Lawn Guardian

Astilbe Care Guide

Astilbe x arendsii

perennialZones 4–8deer resistant

Feathery plume-like flower spikes in pink, red, white, or purple above fern-like foliage. One of the best perennials for shade and moist conditions.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Clean up old plumes Early spring

Remove dried flower plumes from last year if they were left for winter interest.

Divide crowded clumps Early spring

Divide every 3-4 years to maintain bloom vigor. Replant divisions with crowns at soil level.

Summer

Keep consistently moist Throughout summer

Astilbe suffers in dry conditions. Water regularly -- brown, crispy leaf edges mean it needs more water.

Fall

Leave plumes for interest Fall

Dried flower plumes turn coppery-brown and provide winter texture. Leave standing.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns