Care tips
If the splendid spar finds a partially shaded location with fresh, moist, nutritious and slightly acidic soil, half of the way to vital growth is already done. This is how the maintenance program runs in a regular manner:
- Keep the soil constantly moist with lime-free water
- Apply organic fertilizer every 3-4 weeks from April to August or apply slow-release fertilizer in April and June
- Cut back close to the ground, either in autumn or early spring
also read
- When does the astilbe bloom?
- Which location is suitable for the astilbe?
- Is the astilbe hardy?
If the astilbe thrives in the bed, winter protection in the form of a layer of leaves, straw or brushwood is only recommended in the planting year. Buckets, on the other hand, are wrapped with bubble wrap every year and placed on wood.
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Which location is suitable?
A look at its natural range shows us that the splendid spar feels extremely comfortable in the partially shaded protection of mighty deciduous and coniferous trees. The lush perennial tolerates sunny locations provided that the soil is well moist and yet without waterlogging. Settle the astilbe in tuffs along the edge of the wood, on the edge of a pond or along a stream, where the perennial is spared the blazing midday sun.
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What soil does the plant need?
The splendid spar always proves its reputation as a prime example of a shadowy perennial when it has this type of soil:
- Nutrient-rich and humic
- Fresh to moist, without the risk of waterlogging
- Well-drained, preferably loamy, without a high proportion of sand
- Neutral to slightly acidic pH from 5.5 to 6.0
We recommend high-quality compost-based potting soil with little or no peat as a substrate in the pot. Adding a handful of perlite (€ 32.90 on Amazon *) or lava granulate (€ 13.76 on Amazon *) improves permeability and prevents compaction.
When is the flowering time?
The selected variety defines the flowering time of a splendid specimen. Popular species, such as Astilbe japonica and its resulting varieties, bloom from June to July. Public favorites such as the delicate Astilbe chinensis present the colorful panicles of flowers from August to September. The particularly valuable group of Arendsii hybrids does the same and sometimes lasts into October in mild weather.
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Cut astilbe correctly
If you cut the perennial back close to the ground in autumn after flowering, this measure saves you the effort of seed formation. At this point, however, it should not be left unmentioned how decoratively the seed heads of a splendid spar are presented in the early winter garden. If you don't want to miss this feast for the eyes, the pruning only takes place in late winter.
Pour astilbe
The top priority for a perfectly regulated water balance is not to let the root ball of a splendid spar dry out at any time. You should therefore check the moisture content of the soil daily with a thumb test, especially during the summer flowering period. If the substrate feels dry on the surface, it is poured. Put soft rainwater or decalcified tap water directly on the root disc. Targeted bombardment with the garden hose will resent the beauty of the flowers.
Fertilize astilbe properly
The nutritional requirements of a magnificent spar are in no way inferior to the high water requirements. So that the perennial can produce the opulent flowers and leaves, it must not run out of energy. So fertilize the astilbe every 3-4 weeks from May to August organically with compost, horn shavings (€ 6.39 at Amazon *) or horse manure. Alternatively, you can administer a slow release fertilizer at the end of April / beginning of May, which - depending on the preparation chosen - is refreshed again in July.
Overwinter
An adult splendor spar is completely hardy, so that special precautions for healthy wintering are not necessary. Regardless of this, we recommend light winter protection in the year of planting, as a young astilbe still has to work hard to get frosty. You should therefore cover the plant with leaves, straw, coniferous twigs or garden fleece before the first frost. In the bucket, the root ball is also endangered in later years due to its exposed position. As a precaution, wrap the vessel in bubble wrap. To prevent the cold from making its way into the root ball from below, slide a block of wood underneath. The substrate is given a layer of autumn leaves or peat dust.
Propagate astilbe
For the ambitious hobby gardener, it is a matter of honor to carry out the propagation of his perennials on his own. In this respect, the splendid pier is pleasingly uncomplicated. To grow more specimens, dig up the root ball in autumn or spring and place it on a stable surface. Use a freshly sharpened knife or a spade to cut the strong rhizome into two or more segments. In the new location, plant the root piece while maintaining the previous planting depth. As long as a section has at least 2 eyes, it quickly turns into a vital young plant.
How do I transplant properly?
At the latest when a splendid spar becomes bald from the inside, you can no longer avoid transplanting. To do this, dig up the root ball in spring or autumn. Use a sharp, disinfected knife to cut off the bald parts. The remaining segments will be planted as deep as before, either at the previous location or at the new location.
Is astilbe poisonous?
The splendid spar is not only a feast for the eyes for young and old, but also provides bumblebees, bees and butterflies with a richly laid pollen and nectar table. In the planting plan for the family garden and the natural green realm, the astilbe has earned a regular place. This is all the more true as there are no toxic substances in their parts of the plant.
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Yellow leaves
If the leaves of a splendid spar turn yellow, it is usually a reaction to too hard water. If lime accumulates in the soil, this prevents the absorption of important nutrients. The result is leaf chlorosis, which manifests itself in yellow leaves. Immediately switch the water supply to collected rainwater, decalcified tap water or pond water.
Nice varieties
- Bridal veil: Splendid spiers in premium quality with white flowering bushes and a tightly upright habit up to 100 cm
- Fanal: Impresses with a dramatic look thanks to blood-red flower panicles over pinnate, shiny green foliage; 60-70 cm
- Astary Pink: Magnificent dwarf variety that unfolds its pink flower festival in the tub and small garden; 25-30 cm
- White Gloria: Charming splendid spiers, ideal for partially shaded to shady locations; beautiful vase jewelry; 60-80 cm
- Younique Salmon: The noble beauty scores with salmon-colored flowers above shimmering leaves; 40-50 cm
