Hydrangea Collection Page

Hydrangeas are a group of over 70 types of flowering plants. They come from Asia and the Americas, with the most variety found in Asia.

Hydrangeas are mostly shrubs that grow between 3 and 10 feet tall, but some can be small trees or climbing vines that reach up to 100 feet by growing on trees. 

They can be either deciduous or evergreen. Deciduous plants lose their leaves in the fall while evergreens keep their leaves year-round. However, most popular types of hydrangea in cooler climates are deciduous.

The flowers of this shrub change color based on the pH level of the soil. They turn blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline soil.

At PrivacyShrubs, we have a bountiful selection of healthy and beautiful hydrangea shrubs to transform your landscape into a dreamy haven.

Benefits of Hydrangea Shrubs

Hydrangea shrubs have many benefits that make them a popular choice. They are highly valuable for their ornamental appeal and even have acclaimed health potential:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Hydrangeas have large showy flower heads that range from blues and pinks to rich purples and reds. Depending on the species, the flowers change colors based on the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. 

• Color-Changing Flowers: One of the interesting features of hydrangeas is their ability to change flower color based on soil pH. Acidic soils yield blue flowers, while alkaline soils produce pink blooms. This versatility allows for personalized garden design.

• Long Blooming Period: Hydrangeas typically bloom from early spring to late autumn. This gives your landscape lasting beauty throughout the growing season.

USDA Zones 

Most hydrangea species thrive in USDA zones 3 through 9. For example, the popular Hydrangea macrophylla is well-suited for zones 5 to 9. 

There are many varieties of this shrub and a lot depends on the variety you grow. Some varieties change their flower colors based on the soil acidity while others do better in partial shades than full sun. 

However, the commonest varieties are the Limelight and Endless Summer cultivars.

Other Common Varieties are:

How to Plant, Care, and Maintain Hydrangeas

The best time to plant hydrangeas is in early spring or fall. During this period, temperatures are mild which is favorable for this shrub. It also has the time to establish its roots before the first frost. Establishment occurs when the root has become stronger and the plant is more resilient. 

Light

Most hydrangea varieties do well in full sun to partial shade conditions. Too much shade can impact their blooms negatively. 

Soil

Soil that is rich with humus and organic matter works best. The acidity or alkalinity of the soil affects the colors of the flowers. Acidic soil with a pH of 6 or lower yields blue flowers while neutral to alkaline soil (pH of 7.0 and above) yields pink blooms.

Water

Water your newly planted hydrangea one to two times a day. As they grow, one to two times weekly works fine. New plants should be watered early before the hot afternoon sun. 

Hydrangeas thrive well in moist soil that is not soggy. They require supplemental watering during dry spells and hot seasons. However, during the rainy periods, you can cut back on this.

Humidity

Plant hydrangeas where the temperature is moderately mild. Scathing heat is destructive to the plant. Hydrangeas are hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9, which means they can withstand winter temperatures as low as -40°F to 30°F. However, it is best to protect hydrangeas from blistering cold and frost.

Fertilizer

Hydrangeas are not heavy feeders. If your soil is nutrient-rich, they will grow just fine. If the soil condition is poor, you can boost it with a balanced 10-10-10 or 12-4-8 fertilizer but not during summer. 

Note that, excessive use of high-nitrogen fertilizers will cause full foliage at the expense of the flowers.

Spread the fertilizer evenly around the drip line of the plant and lightly cover it with soil.

Steps for Planting Hydrangeas

1. Choose the Right Spot: Select a location that suits the specific light requirements of the hydrangea variety you’re planting. The soil should be rich in nutrients, moist, and well-draining. Many hydrangeas do well in full sun to partial shade. 

Clayey or sandy soil should be improved with compost to improve the texture of the soil. This addition makes the first well-draining and the latter more retentive of water.

2. Make a Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width of the pot. This allows the roots to spread out easily. Roughen the sides of the hole with a shovel to help the roots penetrate and expand beyond the hole.

3. Take the Plant Out: Gently take the hydrangea out of its pot without disturbing its roots. Loosen with care any circling roots to encourage them to grow outward.

4. Plant Your Hydrangea: Position the hydrangea in the hole so that the root ball is level with the soil surface.

5. Backfill With Soil and Water: Fill the hole with the soil you removed and water the area thoroughly.

6. Mulching: Apply a 1 to 2-inch layer of mulch around the base away from the stem. Piling on too much mulch or piling mulch too close to the stem can cause trouble such as fungal infections, pests, diseases, and subsequently root rot.

How to Prune Hydrangeas

If you don’t prune Hydrangeas, they can lose their vitality over time. If your hydrangea flowers turn brown or look shriveled after blooming, prune them with clean, sharp pruners to encourage new growth.

However, the best time to prune them depends on the type of hydrangea you have. Some varieties bloom on old wood or new wood. 

Old Wood vs. New Wood

Old wood refers to the stems from the previous year. Hydrangeas that bloom on old wood produce their flowers on these older stems. If you prune them at the wrong time, you might cut off the buds that will bloom in the next season.

New wood, on the other hand, refers to the stems that grow in the current year. Hydrangeas that bloom on new wood produce their flowers on these new stems. They can be pruned back in late winter or early spring without affecting the next season’s blooms.

Pruning Hydrangeas That Bloom on Old Wood

These include varieties like Bigleaf, Lacecap, Mophead, and Oakleaf hydrangeas. Prune them in the summer, after they have finished blooming. Do not prune them in the fall because they start setting buds for the next season’s blooms in August and September. Cut back up to one-third of the stems, but don’t cut them to the ground. 

