It is easy to grow aster in pots, and astilbe grown in pots might be just what you need to add some bright color to a place that gets some shade. This lovely plant comes in dwarf or compact varieties, as well as taller cultivars for those who want a plant with a bit more height. Read on to learn about growing astilbe in containers.
Astilbe, also known as false spirea or false goat’s beard, is a popular perennial plant known for its plume-like flower spikes that come in shades of white, pink, red, purple and more. This shade-loving plant is easy to grow and makes a beautiful addition to gardens, borders and containers. But can astilbe be successfully grown in pots?
The short answer is yes! With the right care and conditions, astilbe can thrive when grown in containers In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing the right pot, soil, location and care for container-grown astilbe
Choosing a Container for Astilbe
When selecting a container for astilbe, bigger is generally better. This allows the root system ample room to grow and spread out. For one astilbe plant, choose a container that is at least 16 inches wide and 12 inches deep. If planting multiple astilbe in the same pot, opt for a larger container and space plants 6-12 inches apart depending on variety size.
The material of the container isn’t too important, but terra cotta and wood planters are great choices as they allow airflow and drainage. Just be sure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Best Soil for Potted Astilbe
Proper soil is key to healthy astilbe growth The soil should be rich in organic matter and free draining An all-purpose commercial potting mix works well, or you can make your own by combining
- Peat or compost for moisture retention
- Perlite or bark chips for drainage
- Compost, manure or worm castings to provide nutrients
The soil pH should be slightly acidic between 5.5-6.5. If needed mix in an acidifying agent like coffee grounds or sulfur.
Perfect Placement for Container Astilbe
When growing astilbe in pots, proper placement is critical. Astilbe prefer partial shade locations that receive morning sun and afternoon shade. Too much hot sun will cause the foliage to scorch.
Aim for a spot that gets about 4 hours of sun per day. East facing locations are ideal for providing morning light without intense afternoon heat. Light shade under tall trees or the shadow of a building also works well.
In hot climates, keep container astilbe in a site with bright indirect light to protect it from heat stress. If growing astilbe indoors, provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight near a bright window.
Watering and Fertilizing Container Astilbe
Astilbe have higher water needs when grown in pots. Check soil moisture frequently, watering whenever the top 1-2 inches become dry. During hot weather, pots may need watering every 1-2 days. Water deeply until it drains from the bottom of the container.
Too much water can be just as harmful as too little, so be sure the pot has good drainage. Dump out any water that accumulates in the saucer underneath.
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season in spring and summer. This will provide an extra nutrient boost. Stop fertilizing by early fall so plants can harden off for winter dormancy.
Caring for Potted Astilbe Year-Round
With the right care, container astilbe can thrive year-round:
Spring:
- Water thoroughly after winter dormancy as new growth emerges
- Apply fertilizer every 2-4 weeks
- Prune or trim any dead foliage
Summer:
- Water regularly, up to twice per week in hot weather
- Watch for pests like aphids
- Cut back faded flower plumes
Fall:
- Reduce watering as plants enter dormancy
- Stop fertilizing by early fall
- Leave foliage for winter interest
Winter:
- Water sparingly, only if soil is very dry
- Remove dead leaves
- Keep pots in an unheated garage or shed to protect from winter extremes
Dividing and Transplanting Container Astilbe
Dividing astilbe when they become overcrowded every 3-4 years encourages new growth. Early fall or spring are the best times to divide and transplant container astilbe. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate root sections with a sharp knife or garden fork, ensuring each division has 3-5 healthy shoots. Replant divisions in pots using fresh potting mix. Keep transplants well-watered until established.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with Potted Astilbe
Growing astilbe in containers comes with some potential challenges. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Leggy growth: Astilbe grown in too much shade can become leggy as they reach for light. Move to a location with more sun.
Brown leaves: Underwatering, overwatering, or excessive sun can cause foliar burn. Adjust care accordingly.
Failure to bloom: Insufficient sunlight, overcrowding, improper pruning, and nutrient deficiencies can prevent flowering. Address the underlying cause.
Pests: Aphids, slugs, snails, and spider mites may attack container astilbe. Use organic pest control measures.
Root rot: Excess moisture leads to fungal rot. Let soil dry out between waterings and ensure good drainage.
Winter damage: Protect containerized astilbe from extreme cold. Grow cold hardy varieties in zones 3-4.
With proper care, astilbe makes a lovely addition to container gardens and planters. Follow this guide for growing healthy, vigorous astilbe in pots that will bloom year after year. With so many sizes, colors and bloom times to choose from, it’s easy to find a variety suited to your space and needs.
How to Grow Astilbe in Pots
Start with a pot that is at least 16 inches wide and 12 inches (30 cm) deep if you only want to grow one plant. ). If you want to grow more than one astilbe, look for a larger container. You can use a good commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing organic materials like peat, compost, composted bark chips, perlite, or sand together. Be sure the container has at least one drainage hole. If you want to save yourself some time, purchase starter plants at a greenhouse or nursery. It can be hard for aster seeds to sprout, but if you really want to try, plant them right in the pot and then lightly cover them with potting mix. When the astilbe are 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7. 6 cm. ) tall, space the plants at least 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) apart. ) for small plants and 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm. ) for larger varieties. Avoid overcrowding, which can cause rot and fungal disease.
Caring for Potted Astilbe Plants
Astilbe thrives in light sunlight or moderate shade. Although astilbe grows in total shade, the blooms won’t be as vibrant. If you live in a hot area, though, put the plants where they will get afternoon shade. Most types of astilbe can’t handle direct sunlight. Check the container often and water potted astilbe plants whenever the top one inch (2. 5 cm. ) of soil feels dry to the touch – which may be daily during the heat of summer. Be sure the pot drains well and never allow the soil to remain soggy. A water-soluble fertilizer should be applied to astilbe plants in pots twice a month, starting when new growth starts to show in the spring and ending when the plant goes dormant in the fall. Divide container grown astilbe every three to four years.