Hydrangeas are among the most beloved garden shrubs, known for their large, colorful blooms and elegant appearance. With their ability to transform any space into a vibrant floral display, hydrangeas are a favorite choice for both beginner and seasoned gardeners. Best of all, growing them is simpler than you might think—especially with a few easy tricks that ensure healthy growth and abundant blossoms year after year.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to growing hydrangeas in your garden and getting the best results with minimal effort.
Choose the Right Type of Hydrangea
There are several hydrangea varieties, and choosing the right one for your climate and garden conditions is the first step to success. The most popular types include:
Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf): Known for its large blue, pink, or purple blooms. These are often the ones whose flower color changes based on soil pH.
Hydrangea paniculata (Panicle): Hardy and sun-tolerant with cone-shaped white blooms that fade to pink or green.
Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth): Easy to grow and great for colder regions. Produces large white blooms, such as the popular ‘Annabelle’ variety.
Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf): With unique oak-like leaves and white blooms that age to rose or tan, this variety offers four-season interest.
Choose the variety that fits your sun exposure, space, and climate for the best success.
Planting Location and Soil Conditions
Hydrangeas thrive in well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic to neutral soil. The ideal location receives morning sun and afternoon shade, although panicle varieties can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler regions.
When planting:
Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
Mix in compost or organic matter to enrich the soil.
Place the plant so the crown is level with the soil surface.
Fill the hole and water deeply.
Space your hydrangeas based on their mature size—generally 3 to 10 feet apart depending on the type.
Watering and Mulching
Hydrangeas love moisture but dislike soggy roots. Water deeply and consistently, especially in the first year after planting. During hot or dry spells, water 2 to 3 times per week.
Mulch with 2–3 inches of bark, compost, or leaf mold around the base of the plant (but not touching the stem) to:
Conserve moisture
Regulate soil temperature
Suppress weeds
Fertilizing for Growth and Blooms
Hydrangeas don’t need heavy feeding, but a little boost can encourage lush foliage and large blooms.
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
For bigleaf types, avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leaves at the expense of flowers.
A second light feeding in early summer can support continuous blooming.
Adjusting soil pH can also influence flower color in bigleaf hydrangeas:
Acidic soil (pH below 6) = blue flowers
Neutral to alkaline soil (pH 6.5–7+) = pink flowers
Add garden lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it, depending on your desired bloom color.
Pruning Tips
Proper pruning depends on the type of hydrangea:
Bigleaf and oakleaf hydrangeas bloom on old wood. Prune after flowering in summer to shape and remove spent blooms.
Panicle and smooth hydrangeas bloom on new wood. Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh growth and larger blooms.
Remove any dead or weak stems at the base to improve airflow and reduce disease risk.
Avoid heavy pruning if you’re unsure of the variety—over-pruning can lead to fewer or no blooms.
Protection from Weather and Pests
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