Hydrangea care

Location: The ideal spot for a hydrangea is in morning sun and some afternoon shade, or filtered sun. Flower count declines over the years in deep shade, and eventually the plant may not bloom. Oakleaf hydrangeas may be more sun-tolerant. Planting time: Plant hydrangeas in the spring or fall. Soil: Hydrangeas perform best in a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Avoid planting in highly sandy or heavy clay soils. Amend either soil type with compost to improve texture, soil retention and/or drainage. Nutrients: Fertilize hydrangeas during the early to middle growing season. Use a slow-release or organic fertilizer. Water: Keep soil moist, especially during summer. Make sure the soil drains. Mulch to conserve soil moisture. Color: If you have blue flowers and want pink, modify your pH by adding dolomite limestone at a rate of about 1 cup per 10 square feet and water it into the soil. If yours are pink and you want blue, add ½ cup of wettable sulfur per 10 square feet and water it in. No blooms: Hydrangeas may flower poorly or not at all in complete shade. Improper pruning also results in no blooms. Avoid late-winter pruning when traditional mopheads and oakleafs are setting buds on old wood. Prune after the shrubs flower.