Maintenance Landscaping Design

Hydrangea macrophylla is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan. It is a popular plant in gardens and parks, and is often used as an ornamental plant. The plant has large, showy flowers that are typically blue or pink in color. The flowers are borne on large, showy clusters that can be up to 12 inches in diameter. The leaves of the plant are large and glossy, and the plant can grow to be up to 10 feet tall.

Popular name

• Bigleaf hydrangea
  
• French hydrangea
  
• Macrophylla hydrangea
  
• Mountain hydrangea
  
• Oakleaf hydrangea

Good to Know

• Hydrangea macrophylla is a species of flowering plant in the family Hydrangeaceae, native to southern and eastern China.
  
• It is a deciduous shrub growing to 2–3 m (6 ft 7 in–9 ft 10 in) tall, with large, showy flowerheads borne in summer.
  
• The flowerheads are up to 18 cm (7 in) across, with four to seven white, pink, or blue ray florets surrounding a central cluster of small, tubular disk florets.
  
• The genus Hydrangea contains about 75 species, native to various parts of Asia and the Americas.
  
• Hydrangea macrophylla is widely cultivated, with numerous cultivars selected for large flowerheads, compact growth, or different flower colors.
  
• Hydrangea macrophylla is used as a traditional medication in China for the treatment of various diseases and disorders.
  
• Some research suggests that compounds in the plant may have anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
  
• Hydrangea macrophylla is considered poisonous to humans and animals if ingested in large quantities.
  
• The plant can cause skin irritation in some people.
  
• Hydrangea macrophylla is an popular ornamental plant and has been used in traditional Japanese gardens for centuries.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge

Planting Process

1. For hydrangea macrophylla, first step is to select a planting site. The planting site should have well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
   
2. Next, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the hydrangea macrophylla’s root ball.
   
3. Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with soil.
   
4. Tamp down the soil around the root ball to remove any air pockets.
   
5. Water the planting site deeply to settle the soil around the root ball.
   
6. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the planting site, but keep the mulch a few inches away from the hydrangea macrophylla’s stem.
   
7. For the next step, water the hydrangea macrophylla deeply once a week during the first growing season.
   
8. Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
   
9. To encourage more blooms, prune the hydrangea macrophylla back by one-third in late winter.
   
10. Finally, enjoy the colorful blooms of your hydrangea macrophylla plant!

Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, hydrangea macrophylla grow the best in moist, well-drained soils, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. They will tolerate some shade, but prefer full sun in the morning and afternoon shade in the South. They are not drought-tolerant, and need consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry weather.

About light

Like the other hydrangeas, the bigleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) needs at least four to six hours of sunlight daily to produce flowers. The more sun the better – bigleaf hydrangeas that grow in full sun have more flowers than those grown in partial shade. If you live in a hot summer climate, provide some afternoon shade to help prevent the flowers from wilting.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is most favorable for hydrangea macrophylla is a cool environment. This plant is native to Japan and thrives in cooler climates. It is important to protect this plant from the heat of the sun and keep it out of direct sunlight. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%. If the humidity is below 40%, the leaves will start to wilt and the flowers will start to droop. If the humidity is above 60%, the leaves will start to turn yellow and the flowers will start to fall off.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this family of plant does best with a balanced hydroponic fertilizer, with an N-P-K ratio of around 10-10-10. However, they are rather forgiving, and will do well with a wide range of fertilizer schedules and types. When it comes to the roots, it is important to note that these plants have a very shallow root system. This is why they are often used as groundcover, because they do not compete well with other plants for water and nutrients. It is best to keep the roots moist, but not soggy, and to avoid letting them dry out completely.

About light

Pruning is an important part of keeping your hydrangea macrophylla healthy and looking its best. There are a few things to keep in mind when pruning your plant. First, it is best to prune in the late winter or early spring. This will give the plant time to recover from the pruning before the growing season begins. Second, be sure to prune back any dead or damaged branches. This will help encourage new growth and prevent the spread of disease. Finally, don't be afraid to prune back the plant vigorously. This will help promote a fuller, healthier plant.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of Hydrangea macrophylla can be achieved through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer, or division of older plants in early spring. When taking cuttings, choose a shoot that is about 6-8 inches long and has several leaves. Cut just below a leaf node, and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone, and plant in a pot filled with sterile potting mix. Water well and place in indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and in 4-6 weeks your cutting should have rooted.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate during the spring and summer season. However, some species may have a second growth spurt in the fall. The average growth rate for hydrangea macrophylla is around 10 inches per year.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are leaf spot, mildew, and root rot. These can all be caused by different fungi or bacteria that attack the plant. Leaf spot is characterized by dark spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to the leaves falling off. Mildew is a white or grayish powdery growth on the leaves or stems. Root rot is caused by a water-logged soil, which can lead to the plant's roots rotting.

Growing Tips

• Make sure to plant your hydrangea in an area with moist, well-drained soil.
  
• Be sure to provide plenty of space for your plant to grow.
  
• Hydrangeas prefer partial to full sun, so be sure to plant them in an area that receives at least 4 hours of sunlight per day.
  
• Apply a layer of mulch around your plant to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
  
• Water your plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  
• Fertilize your plant once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune your plant annually to shape it and remove any dead or diseased branches.
  
• Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and treat them promptly if found.
  
• Cut some of the flowers to enjoy indoors, but be sure to leave some on the plant so it can continue to produce blooms.

You May Like

• Hydrangea quercifolia
  
• Hydrangea anomala
  
• Hydrangea arborescens
  
• Hydrangea aspera
  
• Hydrangea chinensis
  
• Hydrangea cinerea
  
• Hydrangea cordifolia
  
• Hydrangea dumicola
  
• Hydrangea floribunda
  
• Hydrangea hirsuta

Source:
Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) | Greenhouse Horticulture
Growing Bigleaf Hydrangea | UGA Cooperative Extension
HYDRANGEA - HYDRANGEA SPP. | The UFOR Nursery & Lab