How to Grow Full Sun Hydrangea - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Full sun hydrangea is a very beautiful plant that can thrive in many different environments. It is native to North America and Asia and can be found in many different colors including pink, blue, and white. The plant is known for its large, showy flowers and its ability to tolerate full sun and partial shade.

How to Grow Full Sun Hydrangea - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • Hydrangea arborescens
  • Wild hydrangea
  • Hillier's hydrangea
  • Seven-bark
  • Panicle hydrangea

Common Knowledge

  • Hydrangeas need at least six hours of sunlight each day to thrive.
  • Water them deeply and regularly during the growing season.
  • Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month.
  • Prune in late winter to early spring.
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new growth.
  • Protect plants from strong winds.
  • Bring potted plants indoors before the first frost.
  • Place mulch around the base of plants to help retain moisture.
  • Check for pests and diseases regularly and treat accordingly.
  • Enjoy the beautiful blooms all summer long!

Related plant:
Full Sun Plants Shrubs

Growing Steps

  1. For full sun hydrangea, first step is to provide a sunny location.
  2. Then, prepare the soil by loosening it and adding organic matter.
  3. Next, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant’s root ball.
  4. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil.
  5. Firmly press the soil around the plant.
  6. Water the plant deeply.
  7. Mulch around the plant to help retain moisture.
  8. Hydrangeas need regular watering, especially during dry spells.
  9. Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in mid-summer.
  10. Prune the plant as needed to shape it or remove spent blooms.

Related plant:
Full Sun Bushes

The Soil

About soil condition, full sun hydrangea prefers humus-rich, moist, but well-drained soil. If the soil is too dry, the leaves will wilt and the flower buds will drop. If the soil is too wet, the roots will rot.

Light requirement

Like the other hydrangeas, full sun hydrangeas need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day in order to thrive. If you don't have a spot in your yard that gets that much sun, you can also grow them in a pot and move them around as needed. These beautiful flowers come in a variety of colors, so you're sure to find one that you love.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for full sun hydrangeas is cool to cold weather. These plants do not like it when the temperature gets too hot. They will start to wilt and their leaves will turn brown.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50-60%. If the humidity is too low, the plant will suffer from drought stress and the leaves will begin to wilt. If the humidity is too high, the plant will be more susceptible to fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

For the fertilizer, this type of plant does best with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. An all-purpose fertilizer will do the trick. As for the roots, this plant does not like to be disturbed, so it is best to plant it in an area where it will not need to be moved.

Plant Pruning

Pruning a full sun hydrangea is a simple process that can be done in late winter or early spring. The best time to prune is when the plant is dormant. Begin by removing any dead or diseased wood. Next, cut back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Finally, trim back any long or straggly branches.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is accomplished by taking softwood or hardwood cuttings from the plant. A rooting hormone will improve the success of the cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should be 4 to 6 inches long. Cut just below a node, or leaf joint, and remove the bottom leaves. Stick the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix, making sure that at least two nodes are buried. Water well and place in a sunny location. The cuttings shouldRoot in 4 to 6 weeks.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is fast, with some species able to grow several feet in a single season. This makes them ideal for gardeners who want to add a splash of color to their yard quickly.However, it is important to note that not all full sun hydrangeas are created equal when it comes to growth rate. Some varieties, such as the Oakleaf Hydrangea, are known for being slower growers. So, be sure to do your research before purchasing a plant to ensure that it will meet your needs.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant include fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and anthracnose. These can be controlled with fungicidal sprays. Bacterial diseases, such as bacterial blight and bacterial wilt, can also be problematic. Insect pests such as aphids, scale, and whiteflies can be controlled with insecticidal sprays.

Growing Tips

  • Make sure to plant your hydrangea in an area that receives full sun.
  • Hydrangeas prefer soil that is moist but well-drained.
  • Fertilize your hydrangea regularly to promote healthy growth.
  • Water your plant regularly, especially during periods of drought.
  • Prune your hydrangea regularly to encourage new growth.
  • Protect your plant from harsh winter weather by mulching around the base.
  • Insects and diseases can be a problem for hydrangeas, so be sure to monitor your plant carefully and treat any problems promptly.
  • Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming.
  • Be sure to stake tall plants to prevent them from toppling over.
  • Enjoy the beautiful blooms of your full sun hydrangea all season long!

Alternative Plants

  • Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia, full sun hydrangea)
  • Snowball hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle', full sun hydrangea)
  • Panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata, full sun hydrangea)
  • Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris, full sun hydrangea)
  • Smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens, full sun hydrangea)
  • Rough-leaf hydrangea (H. aspera, full sun hydrangea)
  • Wild hydrangea (H. dumosa, full sun hydrangea)
  • Mountain hydrangea (H. serrata, full sun hy

Source:
Growing Hydrangeas - Center for Agriculture, Food, and the …
HYDRANGEA - HYDRANGEA SPP. | The UFOR Nursery & Lab
General care for hydrangeas | OSU Extension Service

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category