how to take care of hydrangeas

With their grand, cloud-like blooms in shades of blue, pink, white, and purple, hydrangeas are the showstoppers of the garden. These beloved shrubs can seem a bit mysterious, but their care is straightforward once you know their basic needs. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, learning how to take care of hydrangeas is a rewarding journey that leads to a spectacular summer display.

The Simple Guide on How to Take Care of Hydrangeas

Success with these plants boils down to four key elements: location, water, food, and pruning. Getting these right will set your hydrangea up for a lifetime of beautiful blooms.

Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Hydrangea

Most hydrangeas thrive in morning sun and afternoon shade. This protects their large leaves and delicate petals from the harsh, scorching heat of the day. A location with well-draining soil is non-negotiable, as they dislike having “wet feet.” If your soil is heavy clay, consider raising the planting bed or adding compost to improve its texture.

Keeping Your Hydrangea Hydrated

Hydrangeas live up to their name—”hydra” means water. They need consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry spells. A deep watering once or twice a week is much better than a light daily sprinkle. The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant will help retain that precious moisture.

When and How to Prune Your Blooms

Pruning can be the most confusing part of hydrangea care, and it all depends on your variety. A simple rule of thumb is to pay attention to when your plant blooms. If it flowers on new wood (growth from the current season), you can prune in late winter or early spring. If it blooms on old wood (last year’s growth), prune lightly just after its flowers fade in the summer to avoid cutting off next year’s buds.

A Little Secret About Flower Color

For the classic bigleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla), you can actually influence the color of the blooms! The flower color is tied to the soil’s pH. Acidic soils (pH below 6.0) typically produce blue flowers, while alkaline soils (pH above 7.0) yield pink ones. You can add aluminum sulfate to encourage blue flowers or garden lime for pinker blooms.

With these simple tips, your hydrangeas will be well on their way to becoming the most beautiful plants in your garden. Pay attention to their water needs, be patient with pruning, and enjoy the magnificent, ever-changing show they provide year after year.