b-4a (according to the American classification), where the temperature in winter drops to -37 ° C.
These are perennial rhizomatous herbaceous plants with the aerial part dying off for the winter. The stems are erect, height depending on the species is from 8 to 200 cm. Numerous basal leaves on long petioles, twice or thrice pinnate, rarely simple, dark green or reddish green, serrated.
Small flowers, white, pink, lilac, red or purple, are collected in apical inflorescences - panicles of various lengths. Blooms in June-July. The fruit is a box. In 1 g up to 20,000 seeds. The most spectacular astilbe during flowering. Their delicate inflorescences appear in early July and do not lose their attractiveness for 25-35 days.
The rhizome of astilba is dense or loose, depending on the species, woody. Annually, daughter buds are formed in the upper part of the rhizome, and its lower part gradually dies off. The vertical growth of astilba is 3-5 cm per year. therefore, at the end of autumn, fertile soil is poured to the bases of the bushes. Besides, astilbe care consists mainly in maintaining soil moisture. 
astilba inflorescences
They can be pyramidal, rhombic, paniculate, but drooping ones are especially graceful. The decorativeness of the inflorescences depends on their density. Small flowers are collected in elongated panicles. The flower petals of some varieties are short, and the inflorescences are airy and openwork, as if covered with small buds, in other varieties, the petals are elongated, and these inflorescences look soft, fluffy.
It is very beautiful when there are several colors or shades in the inflorescence (varieties "Peach and Cream", "Montgomery", "White Wings"). Given the structure of the inflorescences, the whole variety of species is divided into groups: pyramidal - the lateral branches of the inflorescences depart from the main axis at almost a right angle and evenly decrease from the base to the top of the inflorescence; rhombic shape - inflorescences resemble a rhombus. Lateral branches depart from the main axis at an acute angle.
Rhombic inflorescences more common in varieties of Japanese astilba; paniculate - inflorescences have numerous branched branches extending from the main axis at an acute angle and evenly decreasing towards the top. This form is characteristic of most varieties of Arends astilba; drooping form - inflorescences with flexible drooping branches. Drooping inflorescences have varieties derived from Astilba Thunberg and Lemoine.
According to the timing of flowering, astilbes are also distinguished early (blooming in late June - early July), medium (in July) and late (blooming in August). The height of the astilba varies from 15 cm (Lilliput variety) to 2 m (David's astilba). According to the height of the bush, the plants are divided into low - 15-60 cm tall, medium - 60-80 cm and high - 80-200 cm.
There are about 10 species in cultivation. Breeding has given gardeners a range of hybrid varieties. All astilbes are moisture-loving, winter-hardy, resistant to pests and diseases. 
Astilba growing conditions
Optimum illumination is a rarefied shadow or shading during the hottest time of the day. However, the nature of cultivars is more flexible and many varieties have "forgotten" the conditions under which their wild relatives live. Indeed, many astilbes feel great in the open sun. Flowering here is more abundant, but shorter, and the foliage is slightly lighter.
When choosing a place, the timing of flowering is very important. Early and late varieties bloom well and for a long time both in the shade and in the sun, but it is better for medium-flowering plants to look after shaded corners, since the bright July sun sharply reduces their flowering time. 
Most varieties of astilba can grow in places with fairly high groundwater and tolerates even stagnant water. Astilbe does not tolerate long-term drought. Poor soil, open sun and lack of rain can kill the plant. In such cases, astilbes need to be watered twice a day - early in the morning or in the evening.
Help plants and fertile soil, dense planting, mulching with shavings or bark. Astilbes do not tolerate overheating of the upper part of the rhizome very well, and mulch helps to reduce overheating, moisture loss, keeps the soil loose, prevents the appearance of weeds and, very importantly, creates favorable conditions for wintering. In flower beds, it is best to mulch plants immediately after planting, covering the entire surface of the soil mulch with a layer of 5 cm.
