How to Grow Climbing Hydrangea Varieties - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Climbing hydrangea varieties is a plant that is known for its beautiful flowers. The plant is native to Japan and Korea and has been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant is a deciduous climber and can grow to a height of 30 feet. The plant is grown for its ornamental value and the flowers are used in floral arrangements. The climbing hydrangea varieties plant is easy to grow and is tolerant of most soil types.

How to Grow Climbing Hydrangea Varieties - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris
  • Hydrangea aspera
  • Hydrangea macrophylla
  • Hydrangea quercifolia
  • Hydrangea paniculata

Basic info

  • Climbing hydrangeas are fast-growing, vigorous climbers that can reach 40 feet or more in length.
  • They have large, heart-shaped leaves and produce clusters of small, white flowers in summer.
  • Climbing hydrangeas are deciduous plants, meaning they lose their leaves in winter.
  • They are best suited for growing in USDA hardiness zones 4-
  • When planting, choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil should be fertile, well-drained, and moist.
  • To encourage blooming, apply a fertilizer high in phosphorus in early spring.
  • Pruning is typically only necessary to remove dead or damaged branches.
  • Climbing hydrangeas are relatively pest and disease resistant.
  • Common varieties include Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris and Hydrangea anomala subsp. sargentiana.

Related plant:
Climbing Shrubs

Planting Process

  1. For climbing hydrangea varieties, first step is to choose a planting location. It is important to select a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil.
  2. Next, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the hydrangea’s root ball.
  3. Place the hydrangea’s root ball into the hole and backfill with soil.
  4. Once the plant is secure in its new location, water deeply to encourage roots to establish.
  5. For the climbing hydrangea varieties, provide support such as a trellis or fence for the plant to climb.
  6. Fertilize regularly using a balanced fertilizer according to package instructions.
  7. Prune climbing hydrangeas varieties in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
  8. Keep the area around the plant free of weeds and debris.
  9. Water regularly during extended periods of drought.
  10. Enjoy the beauty of your climbing hydrangea!

Related plant:
Climbing Hydrangea Evergreen

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, generally climbing hydrangeas prefer rich, moist, slightly acidic conditions – similar to those preferred by rhododendrons and azaleas. They will also grow in less than ideal conditions, but may produce fewer flowers.

Light condition

So, like the other hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas need at least 4 hours of sun each day in order to produce the beautiful blooms that we all enjoy. While they can tolerate some shade, too much shade will result in fewer blooms. If you are thinking of planting a climbing hydrangea, be sure to choose a spot in your garden that gets plenty of sun.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition is important for climbing hydrangea varieties. The plants prefer a cool climate and will not tolerate temperatures above 68 degrees Fahrenheit. They should be planted in a location that receives full sun to partial shade and protected from the wind.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50-70%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to wilt and the flowers will droop. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to turn yellow and the plant will become stunted.

Fertilizing

For the fertilizer, this type of plant prefers something that is high in nitrogen. This encourages new growth, which is what you want with a climbing hydrangea. As for the root, it is important to keep it moist. This can be done by using a watering can or hose to water the base of the plant.

Light requirement

Pruning a climbing hydrangea is a bit different than pruning other types of hydrangeas. You want to prune in the early spring, before the new growth begins. You also want to prune back the main stems by about one-third. This will encourage the plant to produce new growth, which will be more vigorous and produce more flowers.

About Propagating

Propagation is typically done via rooting stem cuttings taken from the plant in early to mid-summer. It's important to choose a healthy plant with new growth for your cuttings. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the tips of the shoots. Remove the bottom leaves and stick the cuttings into a pot of moistened potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and place it in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and in 4-6 weeks the cuttings should have rooted and be ready to transplant.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 1 and 3 feet per year. While this may seem like a slow process, it is actually quite fast for a woody vine. The average lifespan of a climbing hydrangea is 15 to 20 years, although some can live much longer. There are many different varieties of climbing hydrangea, so be sure to choose one that is suitable for your climate and soil type.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are fungal diseases, particularly powdery mildew and botrytis. They can also be susceptible to aphids, scale, and mealybugs. These problems are usually more severe in shady, humid conditions. Good air circulation and proper spacing between plants can help reduce the risk of problems.

Growing Tips

  • Do not forget to water your climbing hydrangea regularly. At least once a week is ideal, but more often is even better.
  • Place your climbing hydrangea in an area with partial sun to full shade.
  • Be sure to fertilize your climbing hydrangea regularly. A general-purpose fertilizer is fine, but be sure to follow the directions on the packaging.
  • To encourage blooming, make sure to deadhead your climbing hydrangea regularly.
  • Once a year, prune back your climbing hydrangea to encourage new growth.
  • If you live in an area with cold winters, be sure to protect your climbing hydrangea from the cold by covering it with a burlap sack or similar material.
  • If you notice that your climbing hydrangea is starting to look unhealthy, take action immediately. Remove any dead or dying branches and leaves, and consult with

Related Plants

  • Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala ssp. petiolaris, Hydrangea petiolaris)
  • Mountain hydrangea (Hydrangea Serrata)
  • Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)
  • Hydrangea arborescens
  • Hydrangea paniculata
  • Hydrangea aspera
  • Hydrangea macrophylla
  • Hydrangea serrata
  • Hydrangea villosa
  • Hydrangea quercifolia

Source:
Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris: Climbing Hydrangea
HYDRANGEA - HYDRANGEA SPP. | The UFOR Nursery & Lab
Hydrangeas - Alabama Cooperative Extension System

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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Climbers Category