Hydrangeas

This year you may have taken note of the hydrangea, as anywhere they lived they thrived. These perennial flowering shrubs require loads of water, and 2023 was one of the wettest years on record. That, paired with the mild El Nino conditions over winter, meant that most buds survived into 2024, and so we've experienced an explosion of hydrangeas this year.  

This flower is also having an indisputable moment in the floral design space, as floral artists are re-imagining its iconography and are playing upon its associated mood of opulence and grandness by using it in playful new styles and contexts. Mostly what I affectionately call the "blob" trend, where flower heads are piled on one another in sculptural formations, beheaded from their stems.

The Enchanting World of Hydrangeas: A Gardener's Guide

Few flowers possess the timeless beauty and versatility of hydrangeas. With their billowy blooms, vivid colors, and adaptability, hydrangeas are a garden favorite around the world. Whether you’re new to gardening or an experienced horticulturist, hydrangeas offer a stunning addition to any landscape. In this post, we'll explore what makes hydrangeas so special, how to care for them, and why they belong in your garden.

Why Hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas are celebrated for their large, showy flower heads that bloom from spring to late fall. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, blue, purple, and white. Their ability to change color based on soil pH makes them particularly fascinating. Acidic soils often produce blue flowers, while alkaline soils result in pink blooms.

There are several popular types of hydrangeas, including:

• Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla): Known for its large, ball-shaped blooms, this type is popular for its color-changing flowers.
• Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata): Known for its cone-shaped flowers and ability to tolerate full sun.
• Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens): Famous for its massive white blooms, such as the iconic ‘Annabelle’ variety.
• Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): Noted for its unique, oak-shaped leaves and beautiful autumn colors.

Caring for Hydrangeas

One of the reasons hydrangeas are so popular is that they are relatively easy to care for, as long as you understand their basic needs.

1. Planting Location: Hydrangeas prefer well-drained, rich soil and grow best in areas with morning sun and afternoon shade. While some varieties tolerate full sun, too much direct sunlight can cause wilting.

2. Watering: Hydrangeas need regular watering, especially during dry spells. The soil should be kept moist, but avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot.

3. Pruning: Pruning varies depending on the type of hydrangea. For example, bigleaf and oakleaf hydrangeas bloom on old wood, so pruning in early spring or after blooming is best. Panicle and smooth hydrangeas, however, bloom on new wood and can be pruned in late winter or early spring.

4. Fertilizing: Fertilize hydrangeas in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can reduce bloom production.

5. Pest and Disease Control: Hydrangeas are relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. Regular inspection and appropriate treatments can keep your plants healthy.

The Magic of Changing Colors

One of the most captivating aspects of hydrangeas is their ability to change colors depending on the soil's pH. If you want to experiment with color, here’s how it works:

• Blue Blooms: To encourage blue flowers, lower the soil's pH by adding sulfur or aluminum sulfate.
• Pink Blooms: To turn hydrangea flowers pink, raise the pH by adding garden lime.

Keep in mind that white hydrangea varieties generally do not change color with soil pH.

Creative Ways to Use Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are incredibly versatile in both the garden and home decor:

• Garden Design: Use hydrangeas to create lush borders, vibrant hedges, or focal points in your landscape. Their large, showy blooms add texture and depth to any garden.
• Cut Flowers: Hydrangea blooms make stunning cut flowers for arrangements. With proper care, they can last for weeks in a vase.
• Dried Flowers: Hydrangeas also dry beautifully. To preserve them, allow the flowers to dry on the plant or hang them upside down in a cool, dry place.

Why Hydrangeas Belong in Your Garden

In addition to their beauty and versatility, hydrangeas attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great choice for eco-conscious gardeners. Their ability to thrive in a range of climates and soil conditions makes them an ideal option for gardeners of all skill levels.

Whether you’re looking to create a statement garden or simply want to enjoy their vibrant blooms, hydrangeas are a must-have in any garden. With a little care and attention, they will reward you with spectacular blooms year after year.