Native hydrangea is a beautiful plant that is native to North America. It has large, showy flowers that come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, and blue. The flowers are borne on long, sturdy stems, making them perfect for cutting and using in arrangements. Native hydrangea is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. With a little attention, this plant will thrive and provide you with many years of enjoyment.
Related plant:
Small Native Shrubs
About soil condition, native hydrangea grows best in moist, well-drained soils, but it is quite adaptable and will tolerate a wide variety of conditions. It does not like to be too wet or too dry. It prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH, but it is not particularly fussy.
Just like other hydrangeas, the native hydrangea (H. arborescens) needs at least four hours of sun each day to produce an abundant bloom. Without enough sun, the shrub will still grow, but the flower clusters will be small and sparse. Choose a planting site that receives afternoon sun for best results.
The temperature condition that is most favorable for the growth of native hydrangeas is a temperature that is not too hot and not too cold. The ideal temperature range for native hydrangeas is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40-50%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and crisp. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.
For the fertilizer, this kind of plant requires low phosphorus and high nitrogen, so use a fertilizer that's low in phosphorus and high in nitrogen. And for the roots, Native Hydrangea has a fibrous root system, so it doesn't require much in the way of special care. Just make sure the plant has good drainage.
Pruning is an important part of keeping your native hydrangea healthy and vibrant. The best time to prune is in early spring, before new growth begins. You should remove any dead or dying branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. If your plant is overgrown, you can also prune it back to encourage new growth.
Propagation is best done in early spring before new growth begins. Take cuttings from new growth that is 6-8 inches long and strip the lower leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in a well-drained potting mix. Place the pot in indirect light and keep the soil moist. New roots should form in 4-6 weeks. Once the roots are established, transplant to a location in full sun or part shade.
Usually, the plant growth rate is slow to moderate, with some species growing as much as 3 feet per year. Fertile, well-drained soil is critical to success with these plants. Pruning is typically only done to remove dead or damaged branches, as these plants do not respond well to heavy pruning.
Common problems for this kind of plant are aphids and scale. Both of these problems can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Another problem that can occur is powdery mildew, which can be controlled with a fungicide.
Source:
HYDRANGEA - HYDRANGEA SPP. | The UFOR Nursery & Lab
Hydrangeas - Alabama Cooperative Extension System
Hydrangeas | Home & Garden Information Center - Clemson
