We Asked Hydrangea Specialists for Their Top Care Tips, and They’ll Save Even the Droopiest Flowers

Throughout the U.S., hydrangeas are the quintessential summer flower. With their full, round blossoms and stunning array of colors, they’re a perfect addition to a seasonal flower garden, especially if you’re looking to add bushes and shrubs to the mix.

So, what does growing hydrangeas require? We checked in with a few gardening pros with a particular aptitude for this beloved shrub to find out some top tips.

Plant in Early Spring or Fall

If you’re hoping to add hydrangeas to your yard, gardening pro Laura Root says the best time to plant these beauties is in early spring or fall.

“This allows for cooler temperatures and more consistent moisture, which helps the plants establish strong roots before the stress of summer heat or winter cold sets in,” she says.

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Consider Your Location

While hydrangeas grow well throughout much of the US, plant pro Linda Vater still suggests checking your USDA zone.

“Many popular species, like Hydrangea macrophylla, are hardy in Zones 5–9, representing a broad swath of the United States,” she says, before noting that this is why personal considerations are important, too.

“For example, in more northerly regions, spring planting allows optimal time for root development before winter’s chill sets in,” says Vater. “In the [southern U.S.], fall planting is often ideal to allow a long lead time to the region’s intense summer heat.”

But no matter where you are, Vater says mid-summer planting should be avoided due to heat stress and water needs of newly planted hydrangeas.

Keep Soil Moist and Drained

According to Root, hydrangeas require moist, well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter.

“They prefer consistent moisture and soil that stays damp but not soggy,” she says. “Over-watering can cause root rot, while letting the soil dry out stresses the plant.”

Be sure to stick to a reliable watering schedule—especially if you’re having a dry season or cultivating newer hydrangea shrubs.

“It’s important to water consistently during your hydrangea’s first year to support healthy root establishment,” says Vater. 

Adjust pH Levels for Desired Colors

Along with moisture levels, it’s also important to note your soil’s pH, as this is important for both your hydrangea’s health and the color of its blooms.

“In some varieties, acidic soil promotes blue blooms, while alkaline soil encourages pink flowers,” Root says. “Use a soil acidifier for blue blooms or garden lime for pink blooms.”

However, don’t adjust your soil’s pH too dramatically, or without testing first.

“Making drastic changes without testing can limit nutrient uptake and harm the plant,” she says.

Expect Blooms in Late Spring Through Summer

If you’re excited to clip your hydrangeas for indoor arrangements, Root says healthy plants are known for their long bloom times. In fact, you should see flowers appear from late spring through summer, depending on the variety you’ve planted.

“Once established, and with proper care, gardeners can look forward to months of beautiful blooms during the growing season,” she says.

Avoid Clay Soil

Along with keeping your soil watered at the correct levels and monitoring the pH, Root says you should also avoid heavy clay soils because they trap too much moisture.

However, if you do have this kind of soil, there are things you can do. Root suggests amending with organic matter to improve drainage.

Consider Your Space Needs

Depending on your space and location of your hydrangea, it’s important to consider the size. Some can grow up to 20 feet, while others are fairly compact.

“White Wedding fits well in tight spaces and containers and requires little pruning to maintain its size,” Vater says.

But others—such as the Hydrangea macrophylla which is considered the largest variety—can require much more space.

Most Recommended Hydrangea Varieties

Both Vater and Root shared their top picks for hydrangea varieties. 

• Hydrangea macrophylla (Bigleaf): Root recommends these for their large, colorful blooms that change color with pH. These can also be compact and drought-tolerant, and Vater notes that this variety is reliably hardy throughout much of the U.S.
• Hydrangea arborescens (Smooth): This one has showy white blooms and is very adaptable.
• White Wedding Hydrangea: Vater explains these are abundant in flowers and well-suited to small spaces like containers and cut flower gardens.
• Heart Throb Hydrangea: Its vibrant cherry red color is edged in vibrant green, which Vater says becomes more prominent over time.
• Dear Dolores Hydrangea: Vater says this is perfect if you want a classic pink hydrangea in your garden.