How to Grow Hydrangeas in the UK: Complete Growing Guide

Growing hydrangeas in the UK is a wonderful way to introduce spectacular summer flowers into your garden.

Hydrangeas are among the most popular flowering shrubs in British gardens, producing beautiful displays of large flower heads in shades of pink, blue, purple, white and green.

They’re particularly attractive because they provide colour during summer and autumn, when many spring-flowering shrubs have already finished.

Hydrangeas look fantastic in cottage gardens, mixed borders, woodland-style planting schemes and large containers.

Some varieties produce enormous rounded flower heads, while others develop elegant cone-shaped flowers that gradually change colour as the season progresses.

One of the best things about hydrangeas is that many varieties are relatively easy to grow once they’re planted in the right location.

They generally prefer moisture-retentive soil, some protection from harsh afternoon sunshine and enough space to develop naturally.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I enjoy growing plants that provide interest throughout the seasons, and hydrangeas are excellent for creating beautiful summer and autumn displays.

Whether you’ve got a large garden, a small patio or a sheltered border, there’s usually a hydrangea variety that will suit your growing space.

In this complete UK growing guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how to grow hydrangeas successfully.

We’ll cover choosing varieties, planting, soil requirements, watering, feeding, flower colours, pruning, growing in pots, winter care and common problems.

We’ll also explain why some hydrangeas produce blue flowers while others remain pink, and what you can do to encourage healthy flowering year after year.

What Are Hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas are flowering shrubs belonging to the genus Hydrangea.

They’re grown for their attractive foliage and impressive flower heads.

Different species originate from parts of Asia and the Americas.

The most familiar garden hydrangeas include mophead hydrangeas, lacecap hydrangeas, panicle hydrangeas and smooth hydrangeas.

What Colours Do Hydrangeas Come In?

Depending on species and variety, hydrangea flowers may be:

• White
• Cream
• Pink
• Blue
• Purple
• Green
• Red
• Bicoloured

Some varieties change colour as their flowers mature.

Are Hydrangeas Perennials?

Yes.

Hydrangeas are perennial plants.

Most commonly grown garden hydrangeas are deciduous shrubs, meaning they lose their leaves during autumn and grow new foliage in spring.

Some climbing hydrangeas and less common species have different growth habits.

Hydrangea Growing Facts

Feature	Details
Botanical name	Hydrangea species
Plant type	Perennial flowering shrub
Flowering season	Usually summer to autumn
Flower colours	Pink, blue, white, purple, green and combinations
Preferred position	Partial shade for many varieties
Soil	Moisture-retentive but well-drained
Planting period	Autumn or spring
Typical height	1–3m for many shrub varieties
Difficulty	Easy to moderate
Suitable for containers	Yes, with suitable varieties
Hardy in the UK	Many varieties are hardy
Pruning	Depends on hydrangea type

Why Grow Hydrangeas in Your Garden?

Hydrangeas offer several advantages.

Beautiful Summer Flowers

Their large flower heads provide impressive colour.

Long Flowering Season

Many varieties remain attractive for several months.

Excellent for Partial Shade

Hydrangeas are useful for borders that don’t receive full sun all day.

Suitable for Different Garden Sizes

Compact varieties can be grown in containers.

Attractive Autumn Interest

Some flowers change colour as they mature.

Long-Lived Plants

With suitable care, hydrangeas can remain productive for many years.

Beautiful Cut Flowers

Hydrangea flowers can be used in fresh and dried arrangements.

Main Types of Hydrangeas Grown in the UK

Understanding the different types is important because their growing and pruning requirements vary.

1. Mophead Hydrangeas

Usually forms of Hydrangea macrophylla.

These produce large, rounded flower heads.

Colours include pink, blue, purple and white.

Best for: Cottage gardens, borders and large containers.

2. Lacecap Hydrangeas

Many lacecap varieties also belong to Hydrangea macrophylla.

They produce flatter flower heads with small fertile flowers surrounded by larger decorative florets.

Best for: Wildlife-friendly planting and informal borders.

3. Panicle Hydrangeas

Hydrangea paniculata produces cone-shaped flower heads.

Many varieties begin white or greenish-white before developing pink or reddish tones.

Best for: Sunny or partially shaded borders.

