Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’

Description

Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ is a stunning perennial that adds elegance and a touch of sophistication to any garden. Known for its striking burgundy flowers and rich green foliage, it is a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners. This guide will help you plant and care for Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ to ensure a flourishing display of blooms.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ is during spring, as the soil warms up. Planting at this time gives the plant ample opportunity to establish its roots before the growing season begins, ensuring healthy growth and vibrant flowers.
• Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ in early autumn. This allows the plant to settle in before the colder months, encouraging strong root development and better growth in the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler climates. A spot that receives some morning sunlight and afternoon shade is ideal for this plant, ensuring it doesn’t get scorched in the heat.
• Soil: Choose a location with well-drained, slightly moist soil. Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH. If your soil is heavy clay, consider amending it with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball of your Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’. The depth should be the same as the root ball, allowing the plant to sit level with the surrounding soil.
2. Soil Preparation: Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance drainage and provide nutrients. Astrantia will benefit from fertile, slightly moist soil for strong growth and abundant blooms.
3. Planting: Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with soil. Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Gently firm the soil around the roots to remove any air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ prefers consistently moist soil but is drought-tolerant once its roots are well-established. Water regularly during dry spells, but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ requires minimal moisture during this period.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy new growth and strong flower production. This will give your Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ a boost at the start of the growing season.
• Mid-Summer: Consider a light feeding in mid-summer to support ongoing blooming and keep the plant vigorous through the season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regular deadheading of spent flowers will encourage prolonged blooming and help maintain a tidy appearance. Simply remove the faded flowers to encourage the production of fresh blooms.
• Autumn Pruning: After the final blooms have faded in autumn, cut the stems back to ground level. This encourages the plant to rest during winter and promotes new growth in the following season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, works well and adds nutrients to the soil.
• Winter: In colder regions, add a protective layer of mulch in winter to shield the roots from frost and prevent the plant from heaving due to freezing and thawing cycles.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Generally, Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ has sturdy stems, but in exposed or windy locations, consider staking the plant. This will prevent the flowers from toppling over, especially during periods of heavy rain or wind.

Final Tips

Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ is a beautiful, low-maintenance perennial that adds colour and texture to any garden. By planting it in well-drained soil with adequate moisture and providing some shade, your plant will thrive, offering an abundance of burgundy blooms throughout the season. Regular care, including deadheading and seasonal pruning, will ensure your Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ continues to grow strong and vibrant year after year. Incorporate this striking perennial into your garden for lasting beauty and a unique focal point in your floral displays.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll enjoy the stunning beauty of Astrantia major ‘Burgundy Manor’ in your garden for many years to come.

 

RHS Details

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