Everything You Need to Know About Growing Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas have always held a special place in my heart—my mom planted two gorgeous mophead hydrangeas outside her bedroom window, and I still get to enjoy their blooms today.
In this ultimate guide to growing hydrangeas, you’ll learn about the different types of hydrangeas, the USDA zones they grow best in, and how to plant and care for them to keep your garden blooming year after year.
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One of my favorite things to do is walk out to the garden and snip a few hydrangeas to bring inside—they instantly brighten up any room. I also love drying them to enjoy their beauty year-round, and once, I even experimented with dyeing the dried blooms to create a one-of-a-kind arrangement. It’s such a simple joy that makes home feel extra special.
The Ultimate Guide to Growing Hydrangeas in Every Garden
Hydrangeas are a much-loved flowering plant grown in many parts of the world. They produce large, beautiful blooms and have a very distinct charm about them.
People have been growing hydrangeas for generations thanks to their easy-going nature, long-lasting blooms, and versatility in the garden. Today, many people continue to grow hydrangeas out of a sense of nostalgia. Do you have any fond memories of playing amongst the hydrangea bushes in your parents’ or grandparents’ garden? Or of having fresh cut hydrangeas adorning your summer table?
I adore growing hydrangeas, and many of the photos here are from my own yard. If you’re just getting started—or want to level up your hydrangea game—you’ll find everything you need to know right here.
Gardening Tools for Growing Hydrangeas
Types of Hydrangeas and Where They Grow Best
According to plantaddicts.com, there are over 75 species of hydrangea. Don’t worry, this guide is not going to cover all of them!
For the purpose of this post, I will share some information about the 5 main types of hydrangeas that are common to North America.
Most types of hydrangeas can be distinguished by the characteristics of their blooms, leaves, and stems.
1. Bigleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea Macrophylla)
Bigleaf hydrangeas are the most common type found in the U.S. and come in three stunning varieties: mophead, lacecap, and mountain hydrangeas. Their full, vibrant blooms make them perfect for creating beautiful floral arrangements.
Mophead Hydrangeas
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The most popular and recognizable variety, mopheads have large blooms in blue, purple, and pink. The leaves are slightly heart shaped with coarsely toothed edges and are often thick and shiny.
Lacecap Hydrangeas
Almost identical to mophead hydrangeas, the only difference in lacecaps is the shape of their blooms. The center of this distinctive bloom is made up of little buds which are surrounded by larger blossoms around the outside.
Mountain Hydrangeas
The least popular of the bigleaf types, mountain hydrangeas have much smaller flowers. They are, however, extremely hardy and can survive in harsh climates.
2. Panicle Hydrangeas (Hydrangea Paniculata)
Panicle hydrangeas are the only type of hydrangeas that will form into trees. They are recognizable by their cone shaped blooms which often start out white and then turn pink. The leaves are smaller than those on mopheads, with finely toothed edges and a matte finish. Panicles are the most cold hardy hydrangea variety.
3. Smooth Hydrangeas (Hydrangea Arborescens)
Smooth hydrangeas have a similar look to the popular mophead variety, with a few notable differences. The leaves are thinner and floppier, with a coarse texture and matte finish. The leaf stems are also longer and stronger for holding up their large blooms.
4. Oakleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea Quercicolia)
The leaves are the oakleaf hydrangea are its most distinctive feature, having a very similar appearance to the leaves of an oak tree, and will also change color in the fall. This variety often has white cone-shaped blooms.
5. Climbing Hydrangeas (Hydrangea Anomala subsp. petiolaris)
While most types of hydrangeas grow on a bush, climbing hydrangeas grow on a vine. This variety has large blooms and can grow up structures, reaching a length of up to 50 feet. Native to Asia, climbing hydrangeas are becoming increasingly popular due to their unique features.
Where Hydrangeas Grow Best
| Hydrangea Type | Best USDA Zones | Cold Hardiness |
|---|---|---|
| Bigleaf Hydrangea (H. macrophylla) | 6 to 9 (some to 5) | Moderate (somewhat tender buds) |
| Mountain Hydrangea (H. serrata) | 5 to 9 (ideal in 6–7) | Good (more cold-tolerant than macrophylla) |
| Panicle Hydrangea (H. paniculata) | 3 to 8 | Excellent |
| Smooth Hydrangea (H. arborescens) | 3 to 9 | Excellent |
| Oakleaf Hydrangea (H. quercifolia) | 5 to 9 | Good |
| Climbing Hydrangea (H. anomala petiolaris) | 4 to 8 | Very good |
The Best Conditions for Hydrangeas
Different types of hydrangeas grow best in different climates, but for the most part, hydrangeas do best in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9.
You can determine your plant hardiness zone by using this interactive map or reference the map below.
