Hydrangea paniculata Skyfall ('Frenne') PPAF

• Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are drawn to the flowers.
• Wildlife Resistant: Some resistance to deer and rabbits, though young plants may experience occasional browsing.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall.
• Flowering Season: Mid-summer through fall (July to October).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8

• Borders and hedges
• Foundation plantings
• Cottage gardens
• Pollinator gardens
• Containers

• Color: Dark green, oval to lance-shaped leaves.
• Form: Medium-sized leaves with a slightly serrated edge, providing a rich backdrop for the large flower clusters.
• Fall Interest: Leaves may turn yellow before dropping, adding subtle autumn interest.

• Color: Creamy white panicles that gradually turn to soft pink as they mature.
• Form: Extra-large, dense, conical flower panicles up to 12 inches long, with a cascading form that creates a dramatic display.
• Bloom Time: Blooms continuously from mid-summer through fall.
• Fragrance: Not fragrant.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, organically rich soil. Adaptable to a variety of soil types, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0).
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for mature growth and good airflow.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
• Method: Prune back to about one-third of the previous year’s growth to promote larger blooms. Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain a healthy structure.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, water deeply as needed, especially during dry spells.
• Soil Moisture: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. In warmer climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch; in cooler climates, more sun is tolerated.

For Fresh Cut Flower Arrangements

Best Time to Harvest:

• Mid to late summer (typically July to September), once blooms are fully open and firm.
  
• Ideal stage: when flowers are still white or cream, just before the color begins aging to soft pink or rose tones.
  

How to Harvest:

Harvest in the early morning when the stems are well hydrated.

Use sharp, clean pruners and cut stems just above a leaf node.

Remove any leaves that would sit below the waterline.

Place stems immediately in cool water and keep in a shaded area before arranging.

• Vase Life:
  
• Typically 7–10 days with clean water and flower preservative.
  
• Recut stems every few days to maintain water uptake.
  

🌾 For Drying

Best Time to Cut:

• When blooms begin to feel slightly papery and take on blush or antique tones—often in late summer to early fall.
  

Drying Method:

Strip off all foliage.

Hang upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated space, or

Place upright in a dry vase with no water.

Allow 1–2 weeks to dry completely.

• Color Preservation Tip:
  
• To keep blush or green tones in dried blooms, harvest before full browning or weather damage.
  
  

• Fertilization Time: Apply fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer for optimal growth and bloom production.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to encourage lush foliage and prolific flowering.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.
• Drought Tolerance: While Skyfall prefers consistently moist soil, it can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Water regularly during dry spells to maintain healthy growth.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free, though aphids or powdery mildew may occasionally occur in humid conditions. Proper spacing and good air circulation help prevent issues.

• Pollination Type: Pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other insects. Grown primarily for its ornamental flowers.

• Ornamental Grasses
• Sedum
• Echinacea (Coneflower)
• Astilbe