When we embarked on the journey of designing our old home, one thing I knew for sure was I wanted lush hydrangeas surrounding our property. I love simplicity when it comes to landscaping, and I find hydrangeas make a statement on their own because they are so lush, yet they’re simple at the same time.
Lucky for me, the sunlight at our old house was just right and I was able to have the hydrangeas of my dreams. I don't have much of a green thumb, so we did have landscapers plant them, however we did learn a lot over 4 years in terms of maintenance.
We opted for Annabelle Hydrangeas, and my tips are tailored specifically to this variety. As we prepare to plant multiple varieties in our new home, I look forward to sharing more insights soon.
Our hydrangeas took about four years to reach the lush state you see today, with each passing year bringing remarkable growth. By the second year, they were already beautiful and full, and their size and stature continued to increase annually.
Spacing is crucial for the optimal growth of hydrangeas, and ours were planted approximately 1.5 feet apart. While we had numerous bushes planted, the key to their lush appearance was because they had so much sunlight. Those that were shaded by a tree lagged behind in growth. Additionally, we maintained a diligent watering schedule, especially during the first summer when they required daily watering, gradually transitioning to every other day afterward.
Keep in mind that hydrangeas get quite heavy because of how big the bulbs are, so it’s important to use plant support stakes when planting them. They also look like they get crushed in heavy rain, but don’t panic, they do bounce back.
Finally, for those looking to bring the beauty of hydrangeas indoors, here are a few additional tips:
- Cut the stems once the hydrangeas turn green, strip the leaves, and place the blooms in a vase with water.
- Keep them out of direct sunlight, allowing the water to evaporate naturally as the blooms dry, which may take 2-3 weeks.
- If the water level drops before the hydrangeas are fully dry, simply add more water to the vase.
With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to cultivating your own breathtaking hydrangea garden, adding a touch of natural elegance to your home's landscape.
Xo
Caroline