For information about the best hydrangeas to use in your climate and specific growing conditions, this gallery from Country Living does a great job of breaking it down.
The slides provide a ton of great info about which types of hydrangeas do well in direct sunlight (panicle hydrangeas), which are best in shade (oakleaf hydrangeas), and those that thrive in cold climates, along with many other criteria you might be looking for when growing hydrangeas in your garden.
Hydrangea Care Tips for Healthy, Long-Lasting Blooms
Once you’ve decided what type of hydrangea you’d like growing in your garden, you may be wondering about how to plant and care for them. Here you’ll find answers to some common questions about planting and caring for your hydrangea plants.
Soil Requirements
Your soil should be fertile, hold moisture well, and be well-draining. Hydrangeas can grow in either acidic or alkaline soils, but this can influence your flower color.
How to Change Hydrangea Color Naturally
In bigleaf hydrangeas, you can change the color of your blooms by adjusting the pH of the soil. To turn pink hydrangea flowers blue, you’ll need to amend the soil to create more acidic soil. Meanwhile, to turn blue flowers pink, the soil needs to be amended to be more alkaline. There are various amendments you can add to your soil to change the pH.
To find out more about this process, check out this article all about what soil is best for hydrangeas from Gardener Report.
Sunlight Preferences
How much sun your hydrangeas need depends on the type you’re growing. Some varieties love full sun, while others do better with a little more shade.In general, most hydrangeas prefer about 4 to 6 hours of sunlight a day, so it’s helpful to understand basic hydrangea sun requirements when choosing the best spot to plant.
Morning sun is best since the afternoon sun can be too hot and harsh, especially in warmer climates. Just make sure to plant them where they’ll get the right amount of light for their specific variety since proper sunlight is an important part of the overall care of a hydrangea.
Tip from wendy’s garden:
To figure out how much sun your garden gets, take a little time to watch the area throughout the day. Notice which spots get full sun, which have light shade, and which are mostly shaded. Also think about any trees or tall plants nearby that might cast shade as they fill in.
The best time to check your sunlight is later in spring or early summer when the days are longer and you can get a better idea of how much light your flower bed gets during the growing season.
Watering Needs
Hydrangeas need regular watering to stay healthy, especially during the warmer months when they are actively growing. It’s important to water deeply so the roots get plenty of moisture. (Shallow watering can lead to weak plants!)
Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. One helpful tool is a soaker hose, which slowly delivers water right to the base of the plant and helps the soil soak it in more evenly.
The best time to water is in the early morning, so the plant can absorb the moisture before the heat of the day sets in. This also gives the leaves time to dry out, which helps prevent disease.
How to Plant Hydrangeas
When to Plant
You can plant hydrangeas in both the fall or spring, so we’ll talk about both and which is best when you’re thinking about growing hydrangeas.
Fall Planting
By fall, the days are getting shorter, the air is cooler, and plants and flowers aren’t under as much stress from heat. All of these variables make fall a great time to plant hydrangeas, but timing is key. You want to get them in the ground early enough for their roots to settle in before winter hits. If you plant too late and the ground freezes, the roots won’t have time to grow, which can set the plant back.
A good rule of thumb is to plant at least four weeks before your first expected frost. That gives the roots time to get established while the soil is still warm.
Not sure when your first frost is? The Old Farmer’s Almanac is a great tool for finding the average frost dates in your area. Just type in your zip code, and you’ll get a good estimate to help you plan.
Spring Planting
Spring is a great time to plant hydrangeas, especially if you missed the fall window. If you’re planting a container-grown hydrangea with leaves, wait until after the last frost. For bare-root plants, get them in the ground as soon as they arrive and the soil is workable.
Spring planting offers warming soil, plenty of moisture, and a long growing season to help your hydrangea settle in before winter. Just be sure to keep an eye on the weather. New plants can dry out quickly in the sun and heat, so water often and apply mulch to keep the soil cool and moist
Where to Plant
As the saying goes, location, location, location! When it comes to growing hydrangeas, where you plant them really does matter. The best place to plant hydrangeas is in a spot with good drainage, lots of morning sun, and some afternoon shade to protect them from the heat.
| Hydrangea Type | Sun Needs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bigleaf | Morning sun, afternoon shade | Avoid hot afternoon sun |
| Panicle | Full sun to part shade | Most sun-tolerant |
| Oakleaf | Part shade | Good for shady spots |
| Smooth | Part sun | Tolerates more sunlight |
| Mountain | Part shade | More cold-tolerant |
| Climbing | Shade to part sun | Great for walls and trellises |
They’re versatile plants that can be used all over your yard or patio. Depending on your variety and growing zone, hydrangeas usually bloom in spring and summer and can grow quite large, some even up to 15 feet tall.
