Hydrangeas, including the snowball hydrangea “Annabelle”, which is so popular because of its large, creamy white flower umbels, can easily be propagated by division or cuttings.
How can you successfully propagate the Annabell hydrangea?
The “Annabelle” hydrangea can be propagated by dividing the rootstock in fall or spring and by cuttings cut in spring or early summer. Slightly woody shoots and moist potting soil are best suited for rooting.
Divide “Annabelle” hydrangea correctly
With age, the rhizome of the snowball hydrangea “Annabelle” enlarges to such an extent that numerous shoots develop from it. This makes this hydrangea variety ideal for propagation by division, which - as with all spring and summer bloomers - is best done after flowering in autumn. Alternatively, it is also possible to divide the rootstock in the spring, before budding. When dividing, make sure that each section has at least one shoot.
Step-by-step instructions for division
The following procedure has proven to be the best for division:
- Dig up the perennial completely.
- Using the spade, divide the rootstock vertically into at least two pieces.
- If the roots are very matted, the rhizome is pulled apart using digging forks.
- Plant the sections again immediately.
- This will help you avoid drying out.
- If this is not possible, pack the roots in plastic bags and keep them moist.
- In this way you can store the perennial for several days.
You can easily divide large rhizomes into four to five pieces.
Taking cuttings
Cuttings from the snowball hydrangea “Annabelle” are best cut in spring or early summer, ideally in combination with early pruning. Choose slightly woody or woody shoots. As a rule, cuttings are taken from the ends of the shoots; they are then called head cuttings. For longer shoots, you can also cut them into several pieces.
- Place the cuttings individually in pots.
- Cut material must not be left lying around any longer.
- Use potting soil (€6.00 on Amazon), which must always be kept moist.
- Drill holes with a wooden stick into which the cuttings will be inserted.
- Press them lightly and water.
- Rapid rooting promoted with a foil cover.
- Alternatively, you can also place a preserving jar over the cutting.
The young hydrangeas are still very sensitive and should not be left outdoors for at least the first winter, but instead overwinter in a frost-free but cool and bright place.
Tips & Tricks
Alternatively, propagation using planters is also possible, although these will only have formed sufficient roots after a year.
