Hydrangea
Characteristics
Hydrangea is one of the most beloved flowering shrubs, famous for lush foliage and generous flower heads in blue, pink, purple, white, green, or antique tones. From romantic mophead hydrangeas to elegant lacecap, oakleaf, smooth, mountain, and panicle hydrangeas, these long-blooming shrubs bring color, softness, and charm to borders, foundation plantings, containers, woodland gardens, and cut flower arrangements. Explore the main hydrangea types and this complete hydrangea care and growing guide.
Planting, Watering, and Feeding
For the best hydrangea blooms, plant in morning sun, afternoon shade, and rich, moist, well-drained soil. Learn when to plant hydrangeas, how drought tolerant hydrangeas really are, and which hydrangea fertilizer supports strong roots, healthy leaves, and abundant flowers.
Blooms, Colors, and Pruning
Hydrangea flower color can be part science, part garden magic. Choose glowing pink hydrangeas, classic white hydrangeas, or dreamy blue hydrangeas. You can also learn how to change hydrangea color, deadhead hydrangeas, and master hydrangea pruning for more reliable flowers.
Problems, Pests, and Seasonal Care
If your hydrangea has yellow leaves, is wilting, or is not blooming, the cause is often watering, pruning, soil, sun, frost, or stress. Check common hydrangea pests and diseases, protect plants with hydrangea winter care, and learn whether deer eat hydrangeas.
Use hydrangeas with companion plants, multiply favorites by propagating hydrangeas, or preserve their beauty by drying hydrangea flowers. Few shrubs offer such generous blooms, easy elegance, and year-round garden appeal.
