How to grow Astilbe in the UK
Astilbe
Astilbe (Astilbe) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Needs reliably damp soil — won't tolerate dry. Brilliant in pond margins or shaded damp borders. This guide covers when and how to sow Astilbe, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Easy — good for beginners
Position
partial sun (3–6 hrs)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Astilbe
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant at the same depth as the pot
- Spacing
- 30–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant container-grown stock spring or autumn; divide established clumps in spring
- Growing
- Water well the first season until established; mulch in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut back faded foliage in late autumn or early spring; divide every 3–4 years
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on new shoots; otherwise robust
Companion planting for Astilbe
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Astilbe this year
Add Astilbe to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Astilbe FAQs
How much sun does Astilbe need?
Astilbe prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
Is Astilbe easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Needs reliably damp soil — won't tolerate dry. Brilliant in pond margins or shaded damp borders.