How to Grow and Care for Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas have been around for millions of years. Scientists found fossils in North America that are 40 to 65 million years old. These plants are native to North America, Japan, Indonesia, and the Himalayas. The Japanese were the first to grow hydrangeas, and they brought them to Europe in 1736. In the 18th century, hydrangeas arrived in America, becoming a symbol of prestige in colonial gardens. Their rich history showcases their adaptability and the fascination they have inspired over the centuries.

The fossil record shows that hydrangeas have adapted and thrived for millions of years. This long history highlights their resilience and ability to grow in various environments. The fact that they have survived such long periods speaks to their robustness and the incredible journey they have made from ancient times to the modern gardens we know today.

There are over 75 species and 600 types of hydrangeas. They can be small shrubs or massive climbing vines. This variety means that there is a hydrangea suitable for almost any garden space or climate. Here are the most popular types:

Bigleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla)

• Known for their large leaves and flowers.
• Hardy to zone 5 and bloom on old growth.
• Popular varieties include Endless Summer® Collection and Nikko Blue.
• These hydrangeas are highly sought after for their vibrant colors, which can range from deep blues to bright pinks depending on the soil's pH level. They are a favorite for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to shady spots

Panicle Hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata)

• Have cone-shaped flower clusters.
• Hardy to zone 3 and bloom on new growth.
• Varieties include Limelight and Vanilla Strawberry™.
• Panicle hydrangeas are incredibly versatile and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions. Their flowers start white and gradually turn pink or red as they age, providing a dynamic display throughout the blooming season. They are also one of the most cold-hardy types, making them ideal for colder climates.

Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)

• Known for big, white or pink pompom blooms.
• Hardy to zone 3 and bloom on new growth.
• Popular variety: Annabelle.
• Smooth hydrangeas are prized for their large, round flower clusters that can brighten any garden space. They are easy to grow and care for, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners. Their ability to bloom on new wood each year means they can be pruned back hard without fear of losing the next year's flowers.

Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris)

• Can grow on walls or trellises.
• Hardy to zone 4.
• Climbing hydrangeas add a vertical element to gardens, creating a lush, green wall of foliage and flowers. They are perfect for adding beauty to fences, arbors, and even large trees. Once established, they require little maintenance and can transform any vertical surface into a stunning floral display.

Mountain Hydrangea (Hydrangea serrata)

• Grow as wide, leafy shrubs.
• Hardy to zone 5 and bloom on old or new wood.
• Mountain hydrangeas are similar to bigleaf hydrangeas but tend to be hardier and more compact. They are great for smaller gardens or as part of a mixed border. Their delicate flowers can vary in color and often have a lacecap appearance, adding a touch of elegance to any garden setting.

Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)

• Have leaves that look like oak leaves.
• Hardy to zone 5 and bloom on old wood.
• Popular varieties include Snowflake and Alice.
• Oakleaf hydrangeas are not only admired for their large, cone-shaped flower clusters but also for their distinctive foliage. The leaves turn stunning shades of red and purple in the fall, providing seasonal interest long after the flowers have faded. They thrive in rich, well-drained soils and can tolerate a variety of light conditions from full sun to partial shade.

Hydrangeas need well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. The best time to plant them is in the spring or fall. They like a lot of water but don't want to sit in soggy soil. Adding compost to the planting hole can help improve soil structure and provide the nutrients hydrangeas need to thrive. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

When planting a hydrangea, choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and about three times wider. This helps the roots spread out. If planting more than one, space them at least three feet apart. Water the plant thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots. Adding a layer of mulch can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Soil: Hydrangeas like well-draining soil with lots of organic matter.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist. Water deeply once or twice a week.

Fertilizing: Use a suitable fertilizer once in the spring.

Pruning: This depends on the type of hydrangea.

Bigleaf: Prune minimally as they bloom on old and new growth.

Smooth: Prune in late winter or early spring for new growth.

Panicle: Prune back by one-third to one-half in late winter.

