Learn the best time to plant hydrangeas for successful growth and blooming.

Theyre also favorites ofpollinatorsand will adapt to many different types of soils.

With newhydrangeasintroduced all the time, theres a variety thats perfect for nearly every garden.

hydrangea bush in bloom

Credit:Getty Images / Catherine McQueen

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Hydrangeas are not fussy, as long as you pay attention to their needs.

Theyre easy care shrubs, if planted in the right place, says LeCompte.

Depending on the species,hydrangeasgrow in USDA Hardiness zones 3 to 9 (find your zone here).

French Hydrangeas

Credit: Ralph Lee Anderson

Some types, such asHydrangea arborescens, require all day shade in the South.

Keeping hydrangeas watered is another must.

Even once established, hydrangeas may need supplemental water through the hotter months.

Also, the plant has no leaves and will not be transpiring or losing moisture.

The biggest mistake I see is people planting shrubs too deep, says LeCompte.

The shrub needs to learn to grow in its native soil.

Water:Next, water the root area (not the foliage) deeply.

Poke your finger into the soil; if its moist, wait and see what happens.

The plant should perk up again by the next morning, says LeCompte.

However, if its bone-dry when you test, its fine to water, says LeCompte.

Water the root ball deeply.

You want the soil to feel moist around the plant, not soaking wet.

The shrub will have enough fertilizer to last the first season, says LeCompte.

Dont quit watering going into the fall.

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