Astilbe non performing ?

We have a pink Astilbe in a container which had not flowered this year. It just sat there in the part shade looking sorry for itself.
@Verdun , earlier this year you mentioned it is best to split and repot them late in the year. I also have a Sanguisorba obtusa ( purple plume plant ) I would like to split after flowering . When is the best time for this ?

 

Morning Harry

You can divide astilbe now if you want to.....most important though that you water it well and keep it moist until summer's end. Couple of things......I would only divide clumps that are big enough. If yours is small, maybe just a couple of years old, I would leave division for another year. I would also use john innes compost when you plant up again and I like to mix in a handful or so of dried manure or chicken pellets.

The sanguisorba? Again, you can do it now. I divided Pink Tanna 3 weeks or so ago and it is already growing. Same as astilbe with the watering....viz., keep it moist.

With both plants, cut all foliage off

If you prefer to wait until September you can but doing it now gives an extra few weeks of growth to help build better plants for next year

 

I Will split the astilbe next week. The sanquisorba , after flowering

 

Sorry Harry for using your post for info off Verdun

@Verdun as you know my Astilbes are covered for shade...will it be ok in September to move them to where the Elijah Blues are on the back garden either side of the decking or leave till next spring

 

Gail, yes move them in autumn, September

 

Verdun

 

When you split , is it best to remove all foliage down to the crown of the plant ?

 

Morning Harry.
Yes, as with most perennials. Remember, to water really well

 

Thanks Verdun , I am going to soak the root balls before repotting in JI 3