Astilbe ‘Mojito’

Description

Astilbe ‘Mojito’ is a captivating perennial known for its refreshing apple-green buds that open into elegant white plumes. With fern-like bronze-green foliage and a height of around 60cm, it’s perfect for brightening shaded areas of the garden. Use this detailed planting guide to help your Astilbe ‘Mojito’ thrive year after year.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Astilbe ‘Mojito’ is in spring. This allows the plant to settle in and develop a strong root system before the flowering season begins.
• Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant Astilbe ‘Mojito’ in early autumn. This timing gives it a head start for growth in the following season while taking advantage of naturally moist conditions.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Astilbe ‘Mojito’ performs best in partial shade. It appreciates bright but indirect light, making it a great choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or areas with dappled sunlight.
• Soil: Astilbe ‘Mojito’ thrives in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Add compost or organic matter to enhance moisture retention and overall soil structure. Avoid dry, sandy soil or areas that are prone to drought.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball of your Astilbe ‘Mojito’.
2. Enrich the Soil: Mix well-rotted compost or manure into the soil to provide nutrients and improve water retention.
3. Position the Plant: Place the plant so the crown is level with the surrounding soil surface. Backfill carefully, pressing the soil down to remove air pockets.
4. Water Thoroughly: After planting, water Astilbe ‘Mojito’ deeply to help settle the soil and initiate strong root growth.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Astilbe ‘Mojito’ prefers consistent moisture. Keep the soil evenly damp, especially during hot or dry spells. Avoid allowing the soil to completely dry out.
• Dormant Season: In the dormant season, reduce watering, but ensure the soil doesn’t become bone dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage lush foliage and flowering.
• Mid-Summer: A second light feeding can be applied in mid-summer to support continued growth and strong root development.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Astilbe ‘Mojito’ does not require deadheading, but you can remove faded flower spikes to maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Clean-Up: After the foliage dies back in autumn, cut back stems to just above soil level to prepare the plant for winter.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch in spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter Protection: A thicker mulch layer in winter helps insulate the roots and protects against temperature fluctuations.

Supporting the Plant

Astilbe ‘Mojito’ has a sturdy upright growth habit and typically does not require staking. However, in particularly exposed or windy areas, a light support may be beneficial during the blooming period.

Final Tips

Astilbe ‘Mojito’ is an excellent addition to shaded gardens, offering a cooling contrast with its white flower plumes and vibrant green buds. By providing consistent moisture, dappled light, and nutrient-rich soil, you can enjoy the elegant charm of Astilbe ‘Mojito’ from June through August. Plant it in groups for maximum visual impact, or pair it with hostas and ferns for a textured, layered look. With the right care, Astilbe ‘Mojito’ will return each year with fresh, feathery blooms to brighten your outdoor space.