Gone are the days when Hydrangeas were merely reliable background players in the garden. Then in 2003, a Midwestern plant breeder introduced Endless Summer, transforming them from summer stalwarts into botanical superstars. This game-changing variety offers spectacular blue-to-pink blooms that persist for an astounding six months in mild climates, thriving everywhere from Minneapolis to Houston.
Yet what makes Hydrangeas truly remarkable is their steadfast nature. These adaptable shrubs flourish in both shade and sun, while their bold foliage and long-lasting blooms provide essential structure to any garden design. As summer fades, their flowers and leaves don’t simply wither – they mature into rich, rosy hues, offering one of autumn’s most elegant displays.
How to Care For Hydrangeas
These beloved shrubs bloom in delicate clusters from July through September, with forms ranging from compact bushes to small trees. While their papery flowers bring classic charm to any garden, timing is everything with Hydrangeas. Most Hydrangea macrophylla set their buds on old wood, meaning winter protection can make the difference between a modest showing and a magnificent display – particularly in regions prone to early or late frosts. Here are some tips to help your hydrangeas flourish:
Light/Watering
Most varieties thrive in full sun in the North, but in the South require afternoon shade. Moist soils that do not dry out are best; do not plant in hot, dry, exposed sites. Mulch to conserve moisture and buffer soil temperatures.
Fertilizer/Soil and pH
Fertilize once in spring with a formulation for acid-loving plants. Soils should be moist but well-drained, and rich in organic matter. In some varieties, flower color is determined by the pH of the soil.
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- At low pH (acid soils) flowers will be blue
- At mid pH, flowers will be lavender to mauve
- At higher pH, flowers will be pink.
The pH determines the availability of aluminum in the soil. Since phosphorus ties up aluminum in soils, using a fertilizer low in this nutrient will aid in attaining blue flowers. If pink flowers are desired and your soil is acid, simply add lime to raise the pH and use a balanced fertilizer. Aluminum sulfate will lower pH if blue flowers are desired.
Pests/Diseases
Hydrangeas face few serious threats. Occasionally powdery mildew will infect the foliage, especially in humid areas with poor air circulation. If this is the case, you can treat it with an appropriate fungicide if the problem is serious, and be sure to rake up and destroy all fallen foliage in the autumn.
Pruning & Deadheading
The pruning of Hydrangea shrubs can be tricky, as it varies by variety. Here’s a good rule of thumb:
Old Wood Hydrangea varieties produce flowers on stems from previous years. Prune these soon after bloom in late summer before buds are set for next season as spring pruning would remove next year’s flowers.
Whereas, New Wood Hydrangea varieties produce flowers on new growth from the current season. Prune these in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
Regularly deadheading the blooms of both old and new wood bushes helps encourage repeat bloom on the current year’s growth.
Transplanting
Young plants may be transplanted when dormant in early spring. It is difficult to move larger tree-form varieties once established, but it can be done. Prune top growth after transplanting to reduce water loss.
Your Handy Hydrangea Care Calendar
Early Spring
Prune old wood, as well as tree forms of hydrangeas now, removing lower suckers and up to half of the older top growth. Prune out any deadwood from all varieties. Check soil pH and adjust up or down as needed for your desired flower color. Complete any transplanting before leaves unfurl.
Mid-Spring
Mulch plants after the soil has warmed for the season. This will help to conserve moisture and buffer soil temperatures. Watch for powdery mildew and treat as needed.
Summer
As soon as blooms fade, remove old flowering stems from old wood varieties. Continuously deadhead your blooms as needed.
Fall/Winter
Remove and destroy any fallen foliage infected by powdery mildew to prevent spreading. If desired, wrap old wood varieties with burlap or other material to help flower buds overwinter.
Hydrangea Varieties Available at Meadows Farms
Remember, the hydrangeas listed below are just a selection of the varieties that Meadows Farms carries. Please call your local Meadows Farms for other varieties or special requests.