Growing Tall, Thin Hydrangeas: A Guide?

Hydrangeas are beautiful, colorful, and compact plants that can create a big impression in gardens. Compact hydrangeas grow under five feet tall and require at least four hours of morning sun daily and frequent watering. They are hardy in Zones 3-8, colors last well into autumn, and flowers are attractive.

Climbing hydrangeas can grow up to 50 feet tall, ideal for covering walls, fences, and trellises. They produce fragrant white flowers in late spring. Hydrangeas thrive in moist, free-draining soil and dappled shade, but avoid south-facing positions, especially if the soil is acidic. Proper spacing is essential to prevent overcrowding and ensure proper soil preparation.

To strengthen hydrangea stems, go easy on pruning and fertilizing, and know that some varieties will always be prone to damage. Hydrangeas flourish in light shade, but abundant blooms and strong stems depend on sun. Ideal planting sites combine four to six hours of morning sun with late morning sun.

Plant well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter and water regularly to keep them consistently moist. Ideally, plant shrubby hydrangeas in light shade and away from frost pockets or exposed spots to reduce late frost damage to new spring growth. Spring and fall are the best times to plant these flowering shrubs, but they can also be planted in winter in areas where the ground can be dug.