Question
Hello.
I planted 20 or 30 astilbe this fall, in a new bed I made last spring. The plants are in well- moist, good-drainging soil. They looked very healthy when we planted them. All looked good until just the last two days when all the foliage turned brown and dry on all the plants. The soil is still moist, and nearby plants look OK. Is this the normal pattern for astilbe leaves, to die in the cold weather? Some sites I've read say the winter foliage is green. We live in SE Pennsylvania, Zone 6; we have had a couple light frosts, and the temp went down below freezing a couple times last week.

Thanks for your response, Laura.

Richard Byrnes
Sellersville, PA

Answer
Richard,
Astilbes should be planted in moist,lightly shaded areas,or dappled shade.In deep shade they will not flower as much.Rich humus soil is ideal.Keep them out of dry sunny locations.Mulching helps keep the roots moist.
I have had several different varieties,Some do crinkle up and turn completely brown and I just cut them completely off,leaving about 3 inches so I can tell where they are.Some though have remained green almost the entire winter.Of course,I am not as organized as I should be and did not label them but I know I bought a mixed batch.So no need to worry.Just be patient until spring.They should start putting on green growth by mid spring.In gardening with perennials,patience is indeed a virtue.