4. Smooth Hydrangeas

Hydrangea arborescens includes popular varieties such as ‘Annabelle’.

These produce large, rounded flower heads.

Best for: Mixed borders and cottage gardens.

5. Oakleaf Hydrangeas

Hydrangea quercifolia produces distinctive oak-shaped leaves.

Many varieties also develop attractive autumn foliage.

Best for: Shrub borders and seasonal interest.

6. Climbing Hydrangeas

Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris is a popular climbing hydrangea.

It produces white lacecap-style flowers and can climb walls and fences using aerial roots.

Best for: Suitable walls, fences and large shaded areas.

Best Hydrangea Varieties to Grow in the UK

There are many beautiful varieties available.

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Endless Summer’

A popular reblooming hydrangea series that can produce flowers on both old and new growth.

Best for: Long flowering displays and containers.

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Nikko Blue’

Known for its large mophead flowers.

Flower colour depends partly on soil chemistry.

Best for: Traditional cottage gardens.

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Mariesii Perfecta’

A lacecap variety with attractive blue or pink flowers depending on growing conditions.

Best for: Informal borders.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’

Produces large cone-shaped flower heads that begin greenish-white and often develop pink tones.

Best for: Summer and autumn borders.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Vanille Fraise’

Produces flowers that gradually change from white to pink and reddish tones.

Best for: Colour-changing summer displays.

Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’

Produces enormous rounded white flower heads.

Best for: Cottage gardens and large borders.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Little Lime’

A compact panicle hydrangea.

Best for: Smaller gardens and large containers.

Hydrangea quercifolia ‘Snow Queen’

Produces white flower panicles and attractive autumn foliage.

Best for: Seasonal interest.

When Is the Best Time to Plant Hydrangeas in the UK?

Hydrangeas can be planted during several parts of the year, provided conditions are suitable.

Autumn Planting

September through November is often an excellent period.

The soil retains warmth and autumn rainfall can help roots establish.

Spring Planting

March through May is another good option.

Summer Planting

Container-grown hydrangeas can be planted during summer, but they require careful watering.

Winter Planting

Planting may be possible during mild weather, provided the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Best Recommendation

For most UK gardens, autumn and spring are the most convenient planting periods.

UK Hydrangea Care Calendar

Month	Gardening activity
January	Check winter protection and drainage
February	Inspect plants and prepare for pruning
March	Prune suitable varieties and mulch
April	Watch new growth and protect from late frost
May	Water during dry spells
June	Feed if necessary and monitor moisture
July	Enjoy flowers and water regularly
August	Continue watering and flowering care
September	Enjoy late flowers and begin autumn planting
October	Plant hydrangeas and apply mulch
November	Finish planting and prepare for winter
December	Protect vulnerable container plants

Where Is the Best Place to Plant Hydrangeas?

Choosing the right location is one of the most important parts of successful hydrangea growing.

Partial Shade

Many mophead and lacecap hydrangeas perform particularly well in partial shade.

Morning Sun

A position receiving morning sunshine and some afternoon shade is often ideal.

Full Sun

Some varieties, particularly panicle hydrangeas, can tolerate more sunshine if soil moisture is adequate.

Avoid Very Dry Positions

Hydrangeas can struggle in excessively dry soil.

Shelter from Strong Winds

Sheltered positions help protect large flower heads.

Allow Enough Space

Check the expected mature height and spread before planting.

Best Soil for Growing Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas generally prefer fertile, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage.

Moisture-Retentive Soil

Hydrangeas need access to moisture during active growth.

Good Drainage

Although they like moisture, persistently waterlogged soil can damage roots.

Clay Soil

Hydrangeas can grow well in clay soil if drainage is adequate.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soil may need additional organic matter to improve moisture retention.

Compost

Well-rotted compost can improve soil structure.

Soil pH

Soil pH can influence flower colour in some mophead and lacecap hydrangeas.

However, not every hydrangea variety changes colour according to soil pH.

How to Plant Hydrangeas Step by Step

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Select a position with suitable light and moisture conditions.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Remove weeds and improve soil structure where necessary.

Step 3: Water the Plant

Water the hydrangea thoroughly while it’s still in its pot.

Step 4: Dig a Planting Hole

Make the hole approximately twice as wide as the root ball.

Avoid digging unnecessarily deeper than the root ball.

