{"id":2447,"date":"2019-06-10T03:29:26","date_gmt":"2019-06-10T03:29:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gardener.guide\/?p=2447"},"modified":"2020-01-22T09:28:32","modified_gmt":"2020-01-22T09:28:32","slug":"15-step-by-step-hints-on-growing-hydrangea-in-your-garden","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gardener.guide\/15-step-by-step-hints-on-growing-hydrangea-in-your-garden\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Step-by-Step Hints on Growing Hydrangea in Your Garden"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Hydrangeas are one of the most popular flower varieties in the world, and they can be found in a range of shades that can bring new life to any garden around blooming time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They grow happily in different climates and will thrive under the right conditions anywhere from the middle of the United States through to the uttermost tip of South Africa \u2013 and if you\u2019d like to add hydrangea to your garden as a first-time flower gardener, there are a few things you should know before planting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The right conditions for growing hydrangea include ensuring you have the right kind of soil, and that you\u2019re planting in the right spot to give them access to the right levels of sunlight and moisture without either overwhelming the plant. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you decided that hydrangea might be the right plant to fir your flower garden? Here are 9 great step-by-step tips on how to grow them in your garden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Soil Identification<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The first step for anyone who wants to utilize their garden best is to identify which types of soil they have in their garden \u2013 and from there, to see what can be done in order to create the optimal circumstances for whatever you\u2019d like to plant in your garden. This is a great general rule of thumb for any planting that doesn\u2019t just apply to hydrangeas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When we\u2019re talking about hydrangeas (and a range of other flowering plants such as roses), they prefer a mixture of compost, soil, and sand \u2013 sometimes ones that have been enriched with compounds like peat moss, available at most places where you can buy plants, cuttings, and seeds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Test the pH of the soil before planting and make the necessary adjustments where required: Hydrangeas, like many other flowering plants, don\u2019t like soil that\u2019s too close to acidic and plants often won\u2019t take in the beginning phases when the soil conditions aren\u2019t perfect. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Step 2: Optimizing the Soil Conditions<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Once you\u2019ve identified what type of soil you have the most of in your garden, it\u2019s time to start the planning phase \u2013 and this is a great time to see in which ways you can optimize the potential conditions for your plants. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

First, decide which plants you would like planted where. Often gardeners choose to plant fragrant types of flowers (such as lavender) on the outside borders of their garden to form a nice-smelling entrance that leads to an arrangement of flowers on the inside (often including roses and hydrangeas) \u2013 but this is only a general guideline, and you can adapt your planting needs and location depending on the way you\u2019d like your garden laid out. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next step is to make sure the soil conditions are what they should be before you plant (or transplant) your hydrangeas. Ideally, they prefer to have moist soil without being too wet \u2013 and it\u2019s a good idea to ensure there\u2019s enough organic matter compost mixed into the soil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 3: Finding the Right Depth<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Depth matters when you plant your hydrangeas, but they aren\u2019t a type of flower that\u2019s as dependant on how deeply you plant them (such as tulips to name just one practical example). As a rule, when you\u2019re planting from seeds, remember that you want to plant them deep enough so that they can take root in the soil (and not be washed away by the first watering) \u2013 but not so deep that they never get their growth activated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Just a few inches will do for the initial planting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The same is true when you\u2019re transplanting existing plants instead; consider the depth of the existing roots system and make sure they have more than enough room for the system to take root, but pack soil loosely enough when filling up the hole so that you don\u2019t choke or end up damaging the roots. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If transplanted hydrangeas are unhappy, it can sometimes help to wet and loosen soil were too tightly planted \u2013 but always be careful around the roots! <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 4: Watering for the Beginning Phases<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Once you\u2019ve established the right kind of soil conditions in which your hydrangeas can thrive, you want to make sure that you get the watering process right for the first beginning growth phases of the plant. For the majority of different climates in which hydrangeas thrive, watering twice per week is enough \u2013 and once per day is too much for hydrangeas as a general rule of thumb, which is one of the most common mistakes which gardeners will make.