Can You Plant Astilbe and Hydrangea Together?

Astilbes, known for their fern-like foliage and feathery blooms, and Hydrangeas, with their large, globe-like flowers, are popular garden shrubs. The good news is that these two plants can be grown together successfully. This article will explore the shared requirements, design possibilities, and care practices for creating a garden bed with both Astilbe and Hydrangea.

Shared Growing Requirements

The primary reason Astilbe and Hydrangea make excellent garden companions is their similar environmental needs. Both plants thrive in partial shade or dappled sunlight, which protects them from the harsh afternoon sun that can scorch their leaves and flowers. This shared preference makes it easy to select a suitable location where both can flourish.

Both Astilbe and Hydrangea prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, as they do not tolerate dry conditions well. A slightly acidic soil pH is also beneficial for both. Amending the soil with compost or other organic material will help create the ideal environment for their root systems to establish and grow strong.

Garden Design with Astilbe and Hydrangea

When designing a garden with Astilbe and Hydrangea, their contrasting flower textures create a visually appealing display. The large, rounded blooms of the Hydrangea provide a bold statement, while the delicate, feathery plumes of the Astilbe add a soft and airy texture.

Layering is another effective design strategy. Taller Hydrangea varieties can be planted at the back of a border, with shorter Astilbe varieties placed in front. This creates depth and a multi-dimensional look in the garden. For example, a tall Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ with its large white flowers can be underplanted with a shorter, pink-flowered Astilbe ‘Vision in Pink’ for a layered effect.

Color palettes can be either harmonious or contrasting. For a serene look, you can pair blue Hydrangeas with pink or purple Astilbes. Alternatively, a more dramatic effect can be achieved by creating a strong contrast, such as pairing a white Hydrangea with a deep red Astilbe. Considering the bloom times of different varieties can also extend the season of color in your garden.

Planting and Long-Term Care

When planting Astilbe and Hydrangea together, provide adequate spacing to accommodate their mature sizes. This ensures good air circulation, which can help prevent fungal diseases. Researching the specific varieties you have chosen will provide guidance on their expected height and spread, allowing you to plan your planting accordingly.

To maintain the moist soil conditions that both plants prefer, applying a layer of mulch around their base is highly recommended. Mulch helps to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

A consistent watering schedule is important, especially during dry periods, as both plants show stress by wilting if they lack water. Applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring provides the nutrients for healthy growth and abundant blooms for both plants.