Bigleaf Hydrangea
Hydrangea macrophylla
Classic garden shrub with large mophead blooms in blue, pink, or white.
Care Instructions
Water deeply 3 times a week in summer heat. Hydrangeas wilt dramatically when thirsty (especially in afternoon) but recover with evening water. Mulch 3 inches deep to retain moisture.
Morning sun (4–6 hours) with afternoon shade is ideal. Direct afternoon summer sun in hot climates causes wilting and leaf scorch.
Rich, well-drained soil with pH 5.5–6.5 for blue flowers; pH 6.5–7.0 for pink. Add aluminum sulfate to lower pH (bluer); add lime to raise pH (pinker).
Seasonal Guide
Best Planting Time
Spring or fall. Avoid summer planting in hot climates. Give plants 6 weeks to establish before extreme heat or cold.
Bloom / Growth Season
Blooms on old wood (previous year's stems). Flowers June–August. Faded blooms dry beautifully — leave them for winter interest.
Dormancy
Prune sparingly in late summer ONLY after blooming. Never prune in fall or spring — you'll cut off next year's buds.
Common Problems & Solutions
No flowers (blooms cut off in pruning)
Only prune immediately after blooming (late summer). Prune at any other time removes flower buds for next year.
Powdery mildew on leaves
Improve air circulation. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray. Water at base, not on foliage.
Wilting in afternoon heat
Water deeply in the morning. Move container plants to shade. Afternoon wilt is normal in heat and recovers by morning.
Plant Details
USDA Zones
5b, 6a, 6b, 7a +4
Maintenance
moderate
Mature Height
3-6 ft
Native Regions
Japan
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