Hydrangea bush types is one of the most popular ornamental shrubs in North America. The big clusters of showy flowers in shades of pink, blue, and white are very eyecatching. There are many different types of hydrangea bushes, and they come in a wide range of sizes. You can find a hydrangea bush to fit nearly any landscape.
Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge
Related plant:
Hydrangea Quercifolia Snowflake
About soil condition, all hydrangea bush types like a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. They also like their soil to be moist but well-drained. You can improve drainage by adding organic matter to your garden beds. If you have heavy clay soil, adding organic matter will also help to lighten it and make it easier for roots to spread.
Not too different with other types of hydrangeas, the sun light requirement for a hydrangea bush can vary depending on the variety. For example, the ever-popular mophead hydrangeas (H. macrophylla) require at least four hours of direct sunlight per day in order to produce the large, showy flowers for which they are known. Other types, such as the lacecap hydrangea (H. serrata), can tolerate more shade and only need two to three hours of sun per day.
The temperature condition that is best for hydrangea bush growth is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for these plants is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures outside of this range can cause the plants to experience stress and may affect their growth.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40-50%. If the environment is too dry, the leaves will start to wilt and the flowers will start to droop. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to turn yellow and the flowers will start to fall off.
Regarding fertilizer, usually the plant doesn't need much. You can use a general-purpose fertilizer or even compost will do. Just be sure not to use too much because it can actually burn the plant. In terms of the root system, hydrangeas have fairly shallow roots, so be careful not to damage them when you're working around the plant.
Pruning your hydrangea bush is an important part of keeping it healthy and vibrant. There are a few different ways to prune your bush, depending on the type of plant. For instance, if you have a mophead or lacecap hydrangea, you will want to prune it differently than you would a panicle or oakleaf hydrangea. The best time to prune your hydrangea bush is in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This will give the plant a chance to recover from any pruning damage and produce new growth that is strong and healthy. When pruning, always use sharp, clean pruning shears. Make sure to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against each other. You can also prune back any branches that are growing out of bounds. Be sure to follow these tips when pruning your hydrangea bush and it will stay healthy and beautiful for many years to come!
Propagation is generally by stem cuttings, taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems that are not flowered, as these are more likely to take root successfully. The cuttings should be approximately 6 inches in length, and the bottom 2 inches of each cutting should be placed in a rooting hormone before being planted in a container filled with moistened potting mix. The container should be placed in a bright, sheltered location out of direct sunlight.
Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the variety. The Bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla), for example, can grow up to 10 feet (3.0 m) tall, while the Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. Petiolaris) grows as a vine, reaching heights of 50 feet (15 m) or more.
Common problems for this kind of plant are bud blast, powdery mildew, root rot, and stem canker. To prevent these problems, it is important to choose the right plant for your garden and to provide proper care. Proper care includes watering, fertilizing, and pruning. If you notice any of these problems, it is important to treat them promptly to prevent further damage to your plant.
Source:
Plant Spotlight: Hydrangeas | North Carolina Cooperative Extension
Growing Hydrangeas - Center for Agriculture, Food, and the
Hydrangea arborescens - North Carolina State University