Step 5: Remove the Plant from Its Pot

Carefully loosen tightly circling roots where necessary.

Step 6: Position the Hydrangea

Plant at approximately the same depth as it was growing in the container.

Step 7: Backfill with Soil

Replace soil around the roots.

Step 8: Firm Gently

Remove large air pockets without excessively compacting the soil.

Step 9: Water Thoroughly

Water immediately after planting.

Step 10: Apply Mulch

Apply suitable organic mulch around the plant.

Keep mulch away from direct contact with the stems.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Hydrangeas?

Spacing depends on the variety.

Compact Hydrangeas

Approximately 60–100cm may be suitable.

Medium-Sized Hydrangeas

Approximately 1–1.5m.

Large Hydrangeas

Some varieties require 2m or more.

Why Does Spacing Matter?

Adequate spacing improves airflow and allows plants to develop naturally.

Always check the mature spread of your chosen variety.

How to Grow Hydrangeas in Pots

Hydrangeas can be grown successfully in containers.

Compact varieties are particularly suitable.

Choosing a Container

Select a large, stable pot with drainage holes.

A container around 40–50cm across can be a useful starting point for a compact established plant, although larger varieties may eventually need more space.

Best Compost

Use suitable peat-free compost.

For blue-flowering varieties that respond to soil chemistry, an ericaceous compost may help maintain suitable acidic conditions.

Position

Place containers in a location receiving morning sunshine or partial shade.

Watering

Container-grown hydrangeas need regular watering.

Feeding

Use suitable fertiliser according to the plant’s needs.

Repotting

Repot when roots become crowded or compost structure deteriorates.

Winter Protection

Protect containers during severe cold because roots are more exposed than those of plants growing in the ground.

How Often Should You Water Hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas are moisture-loving plants.

Their name is often associated with water, and their large leaves can lose substantial moisture during warm weather.

Newly Planted Hydrangeas

Water regularly during the first growing season.

Established Hydrangeas

Water during prolonged dry weather.

Container-Grown Hydrangeas

Pots may require frequent watering during hot conditions.

Best Watering Method

Water deeply around the root zone.

Avoid Waterlogging

Hydrangeas prefer moisture but don’t generally thrive in permanently saturated soil.

Why Do Hydrangea Leaves Droop?

Drooping leaves are a common concern.

Hot Weather

Hydrangeas may temporarily wilt during hot afternoons.

Dry Soil

Lack of moisture can cause leaves to droop.

Waterlogged Soil

Excessive moisture can damage roots and produce similar symptoms.

Newly Planted Shrubs

New plants may struggle while establishing roots.

What Should You Do?

Check soil moisture before watering.

If the soil is dry, water thoroughly.

If the soil is already saturated, investigate drainage.

Do Hydrangeas Need Feeding?

Hydrangeas benefit from suitable soil fertility, but excessive feeding isn’t necessary.

Garden-Grown Hydrangeas

Plants growing in fertile soil may need little additional fertiliser.

Spring Feeding

A suitable balanced fertiliser can be applied during spring if necessary.

Container-Grown Hydrangeas

Container plants may benefit from controlled feeding during active growth.

Avoid Excess Nitrogen

Too much nitrogen can encourage foliage at the expense of flowers.

Avoid Late Heavy Feeding

Excessive late-season feeding can encourage soft growth vulnerable to cold weather.

How to Change Hydrangea Flower Colour

One of the most fascinating features of some hydrangeas is their ability to change flower colour according to soil conditions.

However, this applies mainly to certain pink or blue varieties of Hydrangea macrophylla and related types.

How to Get Blue Hydrangeas

Blue flowers are associated with the availability of aluminium in acidic soil.

How to Get Pink Hydrangeas

Pink flowers are generally associated with conditions where aluminium is less available, often in more alkaline soil.

Can White Hydrangeas Turn Blue?

No.

White-flowered hydrangea varieties generally won’t turn blue simply because soil acidity changes.

Can You Change the Colour Immediately?

No.

Colour changes may take time and aren’t guaranteed.

Should You Add Aluminium Sulphate?

Only use appropriate products according to instructions and after considering soil conditions.

Excessive applications can damage plants.

Important Advice

Don’t repeatedly alter soil chemistry without testing the soil first.

