Re: [SG] astilbe question
- To: s*@MAELSTROM.STJOHNS.EDU
- Subject: Re: [SG] astilbe question
- From: P* H* <M*@AOL.COM>
- Date: Thu, 7 Jan 1999 22:22:26 EST
In a message dated 1/7/99 6:34:34 PM Central Standard Time,
stedman@INTERPORT.NET writes:
<< I have several astilbes that are
supposed to be interesting colors like "carmine" or "peach"--but they just
end up being differing shades of purplish-pink. Could this be due to low
light (about 2-3 hours of early afternoon sun; dappled shade the rest of the
day), or possibly acid soil (5.5)? While I have nothing against lavender,
but really, enough is enough. >>
which ASTILBE do you have? If you can remember
color can be effected by the factors you state.
In shade -- flower color is more subdued-so plant those types that have more
intense colors verses those that have softer more subtle colors like 'Peach
Blossom' or any of the soft pinks, they will look like washed out whites in
more shade.
Moist effects blooms-ASTILBE do need soils that do not get dry to do their
best. That does not mean they have to have wet soils-just ones that do not
get real dry.
pH will effect colors too-but this is something I cannot state with any
confidence in regard to specific information.
Also check on your soils nutritional condition- I grow almost all my ASTILBE
in containers and if the soil is nutritionally poor-the colors will wash out
somewhat.
ASTILBE will love a half day of light if you can keep them from drying out-
other wise they do well in bright shade.
It's been cold the last few days and all the ASTILBE are 'asleep' under the
straw and snow, It was F -18 last night with a wind chill of -35F.
did I mention Astilbes make great pot plants, the red stems look great in the
spring -- almost like ferns.
