Crop Rotation Group
Umbelliferae (Carrot and root family)
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Soil
Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost.
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Position
Partial shade.
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Frost tolerant
Yes, astrantia is a hardy perennial. Well-rooted plants are hardy to -30°F (-34°C).
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Feeding
Drench with a liquid organic fertilizer when plants begin to grow tall in late spring or early summer.
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Companions
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Spacing
Single Plants: 1' 5" (45cm) each way (minimum)
Rows: 1' 5" (45cm) with 1' 5" (45cm) row gap (minimum)
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Sow and Plant
Astrantia often does not breed true from seed, and astrantia seeds require stratification (winter treatment) to germinate successfully. It is best to start with a potted plant of an improved variety, which are grown from pieces of thick root. Set out new plants as early as possible, while the soil is still cool, setting plants at the same depth they grew in their containers. Young plants need water when they are actively growing. A surface mulch suppresses weeds while making the plants look more attractive.
Our Garden Planning Tool can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
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Notes
Astrantia slowly spreads into a vigorous clump with short rhizomes. Plants may reseed in some areas, but unwanted seedlings are easy to pull out. Dig and divide crowded clumps after four years. Plants grown in deep shade do not bloom as heavily as those that get dappled or part-day sun. Because astrantia flowers are small and intricate, locate plants where they can be viewed up close.
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Harvesting
Gather stems for use in cut arrangements as you need them. The starry petals are dry bracts, which enclose tiny flower clusters. Astrantia blossoms also can be dried. Remove old blossoms to limit reseeding and to encourage the formation of new flower buds.
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Troubleshooting
Slugs are frequent visitors in wet spring weather. Astrantia generally prefers moist soil and does not do well with drought. Warm, humid nights may reduce flowering.
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