Jessica Anderson: Quintessentially Southern: The Hydrangea
I have come across people who absolutely love them, and those that shudder at the thought. The hydrangea is a gorgeous, cloud-like bloom, that in my opinion is quintessentially the definition of a southern home landscape. Probably most known for their changing colors to match soil pH, they are a great cut flower, and can do well in a variety of conditions. They are a great addition to any home if you follow a few basic guidelines.
There are some differences!
Most of the hydrangeas we think of are Bigleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) and include mophead, lacecap and mountain type hydrangeas. They tend to be purple, blue, and pink with traditional heart-shaped, coarsely toothed leaves. Oakleaf hydrangeas are my new favorite, as it produces a pyramid white bloom that is uniquely itself. Panicle or Peegee Hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculate) are conical shaped blooms that can be 8-15 feet tall, with the most popular cultivar ‘Limelight.’ Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens) are actually native to the U.S., can tolerate hotter climates, and are a great choice for our zone 8a. ‘Annabelle’ is the most well-known variety of smooth hydrangea and it’s white, a popular choice.
Pick Your Spot
As with any home landscape project, understanding the amount of sun an area can get should determine what you plant. Big leaf hydrangeas perform best in areas with dappled sunlight, partial shade or deep shade. Although, I have seen some get all the morning sun it can take, and still bloom, big and beautiful. Smooth hydrangeas will tolerate full sun only if grown with consistent moisture. Oakleaf hydrangeas do well in full sun to part shade, however they do need some sun to bloom. Panicle hydrangeas are the most sun-loving, tolerating full sun. As with most plants, they enjoy a site that has well-drained soils.
When/If to Prune?
Bigleaf varieties produce blooms on old wood, although some cultivars, classified as reblooming, bloom again, later in the summer on new growth. It is best if any pruning on bigleafs is done before August 1. Oakleaf hydrangeas also bloom on old wood, so any pruning, if needed, should be done immediately after flowering. Smooth hydrangeas and panicle hydrangeas bloom on new wood and can be pruned back close to the ground in winter to promote new spring growth.
How do they Grow?
Fairly easy, especially if you pick the right location! They can grow 4-12 feet depending upon the variety. If you can get them in before June, plant now, or wait until September or October. They will not do well if planted in the middle of the summer. A fertilizer like 10-10-10 applied at a rate of 2 cups per 100 sq ft in March, May, and July works well for hydrangeas, either ahead of a rain, or water it in.
No matter the type you go with, hydrangeas are a welcome spring sight and add varied color and dimension to a home landscape. Happy Planting!
Jessica Anderson is the County Extension Director and Horticulture Agent for North Carolina Cooperative Extension’s Greene County Center. Contact the office at 747-5831.
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