Some astilbes tolerate relatively dry soils well - a. x arendsii "Federsee", a.korcana, well-grown bushes a.chinensis "Superba", "Purpurlance". And there are those that can grow on heavy clay soils - these are representatives of the group of Chinese hybrids - x chinensis "Pumila", "Visions", "Vision in Pink", "Vision in Red". 
It is important that astilba has enough phosphorus and potassium in the root layer of the soil. In the breeding beds in transverse grooves (1 m long), we pour 1-2 handfuls of bone meal and 25-30 g of complex fertilizers.
When planting in a flower garden, pits are dug 20-30 cm deep and wide, 1-2 handfuls of bone meal and ash are poured into them, 25-30 g of mineral fertilizers (norm per sq.m.), humus is added. All this is mixed, spilled with water. Planted delenki are covered with mulch with a layer of 3 cm.
In favorable conditions, astilbes grow rapidly. Astilbes are divided and transplanted every 4-5 years, growing especially rapidly after 3-4 years. This is due to the rapid vertical growth of the rhizome. Gradually, the old bushes stick out too much, the young roots located at the base of the buds are at the very surface and dry out quickly, which greatly reduces the duration and quality of flowering - the peduncles become smaller, the inflorescences become smaller.
However, in principle, astilbes can grow in one place for a long time, up to 15-20 years. To maintain the decorativeness of old plants, fertilizer should be taken care of annually. Astilbes are fed first in the spring after regrowth (nitrogen fertilizers predominate), then immediately after flowering or in the fall (potassium and phosphorus - 20-25 g per plant). Carefully loosen the soil and then mulch again. 
Reproduction of astilba
Seeds, germinating buds of renewal, division of the rhizome. With the help of seeds, species astilbes are most often propagated, varieties - only for breeding purposes. The fact is that seedlings are characterized by polymorphism - the features of mother plants are preserved only partially or completely lost.
astilbe seeds very small. They are tied up well, but they do not always have time to ripen. If the seeds are still ripe, in September they are shaken out of the inflorescences. And in March-April, they are sown superficially in boxes filled with a mixture of sphagnum peat and sand in a ratio of 3: 1.
Seed germination is low. Seedlings appear after 3-4 weeks, grow slowly and only at the end of the year form a small rosette of leaves. If astilbes do not crowd each other, it is better to transplant them next spring. Plants grown from seeds bloom in the 3rd year. 
Reproduction of astilbe by the kidneys
In early spring, a renewal bud with a part of the rhizome is cut out from astilbes (a method of reproduction with a "heel"). It is believed that up to 1/3 of the kidneys can be removed without harm to the mother liquor. Rooting is carried out in greenhouses. The substrate used is the same as for sowing. It is poured in a 5-7 cm layer on ordinary fertile soil. Astilba is planted in a permanent place in the spring of next year. In the same year, the plants bloom. It is possible, but difficult to propagate by green cuttings in early spring.
Reproduction of astilba by dividing the bush
This method of reproduction is the most familiar and widely used. Delenki are prepared so that each has 1-3 buds and a rhizome 3-5 cm long, best with adventitious roots. Experiments have shown that the size of the division is not significant, since most varieties reproduce equally well in small and large (3-10 times larger) divisions.
Division is best done in early spring, then by the fall the astilbes will bloom. You can transplant at almost any time, subject to good watering for several days. Astilbes also take root well during flowering, this makes it possible for the buyer not to purchase a “pig in a poke”, but to choose exactly what is needed.
Yes, and the seller will avoid possible charges, just as it often happens when selling, for example, daylilies, which manifest themselves in all their glory only in the second or third year after planting. 
Astilbe planting
Astilbes can be transplanted at any time during the growing season, even at the time of flowering, but they must be watered for 2-3 weeks after transplantation. It has been established that in the conditions of Lithuania (southern Baltic) the most the best time for planting this crop - the month of May. The growth of transplanted plants is highly dependent on heat and moisture in the spring. If any of these factors are absent, astilbes do not root well.
