Proper care depends on both thespecies of hydrangeayou grow along with the variety.
The first detail to consider is whether your hydrangea blooms on new or old wood.
For old wood bloomers the spent flowers protect newly forming buds.
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Any flowers left to overwinter on your hydrangea can be removed in late winter or early spring.
Watch for new growth to appear both on branching and from ground level.
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They can be cut back by up to one-third in summer but no later than mid-July.
You want to prune before next year’s flower buds start forming in August.
Remove up to one-third of the branching from the top and sides.
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Or you’re able to cut them to ground level in autumn, late winter or early spring.
New growth sprouts at ground level when plants break dormancy in spring.
Here are some tips for protecting shrubs from this foraging nuisance.
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Fertilizing Hydrangeas
Feed mature hydrangeas annually in spring with anNPK 15-10-10 or 10-5-5 fertilizer.
Soil pH levels alter the flower color of some species and varieties.
Immature or newly planted hydrangeas can be fertilized monthly from early spring to mid-summer to improve growth and vigor.
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Container-grown hydrangeas require feeding depending on the potting soil bang out.
If it includes slow-release fertilizer you won’t need to add more.
If not, add fertilizer at planting time and again in late spring.
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Avoid fast-acting and liquid fertilizers.
Slow-release, granular formulas are most effective for this flowering shrub.
Rose fertilizer works well for hydrangeas.
To lower pH for blue flowers use a product formulated for azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons.
To raise pH for pink flowers use fertilizer that contains nitrate nitrogen or dolomite lime.
Mulching Hydrangeas
Mulch benefits hydrangeas by keeping soil cool, retaining moisture, and preventing weeds.
For the remainder of the year and in warmer climates a 2-inch mulch layer provides protection.
Before planting a hydrangea consider the best spot in your landscape.
In northern zones, a location close to a building or structure gives somewinter protection.
In southern zones, look for a spot that offers afternoon shade.
Add a thick layer (up to 6 inches) of mulch in areas with extended freezing.
Use chicken wire or inexpensive plastic fencing and a couple of stakes to build your cage.
Shrubs can also be wrapped in burlap.
Plan to reshape your shrub after flowering ceases but before new buds form in mid-August.
Panicle and smooth hydrangeas can be cut to the ground and covered with a thick mulch layer.
Move container plants indoors to a dark, dry spot when temperatures drops below 45F.