How to Transplant Astilbe
Most gardeners know that perennials thrive when they are divided and transplanted in the early fall, because growth slows for the winter and fall division puts less stress on the plant. Almost all perennials also require division on a regular basis. Plants should be divided and transplanted every two to three years, depending on the species. Astilbe, however, is one perennial that requires very little, and unless a poor location is keeping it from thriving, it will seldom need to be transplanted. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose a partially sunny to shady location with moist, well drained soil for transplanting astilbe. It may be necessary to amend clay or sandy soils with organic matter for best root development. Astilbe is easily grown in most areas but thrives in wooded areas where soil is rich.
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2
Trim the tops of astilbe plants that have stopped blooming and are beginning to turn brown to about 6 inches. Trimming the tops isn't a crucial step but will help in the transfer of the perennial, as astilbe can grow quite tall. Trimming and transplanting is best done on an overcast or slightly cooler day for the least amount of stress to the plant.
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Dig carefully around the astilbe, keeping as much of the root ball intact as possible. Remove from the garden bed and shake loose soil from the roots. Now is the time to divide the perennial if needed.
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Place astilbe in a shady area while preparing the new location. Keep the roots moist.
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5
Dig another hole for the astilbe to be transplanted to. The hole should be wider than the plant's base to avoid crowding of the root system and deep enough to cover the roots. Place the plant in the space and carefully arrange the roots so that all are inside the new hole.
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Move the soil around the plant and tamp down lightly. Mulch around the transplanted astilbe. Continue to check on it daily and water if necessary. Keeping transplants moist is important to encourage root development.
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