In Arkansas, Where Should I Grow Hydrangeas?

Panicle hydrangeas can thrive in full sun when planted in rich, well-draining soil and proper water. However, in areas with less intense summer sun, such as northern states or Arkansas, growing this plant in full sun is easier. Hydrangeas are a beautiful perennial in Arkansas, and the Cooperative Extension Service offers detailed pages on caring for them and species photos.

In zone 6a, hydrangeas perform best when planted with morning sun and some afternoon shade. They tolerate clay soil, but their roots should not be kept too wet. The color of these hydrangeas can be influenced by the acidity of the soil.

All hydrangeas require well-drained soil and water during dry periods, but water is most critical for bigleaf and smooth types. In Northwest Arkansas, hydrangeas perform best in part sun, with big leaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) preferring morning sun and afternoon shade.

Looking for newer remontant (reblooming) varieties of hydrangeas is recommended. Autumn is the best time to plant hydrangeas, followed by spring planting. Plant in the spring after the last frost or in the fall before planting. There are numerous species and cultivars to choose from, and visiting a good local nursery can help you find the perfect fit for your climate and needs.

What is the best zone for hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas are sensitive to soil pH and climate, with some species producing blue flowers in acidic soil and pink flowers in alkaline soil. They are generally hardy in USDA zones 3-9, but their specific cold and heat tolerance can vary. Hydrangeas can be affected by pests and diseases, such as aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on leaves and cause damage by sucking sap. Spider mites, identified by their fine webbing, can also cause damage by sucking sap from leaves. Controlling these pests and diseases is crucial for maintaining their health.

What month is best to plant hydrangeas?

Planting hydrangeas in the Southeast is best done in the fall due to less harsh conditions and the absence of leaves. However, planting in early spring after the last frost can be challenging due to the tough growing conditions of the season. Hydrangeas need morning sun and afternoon shade for optimal blooming, but they will not tolerate hot afternoon sun. To ensure the best planting location, watch your landscape for a few days to ensure the area receives shade during the hottest part of the day.

It is essential to keep hydrangeas well-watered throughout the season, as they need to endure the toughest growing conditions. Overall, planting hydrangeas in the fall is a wise decision for optimal growth and health.

Do hydrangeas grow well in Arkansas?

Arkansas has several varieties of hydrangeas, including the common big pink or blue Hydrangea macrophylla, which sets flower buds in the fall before going dormant and blooms on these buds the following summer. Pruning should be done immediately after flowering in the summer. Newer cultivars like ‘Endless Summer’ and ‘Blushing Bride’ bloom on both old and new wood, so if they get winter damaged, they still have some summer time blooms. The Oakleaf hydrangea- Hydrangea quercifolia has the same bloom pattern, but pruning should be done as the white flowers begin fading to brown.

The two types that do bloom on the new growth are H. arborescens – the smooth hydrangea and the Panicle or Peegee Hydrangea- H. paniculata. Both produce white flowers on the new growth, and pruning can be done as much or as little as needed before new growth begins. Since hydrangeas are cane-producing plants, it is often best to reduce height and size by removing older, woodier canes at the soil line.

Nikko Blue Hydrangea, a type of Hydrangea macrophylla, blooms in June and sets new flower buds in late summer to early fall. If the plant is overgrown and healthy, it doesn’t need pruning. However, if it does need pruning, don’t delay too long after bloom. Big leaf hydrangeas can be winter damaged in Northwest Arkansas, so more northern gardeners are opting for hydrangeas that bloom on the current season growth, such as Annabelle or Endless Summer.

Do hydrangeas like sun or shade?

Hydrangeas thrive in full sun to part sun, but can also tolerate some shade. They can be in full shade during the hottest part of the day, especially in hotter climates. However, insufficient sun can lead to reduced flowering and weaker stems. To ensure hydrangeas thrive in their gardens, consider the timing and type of shade. Some hydrangeas are more shade-tolerant than others, so don’t let a little shade hinder your gardening goals.

When to cut back hydrangeas in Arkansas?

Pruning Hydrangeas can be challenging due to their unique flowering patterns. Panicle and Smooth Hydrangeas can be cut back immediately after flowering, allowing them to rebloom later in the season. Bigleaf Hydrangea and Oakleaf Hydrangea, which flower on buds from the previous season, should be pruned in late fall to early spring to avoid sacrificing that season’s flowers. If significant pruning is needed, it should be done immediately after flowering. Joel Stout from Cricket Hill Farm in Conway, Arkansas provided valuable input on this topic.

