It’s how Grumpy learned not to kill them.
Then I had a flash of brilliant insight.
Would hydrangeas not do better in perfect soilloose, well-drained, and full of delicious organic matter?
Photo by Hector M. Sanchez; Styling by Mark Thompson.
Would they not thrive with the right amounts of light and water?
And what’s the easiest way to provide such conditions?
Grow the plants in pots!
Hydrangeas do well in pots, particularlydwarf and compact varietieslike Little Lime, which matures at 3-5 feet tall.
Theyre easy to maintain, moderate growers, and perfect for small yards and patios.
They just need a bit more fertilizer and water, as containers dry out much faster than the ground.
Growing hydrangeas in pots means you’re not restricted to growing them in just one spot.
it’s possible for you to move a pot to where you need it for more or less light.
Just verify they get four to six hours of sunlight per day or dappled light throughout the day.
Soil
When you grow hydrangeas in pots, you don’t have to worry about poor soil.
You’re using brand-name potting soil.
Choose high-quality, well-draining potting mix with compost mixed in and keep it moist.
Add a layer ofmulchto retain moisture.
Just water the pots in the morning until excess water emerges from the drainage holes.
Then check them again in the afternoon.
If they’re wilted, water.
Temperature and Humidity
Hydrangeas like moderate temperatures from 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and they dont like heat.
They tolerate even high humidity but do not like a dry climate.
Fertilizer
Potted hydrangeas need a granular, slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
In the second year, apply slow-release fertilizer to the soil surface and keep it from the plants branches.
During the growing season, faded hydrangea flowers can be cut back to encourage new growth.
Propagating Hydrangeas for Pots
Most hydrangea varieties suited for containers are cultivars.
It is illegal to propagate trademarked or patented plants.
The more soil a pot contains, the less often you’ll have to water and fertilize.
Also, choose a reblooming selection that blooms on both current and last year’s growth.
Use high-quality potting soil that contains a slow-release fertilizer, and mix in some compost.
Fill in the surrounding area with more soil to fill and pat down.
Water thoroughly and add a layer of mulch to the top.
The plant will need repotting in three to five years.
In mild climates, potted hydrangeas can tolerate winter weather, just be sure to water less frequently.
In colder areas, water the container thoroughly in the fall and add a layer of mulch.
Treat infestations with insecticidal soap.
Hydrangeas are susceptible to diseases like powdery mildew, wilting, and leaf spot.
Fungal diseases are more likely when the plant is crowded and there isnt enough airflow.
Also, water the hydrangea at its base instead of overhead to avoid wetting its leaves.
If you see yellowing or browning leaves or spots, treat the plant with a fungicide.
How To Get Potted Hydrangeas To Bloom
Different types of hydrangeas have different flowers.
Lacecap varieties feature florets surrounding small buds, mophead flowers are large and round, andoakleaf hydrangeashave cone-shaped clusters.
If potted hydrangeas aren’t blooming, there are a few reasons why.
Not enough sunlight can be a factor.
Also check that to water frequently, as containers are prone to drying out.
Pruning at the wrong time can reduce blooms.
Trim after the plant has flowered to avoid removing the next seasons blooms.
Too much water can also result in a decrease in blooms.
confirm the soil is evenly moist but never soggy.
If leaves are wilting or turning yellow or brown, its a sign to assess the plants care.
Curling Leaves
This is often a sign that temperatures are too hot for the hydrangea.
Wilting leaves will often regain their appearance when temperatures cool and shade sets in in the evening.
Skip watering until the top few inches of soil have dried out.
Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to avoid wet soil conditions.
Water deeply a few times a week and add a layer of mulch to the top.
Too much direct sun can cause the leaves to scorch.
Move the container so it is shaded from afternoon sun.
It can also indicate too much fertilizer has been used.
If you suspect this, water the plant to wash away excess fertilizer.
Hydrangeas have returned to Grumpy’s good graces.
Good pots make happy plants.
Potted florist hydrangeas may be kept indoors but dont last as long.
Hydrangeas do best when they go through a natural period of dormancy brought on by colder temperatures.
Hydrangeas can tolerate cold temperatures, but they can be affected by frost.
Frost can damage any new buds, but it wont severely harm the plant.
Hydrangeas do very well in pots.
Use well-draining soil and ensure the plant gets lots of water and morning sun.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.Hydrangea.
NC State Extension.Hydrangea macrophylla.
