Astilbe Fanal

Description

GardenAdvice Notes

Astilbe Fanal, also known as Astilbe x arendsii ‘Fanal,’ is a popular perennial plant known for its attractive feathery plumes and vibrant red flowers. It belongs to the Saxifragaceae family and is a hybrid variety derived from crossing different Astilbe species.

Soil type-Astilbe Fanal thrives best in humus-rich, moist, and well-drained soil. It prefers soil that is loamy and retains moisture well without becoming waterlogged. The ideal soil pH for Astilbe Fanal is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from around 5.5 to 7.0.

Here are some key considerations regarding the soil type for Astilbe Fanal:

Moisture Retention: The soil should have good moisture retention capacity to ensure the plant’s health and growth. Astilbe Fanal prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged. Soil that dries out too quickly may hinder its growth and flowering.

Organic Matter: Adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure, helps improve its moisture retention, drainage, and fertility. Organic matter also contributes to the overall health of the plant.

Location-Astilbe Fanal grows best in locations that provide partial shade or filtered sunlight. While it can tolerate some morning sun, it prefers to be shielded from intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. The ideal location for Astilbe Fanal is an area that receives a few hours of morning sun or dappled sunlight throughout the day.

Here are some key considerations regarding the location for growing Astilbe Fanal:

Light Requirements: Astilbe Fanal thrives in partial shade conditions. It prefers locations where it receives a few hours of direct morning sunlight or bright, indirect light. Avoid planting it in areas with intense, prolonged afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves and hinder its growth.

Shade Tolerance: Astilbe Fanal is well-adapted to growing in shaded areas. It performs exceptionally well under the canopy of deciduous trees or in locations with filtered sunlight. It is an excellent choice for shady gardens, woodland areas, or areas that receive only a few hours of direct sunlight per day.

Pest and disease problems- Astilbe Fanal is generally a resilient plant, but it can face a few common pest and disease issues. Here are some potential problems to be aware of:

Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest the foliage of Astilbe Fanal. They may cause distorted growth, yellowing leaves, and the presence of sticky honeydew. Regularly inspect the plants and use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to control aphid populations.

Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails are common pests that feed on the leaves and stems of Astilbe Fanal, leaving irregular holes and a slimy trail behind. Handpicking, using barriers like copper tape, or applying organic slug and snail control methods can help manage these pests.

Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect Astilbe Fanal, particularly in humid or crowded growing conditions. It appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, causing them to become distorted and turn brown. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plants, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicidal sprays if necessary.

Leaf Spot: Leaf spot diseases, caused by fungal pathogens, can cause circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves of Astilbe Fanal. The spots may be brown, black, or reddish in colour, and severe infections can lead to leaf yellowing and defoliation. Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and consider fungicidal treatments to manage leaf spot diseases.

Crown Rot: Crown rot is a disease caused by fungal pathogens that can affect Astilbe Fanal. It primarily occurs in poorly drained soils or when plants are consistently overwatered. Infected plants may show wilting, yellowing foliage, and rotting at the base. To prevent crown rot, ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.

Regular monitoring of your Astilbe Fanal plants, maintaining good cultural practices like proper watering and providing adequate air circulation, and promptly addressing any pest or disease issues will help keep your plants healthy. If necessary, consult with a local gardening expert or extension service for specific recommendations and treatments tailored to your region.

Propagation-Astilbe Fanal can be propagated through various methods, including division, seed sowing, and root cuttings. Here’s an overview of each propagation method:

Division: Division is the most common and reliable method to propagate Astilbe Fanal. It is typically done in early spring or early fall when the plant is dormant or showing new growth. Follow these steps for division:

1. • Dig up the mature Astilbe Fanal plant, ensuring you have a clump with well-established roots.
   • Gently separate the clump into smaller divisions, making sure each division has several healthy roots and shoots.
   • Replant the divisions in prepared soil, spacing them apart according to the plant’s growth habit and spacing requirements.
   • Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly and provide adequate care until they establish themselves.Seed Sowing: While less commonly used, Astilbe Fanal can also be propagated from seeds. However, it’s important to note that growing from seeds may not produce plants identical to the parent plant. Here’s how to propagate Astilbe Fanal from seeds:
     • Collect ripe seeds from the spent flower heads in late summer or early fall.
     • Prepare a seed tray or small pots filled with a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix.
     • Sow the Astilbe Fanal seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them down. Do not cover the seeds with soil, as they require light to germinate.
     • Place the tray or pots in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight.
     • Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of around 65-70°F (18-21°C).
     • Germination can take several weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, transplant them into larger containers or their final growing location.Root Cuttings: Propagating Astilbe Fanal from root cuttings is another option, although it can be more challenging than division or seed sowing. Here’s a basic outline of the process:
       • In early spring or early fall, carefully dig up a healthy Astilbe Fanal plant.
       • Locate the thick, fleshy roots and choose a few that are about 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) long.
       • Cut the selected roots into sections, ensuring each section has several healthy buds or growth points.
       • Prepare a container with well-draining potting mix or use a seed tray with a rooting medium.
       • Place the root cuttings horizontally into the soil or rooting medium, with the buds facing upward.
       • Keep the soil or rooting medium consistently moist and maintain a temperature of around 65-70°F (18-21°C).
       • Roots should develop within a few weeks to a few months. Once the new plants are well-rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.

Remember to provide proper care, including adequate water, light, and soil conditions, to help the propagated Astilbe Fanal plants establish themselves successfully.

Pruning, cutting back and dividing-Pruning, cutting back, and dividing Astilbe Fanal are important maintenance tasks that help promote the plant’s health, encourage new growth, and maintain its overall appearance. Here are some guidelines for each:

Pruning: Astilbe Fanal requires regular pruning to remove spent flower heads and maintain a neat and tidy appearance. After the flowers have faded, follow these steps:

1. • Using sharp and clean pruning shears or scissors, cut the flower stalks back to their base, near the foliage.
   • Make the cut just above a healthy bud or set of leaves to encourage new growth.
   • Dispose of the cut flower stalks, as they can be a breeding ground for pests or diseases.Cutting back: In late fall or early spring, cutting back the foliage of Astilbe Fanal is beneficial to promote fresh growth and rejuvenation. Follow these steps:
     • Once the foliage starts to turn brown or after the first frost, use pruning shears or scissors to cut back the entire plant to about 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) above the ground.
     • Removing the old foliage helps prevent the buildup of diseases and pests and allows the plant to focus its energy on producing new growth in the following season.
     • Dispose of the cut foliage to reduce the risk of harboring pests or diseases.Dividing: Dividing Astilbe Fanal is necessary every few years to maintain its vigor and prevent overcrowding. Dividing can be done in early spring or early fall:
       • Dig up the mature Astilbe Fanal plant, ensuring you have a clump with well-established roots.
       • Gently separate the clump into smaller divisions, ensuring each division has several healthy roots and shoots.
       • Replant the divisions in prepared soil, spacing them apart according to the plant’s growth habit and spacing requirements.
       • Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly and provide adequate care until they establish themselves.
       • Dividing not only helps rejuvenate the plant but also allows you to propagate new Astilbe Fanal plants for other areas of the garden.

Remember to water the plant adequately after pruning, cutting back, or dividing to help it recover and establish itself. Providing proper care, including regular watering, mulching, and fertilising, will support the growth and overall health of Astilbe Fanal.

Please note our plants in most instances are delivered by our own GardenAdvice expert gardeners. Our standard UK delivery charge is £25 or if you are a MyGardenTeam member delivery is free

Our plants are guaranteed for 24 months for more details Click Here