Hostas and Astilbe: A Guide to Planting and Caring for Two Beautiful Perennials

Are you looking for ways to add more color and texture to your garden? Look no further than hostas and astilbe! These two perennials are popular choices among gardeners for their unique foliage and blooms, which can add interest to any landscape.

What are Hostas and Astilbe?

Hostas

Hostas are herbaceous perennials native to Japan, Korea, and China, but have grown in popularity around the world. They typically have large, broad leaves that come in a range of colors, from deep green to bluish-gray to variegated yellow and white. Their flowers are also quite beautiful, coming in shades of white, purple, and blue.

Astilbe

Astilbe is another herbaceous perennial that is native to Asia and North America. It is known for its feathery, fern-like foliage and its plume-like flowers that bloom in shades of pink, white, and red. Astilbe prefers moist soil and partial shade, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens or other shady areas.

Planting Hostas and Astilbe

Choosing the Right Location

Both hostas and astilbe prefer partial shade, so it's important to choose a location that gets some sun but is not too exposed. They also prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, so be sure to amend the soil with compost or other organic material before planting.

Planting Hostas

When planting hostas, it's important to space them out properly to allow for their growth. The general rule of thumb is to plant them about 18 inches apart, although larger varieties may need more space. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball, and backfill with soil mixed with compost or other organic matter.

Planting Astilbe

Astilbe should be planted in a location that receives morning sun but afternoon shade, as too much direct sunlight can scorch its delicate foliage. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball, and backfill with soil mixed with compost or other organic matter. Be sure to keep the soil moist after planting to help the plant establish itself.

Caring for Hostas and Astilbe

Watering

Both hostas and astilbe prefer moist soil, so it's important to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

Fertilizing

Hostas and astilbe both benefit from regular applications of fertilizer, particularly in the spring when they are actively growing. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Mulching

Mulching around hostas and astilbe can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Use a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or bark, and apply it to a depth of 2-3 inches.

Common Pests and Diseases

Hostas

Hostas are prone to a few common pests and diseases, including slugs, snails, and fungal leaf spot. To prevent slug and snail damage, use a slug bait or trap, or try planting hostas in containers that are elevated off the ground. To prevent fungal leaf spot, avoid watering from above and keep the foliage as dry as possible.

Astilbe

Astilbe is susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can cause white, powdery spots on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, water at the base of the plant and avoid overhead watering. You can also space plants out properly to improve air circulation.

Companion Plants for Hostas and Astilbe

Hostas

Hostas make great companion plants for other shade-loving perennials such as ferns, bleeding heart, and coral bells. They also look great when planted with other foliage plants, such as heuchera and tiarella.

Astilbe

Astilbe looks beautiful when paired with other shade-loving perennials such as lungwort, hellebores, and foamflower. It also works well as a backdrop for other shade-loving plants, such as hostas and ferns.


If you're looking for ways to add more color and texture to your garden, consider planting hostas and astilbe. These two perennials are easy to care for and offer a range of interesting foliage and blooms that can add interest to any landscape.

FAQs

Q: When should I plant hostas and astilbe?

A: Hostas and astilbe are best planted in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.

Q: Do hostas and astilbe need full sun?

A: No, hostas and astilbe prefer partial shade and can be damaged by too much direct sunlight.

Q: How often should I fertilize my hostas and astilbe?

A: Hostas and astilbe benefit from regular applications of fertilizer, particularly in the spring when they are actively growing. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Q: What are some good companion plants for hostas and astilbe?

A: Hostas look great with other shade-loving perennials such as ferns, bleeding heart, and coral bells. Astilbe looks beautiful when paired with other shade-loving perennials such as lungwort, hellebores, and foamflower.

Q: How do I prevent pests and diseases on my hostas and astilbe?

A: To prevent pests like slugs and snails, use a slug bait or trap, or try planting hostas in containers that are elevated off the ground. To prevent fungal diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and keep foliage as dry as possible.