Maintenance Landscaping Design

Yellow hydrangea is a plant that is native to Asia and is a member of the family Hydrangeaceae. The plant is known for its large, Showy inflorescences and its ability to grow in shady areas.

Alternative name

• Oakleaf hydrangea
  
• Smooth hydrangea
  
• Wild hydrangea
  
• Peegee hydrangea
  
• Mountain hydrangea

Things to Know

• Yellow hydrangea is a flowering plant that is native to Asia.
  
• It is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall.
  
• The flowers are typically yellow, but can also be white or pink.
  
• Yellow hydrangea is typically planted in gardens for its ornamental value.
  
• It prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
  
• It is relatively low maintenance and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases.
  
• Yellow hydrangea can be propagated by seed, division, or cuttings.
  
• It blooms from late spring to early summer.
  
• The flowers can be dried and used in arrangements.
  
• Yellow hydrangea is the state flower of South Carolina.

Related plant:
Ornamental Bush With Yellow Flowers

Growing Steps

1. For yellow hydrangea, first step is to choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil.
   
2. Then, dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the hydrangea’s root ball.
   
3. Next, mix some compost or organic matter into the soil that you have removed from the hole.
   
4. After that, place the plant in the hole and fill it back up with the amended soil.
   
5. Once the plant is in place, water it well.
   
6. Then, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help keep the roots cool and moist.
   
7. As the plant grows, keep an eye out for any pests or diseases and take care of them accordingly.
   
8. In late spring or early summer, when the plant is blooming, cut off any dead or diseased flowers.
   
9. Also, cut back any stems that are longer than 2 feet (60 cm).
   
10. Lastly, in the fall, cut the plant back by about one-third to help encourage new growth in the spring.

Related plant:
Yellowroot

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, yellow hydrangea like well drained, moist, but not wet, soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. They are generally tolerant of poor soils, but will not perform well in wet or dry soils. Plants in poorly drained soils are subject to root rot.

About light

Just like other hydrangeas, yellow hydrangeas need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight a day in order to bloom. The best way to ensure that your yellow hydrangea gets enough sun is to plant it in an area that receives full sun for most of the day. If you live in an area with hot summers, it's best to plant your yellow hydrangea in a spot that gets some afternoon shade to protect it from the harsh afternoon sun.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is required for yellow hydrangeas is that the temperature should not be too cold. If the temperature is too cold, the flowers will not be able to open and the plant will not be able to bloom properly.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60-80%. The plant should be allowed to dry out slightly between watering. These plants are very susceptible to root rot, so make sure the pot has drainage holes and that the plant is not sitting in water.

The Fertilizer

The fertilizer, usually the plant food, that you use on your yellow hydrangea shrub is important to the growth of the plant. The roots of the plant are where the plant takes in the nutrients that it needs to grow. If you use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, it will encourage the growth of the leaves and the stems of the plant.

About light

Pruning a yellow hydrangea is a simple process that requires a few basic supplies. You will need a sharp pair of pruning shears, a ladder, and a bucket. Begin by cutting back any dead or dying branches. Next, cut back any branches that are crowding or rub against other branches. Finally, cut back any branches that are too long or out of shape. When you are finished pruning, your yellow hydrangea should have a tidy, well-groomed appearance.

The Propagation

Propagation is generally easy and straight-forward; however, it can be tricky to get started. Here are some tips to help you successfully propagate your yellow hydrangea: 1. To propagate by stem cuttings, take 4-6 inch cuttings from new growth in late spring or early summer. Remove the bottom leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with a moist, well-drained media, and keep the pot in indirect light. Water regularly to keep the media moist, but not soggy. 2. To propagate by division, dig up the entire plant in early spring or fall. Carefully divide the rootball into several pieces, making sure each piece has at least one bud. Replant the divisions in moist, well-drained media, and water regularly. 3. To propagate by seed, start the seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. Sow the seeds on the surface of a moist, well-drained media, and keep the media moist. When the seedlings emerge, thin them to one per pot. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate are very slow to moderate. They may take up to several years to reach their full size potential. Once they are fully grown, they can produce large, showy blooms that are loved by many gardeners.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are over watering, under watering, and not enough light. These problems can result in the leaves of the plant turning yellow, brown, and wilting. If you think you are over watering your plant, check the soil for moisture before watering again. If the soil is dry, water the plant deeply and then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. If you think you are under watering your plant, water it deeply and more often. Make sure the plant is getting at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Basics of Growing

• If you want to grow yellow hydrangeas, make sure to plant them in areas that get full sun.
  
• When planting, make sure to mix in some organic matter into the soil to help with drainage.
  
• Water your plants regularly, especially during the hotter months.
  
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
  
• Cut back the plant in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
  
• Fertilize your plants twice a year, in spring and fall, with an all-purpose fertilizer.
  
• To encourage blooming, pinch off the tips of the plant in early summer.
  
• Check for pests and diseases regularly and take care of them accordingly.
  
• Deadhead the flowers regularly to promote more blooming.
  
• Divide the plants every few years to keep them healthy and vigorous.

Substitution

• Hydrangea shrubs' cultivated varieties
  
• Hydrangea floribunda
  
• Hydrangea paniculata
  
• Hydrangea cyathiformis
  
• Hydrangea radiata
  
• Hydrangea hirta
  
• Hydrangea macrophylla
  
• Hydrangea involucrata
  
• Hydrangea quercifolia
  
• Hydrangea thunbergii

Source:
Hydrangea anomala - North Carolina State University
HYDRANGEA - HYDRANGEA SPP. | The UFOR Nursery & Lab
Hydrangea - University of Connecticut