Hydrangea: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
When does the hydrangea flower?
Identify your hydrangea's species and cultivar to understand its flowering. Many flower in summer and retain decorative heads for several weeks. Timing varies with climate and selection, so observe buds and the opening of the small flowers rather than treating June to September as a compulsory period.
While buds form and flowers open, monitor soil moisture. Water at the base during dry spells, allowing water to penetrate the root zone. A container plant needs more frequent checks. Mulch helps retain moisture without being piled against stems. A brighter position suits some species where the soil remains sufficiently moist.
Preserve the shoots that carry future flower buds. Macrophylla and serrata hydrangeas often flower on the previous year's growth; shortening all branches in late winter can remove flowers. Paniculata and arborescens flower on the current year's shoots. Match pruning to the group instead of applying one pattern to every plant.
If flowers are missing, consider excessive pruning, late frost, drought or too much feeding before adding fertiliser. Colour changing as flower heads age does not necessarily mean the plant is declining. Look at living buds, leaf condition and soil moisture to assess the whole plant rather than judging only a fading head.
How do you prune hydrangeas according to their species?
How to care for this plant
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Maintain the mulch
Check the ground cover around the base. If the mulch has thinned, top it up on moist, well-drained soil after removing competing weeds. Keep the trunk, crown and graft union clear; add nothing if the existing layer is sufficient.
