How to Grow Hydrangea

Hydrangea are deciduous or evergreen shrubs or climbers that have been a popular garden staple for hundreds of years. Their popularity is still going strong today thanks to new and exciting introductions. They produce beautiful flower heads in wonderful shades of shades of pink, white, blue and even green held upon attractive, dark stems and clusters of ovate foliage. The two main types of Hydrangea are ‘mopheads’ and ‘lace-cap’ which are loved for their colour changing ability. Hydrangea are best suited to flower beds and borders within courtyard, coastal, cottage and informal garden settings. You can expect to see Hydrangea grow to an approximate height of 3.5m (11’) and a spread of 2m (6.5’).

Hydrangea are best planted in well-drained soil of sand, clay, loam and chalk within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. Avoid open east-facing positions as they can be damaged by cold winds especially when young. Amend the planting area with plenty of organic matter such as garden compost or leaf mould and apply a mulch during spring each year. Hydrangea are best positioned in an area of full sun or part shade.

Water Hydrangea with rain water if possible as tap water can often affect the flower colour. This should be undertaken when the soil is dry or during periods of drought. For climbing Hydrangeas, prune when they have finished flowering and cut back outward facing shoots to a healthy bud. For shrub-like Hydrangeas, prune during early spring by cutting out one or two old stems right down to the ground.

It is possible to propagate Hydrangea by softwood cuttings, semi-ripe cuttings or hardwood cuttings.