In addition to farmer's hydrangeas, snowball hydrangeas, which come from North America, are among the most popular shrubs. Its advantages cannot be overlooked, because the “Annabelle” variety in particular is an enchanting eye-catcher with its dense, ball-shaped and very large flower umbels. With our care tips, your “Annabelle” will also bloom profusely.
How do I properly care for the “Annabelle” hydrangea?
Caring for the “Annabelle” hydrangea includes loose, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil, regular watering in dry conditions, fertilization with special hydrangea fertilizer and bark mulch, vigorous pruning in spring and protection from diseases and pests.
Where does “Annabelle” feel most comfortable?
“Annabelle” is not very picky about her location because she tolerates shade very well, but also feels very comfortable in the sun. However, the soil is more important, because this snowball hydrangea thrives best in a loose, fresh, humus-rich and slightly acidic substrate.
How often do I have to water the “Annabelle” hydrangea?
The snowball hydrangea “Annabelle” quickly becomes limp if there is a lack of water, which is why it needs to be watered abundantly, especially in dry conditions.
When and how should the snowball hydrangea “Annabelle” be fertilized?
It is best to fertilize “Annabelle” with a special hydrangea fertilizer (€8.00 on Amazon) to ensure optimal nutrient supply. In addition, the soil can be mulched with bark mulch, as this ensures that the moisture stays in the soil better and does not evaporate.
Can I cut back “Annabelle” in spring?
Since "Annabelle", unlike farmer's hydrangeas, blooms on new wood, you can cut the shrub back heavily in spring. The cut also stimulates the formation of new shoots and thus flowering.
What signs of illness should I pay attention to with the snowball hydrangea “Annabelle”?
Like many other plants, the “Annabelle” hydrangea can be affected by various fungal and viral diseases, although these mainly occur as a result of care errors. Planted specimens are particularly troubled by voles, caterpillars and the stubborn black weevil. As soon as the leaves and flower stems hang limply, there is a lack of water and must be remedied immediately. Water the plant thoroughly and water again after a few hours. You can also place potted hydrangeas in a larger container filled with water.
“Annabelle” gets yellow leaves, what should I do?
If the foliage increasingly loses color and gradually turns yellow, with only the leaf veins remaining green, there is chlorosis, i.e. H. a nutrient deficiency. This occurs when the pH value of the soil is too high and there is a lack of nutrients. Add humus to the soil to reduce the pH and fertilize specifically.
Is the “Annabelle” hydrangea hardy?
Yes, “Annabelle” has excellent winter hardiness. Because flowers form on the new wood, there is no risk of flower buds freezing due to frost that sets in late in spring.
Tips & Tricks
Another beautiful snowball hydrangea is the dark pink to pink flowering “Bella Anna”, which produces ball-shaped inflorescences up to 20 centimeters in size. “Bella Anna” harmonizes wonderfully with “Annabelle”.
