Hydrangea Planting and Care

Planting Guide for Hydrangeas

1. Summer Planting

When planting smaller or younger plants, try to keep them out of direct sun during the hottest summer months. The intense heat can quickly stress them out and, in some cases, even cause them to die back. Instead, move them into containers and place them in a shaded or partially shaded spot until the weather cools. This gives your plants a chance to adjust, grow stronger, and thrive—without being overwhelmed by the summer sun.

3. Site Selection

Hydrangeas thrive in locations that receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade. They prefer areas with:

• Light Requirements: Partial sun to partial shade (about 4-6 hours of sunlight per day). Full shade can reduce blooms, while too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.

• Protection from Wind: Wind can dry out the plant and damage delicate flowers, so it's best to plant in a protected area.

• Good Drainage: Hydrangeas dislike wet feet, so avoid low-lying areas where water tends to pool. Ensure the soil drains well.

4. Spacing

• Spacing Needs: The spacing between hydrangeas depends on the type, but generally:

  • Small varieties: 3–4 feet apart.

  • Larger varieties (such as Panicle): 6–10 feet apart.

• Proper spacing ensures good air circulation, which helps prevent diseases.

5. Soil Type

Hydrangeas prefer:

• Moist, Well-drained Soil: Loamy soil that retains moisture but drains well is ideal.

• pH Sensitivity: Bigleaf hydrangeas (H. macrophylla) can change bloom color based on soil acidity.

  • Acidic soil (pH below 6.0) produces blue flowers.

  • Neutral to alkaline soil (pH 6.5 and above) produces pink or red flowers.

• Soil Amendments: Add organic matter like compost to improve the soil structure and nutrient content.

6. Planting Hydrangeas

1. Dig the Hole: Make a hole about twice the size of the root ball but no deeper than the root ball itself.

2. Amend the Soil: Mix compost or aged manure into the soil to improve drainage and fertility.

3. Planting Depth: Ensure the crown of the plant (where the stem meets the roots) is level with the surrounding soil.

4. Water Well: After planting, water deeply to help settle the soil and establish roots.

7. Watering

Hydrangeas need consistent moisture, particularly during the first few years:

• Water Deeply: Water about 1 inch per week, more during hot or dry weather. Deep watering encourages deep root growth.

• Mulching: Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.

8. Fertilizing

• When to Fertilize: Fertilize in early spring before new growth starts and again in early summer if needed.

• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10 or 12-4-8). Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.

9. Pruning

Pruning depends on the hydrangea variety:

• Bigleaf and Oakleaf Hydrangeas: Prune right after they bloom, as they bloom on old wood (last year’s growth).
  Panicle and Smooth Hydrangeas: Prune in late winter or early spring, as they bloom on new wood (current year’s growth).

• Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

10. Soil Acidity and Bloom Color

Bigleaf hydrangeas are especially known for their color-changing ability based on soil pH:

• To Achieve Blue Flowers: Lower the pH by adding soil acidifiers like sulfur or aluminum sulfate.

• To Achieve Pink Flowers: Raise the pH by adding lime to make the soil more alkaline.