Finding attractive flowering plants for shade has been difficult for many gardeners. Not any more. Enter the Astilbe Vision Series. This perennial has risen to the top to become the cream of the shade garden.

Astilbe likes to be planted in moist well drained highly organic soil in full shade to part sun. The Vision series of Astilbe which come in a variety of colors are valued for their spikes of flower plumes that stand straight up from very attractive fern like foliage. Their mature height is 24 inches high by 18 inches wide. Bloom time for this variety is much longer then traditional varieties and goes from late spring thru till mid summer. They look stunning in mass plantings, as a border and do very well in containers. They are a great addition to a cut flower garden.

Beneficial characteristics of the Astilbe are that it is great in shade or part sun, longer bloom time, attracts butterflies, and makes a great cutting flower or dried flower.

When first planting Astilbe, space them 1 foot apart and incorporate into the soil rich compost such as Bumper crop, along with some peat moss. This will provide a perfect soil foundation for new plants that can retain water and nutrients. To help in drought conditions use Espoma Bio-tone Soil Conditioner with beneficial mycorrihizae. This will help establish a large healthy root system. Follow with a monthly feed of Espoma Flower-tone. An occasional shot of liquid Miracle Gro always does the body good for this plant.

Although there are many great shade perennials, not many give you great color. A great perennial like Astilbe Vision Series solves the question, “what can I plant in my backyard that is all shade but will still give me color in the summer?” Try one today.