How to Grow Hydrangea Serrata Blue Bird - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Hydrangea serrata blue bird is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan. It typically grows to 6-8 feet tall and has blue or blue-purple flowers that bloom in the summer. The leaves are serrated and have a deep green color. This plant is known for its showy flowers and is often used in landscaping.

How to Grow Hydrangea Serrata Blue Bird - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

Mountain hydrangea
Sawtooth hydrangea
Serrated hydrangea
Blue hydrangea
Stone hydrangea

Good to Know

Hydrangea serrata 'Blue Bird' is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan.
It grows to a height of 3-6 feet and has a spreading habit.
The leaves are ovate-shaped and have serrated margins. They are dark green in color and turn yellow or red in the fall.
The flowers are white or pale blue and are borne in clusters. They appear in late summer or early fall.
The fruit is a dry, brown capsule that contains seeds.
'Blue Bird' is a popular cultivar that is available in many nurseries and garden centers.
It is best grown in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soils.
It is relatively low-maintenance and is resistant to most pests and diseases.
Pruning is best done after flowering in order to avoid cutting off the developing flower buds.
'Blue Bird' is a beautiful shrub that can add interest to any landscape.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge

Planting Process

For hydrangea serrata blue bird, first step is to purchase a plant or seed from a nursery or garden center.
Choose a location for planting that has well-drained soil and receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the planting area by clearing away any debris and loosening the soil with a shovel or spade.
Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the roots of the plant.
Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down lightly as you go.
Water the plant thoroughly immediately after planting.
Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant, being sure to keep it away from the stem.
Water the plant regularly, especially during periods of drought.
Fertilize the plant three times per year with a slow-release fertilizer designed for shrubs and bushes.
Prune the plant as needed to maintain its shape.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Runaway Bride Snow White

The Soil

About soil condition, Hydrangea serrata 'Blue Bird' prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil, moist but not wet. Add organic matter to the planting hole and amend as needed. If planting on a slope, build a berm (mound) around the planting hole to help hold water. This shrub does not tolerate soggy conditions.

About light

Not too different with other hydrangeas, the Hydrangea serrata 'Blue Bird' prefers a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. It will tolerate more sun, but the flowers will be less blue. 'Blue Bird' can reach a height of 6 to 8 feet and a width of 4 to 6 feet.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature conditions that are best for hydrangea serrata blue bird are warm days and cool nights. This plant does not like it when the temperature gets too hot or too cold. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 50%. If the humidity drops below 40%, the leaves will start to brown and the plant will become dormant. If the humidity rises above 50%, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will become less productive.

Fertilizer Requirement

Discussing fertilizer, this kind of plant does best with a fertilizer that has a higher phosphorus content. A general-purpose fertilizer with an 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 rating is a good choice. Use a fertilizer that also has iron in it to prevent yellowing of the leaves. As for root, always keep the root ball of the plant moist.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of maintaining your hydrangea serrata blue bird. Pruning helps to encourage new growth and keep the plant healthy. It is best to prune in the early spring, before new growth begins.

The Propagation

Propagation is generally done via hydrangea serrata blue bird stem cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the current seasons growth. Make sure to remove any leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained potting mix. Be sure to keep the cutting moist until it is well-rooted.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate is about one to two inches per year. However, during the first year after planting, the growth rate is often much faster. Once the plant is established, the growth rate will slow down.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are pests and diseases. Aphids, mites, and whiteflies are the most common pests. Diseases include powdery mildew and leaf spot. These problems can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Basics of Growing

If you are growing hydrangea serrata 'Blue Bird' in a container, make sure that the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away.
Place your potted plant in a location that receives partial to full sun.
Water your hydrangea serrata 'Blue Bird' regularly, making sure to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Fertilize your plant every few weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Prune your plant in late winter or early spring, cutting back any dead or overgrown branches.
Protect your plant from strong winds, which can damage the delicate flowers.
Bring your plant indoors if the temperature drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Check for pests and diseases regularly, and treat accordingly if you notice any problems.
Allow your plant to dry out slightly between watering to