Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering plants known for their large and vibrant blooms. Whether you have them in your garden or as potted plants, providing proper care will help ensure healthy growth and abundant flowers. To help you get the best our of your hydrangeas, read our care guide below.

Planting Hydrangeas

• Hydrangeas thrive in well-draining soil with partial shade or filtered sunlight. 
• Morning sun and afternoon shade are ideal for most varieties. 
• Prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. 
• This helps improve drainage and fertility. 
• Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the hydrangea. 
• Place the plant in the hole at the same level it was in the pot, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. 
• Provide adequate space between hydrangea plants, as they can grow quite large. 
• Typically, spacing of 3 to 6 feet apart is recommended, depending on the variety. 
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the hydrangea plants in late fall to protect the roots from frost and temperature fluctuations. 
• Use organic mulch like straw, shredded bark, or leaves.

Caring for Hydrangeas

• Hydrangeas require regular watering, especially during dry spells. 
• Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. 
• Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture. 
• Avoid overhead watering - water the hydrangeas at the base to prevent fungal diseases. 
• Overhead watering can lead to powdery mildew or other leaf spot diseases. 
• Monitor watering needs - hydrangeas generally need more water during the summer months and less in winter. 
• Check the moisture level of the soil regularly and adjust your watering accordingly. 
• Feed hydrangeas with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring, just as new growth begins.
• Avoid fertilizing late in the season, as it may stimulate tender growth that can be damaged by frost.
• Use a fertilizer specifically formulated for hydrangeas or choose a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). 
  Follow the instructions on the package for application rates. 
• You can also use organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure to nourish the plants.
• Apply them in early spring and reapply as needed during the growing season.

Maintaining Hydrangeas

• Different hydrangea varieties have different pruning requirements. 
• Some bloom on old wood (previous year’s growth), while others bloom on new wood (current year’s growth). 
• Learn about your specific hydrangea variety to determine the best pruning technique. 
• Remove spent flowers by cutting just below the bloom. 
• This encourages new growth and can extend the blooming season. 
• For hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, prune them immediately after flowering. 
• Remove any dead or damaged stems and thin out overcrowded growth to improve airflow. 
• If your hydrangea is getting too large for its space, you can prune it back in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. 
• However, be cautious not to remove flower buds in the process.

Winter advice for Hydrangeas

1. In areas with severe winters, consider wrapping the hydrangea with burlap or using a frost cover to shield the plant from freezing temperatures. 
2. Avoid pruning hydrangeas that bloom on old wood in late summer or fall, as this can remove next year’s flower buds. 
3. Wait until the following spring to prune them.

Conclusion

By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy the beauty of healthy and vibrant hydrangea plants in your garden or containers. Remember to consider the specific needs of your hydrangea variety and make adjustments accordingly.