In flower beds, astilbes are planted at a distance of not less than 30 cm (high varieties - 50 cm), in borders - 30-50 cm. For breeding purposes, astilbes can be planted in furrows or on ridges. We plant them on ridges 1 m wide, in transverse grooves every 15-30 cm, 6-7 plants each, i.e. 23 or 46 plants per 1 m2.
We pour 30-40 g of complex mineral fertilizers into the furrow, in which nitrogen does not exceed 10%. Most often, these are Kemira-Horti-2 fertilizers, which are good for most ornamental perennials. A mixture of simple mineral fertilizers can also be used, observing the nitrogen ratio.
Diseases and pests of astilba
Astilba practically does not get sick with anything, occasionally it is affected by slobbering pennitsa, strawberry and gall nematodes. The larvae of the slobber pennitsa live in their foamy secretions, located in the axils of the leaves. They feed on leaves, weakening the growth and development of peduncles. The easiest way to deal with pennitsa is by hand.
The strawberry nematode infects the buds and leaves, it can only be eliminated by the complete destruction of diseased plants. The gall nematode lives in the roots, causing the formation of galls on them. You can fight it by destroying diseased roots. 
Use of astilba
Astilbes are excellent plants for landscaping. They can be planted in monogroups near shrubs. And single blotches of astilba look especially elegant among plantings of ornamental conifers, although in their natural habitats astilbe grows in deciduous forests. Astilbes do best near ponds or moist semi-shady places.
In flower beds, astilba's traditional neighbors are hostas, ferns, Siberian iris. However, astilbes are perfectly combined with other plants. These are bergenia, geykhera, heart-leaved tiarella and Verya, some geraniums, such as blood-red, panicled phlox, and many bells.
Primroses, doronicum, gravel, iberis, bathing suit can grow next to astilba. In the foreground, undersized perennials blooming in spring look spectacular, for example different types saxifrage, as well as krupka, lamb, tenacious, umbilical. You can try to plant some types of stonecrop, for example, white, false.
Vilnius amateur flower growers create borders from astilba. Nice and no worries. Astilbes can be used not only to decorate the garden. Inflorescences of many varieties in the full flowering phase are suitable for cutting, and dried look great in winter bouquets.
Astilba flowering time
Flowering time different varieties astilbe - from the end of June to September. If you wish, you can pick up such a collection to admire almost all summer. After the end of flowering, the bushes do not lose their decorative effect due to the beautiful foliage.
Peduncles with seed boxes also look neat, and some are very beautiful, for example, high grades with lush dense panicles ("Superba", "Purpurlance"), with a drooping inflorescence form: "Moerheimii", "Betsy Cuperus".
Usually the seed pods are brown in color, but in some varieties they remain green (“Bridal Veil”) or dark red (“Glow”) for a long time. You can postpone pruning until spring, the foliage will serve as a shelter for the winter and trap snow, and graceful panicles will enliven the winter landscape.
In Holland and Germany, astilba is used for distillation in March-June. The most suitable varieties for this are "Peach Blossom", "Queen Aleksandra", "Bronselaub" and many Japanese hybrids.
AT ancient China astilbe has been used as medicinal plant, its roots and leaves have various properties - tonic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, they were used for diseases of the skin and kidneys. Until now, in Japan and China, seasoning for meat dishes is prepared from its leaves. 
distillation of astilba
For distillation of astilba, Japanese hybrid astilba varieties with a compact undersized bush are used. It is recommended to take young seedlings with 6 - 10 buds, grown from renewal buds, and not obtained by dividing old bushes. Selected plants are planted in pots in autumn right size, which are placed in a cold greenhouse and covered with spruce branches or peat.
In December - January, they are transferred to a room with a temperature of 10 - 14 ° C. When the leaves bloom, the temperature is raised to 16 - 18 ° C, watered abundantly and often, sprayed with warm water. But when inflorescences appear, spraying must be stopped. Astilbes bloom 10-14 weeks after they are transferred to the greenhouse.
