Unveiling the Mystery: Does Incrediball Hydrangea Bloom on Old or New Wood?

The Incrediball hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens ‘Incrediball’) is a beloved choice for gardeners, known for its stunning, massive flower heads that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. But understanding how this popular hydrangea blooms is crucial for ensuring abundant flowers year after year. The question of whether Incrediball hydrangea blooms on old or new wood is a common one, and the answer holds the key to successful pruning and care.

Understanding Old Wood vs. New Wood Blooming

Before diving into the specifics of Incrediball hydrangeas, let’s clarify the difference between old wood and new wood blooming:

• Old Wood Bloomers: These hydrangeas produce their flowers on stems that grew the previous year. Pruning these varieties in late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges, can significantly reduce flower production. Examples include bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) and oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia).
• New Wood Bloomers: These hydrangeas produce their flowers on stems that grow in the current year. Pruning these varieties in late winter or early spring has minimal impact on flower production, as new growth will readily produce blooms. Examples include panicle hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata) and smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens).

The Answer: Incrediball Hydrangea Blooms on New Wood

The good news for Incrediball hydrangea enthusiasts is that this variety is a new wood bloomer. This means that the flowers are produced on stems that grow in the current year. This knowledge is crucial for proper pruning and care, allowing you to enjoy an abundance of blooms each season.

Pruning Incrediball Hydrangeas for Abundant Blooms

Since Incrediball hydrangeas bloom on new wood, you can prune them quite aggressively without sacrificing flower production. Here’s a guide to pruning:

• Late Winter or Early Spring: This is the best time to prune Incrediball hydrangeas. Before new growth emerges, you can cut back the stems to about 12-18 inches from the ground. This encourages strong, new growth that will produce abundant blooms.
• Deadheading: Throughout the growing season, you can remove spent flower heads (deadheading) to encourage more blooms. This also helps maintain a neat appearance.
• Shape and Size: You can also prune to shape and size the plant as needed. Remove any stems that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
• Avoid Pruning in Late Summer or Fall: Pruning during these times can remove buds that are forming for the following year’s blooms, potentially reducing flower production.

Other Care Tips for Incrediball Hydrangeas

Besides pruning, here are some additional tips for keeping your Incrediball hydrangeas thriving:

• Sunlight: Incrediball hydrangeas prefer partial shade to full sun. They perform best in a location that receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Fertilizing: Feed your Incrediball hydrangeas with a balanced fertilizer in spring, before new growth emerges. You can also apply a slow-release fertilizer for long-lasting nutrients.
• Soil: These hydrangeas thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, you can amend it with peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH.
• Winter Protection: In colder climates, it’s a good idea to provide some winter protection for your Incrediball hydrangeas. Mulch around the base of the plant with a layer of organic material, such as bark chips or pine needles.

The Beauty of New Wood Blooming

The fact that Incrediball hydrangeas bloom on new wood offers several advantages for gardeners:

• Pruning Flexibility: You can prune them aggressively without worrying about sacrificing blooms. This allows you to shape the plant and control its size.
• Renewal and Growth: Pruning encourages new growth, resulting in fresh, vibrant foliage and abundant flowers.
• Easy Maintenance: The ability to prune without affecting blooms makes maintaining Incrediball hydrangeas relatively simple.

The Joy of Incrediball Hydrangea Blooms

The Incrediball hydrangea is a beautiful and rewarding plant to grow. Its massive, snowball-like flower heads add a dramatic touch to any garden. By understanding its blooming habits and following the proper care guidelines, you can enjoy an abundance of blooms year after year.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I prune Incrediball hydrangeas in the fall?

A: It’s best to avoid pruning Incrediball hydrangeas in the fall. Pruning during this time can remove buds that are forming for the following year’s blooms, potentially reducing flower production.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Incrediball hydrangeas?

A: It’s best to fertilize your Incrediball hydrangeas once in the spring, before new growth emerges. You can use a balanced fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer for long-lasting nutrients.

Q: What if my Incrediball hydrangea isn‘t blooming?

A: Several factors can contribute to a lack of blooms, including insufficient sunlight, poor soil drainage, and improper pruning. Ensure your hydrangea is planted in a location that receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day, and that the soil is well-drained. Avoid pruning in late summer or fall, as this can remove buds that are forming for the following year’s blooms.

Q: Can I grow Incrediball hydrangeas in containers?

A: Yes, Incrediball hydrangeas can be grown in containers. Choose a container that is at least 18 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix and fertilize regularly.

Q: What is the best way to propagate Incrediball hydrangeas?

A: Incrediball hydrangeas can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or summer. Select healthy stems that are about 4-6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a pot filled with a moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid location and mist regularly.