Oakleaf: Prune after they flower since they bloom on old wood.

Regular care and maintenance will ensure that your hydrangeas stay healthy and produce abundant blooms. Proper watering is crucial, especially during dry periods, to keep the plants hydrated and thriving.

Hydrangeas are grown for their beautiful flowers, which can be used in gardens or floral arrangements. However, their flowers are not edible. They make excellent cut flowers for bouquets and can be dried for long-lasting decorations. Hydrangeas also work well as foundation plants, in mixed borders, or as stand-alone specimens in the garden. Their versatile nature means they can fit into a variety of landscape designs.

In Japan, hydrangeas symbolize gratitude or apology. In Victorian England, they represented boastfulness or vanity. These symbolic meanings add a layer of cultural richness to the plants, making them even more special. Understanding these historical associations can enhance your appreciation for these beautiful flowers and their place in garden history.

Today, hydrangea colors have different meanings:

Pink: Love Blue: Forgiveness White: Purity or grace

Knowing these meanings can help you choose the right color hydrangea for your garden or bouquet, adding a personal touch to your plantings and floral gifts. Whether you're expressing love, seeking forgiveness, or celebrating purity, there's a hydrangea color that fits the occasion.

During the Victorian era, hydrangeas were popular in gardens and floral arrangements. They symbolized grace and beauty. The Victorians' love for elaborate and ornate gardens made hydrangeas a perfect choice, as their large blooms added a touch of elegance and grandeur. They were often used in formal garden designs and became a staple in the gardens of the wealthy.

Hydrangeas are celebrated during the rainy season in Asia. In America, they are a staple in summer gardens. Their ability to thrive in various climates and soil types makes them a favorite among gardeners worldwide. In Japan, hydrangea festivals are held to celebrate their blooming season, while in the United States, they are often featured in garden tours and shows.

Hydrangeas start as tiny green shoots in early spring and bloom into colorful flowers by late summer. As autumn comes, they get ready for the next cycle. Understanding the life cycle of hydrangeas can help you provide the care they need at each stage. From the initial growth spurt in spring to the peak bloom in summer and the preparation for winter dormancy, each phase requires different care techniques.

The color of hydrangea flowers depends on the soil pH:

Acidic soil (pH below 7): Blue flowers Alkaline soil (pH above 7): Pink flowers Neutral soil: Purple flowers

Adjusting the soil pH can be a fun way to experiment with the colors of your hydrangeas. For example, adding aluminum sulfate can lower the soil pH and produce blue flowers, while adding lime can raise the pH and result in pink flowers. This ability to change colors makes hydrangeas a unique and interactive addition to any garden.

You can propagate hydrangeas by:

Cuttings: Use new growth stems. Rooting Branches: Root directly in the soil.

Propagating hydrangeas is a rewarding way to increase your plant collection. Taking cuttings from healthy plants and rooting them in soil or water can produce new plants that are identical to the parent. This method is especially useful for gardeners who want to expand their garden without purchasing new plants.

Compact hydrangeas can be grown in containers. Protect them in winter with burlap or insulation. Container gardening with hydrangeas allows you to move the plants around to find the best light conditions and protect them from harsh weather. Overwintering techniques, such as wrapping the pots in burlap or bringing them indoors, can help ensure your hydrangeas survive the cold months and bloom again in spring.

Pests: Look out for aphids, black vine weevil, Japanese beetles, and spider mites. Diseases: Watch for botrytis blight, powdery mildew, and viral spotting. Troubleshooting: Drooping, yellowing, and brown leaf tips are usually due to water and fertilization issues.

Regular monitoring and early intervention can help keep your hydrangeas healthy. Using natural pest control methods, such as introducing beneficial insects, and maintaining proper watering and fertilization schedules can prevent many common problems.

Hydrangeas are beautiful and versatile plants that can brighten up any garden. With the right care, they will reward you with stunning blooms year after year. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced gardener, hydrangeas can be a delightful addition to your outdoor space, providing color, texture, and interest throughout the growing season.