In addition to being dependable perennials, astilbes are not attractive to two major garden pests: deer and slugs.

Astilbes are long-lived perennials and can remain in the same location for several years. They perform best in evenly moist, but well-drained soil and will not tolerate heavy or dry soil. It is worth taking a little extra time to prepare your soil before planting to ensure years of beautiful, productive plants.

Start by digging a planting hole, about 12 inches deep and 12 inches wide. Loosen the soil in the hole and add about four inches of compost (or other organic matter) and a handful of granular, slow-release fertilizer. Thoroughly mix the fertilizer into the planting hole. The addition of organic matter and fertilizer will improve fertility, drainage and overall soil health. Return the rest of the soil to the hole and then remove just enough to accommodate the plant's root ball. Planting

Astilbes do best in a partially shaded location. Allow about 12 inches of space for each plant. If you're planting potted astilbes, the process is fairly simple. Just make sure your plant is at the same level it was when in the pot. If you're planting bareroot astilbes, dig a shallow hole that is wide enough and deep enough to place the entire clump 1 to 2 inches below the soil surface. It may be hard to tell up from down on these unusual-looking bareroot plants. Typically, you will see evidence of new growth sprouts on the "up" end and roots on more than one side of the plant. The new growth looks creamy white and the roots look brown. Place the plant in the hole, with the sprouts pointing up, taking care not to snap off the new growth. Backfill the planting hole with enough soil to cover the sprouts of the plant with 1 inch of soil. Water the area thoroughly and follow up with more water in the weeks to come if rainfall is insufficient.

Mulching: A 2-inch-thick layer of mulch over your garden beds will help retain moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. It will also help suppress weeds.

Watering: Astilbes need regular moisture to thrive. As your plants are getting established in your garden, it's important to water them regularly. Twice-weekly watering, for the first few weeks, is a good idea. After the first few weeks, weekly watering is usually sufficient. Maintaining adequate moisture in the soil will reduce the amount of stress on your plants and promote long-lasting blooms.

Fertilizing: To encourage maximum growth and flowering, apply an all-purpose liquid fertilizer every two or three weeks during the growing season. Spring Cleanup

Astilbes produce attractive, plume-like flower spikes each summer. As the flower color fades in the fall, the plumes become an attractive bronze color. If you allow the faded flowers to remain on the plant, they will provide interest in your garden right into the winter. The following spring, before new growth appears, remove any remaining dried flowers and foliage. New growth will emerge from the base of the plant.

Astilbes generally require division every three to five years. You can tell it's time to divide if your plants appear crowded or if you notice decreased flower production. Late fall and early spring are the best times to divide them. Dig the entire clump from the garden, retaining as many roots as possible. Divide the plant into portions, gently pulling clumps away from the main plant. Each division should contain a number of healthy shoots and roots. Plant the division just as you'd plant a new plant. Be sure to water thoroughly.