Astrantia Moulin Rouge

Plant Astrantia Moulin Rouge in moist soil in partial shade, avoiding excessive exposure to heat (midday sun). In humus-bearing soil, astrantia self-seeds and easily produces new seedlings capable of flowering within a few weeks, prolonging the flowering period for several months. To plant, prepare the soil in a 20 cm (8in) cube by breaking it up well and placing a base fertiliser such as bonemeal at the bottom of the planting hole. Remove from its pot and position, covering the top of the root ball with 3 cm (1in) of soil. Fill in the hole and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets. Water regularly for a few weeks to aid root establishment if the weather is dry. Young plants are vulnerable to slugs so keep them away using wood ash, slug repellent, or beer-traps! Each of these solutions is highly effective.