At later dates of transfer (February - March), flowering occurs faster. The following varieties are recommended for distillation: Bonn, Cologne, Emdem, Europe, Deutschland, Peach Blossom. Distillation astilbes are used for decorative design public and office spaces.
This is a perennial rhizomatous plant that has straight stems and grows up to 2 m in height.
The plant blooms with rather lush and large inflorescences, for which flower growers love astilbe so much.
Suitable varieties
It has a lot of unique and diverse varieties, which are grown in different parts of the world.
Did you know? Astilba got its name thanks to the Scottish botanist Lord Hamilton, who, during the description of the new plant, noted that the inflorescences and leaves lack shine. Therefore, they began to call it "astilba", which means "without shine."
Consider astilba varieties that can be planted in the Urals, as they are unpretentious to growing conditions: 
How to choose the right seedlings when buying
Did you know?Astilba began to be actively selected in the 19th century: at that time up to 400 varieties were bred, most of them are distributed all over the world to this day.
How to care
Astilbe is considered an unpretentious plant, so it does not require special attention or time. However, there is a feature that must be considered if you decide to plant astilba in your area. The point is that she has feature to the growth of rhizomes in the upper layers of the soil and the death of the lower parts of the roots over time. At the same time, the astilba root system is often left without any nutrition, so it is necessary to carry out on time.
Various materials are suitable for mulching:
- chopped straw;
- large chip;
- pieces of bark;
- pebbles or expanded clay;
- lowland peat.
Watering
Since the flower loves moisture, it must be watered frequently and plentifully. Particular attention should be paid to watering in summer time, during the dry season. Watering must be carried out in the morning and evening.
Important!The soil should not be allowed to dry out, because this can adversely affect the decorativeness and condition of the plant.
Weed control
The first application is best done in April, using either humus. 
The second application is made in June, a solution is poured over each bush with a liter of top dressing.
The third top dressing is carried out when the plant blooms, while they are used, 15 grams are applied for each plant.
Before fertilizing, the bushes must be well watered, and after watering the soil should dry out a little. Next, the soil is well loosened and.
Disease and pest control
It is especially necessary to highlight, gallic and.
With the defeat of astilba with a penny leaf petioles acquire neoplasms that are similar to foam. Inside such formations, cicada larvae colonize, while the leaves of the flower wrinkle and turn yellow. These pests are very dangerous, therefore, if measures are not taken in time, the flower dies very quickly.
To combat these pests, the plant is recommended to be sprayed according to the instructions for use. Effective drugs are:
Important!If pest control measures are not taken in time, then heavily affected plants will need to be destroyed so that they do not infect healthy specimens.
Of the diseases that astilba is susceptible to, the following can be distinguished:
- . The disease affects the leaves of the plant, while they become black. If measures are not taken in time to combat the disease, then the astilba fades and dies over time. To combat this disease, it is recommended to use drugs that have copper in their composition.
- astilbe is also very often affected, especially if you do not follow the rules of irrigation and allow water to stagnate in the soil. If the flower has already grown enough, then it will not die, but it will not bloom. If the plant is young and weak enough, then most likely it will die. In order to get rid of this disease, the flower is dug up and all the leaves are cut off, and the rotten roots are also removed. After it is planted in a new, more dried soil. Before planting, the plant is kept in a solution of potassium permanganate.
- Phytoplasma and viral diseases. Such a problem may occur if you have already purchased infected planting material or used contaminated soil. Such plants are not amenable to treatment, therefore, it is especially necessary to choose astilba when buying and refuse to purchase if the plants look unhealthy or are brought from afar.
Preparing for winter
The main attention during the cultivation of astilba should be given to the first year, during which the plant must get stronger in order to endure the coming winter well. During this period, all flower stalks should be cut off and the plant should not be allowed to bloom. In this case, astilba will use all the forces to take root and form buds on the roots.
Astilba is considered sufficiently resistant to low temperatures, so in winter you can do without shelter, but in some cases it is still necessary.
The older the plant, the more its resistance to bad weather is lost.
