Invincibelle® Spirit II Smooth hydrangea

The Invincibelle® Spirit II Smooth Hydrangea is a deciduous shrub that boasts a medium stature, reaching a garden height of 42 - 48 inches with a spacing of 42 - 60 inches. Its mounded habit creates a graceful and rounded appearance, making it a splendid addition to any garden or landscape. The plant produces lush, dark green foliage that serves as a perfect backdrop for its striking pink blooms, which add a burst of color and vitality to its surroundings. The flowers transition gracefully to an attractive green as they age, extending the visual interest of the plant throughout its blooming season.

With its continuous bloom or reblooming capabilities, the Invincibelle® Spirit II ensures a long-lasting display of beauty, from summer through fall. Deadheading is not necessary for this hydrangea to continue blooming, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. Its native North American origin adds a touch of authenticity and resilience, as it is well-adapted to a variety of local climates and conditions.

• Mass Plantings: The Invincibelle® Spirit II Smooth Hydrangea is perfect for mass plantings, where its consistent bloom color and shape create a stunning sea of pink that gradually transitions to green. Its medium size ensures it remains the focal point without overwhelming the space.
• Border Planting: This hydrangea can be used effectively as a border plant, marking the boundaries of garden beds or pathways. Its dense, mounded habit provides a clear demarcation, and the blooms add a pop of color that lasts from summer to fall.
• Specimen or Focal Point: Given its striking appearance, this hydrangea serves as an excellent specimen plant or focal point in gardens. The transition of its blooms from deep pink to green offers continuous visual interest.
• Mixed Borders: The Invincibelle® Spirit II can be seamlessly incorporated into mixed borders. Its dark green foliage complements a variety of other plants, and its blooms provide a recurrent splash of color.
• Naturalizing: As a North American native, this hydrangea is perfect for natural or wild gardens. It can be planted among other native species to create a habitat that supports local wildlife.
• Cutting Gardens: The robust blooms of this hydrangea make it a prime candidate for cutting gardens. Gardeners can enjoy its beauty both outdoors and indoors as part of floral arrangements.
• Container Gardening: Though it prefers ground planting, this hydrangea can also be planted in large containers, making it suitable for patios, balconies, and other spaces where ground planting may not be feasible.
• Foundation Planting: Its manageable size and attractive appearance make it suitable for foundation plantings around homes or other structures, adding curb appeal.
• Coastal Gardens: Given its hardiness, the Invincibelle® Spirit II can be used in coastal gardens, where it can handle the unique conditions while adding color and structure to the landscape.

Incorporating the Invincibelle® Spirit II Smooth Hydrangea into various landscaping scenarios can elevate the aesthetics of the space while ensuring a durable and long-lasting plant presence.

Planting Instructions:

1. Site Selection: Choose a location that receives part sun to full sun. In cooler climates, it can tolerate full sun, but in hotter areas, provide afternoon shade.
2. Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. You can improve soil quality by mixing in well-rotted compost or other organic material.
3. Planting Depth and Spacing: Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and two to three times as wide. Set the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Space plants 3'6" to 4' apart to allow for mature spread.
4. Watering: After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season as the plant establishes.

Care and Maintenance:

1. Sunlight: Ensure the plant receives a minimum of four hours of sun for best flower color and stem strength.
2. Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of shredded bark mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.
3. Pruning: Prune in early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. Cut the whole plant back by about one-third of its total height. This encourages robust growth and helps develop strong stems. Avoid more severe pruning as it can deprive the plant of the opportunity to develop sturdy stems.
4. Deadheading: Removing spent flowers is not necessary for the plant to continue blooming, but you may do so if desired. Feel free to cut stems for indoor enjoyment as it makes an excellent cut flower.
5. Watering: Water regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, adjusting for rainfall and ensuring proper drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
6. Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring, following the product instructions for application rates.

Troubleshooting:

• Wilting or Yellowing Leaves: This can be a sign of either overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly and ensure proper soil drainage.
• Poor Blooming: Ensure the plant is receiving enough sunlight. Too much shade can result in reduced flowering.
• Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for common garden pests and treat as necessary. Smooth hydrangeas are generally resilient, but good gardening practices can help prevent issues.