Guide for Cultivating Hydrangeas in Pots
Loungin' with Lavish Hydrangeas: The Ultimate Guide to Container Growing
Hydrangeas, those cloud-like blooms of classic charm, have taken over gardens, and it's no wonder! Whether you're a novice or a seasoned gardener, you don't need a vast estate to enjoy these stunning flowers. Try planting them in containers, and give your porch or patio a breath of fresh floral air--even if space is limited. But before you dive in, let's cover some essential tips from the pros.
- Mary Jane Duford, master gardener and permaculture designer at Home for the Harvest
- Ryan McEnaney, communicator extraordinaire for Baylie Nurseries, professional gardener, and author of Outdoor Style Fairy
- Linda Vater, plant whisperer for Southern Living Plant Collection
Why Containers are the Secret to Hydrangea Success
Growing hydrangeas in containers offers numerous advantages for savvy gardeners. Here are a few to ponder before you begin.
Custom Soil Control
One of the major benefits of container gardening is the level of control you have over the soil mix. As Mary Jane Duford explains, "If your garden soil is too acidic, alkaline, or has poor drainage, then containers let you select soil that matches the needs of your hydrangea and skip that problem entirely."
Weather Flexibility
Move those hydrangeas freely! Since pots can be relocated, they bring flexibility to your floral family tree. As Linda Vater shares, "In hot climates, pots can be shifted to afternoon shade during summer's scorching heat, while in cold regions, they can be moved to a greenhouse, garage, or protected area during winter to avoid root freezing."
Double Blooms: Dominating Design With Hydrangeas
Vater discusses the myriad design possibilities available with containers. Take advantage of these opportunities to frame your entryways, soften your patio, or create a dramatic flowery walkway. As Ryan McEnaney points out, "Let hydrangeas bring life to your front step or patio."
The Perfect Planting Moment
"Spring or early fall are the best times to repot hydrangeas, with cooler temperatures ensuring plant health and happy blooms," Linda Vater suggests. Summer planting is also possible, but will require extra attention to watering.
Hydrangea Heavyweights for Your Container Dream Team
For a stunning container display, experts recommend choosing compact or dwarf hydrangea varieties to keep roots snug in their pots. "Many newer varieties are more petite compared to their older counterparts," Mary Jane Duford points out.
Here are some hydrangea all-stars that love container life:
Cinderella Dream Cascade Hydrangea
Cinderella Dream takes the top spot on the list, with its spreading growth that's ideal for display in a patio container. As Duford says, "If I could only grow one hydrangea in a container, it would be this one."
Pop Star Rebloom Hydrangea
Varieties like this lacecap offer vibrant pink or electric blue blooms depending on soil pH, as well as reaching about 18 to 36 inches tall and wide. "I adore using this beauty in pots," McEnaney says, who pairs it with trailing annuals and tall ornamental grasses to create movement.
Sizzling Summer Hydrangea
Boasting vibrant raspberry red or deep neon purple flowers, this re-bloomer is a tiny titan with a maximum height of just 36 inches, making it perfect for pots. McEnaney shares that it often blooms abundantly and complements other grasses or perennials.
Velvety Enchantment Smooth Hydrangea
If classic hydrangeas are your style, Velvety Enchantment won't disappoint, with large white flowers and sturdy stems that withstand wind and rain. McEnaney says it's a stellar choice for more exposed patio spots or unpredictable summer weather.
Itsy Bitsy Panicle Hydrangea
Dwarf panicle hydrangea varieties are hard to beat, and Little Bitsy excels with its abundance of bright white flowers covering top to bottom. McEnaney attests that it shines in full sun, and its petite size makes it a standout, especially in warmer climates.
Container Gardening: Potentially Flawless
Your hydrangeas will thrive in containers with the right tools and care. Here's what you need to know:
Select Your Pot
Opt for a pot at least 18 to 24 inches wide and deep, and pick materials like terracotta, glazed ceramic, or thick resin. Remember to avoid thin plastic in hot areas, and ensure it has drainage holes.
Plot Your Potting Mix
A high-quality potting mix with compost or organic matter added will help retain moisture and keep your hydrangeas blossoming. Soil pH can also influence bloom color--acidic for blue blooms, alkaline for pink.
Plant It Deep
Loose the roots if they're bound. Fill the bottom of the pot with soil, center the hydrangea so the crown is slightly above the soil level, fill in with more soil, and water thoroughly.
Fresh Techniques: Tending to Your Dainty Delights
- Water regularly: Container soil can dry out quickly, but with frequent checks, you'll know when to water deeply.
- Adore the sun: Most hydrangeas love morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hot or tropical climates.
- Nourish with Nutrients: Fertilize your container hydrangeas with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring, and a liquid feed midseason for re-bloomers.
- Winter Care: In cold regions, move pots to a sheltered area to prevent root freezing. In warm areas, plant in fall for winter dormancy.
Parenting Practices: Caring for Your Preferred Hydrangea
To ensure healthy blooming, it's crucial to know your hydrangea type (species) and prune accordingly. Some varieties bloom on old wood, such as bigleaf and mountain types, which should be pruned after flowering in summer to maintain next year's blooms.
Steer Clear of These Container Mistakes:
- Skimping on the Pot's Size: A small container can cause root-bound conditions and restrict growth. Aim for at least 18 to 24-inch pots.
- Sunburn: Hydrangeas prefer shady or filtered sunlight, especially in hot climates. Stick to morning sun and afternoon shade for best results.
- Blocked Drainage: Ensure proper drainage with drainage holes in your containers to prevent root rot.
- Incorrect Pruning: Pruning at the wrong time can disrupt flowering. Know your hydrangea species and bloom timelines to avoid destructive mistakes.
- Neglectful Watering: Adequate watering is essential to keep your container hydrangeas happy and flowering.
Whichever dwarf or compact varieties you choose, follow these simple steps, and you'll have fabulous container hydrangeas all year long. Happy gardening!
- Mary Stewart, a renowned lifestyle expert in the field of home-and-garden, provides container garden ideas for those interested in growing hydrangeas.
- If you're looking for advice on designing flower gardens using containers, you might find inspiration from her extensive work on gardening and lifestyle topics.
- With a solid understanding of container gardening and hydrangeas from notable figures like Mary Stewart, you can create stunning flower gardens that liven up your porch, patio, or patio steps.
