Growing Hydrangeas for a project?

Hydrangeas are 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. Although there are many types of hydrangeas, most can be grown in full sun or partial shade. Keep in mind, however, that many hydrangeas do not like extremely hot conditions, so try to locate them in an area where they can enjoy some afternoon shade. While they can be grown in a wide range of soils, hydrangeas typically prefer rich, moist soil that drains easily. Amending the soil with compost prior to planting is helpful. Water is an important factor when you care for hydrangeas. They enjoy deep watering at least once a week, especially in dry weather. Hydrangeas also benefit from an occasional boost of fertilizer once or twice a year in spring or summer.

There several species of hydrangea, but only about five of them are widely grown in the United States. The most popular include the hydrangea vines, the oakleaf, the paniculata, the mophead, and the lacecap. Each of them has both similarities and differences, but they produce enchanting flowers. They definitely brighten the landscape and the flowers are precious to florists and decorators. Characteristics of Common Hydrangeas Hydrangea vines are climbing plants that produce awesome flowers. There a several kinds and they usually grow well when given to the room to climb on the side of the house or on a tree. They don’t require trellises. They simply attach to planar surfaces and holdfast. The flowers that grow on these types of vines are usually white, cream, light pink or pastel yellow. For brighter flowers, the mophead or lacecap type is preferable. They feature flowers in colors such as bright blue and several shades of pink and purple, as well as white. The mophead plant is a bush while the lacecaps are more of a shrub that grows nicely around other shrubs and trees. The oakleaf hydrangeas are original because of the shape and behavior of their leaves. Sure, they have stunning flowers that usually are white (occasionally pink as they age), but the leaves of the oakleaf hydrangea are shaped like an oak leaf and the leaf itself changes colors adorning red, burgundy, yellow, and orange in the fall. They are just beautiful. The paniculata variety of hydrangeas is like a bush with blooms that are kind of cone-shaped. The flowers are similar to the lilac, but they are usually white and change into a pink blush color as the bloom ages. Planting Hydrangeas When choosing which kind of hydrangeas to plant, consider the characteristics of the different types, but also check your zone against the recommended zones for growing hydrangeas. Some of them won’t grow in certain climates. There are so many different kinds of hydrangeas, that it isn’t possible to provide a single method for planting them. Most plants come with planting instructions and it is recommended that you follow them. Some require lots of sun while some are better off in the shade although most of them will grow well with morning sun and afternoon shade. The oakleaf does okay in extreme heat while other hydrangeas do not. If in complete shade, all of the hydrangeas will have problems blooming. Spacing of the plants is also important, so follow the instructions that come with the plant. When transplanting hydrangeas, it is best to plant them when they are blooming or dormant. Caring for Hydrangeas Most hydrangeas require moist soil but need to have good drainage. The oakleaf is especially sensitive to root rot if the soil does not drain well. They need fertilizer and for a thriving plant with blooms, provide fertilizer frequently. Hydrangea Care - http://www.perennial-gardens.com/flower-articles/hydrangeas.htm