Growing astilbe from seed is not the easiest method of propagation. In general, dividing rhizomes is the easiest and most common method of propagating astilbe. This involves taking a spade and digging up a clump of astilbe and carefully dividing the clump into multiple pieces, making sure each piece has at least one bud or leaf.
The clump is then replanted with the divisions spaced at least eighteen inches apart. This method of propagation ensures faster and more reliable results.
Growing astilbe from seed is possible but more difficult. The seeds are generally very small, which makes them difficult to handle and spread evenly. Additionally, astilbe seeds must be stratified, which means they must be exposed to cold temperatures for a period of time before they will germinate.
Once the stratification process has been completed, the seeds must be sown on the ground and then carefully mulched. It can take several years for the astilbe plants to reach a mature size when grown from seed, so patience is key.
How long does astilbe take to grow from seed?
It typically takes between 5-12 weeks for astilbe to grow from a seed to a mature plant, depending on the variety and conditions. The fastest way to grow astilbe from a seed is to start indoors in a pot 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost.
After this, ensure the soil remains moist, but not too wet. Depending on the variety, astilbe grows best in bright shade but will tolerate some morning sun. Low temperatures and/or dry conditions can slow down the growth rate.
Additionally, it may be necessary to thin out the astilbe seedlings to promote strong, healthy plants. Once the last frost has passed and the soil temperatures have risen, you can transplant your astilbes outside.
Do astilbe seeds need stratification?
Yes, astilbe seeds need a period of stratification before they can successfully germinate. Stratification is a process of exposing the seed to a period of cold temperatures before planting. This process helps the seed break dormancy so that it can begin to germinate.
For astilbe, stratification can be done indoors by placing the seeds in moist, perlite-based seed starting medium and storing them in a zip-top bag in the refrigerator for four to six weeks, followed by planting the seeds in individual pots filled with damp, sterile potting mix.
Outdoors, stratification can be done by sowing seeds in fall or winter. It’s important to note that pre-soaked astilbe seeds can be planted directly, since they don’t require stratification. If you’re in doubt, it initially is wise to stratify the seed.
This way, you can be sure that the seed will be ready and waiting for the proper conditions to stimulate germination.
How do you germinate astilbe?
Germinating astilbe is relatively easy to do and typically requires only following a few simple steps.
First, you need to obtain and prepare the seeds. Purchase seeds from a reputable source and then clean and sort them before planting, discarding any discolored or damaged seeds. You also need to cold stratify the seeds for a few weeks before planting.
To do this, place the seeds in a container of moist growing medium, such as peat moss or sand, and place in a refrigerator at a temperature of 39°F to 49°F for 4-6 weeks.
Once the stratification process is complete, prepare the soil for the astilbe. Astilbe prefers moist and well-drained, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. Ensure the soil is turned loose with a gardening fork, and then sow the cold-stratified seeds by sprinkling them across the soil surface, covering the seeds lightly with a thin layer of soil.
Water the soil thoroughly until it’s damp, and then place the planting containers in a warm, bright location. During the germination period, you need to check the soil frequently and keep it damp at all times.
If the soil becomes dry, water gently and evenly. The germination period usually lasts 10 to 14 days, at which point the astilbe seeds will start to sprout. Monitor seedlings carefully and thin them out, when necessary, to maintain the proper density.
Finally, once seedlings are established, transfer into larger separate planters and move them to their permanent outdoor space. Plant in an area of partial shade and water deeply and regularly. Prune airy stems in late winter to help maintain a healthy and bushy form year-round.
Is astilbe hard to grow?
No, astilbe is not hard to grow. In fact, it is noted for its easy care and low maintenance requirements. It grows best in moist, humus-rich soil, with plenty of organic matter, somewhere part shade to full shade.
It requires well-drained soil and a fertilizer that is higher in phosphorus (such as a 5-10-5 formula) should be applied in early spring. It also does best with deep, regular watering. Overall, it doesn’t require a lot of fussing, so if you have a current of nutrient-rich soil and the appropriate amount of sunshine and regular watering, you can expect your astilbe to prosper.
When should I start astilbe?
The best time to start astilbe is in the late spring or early summer when the soil has had time to warm up and the temperatures have generally moderated. Astilbe will take several weeks to germinate, so starting astilbe in periods of very cold weather may delay the length of time it takes for the plants to reach maturity.
Prepare the planting bed before sowing seeds by raking the soil to ensure it is free of clumps and planting matter. Work a generous amount of organic matter into the soil and water depth until the soil is moist.
Sow the seeds and cover the soil lightly. Keep the soil moist until the astilbe seedlings emerge and thin out the seedlings as they grow. Fertilizing regularly and providing adequate water will help ensure healthy growth.
The astilbe plants can be transplanted to the permanent location in the fall or the following spring.
Do astilbes multiply?
Yes, astilbes do multiply and can spread rather quickly depending on their particular variety. They multiply by self-seeding and by offshoots from the existing plants. With some having a very aggressive spreading habit and others that are slow to multiply.
However, regardless of the type of astilbe, large clumps will form in a well-draining rich soil in no time with proper care. When given proper care and maintained through division, astilbes ornament gardens and yards for many years.
