Hydrangea "Incrediball" Problem? - Ask Extension
Hi, last year I planted a hydrangea "incrediball" shrub (similar to annabelle variety). It did ok but then most of the outer stems died mid ...
Knowledgebase
Hydrangea "Incrediball" Problem? #862479
Asked March 25, 2024, 3:00 PM EDT
Hi, last year I planted a hydrangea "incrediball" shrub (similar to annabelle variety). It did ok but then most of the outer stems died mid summer while one single stem shot up and got super tall (like 5 ft!). I'm wondering what may have been the problem? I'm wondering if it'll come back this year. I'm mostly just curious about what your thoughts are on this and if you've seen this type of thing with hydrangeas or other plants. Thanks
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
What you have described, including development of the atypical stem, might be evidence of transplant shock. The following publication discusses transplant shock and how to avoid it.
https://daviess.ca.uky.edu/sites/daviess.ca.uky.edu/files/July%2016%202022%20Transplant%20Shock%20Affects%20Young%20Trees%20and%20Shrubs.pdf
Smooth hydrangeas are resilient plants, so if your Incrediball survived over winter, it may recover and grow normally. Look for evidence of new growth near the crown. In any case, if the tall stem is alive, cut it back to within a few inches of the ground now (just above a healthy bud if there are any).
https://daviess.ca.uky.edu/sites/daviess.ca.uky.edu/files/July%2016%202022%20Transplant%20Shock%20Affects%20Young%20Trees%20and%20Shrubs.pdf
Smooth hydrangeas are resilient plants, so if your Incrediball survived over winter, it may recover and grow normally. Look for evidence of new growth near the crown. In any case, if the tall stem is alive, cut it back to within a few inches of the ground now (just above a healthy bud if there are any).
great thanks!
