Hydrangeas

Versatile Beauties for Every Garden

When it comes to shrubs that offer year after year of reliable beauty, hydrangeas are hard to beat. With their large, dramatic blooms and wide variety of forms and colours, they bring elegance and vibrancy to gardens from late summer well into fall — just when many other plants are winding down. Their versatility makes them a favorite choice for homeowners and landscapers alike.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Hydrangeas thrive when planted in the right spot and given the proper care:

• Soil: Rich, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter is best. Hydrangeas like consistent moisture but don’t tolerate soggy ground. Mulching helps maintain soil moisture.

• Light: Most types prefer morning sun and afternoon shade. In cooler climates, they can handle more sun, while in hotter regions, extra shade helps prevent wilting.

• Water: Regular watering is key, especially during hot spells, as these shrubs have shallow roots.

  The Colour-Changing Magic

  One of the most intriguing traits of hydrangeas is their ability to change colour based on soil pH:

  • Acidic soil (low pH) produces blue flowers.

  • Alkaline soil (high pH) produces pink flowers.

  • Neutral soil may yield lavender or purple tones.

  Gardeners can even influence colour by amending soil with lime (to encourage pinks) or sulfur/aluminum sulfate (to encourage blues). White varieties, such as Annabelle and Oakleaf, stay reliably white regardless of soil.

  Uses in the Landscape

  Hydrangeas can play many roles in garden design:

  • Foundation planting: Adds year-round structure with seasonal blooms.

  • Specimen shrub: Makes a bold statement in the lawn or garden.

  • Borders and hedges: Provides both privacy and beauty.

  • Cut flowers: Hydrangeas are excellent for fresh arrangements and can also be dried to last through the winter.

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  Lasting Appeal

  Hydrangeas are more than just pretty flowers — they’re garden workhorses that bring structure, long-season colour, and adaptability. Whether you love the classic mopheads, the elegant lacecaps, or the striking cone-shaped blooms, there’s a hydrangea for every garden style.

  If you’re looking for a shrub that combines beauty, versatility, and drama, hydrangeas deserve a place in your landscape.