
How to reduce the size of a huge Hydrangea?
When Cutting Back Hydrangeas Can Be Helpful:
- (1) All dead stems should be removed from hydrangeas every year.
- (2) After the plants are at least 5 years old, about 1/3 of the older (living) stems can be removed down to the ground each summer. ...
- (3) In addition, if it becomes necessary to prune a plant to reduce its size, it may be cut back in June or July without harming the next year's bloom. ...
How to grow the best hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas grow best in well-drained, moist soil with a healthy balance of sun and shade. They require proper watering, avoiding their leaves/blooms. Hydrangeas typically bloom in summer, although there are varieties that also bloom in late spring and early autumn.
How fast do hydrangeas grow in a year?
The Growth Rate of the Hydrangea Tree
- Growth Rate. Hydrangeas are classified as rapid growers, or 25 or more inches per year until the plant reaches maturity.
- Growth Rate and Planning. Hydrangea paniculata cultivars growing more than 2 feet a year will quickly fill a space. ...
- Tree Cultivar Size. ...
- Best Growing Conditions. ...
Are hydrangeas hard to grow?
They’re not only easy to grow but are also quite hardy and resistant to most pests and diseases, making it even easier to care for hydrangeas. With numerous varieties to choose from, you’re certain to find one that’s right for you. Growing Hydrangeas Although there are many types of hydrangeas, most can be grown in full sun or partial shade.

How tall and wide do hydrangeas get?
Hydrangea size Some only grow to about 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, while others grow up to 6 feet tall with a 6 foot spread. Smaller hydrangea varieties are perfect for compact garden beds, patio pots and areas with limited space.
How long does it take for a hydrangea to grow full size?
2-4 yearsThough they are fast growing shrubs, it can take 2-4 years for hydrangeas to reach their full size. Some are faster to mature than others. Growing hydrangeas is simple, and they can thrive in just about any climate.
How much space does hydrangea need?
3 to 10 feet apartSome varieties are more tolerant of full sun. Space hydrangeas anywhere from 3 to 10 feet apart, depending on type. Always space plants based on their expected size at maturity!
Are hydrangeas fast growing?
To ensure that hydrangea shrubs have time to establish a healthy root system, plant them in the fall or early spring. Hydrangeas are rapid growers, averaging two feet or more of growth per year.
What month is best to plant hydrangeas?
Fall is the best season to plant hydrangeas, followed by early spring. The idea is to give the shrub plenty of time to establish a healthy root system before blooming. The best time of day to plant is early morning or late afternoon.
Do hydrangeas like sun or shade?
Most hydrangeas prefer only morning sun. Yet one type of hydrangea can soak up the sun all day: the panicle hydrangea. While they can stand the sun, these do just fine in partial shade, too.
Where should you not plant hydrangeas?
Where to plant hydrangeas:The best location is one that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. ... Consider mature size, give it plenty of room to grow.Choose an area with excellent drainage. ... Don't plant beneath a tree—the root competition and lack of sunlight will prevent them from thriving.More items...•
Where is the best place to plant a hydrangea?
Plant hydrangeas in an area with abundant light, near a water source. In the South, choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. In the North, hydrangeas can grow in all-day sun.
How far away from the house do you plant hydrangeas?
Answer. Most of the varieties in Endless Summer will reach 3-4′ wide at maturity. I would give them at last two feet away from the foundation. Or even a little more if you don't want them touching the house.
How long does a hydrangea live?
50 yearsHydrangeas are long-lived shrubs, sometimes living for up to 50 years if properly cared for. They enjoy morning sun but afternoon shade, and they need frequent watering during the growing season. Prune them in the fall after the blooms fade so they can grow on strong stems the following summer.
What month does hydrangea bloom?
Climbing hydrangeas bloom from late spring until midsummer, and the lovely oakleaf varieties bloom from early summer in southern regions and from midsummer to early fall in the Midwest and northern states.
