Hydrangeas are a beautiful flowering plant that can grow up to three metres tall in full bloom – but they require the best soil possible to reach their full potential
Hydrangeas, the stunning garden blooms that can tower up to three metres, depend on top-notch soil to flourish. It’s crucial to keep an eye on your hydrangeas’ soil throughout its growing season.
With a diverse range of 70 to 75 species stretching from the Americas to Asia, these plants are named after the Greek word for ‘water vessel’, reflecting their unique seed capsule shape. Expect your hydrangeas to burst into colour as early as spring and dazzle until late autumn, but remember, poor soil could lead to disappointing blooms.
For those keen to cultivate hydrangeas this summer, Gardeners’ World advises planting them in moist, well-drained soil, ideally in a spot that enjoys sunlight without being scorched all day. Steer clear of overly dry soil, as hydrangeas are thirsty plants.
Also, the soil’s acidity level will influence the hue of your flowers. “Hydrangeas do best in moist, well-drained soil and dappled shade – not too sunny and not too shady,” it recommended.
“Avoid south-facing positions, especially if the soil is very dry. The young growth is prone to frost damage in spring, so avoid planting in a frost pocket and plant away from strong winds,” reports the Express.
“Hydrangeas will thrive in most soil types, including alkaline and acidic soil. However, the pH of the soil will change the colour of the flowers of some varieties. Some plants that usually offer pink flowers will appear blue if the soil is acidic.”
If your soil is particularly dry, you could try adding some moisture-retaining organic matter to make it an ideal growing space. It’s best to add manure or compost before planting your hydrangeas, however.
Keep your plant well-watered throughout its first few seasons to help it get used to its new environment. When you do water your hydrangeas, you should try to water in a well, as opposed to dumping it on top of the leaves and waiting for it to filter down.
Dead-heading your hydrangeas can play an integral role to the health of your shrub. The best time to start pruning your hydrangeas is in the early spring – ahead of the growing season – and in the late winter.
If you have climbing hydrangeas, you can leave the pruning for later in the summer, after they start to flower. You can leave the dead heads on your hydrangeas throughout the winter, as they’ll provide some frost protection for the new growths below.