Also, if the rejuvenation of old astilbes was not carried out in the autumn period, then they will have to be insulated for the winter. In order to warm the plants in the autumn, it is necessary to cut the bush and install it above it. metal carcass, which is filled inside with leaves, and covered from above or with lutrasil. You can protect from moisture, which cover the entire structure and press it to the ground with bricks. 
In addition, it is necessary to insulate those plants that have survived a hot and dry summer: they are considered weakened and will leave in this state for the winter. In this case, they must be insulated in the same way as the old specimens.
If the astilba is healthy and young, then preparation for winter will be quite easy. With the onset of cold weather, the ground part of the astilbe dies off, so it is recommended to cut it off at the end of autumn, completely removing the shoots to the soil level. The part where the removal took place and where the roots are approximately located must be covered with soil, up to 4 cm in height. Then carry out mulching with humus or peat.
Vegetative propagation methods
Astilba is often grown by vegetative propagation. Planting by seeds is practically not used in conditions home breeding. Therefore, we will consider how to propagate astilba by dividing the bush and buds.
By dividing the bush
It is easiest to propagate astilba, dividing an adult bush. This procedure is carried out in the autumn or spring so that each part has promising growth points and a sufficient number of roots for nutrition. 
Planting astilba after dividing in open ground is necessary in the same way as in the usual case of landing. It is only necessary to pay attention to watering - it should be daily.
kidneys
Astilba can also be propagated by separating the buds:
- The procedure for cutting young buds is carried out in the spring, when the shoots begin to grow, while the buds are cut off along with part of the root.
- Damaged parts at the cut points must be sprinkled with ash.
- The planting of cut off buds should take place in a mixture of peat and gravel in a ratio of 3 to 1 and covered with a film after planting.
- Already strengthened astilbes must be planted in a permanent place of growth in the spring of next year.
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Planting astilba in the garden or in the garden is not difficult. She is unpretentious, tolerates frost well, rarely gets sick, her care is simple. At the same time, it is an ornamental flower that gives a lush inflorescence. Gardeners love astilba for its beautiful, original look and easy maintenance.
Description of astilba: features, types
Active flowering of astilba lasts about a month. The landing procedure itself begins in the first days of June and ends in August. Decorative are not only flowers, but also long dark green leaves growing on straight stems.
Color shades are the most interesting - vanilla, milky, ivory, red, pink. The pleasant aroma of astilba is similar to the smell of bird cherry. The homeland of the perennial is Japan and Asia. The number of varieties consists of 200 selections, among which the dwarf "Lilliput" and high Arens hybrids stand out.
The flower will decorate any site. When the cold begins, the ground part of the astilbe dies off. With the onset of spring, the roots sprout new shoots. An interesting distinguishing feature of the perennial is that its rhizomes grow from above. Exposed buds form on the upper parts of the root, so it is necessary to add soil every 12 months.
Every year, the astilbe grows in size, fresh roots appear, but the lower part gradually dies. The flowers grow up to 10-50 cm long. After flowering, boxes filled with seeds are formed.
For a more convenient growing process, it is better to use tall varieties growing up to 80 cm. Such varieties are more viable and respond well to temperature changes.
Most flower growers prefer Japanese astilba. This hybrid was developed by a German breeder in the 19th century. Perennials of this variety are the most colorful, bright. They grow well in any land, are resistant to cold weather, bloom for about 35 days. The culture reaches 80 cm.
Planting and caring for astilba
An important rule when planting astilba is to choose a suitable place for it, preferably in the northern territory of the garden. The process starts from May to June.
Soil Selection Tips
- When planting, give preference to shady areas or land near the pool, pond. Some varieties of astilba love the sunny side.
- Despite the fact that the perennial can grow on almost any land, it especially respects loamy, fertile lands fertilized with potash and phosphorus compounds.
- If the soil has an increased level of acidity, then wood ash should be placed before planting, which will lower the indicator. You can also use dolomite flour.
- Consider the proximity of plants. If coniferous shrubs grow nearby, then they will outwardly harmonize and protect the astilba from overheating.