Do hydrangeas multiply?
There are two key factors to consider when clipping hydrangeas to multiply the plant: when you cut and where you cut. The best time is between late spring and early summer when new stems first start to harden. New stems will bend but snap off easily, and these cuttings are predisposed to robust growth.
Are hydrangeas slow growing?
Be Patient with Your Hydrangeas Hydrangeas are plants that you need to be patient with. These plants take a long time to grow and establish themselves well in your garden after you have planted them. These plants are slow-growing, so you may not see much growth from them, especially in the first few years.
Will my hydrangea bloom the first year?
Tip. Most hydrangea varieties will bloom the first year, although some prefer to become established before flowering.
Do hydrangeas spread?
The perfect spot also has enough space for the hydrangea to spread its branches. Some hydrangeas bloom up to six-feet-wide. Be sure to check the plant's tag to see what its mature size will be before planting it.
Do hydrangeas grow well in pots?
Can hydrangeas grow in pots? It's a good question, since the potted hydrangeas given as gifts rarely last more than a few weeks. The good news is that they can, as long as you treat them right. Since they can get quite big and produce stunning blossoms all summer long, growing hydrangeas in pots is well worth it.
How fast do hydrangeas grow?
Hydrangeas are classified as rapid growers, with some varieties growing an average of 25 inches per year until they reach maturity. Other hydrangea varieties, such as the Hydrangea paniculata can grow up to 2 feet per year.
How big do oak leaf hydrangeas get?
Oak-leaf hydrangeas. 96 inches. 96 inches. As you can notice, most hydrangeas will spread as much as their height is, except for climbing hydrangea varieties and panicle hydrangeas that have a smaller spread compared to their height. This can give you an idea of the space you need to allocate in your garden to these plants, ...
How to Keep Hydrangea Bush Small?
Sometimes it’s a challenge to keep hydrangeas at a reasonable size. If conditions are favorable in your garden, hydrangeas will quickly take up all available space until they reach their expected size.
When should I prune hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas that bloom on new wood (i.e., new growths) should be pruned in late winter or early spring or in fall as they enter the dormancy phase. Hydrangeas that bloom on old growths should be pruned only after flowering. Cutting old woods down in fall or early spring will have you looking at a bloomless season.
How big is a paniculata tree?
Some paniculata varieties qualify as tree forms, having canopies of 18 to 20 feet wide and reaching heights of 10 to 15 feet.
Do panicle hydrangeas need sun?
Find the ideal location for your hydrangeas based on light requirements (e.g., plant panicle hydrangeas in full sun or afternoon sun or smooth hydrangeas in partial shade)
Do hydrangeas need pruning?
Although hydrangeas don’t require annual pruning, there are times when a little pruning is necessary, either to cut back on its size a bit or to reinvigorate a hydrangea bush that is doing poorly. First, you need to determine whether your hydrangea variety blooms on old wood or new wood.
How Big Do Hydrangea Get?
Most hydrangeas are large shrubs that grow between 3 and 5 ft. (1 – 1.5 m) high. The tallest types of hydrangeas are climbing hydrangeas ( Hydrangea anomala) that reach up to 50 ft. (15 m) tall if they have enough support. Dwarf hydrangeas varieties are typically 2 or 3 feet (0.6 – 1 m) tall.
How long do hydrangea leaves grow?
Here are the types of hydrangea leaves: Bigleaf hydrangeas leaves are thick and glossy with serrated margins and grow up to 8” (20 cm) long. Panicle hydrangeas have narrow, dark-green fuzzy leaves that grow up to 5” (12 cm) long. Smooth hydrangea leaves have a coarse texture and medium to dark green color.
What is a Nikko Blue Hydrangea?
The Nikko Blue hydrangea is one of the most popular mophead hydrangea shrubs. The flowering bush has deep blue florets contrasting with large green, ovate leaves. The ‘Nikko Blue’ blooms profusely from early summer until the fall. Flowers are blue in acidic soils and develop pink hues in alkaline soils.