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hydrangeas like hydration and soil which can hold moisture, but they\u2019re just as prone to root rot as a lot of other plants out there, and \u201cwet roots\u201d are best avoided. If you want to grow happy hydrangeas, then soil that drains well (and ensures the right nutrients get down to the roots) is for the best results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adjust the levels of water if you note that your area is getting more (or less) rain than usual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 5: Sun to Shade<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The hydrangea is one of the most versatile flowering plants when it comes to the conditions in which they grow happily, and they aren\u2019t nearly as difficult to grow as most people would imagine them to be. This is part of what makes them an excellent first choice for anyone who wants to start off their flower garden with something simple and then build around it as they go on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Find the right spot for your hydrangeas, and spare a few moments of consideration beforehand for things that you can plant around them. If you live in an area that gets access to a lot of suns, then plant shady bushes around the hydrangeas in order to give them some shade \u2013 but if you live in an area that gets more shade than sun, choose an area that gets access to more direct sunlight instead. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hydrangeas prefer at least 4 \u00bd hours of partial sun every day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 6: Trimming<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Trimming is one of the most important things for any gardener who wants to keep their garden happy, but novice gardeners will often trim either too soon or far too late in the process \u2013 and overenthusiastic plant trimming is all too often seen with gardeners handling a plant for the first time, which can take away a lot of necessary energy from the plant that needs it for growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ideally, hydrangeas shouldn\u2019t be trimmed all that often: Only when the leaves start to discolor is there really any need to worry about it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When trimming your hydrangeas, don\u2019t trim them all the way down. Leave at least part of the stems with enough of a base for it to regrow when the next blooming season comes \u2013 this is an essential part of trimming that applies to most flowering plants and allows the plant to provide the blooms from these trimmed areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 7: Correcting Climate<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Other than watering, trimming and soil, finding the correct climate for your hydrangeas and making the adjustments when you notice that the plants aren\u2019t doing well can be one of the most important things for when you want to promote long-term happy plant growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How you have to handle your hydrangea plants will depend on the type of climate in which you find yourself, and it\u2019s one of the most important parts of the process. Happy climate means that you have happy plants, and the best gardens function like ecosystems on their own instead of just a collection of plants. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you live in colder areas (or areas that are prone to frost during the winter months), protect your hydrangea plants from the harsh cold by packing the base of the plant in environmentally friendly insulating materials (sawdust is just one example).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you live in a hotter area instead, then switch to watering more than once per week and adjust plant nutrient levels in the soil as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 8: Promoting Color Changes <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A huge part of what makes hydrangeas a fun addition to your garden is the fact that they\u2019re one of the flowering plants which respond extremely well to nutrient changes \u2013 and few novice gardeners know this, but you can change the color of your hydrangeas by adjusting the pH levels found in the soil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Low pH (that\u2019s anything below six) will give shades of blue and lavender, while anything that goes above measurement of 7.0 instead results in pink and red changes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This means that you can endlessly experiment with the shade arrangement of your garden in just a few simple adjustments, but it also means that gardeners can learn how to spot the conditions of their soil without even having to test: If you see the shade of the flowers in your garden changing, you know to adjust the pH levels of the soil or the nutrients accordingly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 9: Growing in Containers
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When choosing your pot, it\u2019s crucial to take into account the size and weight of the flower, as well as the amount of soil you\u2019ll need for potting. If you are intending on transplanting your hydrangeas as they grow, then we recommend you buy a material pot to start your flowers.
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Material pots have breathable sides that increase airflow to the roots of the flowers. As a result, you can expect rapid growth in the early stages of development. After flower reaches half its mature size, you can transplant it to the garden on a cold, rainy day. This transplanting strategy ensures that the flower experiences minimal stress.
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Since hydrangeas grow to a large size, you\u2019ll need a container that\u2019s 18 to 20-inches in diameter. Place the pot in a sunny area of your garden, and then fill with soil and transplant. The weight of the container, wet earth, and the flower will be significant, so make sure you are happy with your final placement of the pot, as it will be heavy to move around once you finish the transplant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Step 10: Choosing Your Variety
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There are various types of hydrangea available to suit the growing conditions in your garden. Check through this list of our favorite varieties to plant in a wide range of conditions.
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Panicle Hydrangeas \u2013 This species is the most popular variety of the flower. It features large, cone-shaped flowers. This variety is ideal for beginner gardeners, and it grows readily without any special needs for its growth. Plant in the sun, and water every other day \u2013 that\u2019s all you need to do to enjoy this beautiful flower.
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Big Leaf Hydrangeas \u2013 This is the most common type of hydrangea. This shrub-like hydrangea comes in two primary varieties \u2013 the lacecap or the mophead. Both have short stature and grow readily without the need for special attention.
