Hydrangea Assorted

The hydrangea is a truly magnificent, deciduous shrub that provides a lush, old-world charm to any garden setting.⁴ Renowned for its abundant, mop-head or lacecap flower clusters, it delivers a massive burst of colour throughout the summer and well into autumn. Depending on the variety and, crucially, the soil ⁵$\text{pH}$ (acidity), the colours can range from brilliant blue to rich pink, vivid purple, or pure, crisp white.⁶ The foliage is typically broad, deep green, and highly textural, making it an attractive shrub even when not in bloom. It generally has a tidy, rounded habit, making it versatile in the landscape.

Care:

1. Soil & Position: Hydrangeas prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter.⁷ The ideal spot is one that receives morning sun and is protected from the harsh, scorching Australian afternoon sun—especially in warmer climates. Dappled shade is often the best compromise.
2. Watering: They are thirsty plants (the name Hydrangea literally means ‘water vessel’)!⁸ They need consistent moisture, particularly during the hot summer months and while they are actively flowering.⁹ Don’t let the soil dry out completely.
3. Colour Control: For blue flowers, you need acidic soil.  You can achieve this by adding sulphur, coffee grounds, or dedicated blueing products (often containing aluminium sulphate). For pink flowers, you need alkaline soil.  Add garden lime to the soil. White varieties are unaffected by pH.
4. Feeding: Fertilise in spring and early summer with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser or a fertiliser formulated for flowering shrubs.
5. Pruning: Prune immediately after flowering finishes in late summer/early autumn by cutting back the flowered stems. Some modern varieties bloom on new wood (everblooming types) and only require light shaping in late winter. Know your variety!¹⁵

Usage:

Hydrangeas are incredibly versatile and a true workhorse in the garden:16

• Feature Plant: Use a single plant to brighten up a dull corner or near a verandah or patio.¹⁷
• Mass Planting: Group several together for a stunning, dense border or screen, creating a wall of colour.
• Container Gardening: Mop-head varieties do exceptionally well in large pots, provided they are kept well-watered.
• Cut Flowers: Their blooms are superb for use in floral arrangements and also dry beautifully for long-lasting indoor displays.¹⁸
• Cottage Gardens: They are an absolute staple of the romantic, informal cottage garden look.