Hydrangea macrophylla nikko blue is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan. It is a member of the genus Hydrangea and family Hydrangeaceae. The plant typically grows to a height of 1-3 m and has large, blue flowers. The flowers bloom in summer and the plant is propagated by cuttings.
Also known as
- Nikko blue hydrangea
- Macrophylla hydrangea
- Bigleaf hydrangea
- French hydrangea
- Lacecap hydrangea
Basic info
- Hydrangea macrophylla nikko blue is a species of flowering plant in the Hydrangea family.
- It is native to Japan, where it is found in the mountains of central and southern Honshu.
- The plant was introduced to Europe in the early 20th century, and to North America in the 1930s.
- It grows to a height of 1-2 m (3-6 ft), with large, blue-green leaves and clusters of blue flowers.
- The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female parts) and are pollinated by bees.
- The plant is self-fertile (able to fertilize itself) and does not require another plant of the same species for pollination.
- The fruit is a small, dry capsule containing numerous seeds.
- H. macrophylla nikko blue is grown as an ornamental plant, and is used in gardens, parks, and public spaces.
- It is also used in cut flower arrangements.
- The plant is susceptible to a number of diseases, including powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge
Planting Process
- For hydrangea macrophylla nikko blue, first step is to choose a planting spot. The area should have well-drained soil and receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If you are growing the plant in a pot, choose one that is at least 12 inches wide and has drainage holes.
- The next step is to mix some organic matter into the soil. This can be done by adding compost, rotted leaves, or manure.
- Next, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plants root ball.
- Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil. Gently press down on the soil to remove any air pockets.
- Water the plant deeply immediately after planting.
- To encourage blooming, fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks from early spring through mid-summer.
- deadhead the plant regularly to promote new growth.
- To keep the plant looking its best, prune it back by one-third in late winter or early spring.
- To prolong the plants blooming season, deadhead spent flowers regularly.
- Lastly, water the plant deeply once per week during periods of drought.
Related plant:
Hydrangea Quercifolia
The Soil
About soil condition, Hydrangea macrophylla 'Nikko Blue' prefers well-drained, moist, humusy soils, but will tolerates some light shade, especially in hot summer areas. It also prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
About light
Not too different with other hydrangeas, the Hydrangea Macrophylla Nikko Blue requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It's best to plant this shrub in an area that receives at least four hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in a hot climate, it's best to provide some afternoon shade to prevent the leaves from scorching.
Good Temperature
The temperature condition for hydrangea macrophylla nikko blue is cool to warm. It prefers full sun to partial shade and does best in moist, well-drained soil. This plant is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to 4-6 feet tall and wide. The leaves are dark green and the flowers are blue. Nikko blue is a hydrangea that is known for its large flowers and long blooming period. It is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Humidity Level
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40-50%. If the humidity gets too low, the leaves will start to curl and the flowers will wilt. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the flowers will fall off.
The Fertilizer
Mentioning fertilizer, usually the plant requires less fertilizer than other plants because too much fertilizer will cause the leaves to turn yellow. The best time to apply fertilizer is during the blooming period, which is around June to fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. The best root system for this plant is a loose, well-drained soil.
About light
Pruning is an important step in keeping your Nikko Blue hydrangea healthy and vibrant. This plant responds well to pruning, so don't be afraid to give it a good trimming every now and then. It's best to prune in the early spring, before new growth begins.
Plant Propagation
Propagation of Hydrangea macrophylla 'Nikko Blue' is typically done through softwood cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and taken from the tips of the stems. Cuttings should be placed in moist perlite or vermiculite until they develop roots. Once roots have developed, the plants can be transplanted into pots or the garden.
Plant Growth
Usually, the plant growth rate is about 6 to 12 inches per year. However, under ideal conditions, some plants have been known to grow as much as 24 inches in a year. The plant's growth rate will depend on the variety, the amount of sunlight it receives, the quality of the soil, and the amount of water it gets.
Common Problems
Common problems for this kind of plant are stem canker, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Stem canker is a fungal disease that attacks the stems of the plant, causing them to rot. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that covers the leaves of the plant with a white powdery substance. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots to form on the leaves of the plant.
Tips on Growing
- Remember to water your Nikko blue hydrangea regularly, as the plant does best in moist soil.
- Place your Nikko blue in an area of your garden that receives partial sun to full sun for optimum growth.
- To encourage blooming, cut back the stems of your Nikko blue by about one-third in early spring.
- Add a layer of compost around the base of your Nikko blue each spring to provide nutrients for the plant.
- If you live in an area with cold winters, you may need to provide some protection for your Nikko blue hydrangea, such as wrapping the plant in burlap.
- The Nikko blue hydrangea is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but you should still remove any dead or dying blooms throughout the growing season.
- Pests and diseases are not typically a problem for Nikko blue hydrangeas, but you
Similar Plants
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bavaria Gold' a cultivar of Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bouquet Rose' a cultivar of Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Casper' a cultivar of Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Corbett's Cascade' a cultivar of Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Dwarf Blueberry pie' a cultivar of Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Dwarf Pinwheel' a cultivar of Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Endless Summer BLOOMSTROBUS BLUE' a cultivar of Hydrangea macrophylla
- Hydrangea macrophylla 'Glowing Em
Source:
Hydrangea macrophylla | Landscape Plants | Oregon State
Growing Hydrangeas - Center for Agriculture, Food, and the
Hydrangea macrophylla Why Wont It Bloom? - Kansas State
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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