Planting Hydrangeas - How to Plant and Care for Hydrangea Plants
Planting and caring for hydrangeas in your garden does not require
excessive effort when compared to other plants. However, there are
certain conditions and modes of care that need to be met if you want
your hydrangeas to bloom successfully. Furthermore, different varieties
of hydrangeas tend to require somewhat different conditions. Ultimately,
though, the most popular place to put hydrangeas is along the side of a
fence or house as they grow into beautiful hedges.
For the most part, hydrangeas are hardy plants. They can survive in
an array of climatic conditions. In fact, healthy hydrangeas can bloom
nearly year round. However, extreme cold can hurt hydrangea buds and
keep them from blooming. As a general rule, hydrangeas exposed to
temperatures regularly below freezing need added protection from the
elements or should be moved indoors until the climate warms. Extremely
hot temperatures are equally detrimental to hydrangeas, and those
climates with hot summers or year-round tropical climates are not places
to plant hydrangeas.
 In
terms of where to plant hydrangeas, they thrive best when placed in an
area of full morning sun. Hydrangeas love light, but shade in the
afternoon can prevent the plants from becoming too warm. However, no
hydrangeas will do well if left in complete shade. Additionally,
hydrangeas should be planted in especially rich, well-drained soil.
Composting can help provide hydrangeas with the organic material they
desire. Finally, hydrangea roots need space to grow. So, planting near
another piece of foliage with large roots, like a hardwood tree, may
make it difficult for the hydrangea to thrive.
Hydrangeas also need access to plenty of moisture. So, placing them
under any covering, even a tree, is less than ideal. You can supplement
precipitation with extra watering, but it is ideal to let hydrangeas
soak up natural moisture. Keep in mind that all varieties of hydrangeas
are not the same. Each has its own unique set of ideal growing
conditions. Therefore, you should research your specific hydrangea breed
before deciding when, where, and how to plant it. |
