# How to Cut Astilbe
Astilbe, also known as false spirea, has delicate-looking foliage and airy blooms in a host of colors. It is a perennial plant, capable of surviving winters as far north as U.S. Department of Agriculture zone 4. The blooms make attractive and long-lasting additions to both fresh and dried flower arrangements. Astilbe plants require regular trimming to maintain a healthy appearance, especially toward the end of the season, and to keep the plant from overtaking the garden through prolific self-seeding.
Things You'll Need
- Pruning shears
Instructions
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1
Cut astilbe flowers for fresh arrangements when the blooms are approximately halfway open. Make smooth cuts and sever the stems at the appropriate length for the selected vase.
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2
Gather astilbe flowers for dried arrangements just as the blooms begin to open. Again, make cuts as smooth as possible and leave the desired amount of stem in place.
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3
Snip faded blooms off before seeds form, unless you would like the plants to self-seed.
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4
Trim brown and unsightly leaves off level with the soil to keep the plants looking healthy.
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5
Prune winter-damaged foliage back to soil level in late winter or very early spring.
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