Standard hydrangea is a plant that produces large, showy flowers. The flowers can be white, pink, or blue, and they are borne on strong stems. Standard hydrangeas are widely planted in gardens and landscapes. They are relatively easy to care for, and they make excellent cut flowers.
Also known as
- French hydrangea
- Garden hydrangea
- Hardy hydrangea
- Climbing hydrangea
- Oakleaf hydrangea
Good to Know
- Hydrangeas are native to Asia and North America.
- There are over 23 species of hydrangea.
- Hydrangeas can be deciduous or evergreen.
- Hydrangeas typically bloom in the summer.
- The flowers of the hydrangea are typically white, but can be pink, blue, or purple.
- The flower color of hydrangeas can be affected by the pH level of the soil.
- Hydrangeas are popular garden plants.
- Hydrangeas can be propagated by rooting stem cuttings.
- Hydrangeas are susceptible to a number of diseases and pests.
- Hydrangeas are named after the Greek 'hydor', meaning 'water', and 'angos', meaning 'vessel or jar', referring to the cup-shaped flower.
Growing Steps
- For standard hydrangea, first step is to plant the seed in a prepared seed bed.
- Water the seed bed regularly and keep it moist.
- When the seedlings are big enough, transplant them into individual pots.
- Water the plants regularly and keep them moist.
- Place the pots in a sunny location.
- Fertilize the plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage more blooms.
- Prune the plants annually to promote new growth.
- Divide the plants every few years to keep them healthy.
- Enjoy the beautiful blooms!
Soil Condition
About soil condition, the best way to have success with your hydrangea is to have well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If you have poor drainage, your hydrangeas roots will rot. You can improve drainage by amending your soil with organic matter such as compost or peat moss. If you have very sandy soil, you may need to add more organic matter to help retain moisture.
Light requirement
Similar to other hydrangeas, the standard hydrangea requires at least four hours of sunlight each day in order to bloom properly. The best spot for planting is an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. If your yard does not have an area that meets these requirements, you may need to consider planting your hydrangea in a pot so that you can move it around as needed.
The Temperature
The temperature conditions that are ideal for a standard hydrangea are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade will produce fewer blooms. They need at least four hours of sunlight each day to produce flowers.
Humidity Level
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60-70%. If the air is too dry, the leaves will wilt and the flowers will lose their shape. If the air is too humid, the leaves will become yellow and the flowers will be less vibrant.
Fertilizing
Mentioning fertilizer, this family of plant requires moderate feeding. A good general-purpose fertilizer that contains both nitrogen and potassium will work well. Be sure to follow the package directions for application rates and frequency. Also, take care not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to problems such as leaf burn. When it comes to watering, hydrangeas like a consistent supply of moisture. They will need to be watered more often in hot, dry weather. Be sure to check the soil before watering to see if it is dry. Hydrangeas also benefit from a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or leaves, to help keep the roots cool and moist.
About light
Pruning a standard hydrangea is a bit different than pruning other types of plants. First, you'll want to remove any dead or diseased branches. Next, cut back any branches that are growing out of bounds. Finally, cut back the remaining branches by about one-third their total length.
Plant Propagation
Propagation of hydrangeas is typically done through rooting stem cuttings taken from the plant. The cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still soft and flexible. The cutting should be at least 6 inches long and have several leaves. The bottom leaves should be removed and the cutting should be placed in a glass of water. After a few weeks, the roots will develop and the cutting can be transplanted into a pot with potting soil.
Growth Rate
Usually, the plant growth rate is about 24 inches per year. Many people believe that the plant can reach a height of up to 6 feet, but this is not always the case. The plant's maximum height is usually determined by the amount of space available for it to grow.
Common Problems
Common problems for this kind of plant are fungal diseases, such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Other problems include aphids, scale, and Japanese beetles. To prevent or control these problems, water regularly and fertilize yearly. Prune dead or diseased branches and remove fallen leaves from the ground.
List to Know
- Make sure to plant your hydrangea in an area with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.
- Water your hydrangea regularly, especially during the hotter months.
- Fertilize your plant every few months to keep it healthy and encourage growth.
- Prune your hydrangea regularly to promote new growth and keep it looking its best.
- Be sure to deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms throughout the season.
- Protect your plant from extreme weather conditions, such as harsh winds or cold temperatures.
- Watch for signs of pests or disease and take action accordingly to keep your plant healthy.
- Dont hesitate to divide your plant every few years to encourage new growth.
- Expect your hydrangea to bloom from late spring through early fall.
- Enjoy your beautiful hydrangea plant!
Substitution
- Macrophylla, Macrophylla Hydrangea
- Paniculata
- Quercifolia, Oakleaf Hydrangea
- Villosa, Smooth Hydrangea
- Aspera
- Betulifolia
- Brachyclada
- Cordifolia, Heartleaf Hydrangea
- Crassifolia, Thickleaf Hydrangea
- Culta, Mountain Hydrangea
Source:
Growing Hydrangeas - Center for Agriculture, Food, and the
HYDRANGEA - HYDRANGEA SPP. | The UFOR Nursery & Lab
Take a Look at Hydrangeas - Penn State Extension
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category
