The wild forms of the Hydrangea native to our gardens come from Japan, where they were cultivated for several hundred years before they reached Europe. Today, hydrangeas are among the most popular garden perennials, as the richly flowering shrub requires relatively little care.

The right site conditions

Since hydrangeas are very soil-faithful and should not be transplanted if possible, it is advisable to give the garden beauty the right location from the start. The flowering plants prefer a spot in the semi-shade, and a sunny spot in the garden is also tolerated. So that the pretty flower balls do not suffer, it should be protected from the wind as much as possible.

Important: The substrate must be slightly acidic

Hydrangeas have high demands on the soil in which they thrive. A loose mixture of peat and compost is very suitable. Alternatively, you can improve the soil with rhododendron soil, the pH of which is in the slightly acidic range that is optimal for the hydrangea.

Water regularly

The Latin name Hydrangea means "water-pulling" and aptly describes the hydrangea's thirst. Whenever the top inches of soil feel dry, the shrub needs to be watered plentifully. However, make sure that no waterlogging forms. The irrigation water should be as soft as possible, rainwater is ideal.

Hydrangeas in the field need to be fertilized regularly

Like all garden plants, the outdoor hydrangea also needs regular fertilizer. Special fertilizers, which you can get from specialist retailers, are rich in nitrogen and low in phosphorus. Alternatively, you can use azalea or rhododendron fertilizer. Horn shavings (€32.93) or horn meal mixed with hummus not only improve the soil condition, they also provide the hydrangea with all the necessary trace elements.

Prune outdoor hydrangeas

The hydrangea does not necessarily have to be pruned, it is sufficient if you regularly break out the faded flowers. If pruning is necessary, it is important that you know the variety of hydrangea growing in your garden. Many species set flower buds as early as autumn. If these are removed during the cut, the hydrangea only drives out leaves in the following year and does not wear any flowers.

Overwintering hydrangeas outdoors

Most of the Hydrangea varieties we offer are relatively hardy. Nevertheless, you should cover the root area of the plant with leaves, bark mulch or brushwood. Younger shrubs are also grateful for a warm fleece protection over the flowers.

tips and tricks

Hydrangeas bloom pink in neutral soil and change flower color to blue in acidic soil. You can influence the color of your hydrangea pink Hydrangea with hydrangea blue or aluminum sulphate.

Category:

Vegetable garden