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Mountain Hydrangeas \u2013 This is our favorite variety of the flower, with saw-like margin leaves, slender stems, and short stature. We like the \u201cbluebird\u201d and \u201cdiadem\u201d varieties of mountain hydrangeas. This variety produces beautiful tones of blue and purple. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Step 11: Hydrangea Diseases
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Hydrangeas are hardy plants in most cases, but they are prone to a few diseases that can affect the flowering phase of the plant. Always ensure that you water your flowers at the base of the plant, and don\u2019t get water on the flower tops. Watering from above makes the flower moist in the center of the bloom, resulting in rot.
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Overhead watering also leads to the development of powdery mildew as well. Powdery mildew shows up as a white or grey-looking powder or dust on the leaves and flowers of the plant. It\u2019s challenging to get rid of the mold, and you may lose your plant to the disease.
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Hydrangeas are also prone to developing rust and ringspot virus, which affects the flowering phase of the plant, reducing the bloom. Check on your Hydrangeas at least once a week and look for signs of fungal disease. Leaf spots are also another concern for hydrangeas growers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Step 12: Hydrangea Pests<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Along with disease, hydrangeas also run the risk of pest infestation during the flowering season. Common pest affecting your hydrangeas include whitefly, scale, and aphid infestations. These pests such the sap out of the plant tissue, causing yellowing and curling at the edge of the leaves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ants bring aphids to your plants, and if you look under the leaves, you may notice eggs laid by whitefly. If you think you may have a whitefly problem, then shale the stem of the plant. The dynamic motion disturbs the flies, and you\u2019ll see them take off into the air as you shake the stem.
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Spider mites are also another problem for hydrangea growers. These pests invade the flower tops, weaving tiny webs. The insects suck the nutrition out of the leaves of the plant, causing a yellowing known as \u201cstippling.\u201d
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The final pest to look out for in your hydrangea garden, are caterpillars. These critters invade the flower head, munching away at the tasty blooms. Spread the flower every now and again to check for caterpillars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Step 13: Hydrangeas Don\u2019t Need Much Fertilizer
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One of the best features about growing hydrangeas is the fact that they need such little care throughout the growing season. This lack of maintenance makes them an ideal choice for newbie gardeners looking to add color and flair to their yard.
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After planting your flowers, all you need to do is water them every two or three days, and the plant does the rest. As a result, you don\u2019t have to worry about fertilizing your plants very often either. Most growers will get away with one feeding session in the months in June and early July. We recommend that you don\u2019t fertilize after late July, as this may end up burning your plants.
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Hydrangeas do well with 10\/10\/10 fertilizer blends, at low doses. Fertilizing too late into the season may also encourage new growth when the plant is supposed to be entering the overwintering stage and should be persevering its energy. As a result, your hydrangea may not survive the winter if you feed them too late in the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Step 14: Overwintering Hydrangea
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When the growing season closes for the year, you don\u2019t have to pull up your hydrangea and throw it away. With the right care, your plant can survive the cold and make it through to the following spring. If you live in a region of the United States where winter temperatures don\u2019t get below freezing point, then there is no need for you to take any special precautions to protect your hydrangea for the winter weather.
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However, if you live a region where wintertime temperature dips below the freezing point, then you\u2019ll have to make an effort to protect your plants. The hardy varieties of hydrangea don\u2019t require any protection at all. However, if you live in an area where frost is severe, and snow covers the ground during the winter, then you can protect your plants with a layer of burlap to keep the cold from killing the foliage.
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Provided the Polar Vortex doesn\u2019t arrive, your plants should make it through the year-end, without the need for burial or other special overwintering techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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Step 15: Harvesting and Displaying Hydrangea
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Hydrangeas make an attractive display flower that looks fantastic in any floral arrangement. From vases to wreaths, there are many different decorative ideas for displaying your hydrangeas. Not every gardener will want to harvest the flowers, but it\u2019s important to note that hydrangeas will grow new heads from old wood, as well as new growth.
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Therefore, you don\u2019t have to worry about the heads not growing back if you harvest the flowers from the plant. Start your harvest process by cutting the flowers when they start to develop a papery consistency to the petals. Cut about 1-inch below the flower head, and make sure you do this task at a 45-degree angle. Flatly cutting the stem will stop the growth of the hydrangeas and kill the plant.
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Remove the stems from the leaves and then hang the flowers to dry in a warm, dry room for two weeks. After drying, your flowers are suitable for inclusion in wreaths or potpourri blends.
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