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Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are deciduous shrubs grown for their beautiful domed or flattened flower heads which bloom in mid-summer for about a month. Flower colours are blue, pink, and white.
New stock now available, including huge specimen Mopheads, just about to burst into flower.
Hydrangea macrophylla (Mophead and Lacecap):
• Mophead hydrangeas have flower heads with a domed appearance.
• Lacecap hydrangeas have more flattened ‘lace like’ flowers
Site Selection
All hydrangeas prefer a site in partial shade, morning sun and afternoon shade being ideal. However, Hydrangea arborescens is more versatile and can tolerate more sun than Hydrangea macrophylla.
Light and well drained soil is preferable.
Colour changes
The flower colour of Hydrangeas can change depending on the ph levels of the soil and aluminium levels. Hydrangeas grown in soils with a lower ph (i.e. more acidic) and higher aluminium levels tend toward shades of blue and/or purple whereas pink flowers come from a neutral to alkaline soil.
The best control over flower colour comes from growing them in containers where the ph of the soil is contained and therefore much easier to change than it is in the ground.
Hydrangeas will often change colour on their own when they are planted or transplanted as they are adjusting to their new environment.
White hydrangeas can not be changed to pink or blue.
Pruning
Hydrangea macrophylla (Mophead and lacecap varieties) should never be pruned back unless it is to remove dead stems or dead flower heads.
Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ is a hardier plant and can tolerate pruning and intensely cold winters.
General Care
Hydrangeas require moist soil and its important to never let the soil completely dry out.
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