Planting Guide for Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering shrubs that add color and texture to your garden. Follow this guide to ensure healthy growth, vibrant blooms, and long-term success.

1. Summer Planting

Important: When planting smaller, younger hydrangeas during hot summer months, do NOT place them in full sun. Intense heat can stress the plant and even kill it. Instead:

• Transplant into a container.
• Place the plant in a shaded spot until the weather cools.
• Move the plant to its permanent spot once temperatures are moderate.

This allows the plant to acclimate safely without being overwhelmed by the summer sun.

2. Site Selection

Hydrangeas thrive in locations with:

• Light Requirements: Partial sun to partial shade (4–6 hours per day). Too much sun can scorch leaves; too little reduces blooms.
• Protection from Wind: Wind can dry out plants and damage flowers. Choose a protected location.
• Good Drainage: Avoid low-lying areas where water pools. Hydrangeas dislike "wet feet" and need well-draining soil.

3. Spacing

Spacing depends on variety:

• Small varieties: 3–4 feet apart.
• Larger varieties (e.g., Panicle Hydrangeas): 6–10 feet apart.

Proper spacing ensures good air circulation and reduces disease risk.

4. Soil Type

Hydrangeas prefer:

• Moist, well-drained soil: Loamy soil that retains moisture but drains well.
• pH Sensitivity: Bigleaf hydrangeas (H. macrophylla) change bloom color based on soil pH:
  • Acidic soil (pH < 6.0): Blue flowers.
  • Neutral to alkaline soil (pH 6.5+): Pink or red flowers.
• Soil Amendments: Add organic matter like compost to improve structure and fertility.

5. Planting Hydrangeas

1. Dig the Hole: About twice the size of the root ball, no deeper than the root ball itself.
2. Amend the Soil: Mix in compost or aged manure for drainage and fertility.
3. Planting Depth: Crown (where stem meets roots) should be level with surrounding soil.
4. Water Well: Water deeply after planting to settle soil and establish roots.

6. Watering

• Water deeply: About 1 inch per week, more during hot/dry weather. Encourages deep root growth.
• Mulching: 2–3 inches around the base to retain moisture and keep soil cool.

7. Fertilizing

• Fertilize in early spring before new growth.
• Optional second application in early summer.
• Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10 or 12-4-8). Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.

8. Pruning

• Bigleaf & Oakleaf Hydrangeas: Prune right after blooming (old wood).
• Panicle & Smooth Hydrangeas: Prune late winter or early spring (new wood).
• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage additional flowers.

9. Soil Acidity & Bloom Color

• Blue flowers: Lower pH with sulfur or aluminum sulfate.
• Pink flowers: Raise pH with lime to make soil more alkaline.

With proper care, your hydrangeas will thrive and produce stunning blooms year after year. Enjoy your garden!