Penny Mac Hydrangea

Growing the Beautiful Penny Mac Hydrangea: A Gardener's Guide

Hydrangeas are a favorite among gardeners for their vibrant blooms and relatively easy care. One particularly popular variety is the Penny Mac Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Penny Mac'). Known for its long blooming season and ability to change color based on soil pH, this hydrangea is a versatile addition to any garden. In this post, we'll explore the height and width of the Penny Mac Hydrangea, along with detailed care instructions to help you grow a healthy, flourishing plant.

Height and Width

The Penny Mac Hydrangea typically reaches a height of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) and spreads to a width of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters). This makes it an excellent choice for mid-sized garden spaces, providing a lush, full look without overwhelming the area. Its compact size also makes it suitable for container gardening if you prefer to grow your hydrangeas on a patio or deck.

Care Instructions

1. Planting Location

• Sunlight: Penny Mac Hydrangeas thrive in partial shade, although they can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. Ideally, they should receive morning sun and afternoon shade to protect them from the intense midday heat.
• Soil: These hydrangeas prefer well-drained, moist, and fertile soil. They can adapt to various soil types but perform best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.0).

2. Watering

• Consistency is Key: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first year after planting. Penny Mac Hydrangeas do not tolerate drought well, so regular watering is crucial. Water deeply once or twice a week, more often in hot, dry weather.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. This also reduces the need for frequent watering.

3. Fertilizing

• Feeding Schedule: Fertilize your Penny Mac Hydrangea in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. You can also use a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants if you want to encourage blue blooms.
• Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Too much fertilizer can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms, so follow the package instructions carefully.

4. Pruning

• Minimal Pruning Required: Penny Mac Hydrangeas bloom on both old and new wood, so they do not require extensive pruning. Remove spent flowers and dead or damaged branches in late winter or early spring to encourage healthy growth.
• Shaping: If necessary, you can lightly shape the plant after the first flush of blooms. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce the number of flowers.

5. Pests and Diseases

• Common Pests: Watch out for aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for pest control if needed.
• Disease Prevention: Ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to keep the foliage dry.

Changing Bloom Colors

One of the unique features of Penny Mac Hydrangeas is their ability to change bloom colors based on soil pH:

• Blue Blooms: For blue flowers, maintain acidic soil with a pH below 6.0. You can lower the pH by adding aluminum sulfate or using a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants.
• Pink Blooms: For pink flowers, maintain neutral to slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Adding garden lime can help raise the pH level.

Conclusion

Penny Mac Hydrangeas are a stunning and rewarding addition to any garden. By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy their beautiful blooms throughout the growing season. Whether you prefer the enchanting blue or the vibrant pink, these hydrangeas are sure to bring a touch of elegance and charm to your outdoor space.

Happy gardening!