How to Grow Blue Hydrangeas in the UK

If you want blue flowers, start by choosing a variety capable of producing blue blooms.

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Variety

Not all hydrangeas respond to soil acidity.

Step 2: Test Soil pH

Use a suitable soil-testing kit.

Step 3: Provide Acidic Growing Conditions

Acidic soil can help make aluminium available.

Step 4: Use Suitable Compost

Ericaceous compost can be useful for container-grown plants.

Step 5: Avoid Excessive Lime

Lime raises soil pH and can discourage blue colouring.

Step 6: Monitor Plant Health

Avoid excessive soil amendments.

When Do Hydrangeas Flower in the UK?

Hydrangeas generally flower during summer and autumn.

Mophead Hydrangeas

Often June through September.

Lacecap Hydrangeas

Usually summer.

Panicle Hydrangeas

Often July through October.

Smooth Hydrangeas

Usually summer into early autumn.

Climbing Hydrangeas

Often late spring to early summer.

Exact dates depend on variety and weather.

How Long Do Hydrangea Flowers Last?

Hydrangea flower heads can remain attractive for several weeks or months.

Fresh Flowers

Many varieties produce colourful flowers during summer.

Ageing Flowers

Some flowers gradually change colour.

Dried Flower Heads

Old flower heads can provide winter interest.

Should You Remove Old Flowers?

This depends on the hydrangea type and time of year.

For mophead hydrangeas, leaving old flower heads through winter can provide some protection for developing buds.

Should You Deadhead Hydrangeas?

Deadheading depends on the variety.

Mophead Hydrangeas

Old flower heads are often left through winter and removed during spring.

Lacecap Hydrangeas

Spent flowers can be removed carefully, but avoid damaging developing buds.

Panicle Hydrangeas

Old flower heads can be removed during suitable pruning.

Smooth Hydrangeas

Dead flower heads can be removed during annual pruning.

Important Advice

Avoid cutting back hydrangeas indiscriminately.

Different species flower on different types of wood.

How to Prune Hydrangeas in the UK

Pruning is one of the most important subjects to understand because different hydrangeas require different treatment.

Mophead and Lacecap Hydrangeas

Most traditional varieties flower primarily on growth produced during the previous year.

Prune lightly in spring.

Remove dead or damaged wood.

Avoid removing healthy flowering buds unnecessarily.

Panicle Hydrangeas

Hydrangea paniculata flowers on new growth.

These can generally be pruned during late winter or early spring.

Smooth Hydrangeas

Hydrangea arborescens also flowers on new growth.

Pruning during late winter or early spring encourages new stems.

Climbing Hydrangeas

These generally require little pruning.

If necessary, prune after flowering.

Oakleaf Hydrangeas

These generally flower on old wood.

Avoid heavy spring pruning.

Important Reminder

Always identify your hydrangea type before pruning.

Do Hydrangeas Need Mulching?

Mulching can be very beneficial.

Benefits of Mulching

• Helps retain soil moisture
• Suppresses weeds
• Improves soil structure over time
• Protects the root zone from temperature extremes

Suitable Mulches

• Well-rotted garden compost
• Composted bark
• Leaf mould
• Other suitable organic mulches

How to Apply

Apply a layer approximately 5–7cm deep where appropriate.

Keep mulch away from direct contact with stems.

How to Care for Hydrangeas in Winter

Many hydrangeas are hardy in UK gardens.

However, young plants and container-grown specimens may benefit from additional protection.

Garden-Grown Hydrangeas

Established hardy varieties generally survive normal UK winter conditions.

Container-Grown Hydrangeas

Move pots to a sheltered position during severe cold.

Protecting Roots

Mulching can help moderate soil temperatures.

Avoid Winter Waterlogging

Good drainage is important.

Late Frost Protection

Developing buds and young leaves may be damaged by late spring frosts.

Should You Cover Hydrangeas?

Temporary horticultural fleece can help protect vulnerable growth during forecast frost.

Can Hydrangeas Grow in Full Sun?

Some hydrangeas tolerate full sun better than others.

Mophead Hydrangeas

Often prefer partial shade, particularly in warmer locations.

Panicle Hydrangeas

Generally tolerate more sunshine.

Smooth Hydrangeas

Can grow in sun or partial shade if moisture is adequate.

Important Consideration

Full-sun planting requires reliable soil moisture.