Planting Hydrangeas in Containers
You can grow smaller hydrangeas in decorative DIY cement pots or beautiful aged terra cotta pots to brighten up your backyard patio or summer porch. Or try a climbing hydrangea on a trellis near a garden shed or fence for a pretty vertical touch.
Container Hydrangea Care
Caring for hydrangeas in pots is simple with the right setup. Choose a large container with good drainage, and use rich, well-draining soil. Potted hydrangeas need more frequent watering than those in the ground—keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Place the pot where the plant gets morning sun and afternoon shade, and feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer. In colder zones, move pots to a sheltered spot in winter to protect the roots from freezing.
Tip from wendy’s garden:
When growing hydrangeas in pots, be sure to fill your pot with well-draining potting soil.
Tips for Planting Success
Growing and planting hydrangeas is simple when you follow a few basic steps. Whether you’re planting one or several, giving them the right start will help them thrive for years to come. Here are some more tips to help get your hydrangeas settled into their new home:
- Give them space. Depending on the variety, plant hydrangeas 3 to 10 feet apart. Be sure to check how big your specific type will get when it’s fully grown so they have room to spread out.
- Prep the roots. Gently take the plant out of its pot and look at the roots. Snip off any parts that look dead or mushy. If the roots are circling tightly, loosen them up a bit to help them grow outward.
- Dig the right hole. Make your hole as deep as the root ball and about 2 to 3 times wider. You want the base of the plant—where the stem meets the soil—to sit level with the top of the hole.
- Plant and water. Place the hydrangea in the hole and fill halfway with soil. Give it a good soak. Once the water has soaked in, fill the rest of the hole with soil and water again to help settle everything in.
Ongoing Care for Healthy Hydrangeas
Best Fertilizer for Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas do best with a slow release fertilizer that feeds them over time. Look for one that has a good balance of nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. I like using granular fertilizers such as Espoma Rose Tone or Holly Tone.
Organic fertilizers like homemade compost also provide an excellent source of nutrients for your hydrangeas. Just top dress the soil beneath your plants with your compost and water well.
Tip from wendy’s garden:
Try to avoid fast acting liquid fertilizers. They might give your hydrangeas a quick boost, but they usually lead to more leafy growth and fewer flowers. Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to feeding your hydrangeas.
Mulching Tips
Add a layer of organic mulch, like bark chips or shredded leaves, around the base of your hydrangea plants. This helps the soil stay moist, keeps weeds from taking over, and protects the roots from getting too hot or too cold. Just make sure not to pile it right up against the stems and leave a little space so the plant can breathe.
Pest and Disease Management
Hydrangeas are fairly hardy plants and don’t usually have a lot of problems. Still, it’s smart to keep an eye out for pests and disease and address them immediately before they become a bigger issue.
Unfortunately, when you’re growing hydrangeas there are a few pesky insects to watch for. Pests like aphids spider mites, and Japanese beetles love hydrangeas. If you spot them, try spraying the leaves with a strong blast of cold water to knock them off, or pick the beetles off by hand. It’s best to do this in the morning so the leaves have time to dry before evening.
Hydrangeas can also get a few fungal diseases, like powdery mildew or leaf spots. These usually happen when plants are too close together or the leaves stay damp for too long. To help prevent this, give your plants plenty of space and try not to water the leaves, especially late in the day. If you do notice a problem, you can treat it with a garden-safe fungicide.
Tip from wendy’s garden:
Beyond adding nutrients to garden soil, DIY eggshell fertilizer will also help ward off unwanted pests, such as snails, slugs, and Japanese beetles from your garden beds.
How to Prune Hydrangeas the Right Way
Pruning hydrangeas each year not only helps them produce more blooms, but also keeps the plants healthy, especially if they’ve been damaged by weather. It’s also a great way to shape them to fit your space.
When to Prune Hydrangeas
How to prune hydrangea plants is a common question, but the answer varies.
To figure out the best time to prune your hydrangeas, start by identifying the type you have growing in your yard. There are different pruning methods for different types of hydrangeas. Once you know the type, you can follow the right steps for healthy pruning
Hydrangea Pruning by Type
Mophead and Lacecap Hydrangeas
These varieties bloom on old wood, so they should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Cut back the old flower heads to just above a pair of healthy buds. You can also remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
Panicle Hydrangeas
These varieties bloom on new wood, so they can be pruned in late fall, winter, or early spring. Cut back the stems by one-third to one-half, cutting just above a node. You can also remove any weak or spindly branches.
Tree Hydrangeas
These varieties can be pruned in late winter or early spring. Cut back the old flower heads to just above a pair of healthy buds. You can also remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
Smooth Hydrangeas
These varieties are relatively easy to care for and do not require much pruning. However, you can remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring.
