Hydrangea Most Often Questions - Answered
Most anyone who stops by our small nursery and wants a hydrangea asks the same questions. Will it grow in shade, will is grow in all sun, part shade and on and on. While I do enjoy talking about our hydrangeas I thought I'd do a short post and try to answer these questions. This post is designated for people who live in North Georgia zone 7. First, after identifying where you would like to plant a hydrangea you will need to observe the sun patterns if you have some shaded areas. If you have no shade then you will need to go with the Paniculata family. For shaded areas the macrophylla family will work best. I strongly encourage people to not plant macrophylla type hydrangeas in full sun in this area because they will not thrive, and will most likely suffer. Paniculata's will thrive in full sun and we carry several different varieties to choose from. For the macrophylla's it is best if they can get morning sun and afternoon shade. Keep in mind that these plants are thirsty!! In extreme heat, and even in shade they may slump slightly if not properly watered. Don't worry though, water the plant at the base and come back in an hour and it will be perked right up! The picture on top is from the macrophylla family while the picture on the bottom is from the Paniculata family. Most of the Paniculata's will grow from 6 ft. to 12ft. depending on the type, while the macrophylla's will range from 3 ft. to 6 ft. depending on the variety.
Mine are pink and my neighbors are purple - Why?
This is a very common statement with a simple answer. For hydrangeas of color, other than white, the color is determined by your soil type. The flower color indicates the pH of the soil. In strongly acid soil flowers turn blue. In alkaline soil flowers turn pink or even red. In slightly acid or neutral soil blooms may be purple or a mix of blue and pink on a single shrub. For purple/blue sprinkle a half cup garden sulfur over the soil beneath the hydrangea, and water it in. For pink use a half cup of ground lime over the soil beneath the hydrangea, and water it in. Depending on the size of your plant and your soil conditions, you may need to apply it several times. Be patient it could take months.
Hydrangeas of any type will add much beauty to your landscape. We sell several varieties Hydrangeas. Planted correctly they will provide you a show of color every year!
I hope I have given you some useful information. Don't forget to follow our Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/BobbynLynnsplantfarm/
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