Can Hydrangeas Grow in Shade?

Yes, many varieties tolerate partial shade.

Light Shade

Often suitable.

Deep Shade

Flowering may be reduced.

Climbing Hydrangeas

Can be useful for shaded walls.

Best Advice

Choose varieties according to the amount of available light.

Why Is My Hydrangea Not Flowering?

There are several possible reasons.

Incorrect Pruning

Cutting back old-wood-flowering varieties can remove flower buds.

Late Frost Damage

Developing buds may be damaged during spring.

Too Much Shade

Insufficient light can reduce flowering.

Excessive Nitrogen

Heavy nitrogen feeding may encourage foliage.

Young Plants

Newly planted hydrangeas may take time to establish.

Drought Stress

Severe moisture stress can affect flowering.

Why Are My Hydrangea Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellow leaves can indicate several different problems.

Overwatering

Waterlogged soil can damage roots.

Drought

Severe dryness can cause stress.

Nutrient Deficiency

Some deficiencies cause yellowing.

Soil pH Problems

Unsuitable soil chemistry may affect nutrient availability.

Natural Autumn Colour

Deciduous hydrangeas naturally lose their leaves during autumn.

Why Are My Hydrangea Flowers Turning Brown?

Flowers can turn brown for several reasons.

Natural Ageing

Older flower heads gradually fade and dry.

Hot Sunshine

Strong sunlight can scorch delicate flowers.

Drought

Insufficient moisture can damage flowers.

Frost

Cold weather can damage developing or mature blooms.

Disease

Some fungal diseases can affect flowers.

Common Hydrangea Pests and Diseases

Hydrangeas are generally robust shrubs, but problems can occur.

Aphids

Aphids may gather on tender growth.

Vine Weevils

Container-grown hydrangeas can be vulnerable to vine weevil larvae.

Slugs and Snails

Young leaves may suffer damage.

Powdery Mildew

White powdery growth can appear on foliage.

Leaf Spot

Fungal or bacterial leaf spots can affect leaves.

Root Rot

Persistently waterlogged soil can damage roots.

Grey Mould

Grey mould can develop during damp conditions.

Can You Take Hydrangea Cuttings?

Yes.

Hydrangeas can be propagated from cuttings.

Best Time

Softwood cuttings are commonly taken during late spring or early summer.

How to Take Cuttings

1. Choose a healthy non-flowering shoot.
2. Cut a suitable section below a leaf joint.
3. Remove lower leaves.
4. Insert into suitable propagation compost.
5. Keep in bright, indirect light.
6. Maintain humidity without waterlogging.
7. Allow roots to develop.
8. Pot on once established.

Important Consideration

Some cultivated varieties may be protected by plant breeders’ rights, which can restrict propagation for commercial purposes.

Can You Divide Hydrangeas?

Most woody shrub hydrangeas aren’t normally propagated by division.

Cuttings and layering are generally more suitable.

Some established plants with multiple rooted sections may occasionally be separated, but this can damage the shrub.

Best Companion Plants for Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas combine beautifully with many other garden plants.

Hostas

Hostas provide attractive foliage for partially shaded borders.

Ferns

Ferns complement hydrangeas in woodland-style planting.

Astilbes

Astilbes provide feathery flowers and enjoy moisture-retentive soil.

Hellebores

Hellebores provide earlier seasonal interest.

Japanese Anemones

Japanese anemones can provide late-summer and autumn flowers.

Heucheras

Heucheras offer colourful foliage.

Spring Bulbs

Daffodils, crocus and other bulbs provide colour before hydrangeas begin flowering.

Are Hydrangeas Good for Bees?

This depends on the variety.

Lacecap Hydrangeas

Many lacecap varieties produce accessible fertile flowers that can attract pollinating insects.

Mophead Hydrangeas

Some mophead varieties have large numbers of showy sterile florets and may offer fewer floral resources.

Panicle Hydrangeas

Some varieties produce fertile flowers attractive to insects.

Best Advice

If pollinator value is important, choose varieties known to produce accessible fertile flowers.

Can You Grow Hydrangeas on an Allotment?

Yes.

Hydrangeas can be grown in suitable ornamental areas of an allotment.

