Hydrangeas

Cultural Information
These easy-to-grow elegant landscape shrubs just need a rich, well-drained soil, regular watering and feeding. Depending on the variety, these spectacular plants need partial shade to full sun.

Hydrangeas are deciduous and drop their foliage in the winter, with new growth appearing in February and early March.

Planting
1. Dig a hole at least twice the width of the root ball.
2. Using Pike Planting Mix combine one part natural soil and one part planting mix.
3. Place a small handful of E.B. Stone Sure Start in the bottom of the hole and incorporate into the soil.
4. Make sure the top of the original root ball is one inch above ground level.
5. Firmly tap soil to remove any air pockets.
6. Water in with Bonide Plant Starter.

Fertilizing
Pink or blue? The choice is yours. In our soils, Hydrangeas will generally turn pink. You can change the intensity of the pink to red or even turn them blue.

Regular application of Jack’s Classic Hydrangea intensifies the pink while regular feeding with an acid-type fertilizer and using lime, turns blossoms blue or lavender. Feeding well ahead of flowering is recommended to achieve desired color. However, Pike Nurseries recommends choosing a hydrangea variety that is your desired flower color for the best results.

Watering
Keep soil moist and never allow drying out. Regular watering during the heat of summer is a must.

Care
Only prune during summer months once the plant has stopped flowering. Simply prune out the old flower heads and supporting stem down to the base of the plant. Leave the strong, new shoots. These new shoots will produce next year's flowers. Any weak or dead stems should be removed.