Are you wondering how to care for your hydrangeas? Natorp’s experts grow over 30 kinds of hydrangeas and share their advice on growing in Cincinnati soils.

Expert Care Tips for How to Care for Hydrangeas

Sunlight Requirements

Most hydrangeas thrive in the morning sun and afternoon shade or filtered sunlight. Some can handle full sun, but optimal flowering generally occurs in partial shade.

Planting Hydrangeas

When planting, use the soil from the hole with a light amendment of compost or pine soil conditioner. Adding mulch over the root system keeps roots cool, retains moisture, and adds organic matter to the soil.

Watering Tips

Hydrangeas prefer consistent moisture in a well-drained, loamy soil. Avoid overwatering, as it can damage the roots.

Fertilizing Hydrangeas

To encourage vibrant blooms, feed hydrangeas in mid-to-late spring with an all-purpose or slow-release fertilizer like Osmocote. Avoid over-fertilizing; add pH adjusters or aluminum for color control if necessary. A light feeding after the leaves fall in autumn is also beneficial.

Transplanting Hydrangeas

The best time to transplant hydrangeas is during the dormant season, but new plantings can be made at any time during the growing season.

What Affects Hydrangea Color?

Hydrangea color intensity varies with variety, weather, and plant health. For macrophylla and serrata hydrangeas, soil pH directly impacts flower color—pink flowers bloom in alkaline soil, while blue flowers emerge in acidic soil. To adjust the color:

• Increase alkalinity for pink blooms by adding lime (pH 6-7).
• To lower the pH of blue blooms, add aluminum sulfate, soil sulfur, or coffee grounds. Always water well before adding aluminum sulfate and apply sparingly across multiple applications.

What to Do If Your Hydrangea is Wilting

During hot days, hydrangeas may wilt temporarily. If wilting occurs midday but recovers by evening, it’s often due to the plant’s inability to absorb enough water. Ensure even soil moisture, but avoid overwatering. This issue usually resolves as the season progresses.

Pruning Your Hydrangeas

Proper pruning is essential for healthy growth and blooms. Click Here to Learn How to Prune Hydrangeas!

Cincinnati Gardening Made Simple!
Have questions? We grow over 30 hydrangea varieties at Natorp’s Nursery. Ask our Hydrangea Experts for personalized advice!

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