Suitable Locations

• Flower borders
• Around sheds
• Sheltered seating areas
• Large containers
• Partially shaded spaces

Important Consideration

Hydrangeas can become substantial shrubs.

Avoid planting them where they may shade vegetable beds or obstruct pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Hydrangeas

Are Hydrangeas Easy to Grow in the UK?

Yes. Many varieties are relatively easy to grow once established in suitable soil and light conditions.

When Is the Best Time to Plant Hydrangeas?

Autumn and spring are generally excellent planting periods.

Can You Plant Hydrangeas in October?

Yes. October is often a good month for planting.

Can You Plant Hydrangeas in Winter?

Yes, during mild conditions when the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Do Hydrangeas Need Full Sun?

No. Many varieties prefer partial shade.

Can Hydrangeas Grow in Shade?

Yes, although deep shade may reduce flowering.

What Soil Do Hydrangeas Prefer?

Moisture-retentive, fertile and well-drained soil.

Do Hydrangeas Like Acidic Soil?

Some varieties respond to acidic soil with blue flowers, but many hydrangeas tolerate a broader range of soil conditions.

How Do You Make Hydrangeas Blue?

Choose a suitable variety and provide acidic conditions that make aluminium available.

How Do You Make Hydrangeas Pink?

Pink colouring is often associated with reduced aluminium availability, commonly in more alkaline soil.

Can White Hydrangeas Turn Blue?

No. White varieties generally don’t change to blue through soil pH adjustment.

Can You Grow Hydrangeas in Pots?

Yes. Compact varieties are particularly suitable.

How Often Should You Water Hydrangeas?

Water according to soil moisture, especially during dry weather.

Do Hydrangeas Need Feeding?

Modest feeding may help, particularly in containers.

When Do Hydrangeas Flower?

Usually summer into autumn, depending on variety.

How Long Do Hydrangea Flowers Last?

Flower heads can remain attractive for several weeks or months.

Should You Deadhead Hydrangeas?

It depends on the species and season.

When Should You Prune Hydrangeas?

Pruning times depend on whether the variety flowers on old or new wood.

Can You Cut Hydrangeas Back Hard?

Some types, including panicle and smooth hydrangeas, tolerate harder pruning. Traditional mophead hydrangeas generally require lighter pruning.

Do Hydrangeas Come Back Every Year?

Yes. They’re perennial shrubs.

Do Hydrangeas Lose Their Leaves in Winter?

Most commonly grown garden hydrangeas are deciduous.

Are Hydrangeas Hardy in the UK?

Many varieties are hardy, although young plants and developing buds can be vulnerable to frost.

Why Is My Hydrangea Not Flowering?

Incorrect pruning, frost damage, insufficient light or excessive feeding may be responsible.

Why Are My Hydrangea Leaves Drooping?

Dry soil, hot weather or waterlogging may be responsible.

Why Are My Hydrangea Flowers Turning Brown?

Natural ageing, drought, heat or frost may be responsible.

Can You Take Hydrangea Cuttings?

Yes. Softwood cuttings are commonly taken during late spring or early summer.

Are Hydrangeas Good for Bees?

Some varieties, particularly those with accessible fertile flowers, can attract pollinators.

Can You Grow Hydrangeas on an Allotment?

Yes, provided they have enough space and don’t interfere with vegetable-growing areas.

Final Thoughts: Growing Hydrangeas Successfully in the UK

Growing hydrangeas is a fantastic way to introduce beautiful summer and autumn flowers into your garden.

They’re available in a wonderful range of colours, sizes and flower shapes, making them suitable for many different planting schemes.

For the best results, choose a variety suited to your garden’s light and soil conditions.

Plant during autumn or spring where possible, and provide moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.

Water regularly during establishment and prolonged dry weather, particularly when growing hydrangeas in containers.

Mulching can help retain moisture and improve soil structure.

One of the most important things to remember is that different hydrangeas require different pruning methods.

Traditional mophead and lacecap hydrangeas generally need lighter pruning, while panicle and smooth hydrangeas can be pruned more firmly during late winter or early spring.

And if you’re interested in blue hydrangeas, remember that flower colour depends on both the variety and soil chemistry.

Whether you’re growing a beautiful mophead hydrangea in a cottage garden, a panicle hydrangea in a sunny border or a compact variety on your patio, these wonderful shrubs can provide years of enjoyment.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!