I don't know about you, but I am always on the lookout for showy flowers that are easy to grow and preferably a perennial. Why? Simply because I am basically a lazy gardener!
I like this plant because it is virtually pest free and it will brighten up any shady spot you have in your garden or landscaping area. Plus I like the fact that they are long bloomers and they have a wonderful plumb-like flower that comes in all shades of white, red, lavender, purple, peach and pink.
Astilbe originated in Asia and is also a native to North America. They will become virtual "show offs" during June and July growing from 18" to as high as 5 feet and there is even a dwarf variety that is great for rounding out your borders since they only grow as high as 6 inches.
Sometimes referred to as False Goat's Beard and False Spirea, these plants look their best when they are planted in groups. For the container gardeners you can count on these plants to look good in your containers.
You can grow Astilbe from seed providing you sow your seeds, indoors, early in the spring or directly into the soil after the last frost has gone by and your soil has warmed up. In the spring or fall you can propagate by dividing the roots and to maintain these wonderful shade lovers it is best to separate the roots every three or four years.
When planting your plants or seeds make sure your soil is soft with lots of peat or humus, keeping your soil well drained. These plants like to have moist soil at all times. Though I said they look best if you plant them in groups of their various colors make sure you space the Astilbes 12 to 24 inches apart.
These plants like a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen since Astilbes are heavy feeders. Make sure you mulch around your plants not only for appearance sake but to keep the weeds down and to help water retention. I like the fact that Astilbes are hardy perennials that will make it though the winter well providing you mulch them again in the fall, especially if you live in very cold climates.
These are good deer resistant plants and make nice cut flowers and can successfully be grown in zones 3 to 8.
"Tread the Earth Lightly" and in the meantime May your day be filled withPeace, Light and Love,
Author's note: This article was originally written for GreenThumbArticles.com
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