Planting Your Hydrangea

Hydrangeas can live in the ground or in a pot. However, it is important that when selecting where to plant your hydrangea, you choose a spot that receives morning sunlight and partial shade. Putting your plant in direct sunlight will not cause it to die but will cause wilting and require additional watering.

Planting In-Ground

To plant your hydrangea in-ground, dig a hole that is deep and wide enough for the root ball to sit comfortably in, about two to three times as large as the root ball. Be sure that the plant is able to receive enough water. In choosing the correct planting spot, ensure it is full of rich soil and provides appropriate draining.

Using a Pot

The majority of hydrangeas grow between three to ten feet. If you have a space constraint in your garden, you can grow a dwarf hydrangea variety in a pot. To do this, be sure to use good quality potting and to plant your hydrangea at the same level that it was at in the original pot. Then, gently firm the soil around the roots to avoid air pockets and water.

The Importance of Soil

Determining soil acidity for hydrangeas is imperative as the amount of acid in the soil can impact the color of your hydrangea, depending on the variety. By conducting a soil test, you will be able to understand the impact of your soil’s acidity on your plant and what, if any, additives are needed to help your hydrangea flourish. A more acidic soil (pH zero to seven) will create a bluer bloom, while a more alkaline soil (pH seven to fourteen) will create pinker flowers.

Growing Medium

In order to understand how to improve your soil, it is imperative to understand what type of soil you have. To find out what type of soil you have, do a mudshake. In the US, the most common soil types are sandy and clay.

Potting Soil

As discussed on our website, potting soil plays a vital role in the success of your potted plants. A good potting mix will hold sufficient moisture and nutrients around the root of your hydrangea, provide oxygen flow, and provide support and anchorage for the plant.

Pruning

Overall, hydrangeas do not have to be regularly pruned. Pruning is only needed if the shrub has grown too large or the blooms are not coming back as often or intense. If you choose to prune your hydrangeas, first determine if the plant blooms on new or old wood. For new wood, prune in early spring before new growth begins. For old wood, prune immediately after the flowers fade. If you do not do this then you will not have any flowers next spring. Pruning can be dependent on the variety of hydrangea, so make sure to ask your local garden center expert or Ask the Expert if you are unsure!

Second Lives for Hydrangeas

After your hydrangeas have produced their final blooms of the season, there are many ways you can prolong the beauty for the rest of the year.

Drying Hydrangeas

You can cut hydrangea blooms at any stage for drying. To dry hydrangeas, remove all leaves and hang the stems upside down in a well-ventilated spot until the flower is completely dry. You can also allow the flowers to dry naturally on the bush before cutting. Dried flowers will last for a long time and can be spray-painted for even more intense color. Dried flowers can be used in floral wreaths, wedding arrangements, in window boxes, and more!