Fall or spring, the time window for planting is weeks of mild weather.

Hydrangeas should be planted avoiding extreme temperatures, as either heat or cold puts stress on the plant.

Keep in mind though that not all hydrangeas are equally suitable for a hot climate.

annabelle hydrangea with big white flower clusters and large green leaves

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Spring planting has additional risks, especially if the spring weather is unseasonably hot.

Bigleaf hydrangeas bloom on old wood and the buds may get damaged by severe winter cold.

A potted hydrangea is especially prone to cold injury because the roots are not sufficiently insulated from frost.

Hydrangea

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Therefore, hydrangeas in containers should always bewinterized.

The numerous hydrangea varieties vary in hardiness, light requirements, and mature size.

Before planting, amend the soil with plenty of organic matter.

Hydrangea with buds

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During the bloom stage, the plant puts all its energy into flowering.

Only start fertilizing it the next spring.

Also, give spring-planted hydrangeas at least six weeks to settle before fertilizing them.

Closeup of pink hydrangeas

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

Unlike hydrangeas that you find at nurseries and garden centers, florist hydrangeas are short-lived.

They have been forced into flowering for a specific holiday.

Alabama A&M Universities Extension.

Hydrangea plants growing in pots

The Spruce / Jayme Burrows

Mountain hydrangea (Hydrangea serrata)

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