- Pay attention to astilba varieties, flowering period. Early, late species will grow well in a sunny and shaded area. Plants that bloom in mid-summer are best planted in dark places.
- For planting a crop, location near groundwater is undesirable. Also, do not allow stagnation of moisture in the territory.
- So that the rhizomes do not suffer from an excess of moisture, astilba must be planted on a hill or equipped with drainage.
- Check that the rhizomes do not have damaged parts.
We will analyze the planting and care of astilba in the open field below.
Site preparation
It is important that weed roots do not remain at the planting site.
First you need to dig up the site, throw out the old roots, weeds. Then the soil is fertilized with manure or peat is applied in the amount of 2 buckets per 1 sq. m. They dig holes for astilba to a depth of 30 cm. A handful of ash, a mineral mixture are thrown at the bottom, then water is plentifully watered. They start planting. At least 5 cm of soil should be sprinkled over the seedlings. Then it is compacted and covered with the same layer of mulch. You can use peat or humus.
Reproduction by seeds
If astilba is propagated by seeds, then they are sown in early March. Before planting, hardening is carried out: peat and sand are placed in equal amounts in the dishes, 2 cm of snow is placed on top, you can take it from their freezers. Gradually, it will begin to melt, pushing the seeds deep into the earth. After the snow disappears, the container is covered with glass or a bag and sent to the refrigerator for 3 weeks. During this time, planting materials will get stronger, and in the future they will turn into persistent flowers.
After the sprouts germinate, the dishes are taken to the sunny side with an air temperature of +20 degrees. Water them very carefully using a syringe. This will direct the jet to the root. After the appearance of three full leaves, the sprouts are seated in different pots. It must be remembered that varietal astilba is not propagated by seeds, as hybrids will lose their individual qualities.
Division of the rhizome
This option is recognized as the simplest and most effective. An adult astilbe is dug up, taken out of the ground along with roots and soil. Then gently shake it off. The rhizome is divided into parts with a knife so that each has at least 4 buds. Then they are seated at a distance of 30 cm from each other. Moisturize the bushes every day, but in moderation.
The depth of the hole at which the sprout is planted depends on the rhizome. It should be free to be there. It is impossible to deepen the bush much and cover the kidneys with soil. Some gardeners put a hydrogel on the bottom to help keep the soil moist. Also, when planting, ash, dolomite flour and fertilizers of mineral origin are added in an amount of 1 tablespoon. Sprouts should be planted in well-drained soil.
The surface of the open ground is mulched with bark or crushed peat. This helps retain moisture in the soil and prevents root system from drying out.
astilbe care
Culture in one year grows 3-5 cm in height. Special care is not required, it is enough to sprinkle the earth as soon as the rhizome is exposed. The layer should be about 3 cm.
Like any culture, flowers need to maintain the moisture of the earth. For this purpose, a layer of mulch is laid on top of the soil - a mixture of bark, peat, expanded clay. In winter, it will protect the astilba roots from freezing and death.
The most important thing when caring for astilba is to water evenly and keep the soil moist. Then perennials will always be healthy, lush and beautiful.
To make the plants look aesthetically pleasing, cut off dead stems as necessary. Also, faded inflorescences are cut off from the culture, they are especially attentive to this in landscape design when landscaping sites.
How to fertilize and feed astilba
For good development and flowering of the culture, regular feeding with its complex compositions is necessary. Taking into account that astilba can live in one area without picking and dividing the roots for more than five years, it is recommended to start feeding it at the very beginning of spring.
Top dressing is applied, focusing on the time of year - in the spring they fertilize with nitrogen mixtures. This contributes to the rapid growth of new leaves on the bushes after winter.
In mid-July, potash compounds are used; in August, phosphorus compounds are used. This will prolong the timing and splendor of flowering, and also contributes to the normal formation of full-fledged seeds. It is necessary to apply top dressing in the form of mineral fertilizers.
