This One Trick Makes Astilbes Spread Like Wildfire, No Effort Required

Mon, 04 May 2026 12:57:58 +0000

# This One Trick Makes Astilbes Spread Like Wildfire—No Effort Required Astilbes are beloved perennials known for their feathery plumes and vibrant blooms, brightening shade gardens and moist borders with color and texture. Yet, many gardeners struggle with getting them to spread naturally—outpacing planted spacing or requiring aggressive division. The good news? There’s a simple, effective trick that encourages Astilbe colonies to multiply rapidly with minimal effort. ## The Secret: Encouraging Rhizome Colony Expansion Through Strategic Dividing at the Right Time Astilbes naturally spread via rhizomes—underground stems that send up new plants. However, traditional division methods often feel labor-intensive and risky, especially in moist, shade-loving gardens. The game-changing trick? Late-season rhizome division combined with strategic soil moisture management.