Hydrangea

Cultural Information
These easy-to-grow shrubs are quite undemanding, requiring only a rich, well-drained soil, regular watering and feeding.

Plants will tolerate full sun on the coast but need partial shade inland, preferably morning sun but protected from the burning hot afternoon sun or dappled sunlight all day.

Hydrangeas are deciduous and drop their foliage in the winter, with new growth appearing in late January or early February.

Planting
1. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
2. Using E.B. Stone Azalea, Camelia, and Gardenia Planting Mix combine one part soil
and one part planting compost.
3. Place a small handful of E.B. Stone Sure Start in the bottom of the hole and
incorporate into the soil.
4. Make sure the top of the original root ball is one inch above surrounding soil.
5. Firmly tap soil to remove any air pockets.
6. Water in with Bonide Plant Starter.

Fertilizing
Pink or blue? The choice is yours. In our soils, Hydrangeas will generally turn pink. You can change the intensity of the pink to red or even turn them blue.

Regular application of Jack's Classic Hydrangea intensifies the pink while regular feeding with an acid-type fertilizer and using Hydrangea Blue, turns blossoms blue or lavender. Feeding well ahead of flowering is recommended to achieve desired color.

Watering
Keep soil moist and never allow to dry out. Daily watering during the heat of summer is a must.

Care
Only prune during summer months once the plant has stopped flowering.

Simply prune out the old flower heads and supporting stem down to the base of the plant. Leave the strong, new shoots. These new shoots will produce next year's flowers. Any weak or dead stems should be removed.

View our article Hydrangeas for Moms for more information >

View an overview of the Hydrangeas we carry throughout the year >