What is the name of the shrub with the most flowers?
Bigleaf hydrangeas are the most popular flowering shrub in gardens. The common hydrangea names—bigleaf and mophead—refer to the leaf size and flower shape. The showy hydrangea flowers are large, rounded flower clusters. The large, bold glossy, ovate leaves can be 4” to 6” (10 – 15 cm) across.
How long do big leaf hydrangeas bloom?
Bigleaf hydrangea cultivars have two types of flowers: mophead flowers and lacecap flowers. The sizeable spherical mophead flowers bloom for three to six months and can turn color in the fall. Lacecap hydrangea flowers are flattened flower clusters. The flower heads consist of fertile florets in the center with showy petal flowers around them.
What color are climbing hydrangea leaves?
The dull grayish-green summer foliage turns a spectacular red or orange in the fall. Climbing hydrangea leaves are aromatic leaves that are a rounded to ovate shape with toothed edges. From the different hydrangeas varieties, climbing hydrangea leaves are the smallest, measuring between 2” and 4” (5 – 10 cm) long.
What are hydrangea flowers?
Hydrangea flowers are long-lasting, showy blooms that have various shapes and sizes. The stunning flower heads can be rounded domes, flat lacy clusters, pointed cone shapes, or huge ball-like flowers.
How tall is a hydrangea?
The French hydrangea lacecap variety Blue Wave gets as tall as 6 to 7 feet with flowers that resemble a pinwheel, according to the Clemson University Extension. Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens), also referred to as snowball hydrangeas, are deciduous shrubs that measure 5 feet tall with spherical clusters of white flowers. Oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) are medium in height, growing to 4 to 6 feet with a display of white flowers, according to the Ohio State University Extension.
How tall do oak leaf hydrangeas grow?
Oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia) are medium in height, growing to 4 to 6 feet with a display of white flowers, according to the Ohio State University Extension.
Do hydrangeas need to be planted in warm or cold weather?
Maintain well-drained soil high in organic content, according to the Clemson University Extension. Do not plant hydrangeas in areas affected by extremely warm temperatures or drought as injury may occur. Hydrangea heights vary greatly depending upon species and particular varieties.
How big does a hydrangea get?
Hydrangea macrophylla: Also known as bigleaf hydrangea, this species grows to around 6 to 10 feet tall and wide and has leaves that reach around 6 inches long. Hydrangea arborescens: Known as smooth hydrangea, this shrub reaches around 3 to 5 feet tall and wide and produces white to pink flowers.
What color are hydrangeas?
Their flowers now come in a wide array of colors, including bright blue, deep red, and pale green. Some hydrangeas have large, round flower clusters while others have smaller, flatter, and more delicate flowers.
Why are my hydrangea leaves yellow?
Yellowing leaves on a hydrangea can indicate that it's been overwatered, underwatered, or overfertilized. The roots are damaged and it may be possible to save the shrub by saturating the roots if the problem is that it's too dry or overfertilized. Otherwise, you may need to see if drying out the roots of an overwatered shrub will help save the plant.
Why won't my hydrangea bloom?
Hydrangeas may not bloom every season. The reason could be incorrect pruning, damage to buds during the winter, or at some point you may have overfertilized the plant. Be extra careful when pruning the type of hydrangea you have growing in your garden. Sometimes you can mistakenly prune off next year's blooms.
How to protect hydrangeas from cold?
Protect your hydrangeas from cold winds by planting them in a sheltered spot or with a burlap windscreen or burlap frame filled with dry leaves.
How do hydrangeas change color?
Although somewhat determined by cultivar, the color can be tweaked by the amount of aluminum in the soil and the soil pH. The soil pH determines how available aluminum is to the plants.
What zone do hydrangeas grow in?
