Cultivating the Snowball Hydrangea Variety Annabelle is a Simple Task
In the heart of a small garden, the Annabelle hydrangea thrives beautifully next to a terrace with a pavilion and under a neighbour's beech tree. This hardy plant was introduced two years ago to a dark and challenging corner of the garden, and since then, it has blossomed into a stunning sight.
Initially, half-high trellises with decorative leaves were purchased from a garden centre to support the Annabelle hydrangea. However, the writer finds wire mesh support unsightly in the garden. Instead, there are effective alternatives to wire mesh that maintain the garden's aesthetic appeal while providing the necessary support.
One such method is to leave some old stems each spring. Instead of cutting the hydrangea to the ground, keep about one-third of the old stems. These older stems naturally provide structural support for the new flowering stems, helping them hold up the large blooms.
Another eco-friendly option is to create a natural support cage with plant stems or branches. Use sturdy, long branches or pruned woody stems from other plants to form a frame around your hydrangea. This cage can help keep the flowers upright without needing purchased wire mesh.
Stakes and twine can also be used for support. Insert garden stakes around the plant and gently tie the stems to them with soft garden twine, fabric strips, or biodegradable string. This supports the heavy flower heads while avoiding damaging the stems.
It's also beneficial to grow hydrangeas in a sheltered, partially shaded location. Providing some shade reduces stress and helps stems grow stronger naturally, reducing the need for extra support. Proper pruning encourages stronger growth that can better support blooms.
The Annabelle hydrangea was planted in rhododendron soil, and in the spring, after pruning, it was fertilized with hydrangea food. Two years on, two of the cuttings from the Annabelle hydrangea are already bearing their first flowers.
The use of trellises provides a gardening solution that is both supportive and aesthetically pleasing. The Annabelle hydrangea is supported backwards by the neighbour's fence and hides the trellises, creating a harmonious blend of structure and nature.
For more gardening tips, follow the B.Z. garden influencer on Instagram @smallberlingarden. The Annabelle hydrangea was bought for a challenging corner of the garden, but with the right care and support, it has become a vibrant and beautiful addition to the small garden.
Based on the context provided, here are two sentences that incorporate the given words whilst following from the text:
- In addition to creating a natural support cage with plant stems or branches, the writer could consider growing other plants around the Annabelle hydrangea to form a home-and-garden landscape that reflects their personal lifestyle while providing additional support.
- To maintain a harmonious blend of structure and nature, gardeners might opt for more eco-friendly options like stakes and twine for support, ensuring their garden tools and accessories align with their chosen lifestyle, ultimately contributing to a pleasing home-and-gardening aesthetic.