Pruning Hydrangeas That Bloom on New Wood

These include Smooth hydrangeas (like 'Annabelle') and Panicle hydrangeas (like 'Grandiflora' or Peegee). Prune them in the fall, late winter, or very early spring before they start their new growth.

Common Problems with Hydrangeas and How to Fix Them

Hydrangeas are generally easy to care for, but they can sometimes face a few issues. 

1. Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that looks like white powder on the leaves. This infection can block sunlight from reaching the leaves. The leaves later turn yellow or brown and fall off.

This happens as a result of poor circulation. The fungus often grows in shady and crowded areas where air doesn’t circulate well.

To prevent this, improve air circulation around the plant by pruning away some branches. A fungicide that targets powdery mildew can also help resolve the issue. Start treatment as soon as you notice the problem.

2. Bacterial Leaf Spot

Bacterial leaf spot causes dark brown, wet-looking spots with clear edges on both sides of the leaves. The affected leaves might even start to rot as a result.

This problem is more common in oakleaf and panicle hydrangeas as a result of poor air circulation and overwatering.

To combat this problem, improve airflow around the plant by pruning. Avoid watering the soil excessively.

3. Aphids

Aphids are those tiny insects that can cause leaves to turn yellow or wilt. You can notice them in clusters on the underside of leaves.

You might not see them at first, but when you flip over the leaves, you will see those small green or black pests.

Wash the affected leaves with a natural insecticidal soap like neem oil. A  strong jet of water from a garden hose will also forcefully dislodge the aphids.

4. Beetles

Beetles are harmful to hydrangeas. They feed on the leaves and destroy them. These pests include Japanese beetles and rose chafers.

You need to first, figure out which type of beetle is causing the problem. But you can simply remove them by hand. To prevent future beetle problems, apply neem oil to the leaves.

Sustainable Care Practices

Taking care of your hydrangeas in an eco-friendly is possible. You help protect the environment while keeping your plants healthy. 

Watering

• Use Rainwater: Collect rainwater in barrels to water your hydrangeas. This will conserve tap water and reduce runoff.

• Water at the Base: Instead of spraying the leaves, water directly at the base of the plant to avoid excess moisture on the leaves and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Mulching

• Apply Organic Mulch: Wood chips, bark, or straw make good organic mulch around your hydrangeas. Organic mulch helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weeds. Make sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the base of the hydrangea to prevent rot.

Use Eco-Friendly Fertilizers

• Use Natural Fertilizers like compost instead of chemical ones. This is especially important in growing hydrangeas. Avoid the use of chemical fertilizers when it is blooming.

Practice Integrated Pest Management 

• Regularly check your hydrangeas for signs of pests like aphids or beetles. If you notice signs of pest infestation, use natural treatments like neem oil or hand-pick them out. IPM minimizes the use of harmful chemicals and supports a balanced garden ecosystem.

Recycle and Reuse

• Compost Plant Debris: Instead of throwing away old leaves and pruned branches, repurpose them - even kitchen scabs - as compost to enrich the soil.

• Repurpose Materials: You can reuse your old pots, containers, or garden tools to reduce waste and save resources.

Landscaping Ideas with Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are versatile and adaptable to any landscaping design you have in mind. They can serve as a focal plant or a supportive one.

1. For that vintage romantic touch, you can line a winding path with hydrangeas. Lace caps, for instance, have unique, flat flower heads with delicate edges, surrounded by clusters of smaller flowers. 

2. As a focal plant, position the hydrangea in a large container at the front entrance.

If you need to fill gaps in your garden borders quickly, hydrangeas are a great choice. They grow rapidly too. They can reach up to 15 feet tall and can fill in spaces with their lush foliage and large blooms within a single summer. 

3. Don't miss a Hydrangea shrub on your front porch or garden entrance: Plant them in large containers or as part of your garden borders to add curb appeal and create a welcoming atmosphere. 

4. Screen Off Areas with Climbing Hydrangeas: Climbing hydrangeas are excellent for covering fences or walls. They grow quickly too. Add support like trellises for the beauty effect and privacy screening. They thrive in both sun and shade, and some evergreen varieties provide year-round interest. 

Where to Buy Hydrangeas

You can purchase hydrangeas from local garden centers, nurseries, or online retailers but not all suppliers offer the same level of quality and expertise. This is where PrivacyShrubs stands out.

We offer a wide range of hydrangea varieties, including popular types and unique options that might be harder to find elsewhere. 

Shopping with PrivacyShrubs means you get more than just plants; you gain access to expert advice and support. We can help you choose the right varieties for your specific needs and preferences.

So, while there are various places to buy hydrangeas, we offer the best combination of selection, quality, and expertise. Browse our collection today of hydrangeas. You are sure to find one for that dreamy garden accent only hydrangeas offer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hydrangeas is one thing but knowing how to care for them is a different ball game. 

Hydrangeas are beautiful in an outstanding way. They are also versatile for layering, vertical gardening and so much more.

When you buy from PrivacyShrubs, you’re not only getting high-quality plants but also expert support to ensure they thrive. 

FAQ

How do I choose the right hydrangea for my garden?

When it comes to choosing the right hydrangea, a lot depends on your climate, landscape, and the look you want. If you’re unsure which type is best for you, we can help you find the perfect fit 

When is the best time to plant hydrangeas?

The best time to plant hydrangeas is in the spring or fall. The cooler seasons give the plants time to establish their roots before the heat of summer or the cold of winter. 

How can I prevent common hydrangea problems?

You can prevent most issues by ensuring good air circulation. Problems like powdery mildew or bacterial leaf spot arise from poor circulation and overwatering. For more tips, check out our care guides.