How long does it take for astilbe to establish?
Establishing astilbe in your garden can take some time, but it is ultimately time well spent. Astilbe is a perennials, so it will return to your garden year after year. Generally, it takes two to three years to get established and start showing blooms.
When selecting astilbe, choose a variety that is best suited for your soil and garden conditions. Depending on the type you choose, astilbe plants should be planted in the spring. Starting with a good planting and watering routine helps encourage good root growth which is necessary for establishing a strong, long-lasting astilbe.
You can help give your astilbe some extra support by applying a natural or organic fertilizer to the soil in the early spring. Make sure to follow directions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing. Also, astilbe needs to be kept moist but not wet – so checking your soil frequently and giving it a generous drink when needed will ensure your astilbe is happy in its new home.
In general, astilbes are very resilient and quite forgiving, so with the right care and conditions, your astilbe should be established in two to three years. Enjoy their long-lasting beauty and colorful blooms for years to come!.
Do astilbe need to be cut back in the fall?
Yes, astilbes typically need to be cut back in the fall. When grown in the garden, astilbes should be trimmed back to around 6 inches above the ground to reduce the chances of fungal problems and encourage new growth in the spring.
It is important to deadhead (remove dead flowers and foliage) throughout the season to help promote abundant plants and more blooms. In addition, the foliage can be cut back prior to the end of the season if desired.
This can help keep the plant looking its best and reduce the risk of diseased foliage over winter. If desired, the foliage can also be left in place over winter as natural mulch, providing protection against extreme temperatures.
The only caution here is to make sure to leave 3-4 inches of foliage above the soil line to reduce the chances of fungal disease in the spring.
Will astilbe rebloom if cut back?
Yes, astilbe will rebloom if cut back. This can be done in early summer when the blooms are starting to look faded. Removing the faded blooms will encourage the plant to send up new ones, which can be enjoyed in late summer.
To do this properly, use pruners or hedge clippers to cut the stems to a few inches above the soil. This can also help keep the plant from becoming too leggy or top-heavy. Additionally, fertilizing the plants in spring and deadheading spent blooms throughout the summer can help prolong the flowering period.
With the proper care, an astilbe plant can provide multiple blooms throughout the season.
Can you start astilbe from seeds indoors?
Yes, it is possible to start astilbe from seeds indoors. The process involves stratifying the seeds by first soaking them in warm water for 24 hours prior to planting, placing them in a plastic bag with moist sphagnum moss, and then refrigerating the bag for 8-10 weeks.
This simulates the winter weather conditions needed for the seeds to break their dormancy. When the stratification period is complete, you can plant the seeds in sterile, soil-less mix and germinate them at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The soil should be kept moist but not soaking wet. Thin to the strongest seedlings when the first set of true leaves appears. Once all risk of frost has passed in the spring, transplant the seedlings outside.
Is astilbe invasive?
No, astilbe is not generally considered to be invasive. Astilbe is generally easy to care for, and it grows in clumps that can be easily contained. However, astilbe can spread to neighboring areas if not contained, making it important to take proper steps in order to keep it under control.
It is important to deadhead the blooms and to remove the volunteer seedlings from the area to prevent further spread. In addition, astilbe can be divided every three to five years to further control its spread.
There are also some varieties of astilbe that are less likely to become invasive such as ‘Sprite’ and ‘Bridal Veil. ‘ Therefore, astilbe generally does not have to be on the list of invasive plants, but it is important to take steps to contain it if it is planted.
Where does astilbe grow best?
Astilbe is a popular flowering perennial that prefers partial and full shade, high humidity, and moist soils. It grows best in light to medium shade and with consistent moisture, though some varieties can tolerate more sun.
When planted in the right location, astilbe will reward gardeners with blooms from mid-summer to early fall, with different varieties available in shades of pink, white, cream, and red. Additionally, astilbe often includes foliage in shades of green, bronze, burgundy, and variegated.
Based on its preferences, astilbe will do best in areas of the garden such as woodland gardens, shaded borders, and mass plantings for garden beds and along walkways. If grown in sunnier areas, the soil should be kept consistently moist, and the astilbe should be surrounded by plants that will help provide shade and humidity, such as hosta, ferns, and other shade-loving perennials.
Are astilbe slow growing?
No, astilbe are not considered to be slow growing plants. Generally, astilbe can grow up to a foot in height within a single season and can spread up to two feet wide. Within five to seven years, astilbe can reach three feet in height and four feet in width.
They can also require more water than other plants, which may make them seem to be slower growing than other plants. However, when given the right amount of water and sunlight, these plants can be quite vigorous and fast growing.
Where are the seeds on an astilbe plant?
The seeds of an astilbe plant can usually be located on the seedheads, which form after the plant has finished blooming. These can be found at the tips of the stems, and will usually be dry, papery, and brown when they’re full of seeds and ready to collect.
When collecting astilbe seeds, it’s important to wait for them to be completely dry before attempting to remove them. If the seeds are still wet, it may be harder to separate them from the plant and they won’t last as long.
To remove the seeds, simply hold the seedhead between your thumb and forefinger, and gently pull off the papery seed pods until you’re left with a pile of seeds. When you’re finished collecting, store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant them.