How to Grow Hydrangea In Winter - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team / 2024

Hydrangea in winter is a beautiful plant that blooms in the winter. It is a deciduous plant that is native to China and Japan. The flowers are white, pink, or blue and they bloom from December to February. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide.

How to Grow Hydrangea In Winter - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

Snowball hydrangea
Oakleaf hydrangea
Mountain hydrangea
Peegee hydrangea
Smooth hydrangea

Common Knowledge

Hydrangeas are deciduous plants, meaning they lose their leaves in winter.
In order to protect their delicate flowers, hydrangeas should be pruned in late winter or early spring.
Hydrangeas need full sun to partial shade in order to produce the best blooms.
Hydrangeas require well-drained, moist soil in order to thrive.
Mulching around hydrangeas in winter can help protect the roots from cold weather damage.
Hydrangeas are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, so it is important to keep an eye out for these problems.
Some hydrangea varieties are known to be more winter-hardy than others.
It is important to water hydrangeas properly in winter, as dry conditions can cause the plants to become stressed.
Snow on hydrangeas can actually help to insulate the plants and protect them from cold damage.
Hydrangeas are beautiful plants that can add color and interest to any garden.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge

Growing Steps

For hydrangea in winter, first step is to find out the requirement of the plant that includes the amount of sunlight, water and soil type it needs.
Second step is to prepare the planting area by removing the weeds and loosening the soil.
Third step is to dig a hole in the planting area and adding organic matter to it.
Fourth step is to plant the hydrangea in the hole and water it thoroughly.
Fifth step is to mulch the plant to retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
Sixth step is to water the plant regularly and feed it with a balanced fertilizer.
Seventh step is to prune the plant to shape it and remove the dead flower heads.
Eighth step is to protect the plant from the cold weather by covering it with a burlap.
Ninth step is to bring the plant indoors during the winter months.
Last step is to enjoy the blooms of hydrangea in winter.

Related plant:
Wild Hydrangea

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, hydrangeas prefer soil that is moist but well drained. They do not like to sit in wet soil, so it is important to make sure the soil is not too dense or compacted. If the soil is too heavy, it can cause the roots to rot. Adding organic matter to the soil can help to improve drainage and aeration.

Light condition

Just like other plants, hydrangeas need sunlight to thrive. During the winter months, when the sun isn't as strong, make sure to give your hydrangea plant plenty of light by placing it near a south-facing window. If you don't have a south-facing window, you can supplement the sun with grow lights.

The Temperature

The temperature condition necessary for a hydrangea in winter is cool to cold weather. The plant prefers temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate brief periods of below freezing weather.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 50%. If the humidity in the air is too low, the leaves of the plant will begin to wilt and the flowers will droop. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will turn yellow and the stems will become soft.

Fertilizing

About fertilizer, this kind of plant doesn't need a lot. Just once a year is sufficient. You can use any kind of fertilizer, but a slow-release type is best. Apply it in the early spring before new growth begins. Root pruning is necessary every few years to encourage new growth. It's best to do this in the late fall or early winter when the plant is dormant.

About light

Pruning hydrangeas in winter is a great way to encourage new growth and keep your plant healthy. Follow these tips for the best results: 1. Wait until the plant is dormant. This usually occurs in late winter. 2. Cut back the stems to about 6 inches. 3. Make sure to sterilize your pruning tools before and after use. 4. Remove any dead or diseased leaves or stems. 5. Apply a balanced fertilizer after pruning to encourage new growth.

The Propagation

Propagation is best done in early spring, before new growth begins. Take 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) cuttings from new wood and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a moistened mixture of perlite and peat. Rooting will take place in 4-6 weeks. Once roots have developed, pot the cuttings up and grow on in a cool, bright location.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is very slow due to the low temperatures. However, there are a few hardy varieties that will continue to grow during this season. If you are looking for a plant with a fast growth rate, you should consider another type of plant.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are lack of flowers, leaf drop, and browning of the leaves. These problems are caused by the plant not getting enough sunlight or water. To prevent these problems, make sure to water your hydrangea regularly and keep it in a location where it will get at least six hours of sunlight per day.

List to Know

Do not forget to water your plant regularly. The plant will need more water during the winter months, so make sure to keep an eye on it.
Add some mulch to the base of the plant to help keep the roots warm and protected.
If possible, bring the plant indoors during the colder months. This will help to keep it from dying.
If you cannot bring the plant indoors, then make sure to cover it up with a tarp or something similar.
Make sure to cut back any dead or dying branches. This will help the plant to focus its energy on growing new branches.
Fertilize the plant regularly. This will help it to stay healthy and promote new growth.
Prune the plant regularly. This will help to keep it looking its best.
Check the plant for pests and diseases regularly. If you see any, then treat them immediately.