Hydrangea Care & Maintenance

Hydrangea plants usually enjoy a sunny morning and a shady afternoon, but some do well in part shade locations too.

Hydrangea plants usually enjoy a sunny morning and a shady afternoon, but some do well in part shade locations too. When purchasing your hydrangea, always ask what the best variety is for your particular need.

• Keep your hydrangeas hydrated the first two years after being planted. Don’t over-do it.
• Depending on your planting zone, don’t prune until AFTER blooming.
• It depends on the variety when you prune. Keep in mind that if you prune before the bloom in the fall, you may not have blossoms the following spring.
• Have an older hydrangea? If you do, remove dead stems in the spring.
• For example: oakleaf, panicle and smooth hydrangeas blossom on the current seasons’ wood so they should be pruned BEFORE bloom when the plant is dormant.
• In the fall, cover plants to a depth of at least 18 inches with bark mulch, leaves, pine needles or straw. Cover the entire plant if possible.
• Deer enjoy nibbling on hydrangea so if you have a larger deer population, you may want to reconsider planting hydrangea.
• Other pests that may cause angst to your hydrangea include gray mold, slugs, powdery mildew, rust. Consult with your local nursery on the best treatment for your particular plant.