Bare Root Planting Astilbe: Tips and Tricks for a Beautiful Garden

If you want to add some color and texture to your garden, astilbe is a great option. This beautiful perennial plant is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. Bare root planting astilbe is an excellent way to get started with this lovely plant, and in this article, we'll share some tips and tricks to help you create a stunning garden with astilbe.

What is Astilbe?

Astilbe is a perennial plant that produces feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, white, and red. The foliage is also quite attractive, with fern-like leaves that come in shades of green, bronze, and even purple. Astilbe is a popular choice for gardens because it's easy to grow, low-maintenance, and adds a lot of visual interest to any space.

Astilbe with pink flowers

Why Choose Bare Root Planting?

There are a few reasons why bare root planting is a good choice for astilbe. First, it's less expensive than buying potted plants. Second, it allows you to see the roots of the plant and make sure they're healthy before you plant. Finally, bare root planting gives the plant a chance to establish itself more quickly in your soil.

When to Plant Astilbe

The best time to plant bare root astilbe is in the spring or fall. In the spring, wait until the ground has thawed and is workable. In the fall, plant at least four weeks before the first hard frost.

Astilbe with purple leaves

Preparing Your Soil

Before planting your astilbe, prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Astilbe prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is heavy clay, mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.

How to Plant Astilbe

Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root system of your bare root astilbe. Place the plant in the hole, making sure that the crown (the area where the roots meet the stem) is level with the surface of the soil. Fill in the hole with soil, gently firming it around the plant. Water thoroughly after planting.

Astilbe with white plumes

Caring for Astilbe

Astilbe is a low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are a few tips:

• Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilize once a year, in the spring, with a balanced fertilizer.
• Remove spent blooms to encourage more flowering.
• Divide every three to four years to prevent overcrowding.

So there you have it! With these tips and tricks, bare root planting astilbe can be a breeze. Try it out and enjoy the beauty of astilbe in your garden for years to come!