ASTELIA SILVER SHADOW

Planting and Soil Requirements

• Planting Location: Prefers a sheltered location in full sun to partial shade. It can handle coastal conditions and light exposure but avoid direct, scorching sun.
• Soil Type: Requires well-drained soil; sandy, loamy, or light clay is preferred.
• Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic soil is ideal.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth it was growing in the pot, ensuring the crown is just above the soil line.
• Spacing: Space plants about 60–90 cm apart to allow for proper air circulation and room for growth.

Watering and Fertilization

• Watering:
  • Regular watering is essential during the establishment period.
  • Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells.
  • Avoid waterlogged conditions, as it does not tolerate standing water.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to promote healthy foliage growth. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent soft, leggy growth.

Light and Temperature Requirements

• Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun will enhance its silver coloration, while partial shade helps protect from sunburn in hotter climates.
• Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 8-10, Astelia 'Silver Shadow' can tolerate mild frosts but may need protection from extreme cold.
• Frost Protection: In colder regions, consider planting in a sheltered area and apply mulch in winter to protect the roots.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning:
  • Remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed to maintain a tidy appearance.
  • Light pruning can be done in spring to control size and shape if necessary.
• Deadheading: Not required for Astelia as it is primarily grown for its foliage.
• Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance once established. Keep the area around the plant free of weeds and debris to ensure good airflow and reduce the risk of disease.

Pests and Diseases

• Common Pests:
  • Astelia is relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by slugs or snails, especially in damp conditions.
• Common Diseases:
  • Root rot can occur if planted in poorly drained soil.
  • Leaf spot may appear in humid conditions but is generally not a major issue.
• Preventative Measures: Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Keep an eye on slug activity and use slug pellets or traps as needed.

Propagation

• Division: The best method of propagation is by division. Divide the plant in spring or early autumn when it is actively growing.
• Seed Propagation: While possible, it is less common as seeds take a long time to germinate and establish.
• Transplanting: If moving the plant, do so in early spring before the growing season starts.

Companion Planting and Garden Uses

• Companion Plants: Works well with ornamental grasses, ferns, and other silver or grey-leaved plants. It also pairs beautifully with colorful perennials like heuchera and lavender.
• Garden Use: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, or as a focal point in containers. Its bold, architectural form makes it a great choice for modern garden designs or coastal planting schemes.

Winter Care and Overwintering

• Winter Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late autumn to protect the roots from frost.
• Frost Protection: In colder zones, cover the plant with horticultural fleece during severe frosts to protect the foliage.
• Evergreen Winter Interest: The silver foliage of Astelia 'Silver Shadow' provides year-round interest in the garden, even during winter months.

Key Care Points for Astelia 'Silver Shadow'

• Soil: Requires well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil.
• Watering: Regular watering is necessary during establishment, with occasional watering during dry periods once mature.
• Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade; avoid intense direct sunlight in very hot climates.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed; remove dead or damaged leaves as required.
• Frost Protection: Protect from extreme frost with mulch and cover in colder regions.

Conclusion

Astelia 'Silver Shadow' is a low-maintenance, evergreen perennial that offers striking silver foliage throughout the year. It works well in borders, containers, and coastal gardens, providing architectural interest and contrast. With its tolerance to different light conditions and ability to handle drought once established, Astelia 'Silver Shadow' is a fantastic choice for modern landscapes or as a statement plant. Follow these care tips to enjoy its beauty and longevity in your garden.

• Size
  5 lt

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

You can pay your online order either by credit card or via Paypal.
If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.