Are hydrangeas best in pots or ground?

Pot-grown hydrangeas can be planted in various locations, including open ground or containers using John Innes compost. Large pots are recommended for long-lasting growth. In open ground, prepare the soil by adding garden compost or organic manure, and 6X Natural Fibrous Fertilizer to boost humus content. Add Vitax Hydrangea Feed or compost when planting for essential nutrients for healthy growth and beautiful blooms. Hydrangeas thrive on most soils and heavy clay, making them ideal for new-build gardens and wet, compacted soils.

Regularly adding organic compost or manure helps hold on to moisture, while mulching the ground around the plants with compost or bark early in the season helps retain moisture. This is done after their annual application of Vitax Hydrangea Feed.

Where is the best place to plant a hydrangea?

Hydrangeas flourish in warm morning sunlight but require shadier conditions in the afternoon, making them an excellent choice for planting in areas with a combination of sunny mornings and shadier afternoons, which are often found on the north or south side of a residence.

What side of the house is best for hydrangeas?

Planting a hydrangea in a sheltered location with ample sunlight in the morning is ideal. Choose a north or south side of your home, but avoid placing them directly under trees as they may compete for water and nutrients. Avoid windswept areas as they can damage leaves and flowers. Hydrangeas thrive in soil rich in organic matter, good drainage, and not too heavy. Ensure the soil is not soggy by monitoring it after a rain or watering. If heavy, add compost.

Soil amendments like Jobe’s Organics Soil Acidifier, Jobe’s Organics Garden Lime Granular, and fertilizer spikes can balance nutrients and acidity in your garden. Test the pH of your soil before adding any substances.

Do hydrangeas like coffee grounds?

To change the color of hydrangeas, start by adding coffee grounds to the soil around them in late fall. Work the grounds into the soil to eliminate any off-putting smell and do this two to three times per year. It will take time to turn hydrangeas blue, especially for new baby hydrangeas that may not bloom for a couple of years. Start adding coffee grounds months before the blooming season begins, ideally in late fall. Repeat the process with your regular fertilizing schedule. With a little caffeine and patience, your hydrangeas should reward your efforts with bold blue globes in the spring.

What does a hydrangea look like with too much sun?

Sunlight sensitivity is a significant concern for plants, as excessive direct sunlight can cause leaves to turn crispy brown at the edges, affecting their health and ability to produce show-stopping blooms. Seasonal sun considerations are crucial, as the intensity of the sun changes year-round, and plants should be aware of these changes. Signs of sun damage in French hydrangea include wilting leaves, crisp edges, and brittle, discolored blooms. These symptoms can indicate sunburn or heat stress, and it is essential to monitor the sun’s intensity and location to ensure the health and longevity of your plants.

What level of sun do hydrangeas like?

Hydrangeas are a diverse group of plants that require consistent, well-draining soil and organic material. They are not drought-tolerant and do not thrive in dry, sandy soils. They require approximately one inch of water per week, applied in a deep soaking. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses work well in hydrangea shrub borders to keep the soil moist but also reduce leaf spots. Hydrangeas can be grown in full sun or light dappled shade, with the bigleaf hydrangea being particularly effective when shaded from the hot afternoon sun.

Hydrangeas require a moderate nutrient level in the soil and should be fertilized with 4 oz. of a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again after flowering. Before planting, check the root quality of container grown plants and loosen them if they appear pot bound or circling the container. Amend the planting area with organic material and set the plant at the same depth as in the container. Water the new plant and apply 2″ to 3″ of good quality mulch, keeping the mulch spread over the roots but off the crown of the plant.

Smooth hydrangea, native to the Eastern United States, grows as an under-story shrub in woodlands, preferring part shade and ample moisture. It blooms in late June to early July, producing white flowers in clusters 4″ to 6″ in diameter. Popular cultivars include ‘Annabelle’ and ‘White Dome’. Smooth hydrangea is hardy to zone 4, but may die back to the ground in cold winters.

Bigleaf hydrangea, a popular plant in the landscape, grows between 3′ and 6′ high with an equal spread and produces two types of flower heads: Hortensia and Lacecap.