Reproduction of astilba
Perennials reproduce in several ways. Detailed description indicated below.
seeds
This method is rarely used, since perennials often differ from varietal plants in the following ways:
- low decorative effect;
- other color;
- sparse flower tassels;
- short flowering period.
For propagation by seeds, high-quality types of breeding crops are used. Planting material is scattered over the surface without deepening. In order for the sprout to appear faster, you need to create high humidity soil and maintain it. To do this, the container is covered with glass or seeds are sown in a greenhouse.
Growing planting material consists in the timely regular moistening of the soil. During this period, you need to be especially careful about watering. There is a danger of drying out small sprouts. They are protected from direct sunlight, so they are placed in a place where the sun does not penetrate.
It is possible to achieve positive results in increasing the appearance of sprouts using the technique of planting material stratification. The agrotechnical procedure is that the seeds are sent to a refrigerator with a temperature of +4 to -4 degrees for 3 weeks. When they harden, they are sown in small greenhouses and kept at a temperature of +20 degrees.
After 2-3 months, young seedlings are sown on a permanent plot in open ground. Planting material, which is obtained by hardening, is characterized by remarkable viability and accelerated growth.
Vegetative propagation of astilba
The division of the rhizome is the simplest, most effective option. Most gardeners use this method for planting.
An adult astilbe is carefully dug out of the ground, trying not to injure the roots.
Using a sharp blade, the roots are cut into pieces so that each contains 3 buds. The place of the cut is covered with crushed coal.
A groove is prepared, the root system with buds is laid out at the bottom and watered. Remarkable results when sowing are achieved through the use of root stimulants. Astilba care consists in regular moistening and loosening of the soil.
Planting by dividing the roots can be carried out in March. Then the first flowers will appear in early autumn.
Reproduction by the kidneys
The division of a perennial culture can be carried out by the fastest method in time - reproduction by the kidneys. In the spring, with the onset of the growing season, buds are cut off from the crop with a pointed knife. The cuttings are planted in a greenhouse where moist soil is located, consisting of a mixture of coarse sand and gravel. Before planting, the place of the cut is sprinkled with ash.
A young perennial planted in this way is characterized high rate survival rate. But there is a drawback. New astilba grows only after a year.
Astilba diseases
It is necessary to monitor the condition of the flowers. When pests appear, you need to immediately begin to deal with them. The perennial is almost not exposed to infection and rarely gets sick.
The root system of some flower varieties may be affected root-knot nematode. The causative agent is not afraid of the use of drugs, so the fight against it consists in the humiliation of infected plants. It is also necessary to dig out a part of the earth on which diseased bushes grew. Astilbe cannot be dived in this area for several years.
Another harmful insect that can infect crops in the open field is drooling penny. The diseased astilba begins to grow poorly, leaf development slows down. As a preventive measure, manual collection of the pest from the sheets is used.
How does astilbe fit in with other plants?
Perennial can be grown outdoors next to other crops. Decorative flowers are perfectly combined with coniferous bushes. With their monotonous greenery, they look beautiful. In addition, such a planting is beneficial for astilba - the needles close it from sunlight, creates a shadow.
Growing tulips, periwinkles, irises, hostas look great with flowers nearby. If you plant bushes one by one on green grass, it will look incredibly beautiful and stylish.
With landscape design, astilbe bushes planted in dark areas will fit perfectly into the overall picture. Perennial can be planted singly and in group plantings. With their help, unusual landscape interiors are created for dark and semi-dark places.
Astilba is unpretentious, not capricious, easy to care for. Planting it in open ground is easy. The main thing is to take into account the characteristics of the rhizome and control that in winter they are always covered with earth. It is also important to ensure regular soil moisture. Mulching is recommended.
Overheating, excess moisture are equally dangerous for any plant, the mulch layer will protect the roots from adverse conditions. It is also necessary to pluck weeds, water more often when flowering. With proper observance of simple recommendations, you can grow stunning plants that will decorate any garden or garden. country cottage area, will delight with its brightness and beauty.
