Hydrangea macrophylla, commonly known as bigleaf hydrangea, is a beloved garden plant known for its stunning blooms and versatility. This species, native to Japan, is a favorite among gardeners due to its large, vibrant flowers that can change color based on soil pH. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced gardener, understanding the care and maintenance of macrophylla hydrangea is essential for ensuring its health and beauty in your garden. This article will provide an in-depth guide on hydrangea macrophylla care, pruning, varieties, and more.
What is Hydrangea Macrophylla?
Hydrangea macrophylla, also known as bigleaf hydrangea macrophylla, is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. The plant is characterized by its large, serrated leaves and beautiful blooms, which can range in color from blue to pink, purple, and even white. The color of the flowers is often influenced by the pH level of the soil, with acidic soils producing blue flowers and alkaline soils producing pink ones.
There are two main types of macrophylla hydrangea:
- Mophead Hydrangeas: These have large, rounded flower clusters that are the most recognized form of hydrangea macrophylla.
- Lacecap Hydrangeas: These have flatter flower clusters with fertile flowers in the center and showy, sterile flowers around the edges.
Hydrangea Macrophylla Varieties
Hydrangea macrophylla comes in many varieties, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular hydrangea macrophylla varieties include:
- Endless Summer: Known for its ability to bloom on both old and new wood, hydrangea macrophylla endless summer is a repeat bloomer that provides color throughout the growing season.
- Nikko Blue: This variety is famous for its large, blue flowers that can turn pink in alkaline soil.
- White Lacecap: The hydrangea macrophylla white lacecap is a delicate variety with lacy white blooms that add elegance to any garden.
- Lady in Red: This variety features red stems and flowers that start as a deep pink or red and fade to a softer pink as they age.
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Growing Hydrangea Macrophylla
Growing hydrangea macrophylla plants is relatively straightforward, but there are some essential factors to consider to ensure they thrive.
Light Requirements
Hydrangea macrophylla prefers partial shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is strongest. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch, while too little light can result in fewer blooms. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal.
Soil Requirements
The soil for bigleaf hydrangea macrophylla should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil plays a significant role in the color of the flowers. For blue flowers, aim for a pH of 5.0 to 5.5 (acidic), and for pink flowers, aim for a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 (alkaline).
Watering
Hydrangea macrophylla plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
Hydrangea Macrophylla Care
Proper care is crucial for maintaining the health and beauty of hydrangea macrophylla. Here are some essential tips:
- Fertilization: Fertilize macrophylla hydrangea in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Winter Protection: In colder climates, protect hydrangea macrophylla plants by covering them with burlap or a frost cloth during the winter months. This will help prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
Hydrangea Macrophylla Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of hydrangea macrophylla care. The timing and method of macrophylla hydrangea pruning depend on the type of hydrangea and whether it blooms on old or new wood.
When to Prune
- Mophead Hydrangeas: These should be pruned right after they finish blooming in late summer. This is because they bloom on old wood, and pruning too late can remove the buds for the next year’s flowers.
- Lacecap Hydrangeas: Similar to mopheads, hydrangea macrophylla lacecap varieties should also be pruned after flowering to preserve the buds for the following season.
How to Prune
When pruning hydrangea macrophylla, start by removing any dead or damaged wood. Next, cut back the stems to a pair of healthy buds. For older plants, consider thinning out about a third of the oldest stems at the base to encourage new growth.
Common Problems and Solutions
Hydrangea macrophylla plants are generally hardy, but they can be susceptible to some common problems:
- Wilting: This can be a sign of underwatering or too much direct sunlight. Ensure the plant is getting adequate water and consider moving it to a shadier location if necessary.
- Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spots can occur in humid conditions. To prevent this, water the plant at the base rather than overhead and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: This is another fungal issue that can affect macrophylla hydrangea. It appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. Treat it with a fungicide and improve air circulation around the plant.
Hydrangea Macrophylla Lacecap
The hydrangea macrophylla lacecap is a beautiful and unique variety of bigleaf hydrangea. It features delicate, lace-like flowers that are surrounded by larger, showy blooms. This variety is particularly prized for its elegant appearance and is often used in more formal garden settings.
Hydrangea macrophylla lacecap plants prefer similar growing conditions to other macrophylla hydrangeas, including partial shade and well-draining soil. They can be pruned similarly to mophead varieties, with care taken not to remove the buds for next year’s blooms.
Hydrangea Macrophylla White
The hydrangea macrophylla white varieties are a stunning addition to any garden. Their pure white blooms can create a striking contrast against the green foliage and other colorful plants. Some popular hydrangea macrophylla white varieties include the White Lacecap and Blushing Bride.
To maintain the vibrant white color, ensure that the soil pH remains neutral. Acidic or alkaline soils can cause the flowers to take on a slight blue or pink hue.
Hydrangea Macrophylla Endless Summer
The hydrangea macrophylla endless summer is one of the most popular varieties due to its ability to bloom on both old and new wood. This means that it can produce flowers throughout the growing season, from spring to fall.
Endless Summer hydrangeas are also known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in a range of climates. They prefer partial shade and well-draining soil, similar to other macrophylla hydrangea varieties. Pruning should be done sparingly to avoid cutting off flower buds.
Propagating Hydrangea Macrophylla
Propagating hydrangea macrophylla plants can be done through several methods, including:
- Stem Cuttings: Take a 6-inch cutting from a healthy stem in early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in a pot with moist, well-draining soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.
- Layering: This method involves bending a low branch to the ground and covering a portion of it with soil. After several months, roots will form, and the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.
Hydrangea Macrophylla in Landscape Design
Hydrangea macrophylla is a versatile plant that can be used in various landscape designs. Whether as a focal point, a border plant, or in a container, macrophylla hydrangea adds beauty and interest to any garden. Here are some ideas for incorporating bigleaf hydrangea macrophylla into your landscape:
- Garden Borders: Plant hydrangea macrophylla along garden borders for a stunning display of color. The large blooms will create a soft, romantic look that complements other plants.
- Hedges: Use hydrangea macrophylla as a flowering hedge to define spaces in your garden. Their dense foliage and large flowers provide both privacy and visual appeal.
- Containers: Hydrangea macrophylla plants can also be grown in large containers, making them a great option for patios and small gardens. Choose a container that is at least 18 inches wide and deep to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I water my hydrangea macrophylla?
Water hydrangea macrophylla plants regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.
2. Can I change the color of my hydrangea macrophylla flowers?
Yes, the color of hydrangea macrophylla flowers can be influenced by soil pH. Acidic soil (pH 5.0-5.5) will produce blue flowers, while alkaline soil (pH 6.0-6.5) will result in pink flowers.
3. When is the best time to prune hydrangea macrophylla?
For most macrophylla hydrangea varieties, the best time to prune is right after they finish blooming in late summer.
4. What should I do if my hydrangea macrophylla is not blooming?
If your hydrangea macrophylla plant is not blooming, it could be due to improper pruning, insufficient light, or a lack of nutrients. Ensure the plant is getting enough light and nutrients, and avoid pruning in the spring.
5. Can hydrangea macrophylla grow in full sun?
Hydrangea macrophylla prefers partial shade, especially in the afternoon. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch.
6. How do I propagate hydrangea macrophylla?
Hydrangea macrophylla can be propagated through stem cuttings or layering. Both methods are relatively easy and can produce new plants in a few months.