Most hydrangeas can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. They are generally hardy from USDA growing zones 5 to 9. And as long as they are planted in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter, they should grow well.
How to stop hydrangeas from growing too big?
With proper care and maintenance, Myers says you can stop your hydrangea blooms from growing too large. " Water your hydrangeas thoroughly but less frequently to encourage deep roots that are more drought tolerant and that will produce hardier stems," she says. "Also, removing broken and damaged stems as soon as you discover them will promote healthier growth and better blooms."
Why are my hydrangeas flopping over?
"Warm temperatures and humid conditions can cause the stems of your hydrangeas to weaken and the blooms to flop over," explains gardening expert Melinda Myers. "Much like weeds, plants can overgrow when exposed to too much moisture."
Can you deadhead hydrangeas?
While deadheading your hydrangeas can be helpful for new growth , Myers says too much pruning can be detrimental. "If you cut 'Annabelle' varieties all the way back to the ground, all of the energy stored in the roots will go into producing above ground growth that is often too weak to support the blooms," she explains.
Can you transplant hydrangeas?
If you just can't seem to get your hydrangea blooms to stop growing, Myers says to consider transplanting them to a new location. "Evaluate the current growing conditions and if your hydrangeas are in an area where they're exposed to too much moisture or not enough sun, move them somewhere more conducive to healthy, sturdy growth," she says. She also recommends harvesting bigger blooms to enjoy indoors from time to time, to lighten the weight on the stems.
Can you stake hydrangeas to fence?
Or if your hydrangeas are growing near a fence, you can stake the stems to the fencing so it looks less intentional.". Try a new location. If you just can't seem to get your hydrangea blooms to stop growing, Myers says to consider transplanting them to a new location.
How tall does a quickfire hydrangea grow?
This is a short Hydrangea paniculata known for its dark pink flowers. This is Little Quickfire, a shrub that grows three to four feet tall and wide.
How are hydrangeas formed?
This is how the original “hydrangea trees” were formed…by cutting off the lower limbs where they joined the trunk to create what looks like a multi-stemmed small tree. If your hydrangea is too wide for the location, you can dig it up and divide the plant, or move it back away from driveways and walks.
How to keep hydrangeas under the windows?
So how to keep a hydrangea under the windows, away from the walkway, or short enough to see over? Plant a short variety in that spot. Every year there are dozens of shorter growing hydrangeas being introduced. For example, most shrubs in the Seaside Serenade ® series of Monrovia hydrangeas stay under 4 feet tall. (Country Garden has several in that series in stock now.) Other hydrangeas that stay shorter are the Cityline series, Let’s Dance Diva, H. paniculata Bobo, and Little Quickfire.
Why are hydrangeas below windows?
paniculata Bobo, and Little Quickfire. These Forever and Ever Hydrangeas are below the windows not because they were pruned, but because they only grow about four feet tall. No need to fight or to think that they are somehow misbehaving.
What is the name of the tallest blue flower in Venice?
And look at those rich, blue blooms! (Pinkish-purple plant to its right is Cityline Venice. The taller blue one behind Venice is Mathilda Gutges. The pink and purple behind that one are Forever and Ever Red and Forever and Ever Blue Heaven. The white to the left of the tree is a Hydrangea arborescens ‘Grandiflora.’.
Can you cut back hydrangeas?
The simple answer is that you don’t. Plants grow to be the size and shape that their genetics dictate, and trying to fight those genetics is foolish, especially if the plants have already gotten too tall. Additionally, the blue flowering mop head and lace cap hydrangeas that we Cape Codders love so much will not only replace and perhaps surpass their former height in one season, but will also have far fewer flowers if you cut them back. Here’s a photo to illustrate:
Can hydrangeas grow over windows?
The plant will produce new growth, but for a very short time you’ll have the passageways clear. If a hydrangea is up over the windows, move it to another location where it can grow as large as its genetics are dictating that it will be.