Additional Tips for Pruning Hydrangeas
No matter which variety of hydrangea you have, it is important to use sharp pruning shears or secateurs to make clean cuts. This will help to prevent the spread of disease.
You should also wear gloves to protect your hands from the thorns.
With proper pruning, your hydrangeas will be healthy and beautiful for many years to come.
Here are some additional tips for pruning hydrangeas:
- Prune on a cloudy day to prevent the sun from drying out the cut stems.
- Water your hydrangeas well after pruning.
- Fertilize your hydrangeas in the spring to encourage new growth.
I hope these tips help you to prune your hydrangeas properly.
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More Common FAQ’s about Growing Hydrangeas
Q: Do hydrangeas come back every year?
A: Yes, hydrangeas are perennials, meaning they will come back every year. If you live in a harsh winter climate, be sure to choose a hardy variety to ensure your hydrangeas survive the winter.
Q: When do hydrangeas bloom?
A: One of the reasons why hydrangeas are so popular is due to their long and showy blooming period. This can vary depending on the variety and your climate, but most will flower from early spring all the way into fall.
Q: Why Isn’t My Hydrangea Blooming?
A: Hydrangeas may not bloom for several reasons:
Improper pruning by type – Not all hydrangeas are pruned the same; pruning mistakes can lead to missed blooms.
Pruning at the wrong time – Many hydrangeas bloom on old wood (last year’s growth), so pruning in late fall or early spring can remove flower buds.
Cold damage – Late spring frosts or harsh winters can kill flower buds, especially on old wood bloomers like Bigleaf or Mountain hydrangeas.
Too much shade – Hydrangeas need some sun to flower; too much shade can limit blooms.
Over-fertilizing – Excess nitrogen promotes lush foliage but can reduce blooming.
Immaturity – Young or newly transplanted plants may need a year or two to establish before blooming.
Ready to Grow Your Own Beautiful Hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas are one of those plants that give so much beauty with just a little care. With the right spot, regular watering, and a few simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to growing healthy, happy hydrangeas that bloom year after year.
Whether you’re just starting out or adding to a well-loved garden, I hope this guide helps you feel confident and inspired.
Happy planting!
More about me!
Hello, I’m Wendy – a dedicated homemaker with a deep passion for decorating, gardening, cooking, and crafting. I find joy in harmonizing beautiful elements to fashion a space that is both comfortable and inspiring. I will help you create a beautiful home, one project at a time.
Thanks for the great tips! I planted a couple of hydrangeas last spring, and they appear to be on the verge of blooming! I’m so happy I was able to keep them alive, and now I know how to take better care of them. I’m going to share this in my Seasonal Sentiments Rewind Newsletter on Saturday!
Thank you so much Donna! Once the plants get established you will find
they pretty much take care of themselves. Send me some pictures, I would love to see them.
Will they re bloom again in a season.
Mine are endless Summer.
We are dry in Delaware, with no source to water them.
They are loaded with large spent bloom bent down.
I guess I will cut spent blooms. Yes?
Will they bloom.against n this season?
Hreat article. Is there anyway I can keep deer from eating my hydrangeas?
Hi Michelle. Have you tried putting a barrier around the Hydrangea bush, deer netting, or a small plastic fence? I know it is a nuisance, but honestly, it is the best way to keep deer out. There are sprays and ultrasonic items you can try as well. I do not have deer where we live, so I do not face this issue. They are beautiful creatures, but not when they are eating our plants.
Thanks for this article, Wendy. I have a spot in our yard for hydrangeas and I think they are big leaf. I almost always goof up on the pruning! One of these years I will get it right! Pinned! ?
I am so glad you found the post to be informative. Hydrangeas are one of my favorite plants to grow.
Thank you for sharing, Wendy. The previous homeowners planted hydrangeas in our yard. I love them but have never really known how to care for them. This is so helpful. I’m also going to share a link to your tips and tricks with my readers this weekend for my weekly recap post.
I hope you have a happy 4th!
Thank you so much, Jen. I hope it was helpful. I also find they love baking soda, just throw a few teaspoons in a bucket of water and throw it on the plant. One other trick, when you cut them to bring in the house, cut the end on an angle with a knife and dip the end in allium before putting them in water.r
Just the information I needed for my new Summer Crush Hydrangeas! Thank you so much!
Yeah,I am always happy to supply you with gardening tips. I hope your summer is not as warm as ours is going to be. Ugh! I really hate the heat.
Great post Wendy! Here in NY our hydrangeas grow all season and tend to flower in the fall. Great tips on how to care for them!
Thank you so much Susan. I guess with your cooler weather it takes them longer to come up. Enjoy them when they arrive. Mine will be long gone by then, so I will enjoy yours.