In addition to the Macrophylla varieties - which also include farmer's and garden hydrangeas - snowball hydrangeas (botanically Hydrangea arborescens) are among the most popular shrubs for the garden. Its advantages cannot be overlooked, because in addition to the huge, creamy white flower balls, the “Annabelle” variety in particular impresses with its tall, bushy growth and its excellent frost hardiness. “Annabelle” is also very easy to propagate by division, as the rhizome, which enlarges with age, forms many sprouts.
How can I divide my hydrangea “Annabelle”?
To divide the “Annabelle” snowball hydrangea, dig up the perennial and divide the rhizome into two parts with a spade. Division ideally takes place in spring before budding or in autumn after flowering. Then plant the sections immediately.
The right time for a division
There are two good times for division: after flowering in autumn or before budding in spring, when the buds appear but no leaves have yet formed. The general rule of thumb is that autumn-flowering plants are divided in spring and spring and summer-flowering plants are divided in autumn. Therefore, the best time to divide the “Annabelle” quickball hydrangea, which blooms in summer, would be autumn, although experience suggests that it should be in early spring, for example in conjunction with the pruning that then needs to be done. But whenever you want to divide, always make sure that each section has at least one shoot.
Division of the snowball hydrangea “Annabelle” step-by-step
The rhizomes are usually divided into two parts, although for very large specimens it is also possible to divide them into three or four (or even more) parts. It is very important to replant the sections immediately, otherwise they will dry out and die. If necessary, if immediate planting is not possible, pack the root pieces in plastic bags and store in a cool, dark place. This way they stay moist until planting, but should not be left lying around for longer than three to four days at most.
Share “Annabelle” – this is how it works
To divide, completely dig up the previously cut perennial and divide the rootstock vertically into two (or, in the case of particularly extensive rootstocks, several) parts using a strong blow with the spade. If the roots are very matted, you can also pierce the middle with two digging forks (€139.00 on Amazon) and tear the rhizome into two parts by pulling the forks apart.
Tips & Tricks
Careful soil preparation is important for plants to thrive. Thorough loosening of the soil before planting is always important; you can also incorporate mature compost generously to improve the soil. As a starting fertilizer, low-s alt mineral complete fertilizer is mixed in to give the plant optimal starting conditions.