What Makes Hydrangeas Thrive In Cape Cod?

Hydrangeas are a popular flowering shrub in Massachusetts, known for their changing colors and textures. They are particularly popular in the spring and summer, with their blooms being the main attraction. Heavy rainfall, mild winters, and recent disappointments have led to “hydrangea hysteria”, as described by C.L. Fornari, founder of the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival. The region’s well-drained soil and temperate winters make hydrangeas thrive, and the cool sea breeze during the summer also helps them thrive.

The “blue” hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla or bigleaf hydrangea) is one of the most popular varieties in Cape Cod. Locals experimented with hydrangeas in the mid-twentieth century, learning that the area has well-drained soil and more temperate winters than other places. New developments in breeding Bigleaf hydrangea have produced cultivars that can bloom on new and mature wood.

Hydrangeas have long been Cape Cod’s quintessential flower, and they are good vigorous species when grown in ground. They tolerate full sun in coastal settings but bloom color is better retained with some afternoon shade. Hydrangea macrophylla grow easily on Cape Cod due to its acidic, sandy soil, making it an ideal choice for the Cape Cod maritime climate.

Colors range from white to pink, blue, or purple flowers, depending on the soil’s acidity. Blue flowers develop slightly wilt on hot days even when the plant is well watered. To grow hydrangeas in Cape Cod, it is essential to maintain a pH of 5.0 to 5.6 for blue blooms and 6.0 plus for pink.

Why are hydrangeas doing so well in Massachusetts this year?

This plant is a distinctive species in New England’s coastal communities, exhibiting a distinctive blue coloration and displaying a preference for warmer winter and cooler summer temperatures, which enhance its probability of flowering.

Why are the hydrangeas so blue in Massachusetts?

In New England, hydrangeas are often blue due to the acidic soil, with slightly higher pH levels than alkaline levels. Although there are pockets of alkaline soils in Massachusetts, most hydrangeas bloom blue due to the wide-spread acidic soils. To achieve deep, vibrant blue blossoms, gardeners can increase the soil’s acidity by adding aluminum or ammonium sulfate. This helps maintain the color of the flowers.

What kind of hydrangeas are on Cape Cod?

Hydrangeas are a fascinating and versatile flowering plants, known for their vibrant blooms and diverse varieties. Originating from Asia and the Americas, they have been cultivated for their beauty and versatility. The name “hydrangea” comes from the Greek words “hydor”, meaning water, and “angeion”, meaning vessel, reflecting the plant’s need for ample water. The first hydrangeas were brought to Europe from Japan in the 18th century, and over time, various species and cultivars were developed, each with its unique characteristics and charm. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, hydrangeas offer something for everyone. Join us in exploring their history, types, care tips, and creative uses in landscaping.

Are hydrangeas native to Massachusetts?

American hydrangea, also known as smooth hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 5 feet tall. Native to eastern North America, it is mostly found in disturbed areas in New England. Its small, white flowers bloom for a long time and are tolerant of poor soil conditions. The plant can thrive in rain gardens and is useful for erosion control. It can be found in anthropogenic, floodplain, forest edges, and forests.

How long do hydrangeas bloom in Massachusetts?

The Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival, a 10-day celebration, takes place from mid-June to early August, highlighting the peak blooming period of the flowers. This year, it runs from July 16 and includes daily private garden tours, guided history walks, and an educational talk called “Hydrangea University”. Despite the festival, hydrangea bushes are abundant in the area. For a more focused appreciation, visitors can drive or cycle up Shore Road in Chatham, starting at Chatham Lighthouse.

The Hydrangea Walk, a private residence, features a flower-lined walkway, while the Chatham Bars Inn showcases more hydrangeas. The festival concludes with a lobster roll at the Chatham Pier Fish Market.

Where do hydrangeas grow best?

Hydrangeas are best planted in areas with morning sun and afternoon shade, with mature sizes and ample room for growth. They should be planted in areas with excellent drainage and composted soil. Avoid planting under trees, as root competition and lack of sunlight can hinder their growth. Plant hydrangeas in exposed areas with gusty winds. To start, amend the soil with organic matter and an all-purpose slow-release fertilizer. Plant slightly higher than in the nursery container, with a planting hole 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball.

Gently loosen potbound roots before planting, backfill with amended soil, and water well. Space hydrangeas at least 3 feet apart for larger varieties. For pot planting, use bagged potting mix instead of garden soil, mix in slow-release fertilizer, leave 1 to 2 inches between the soil and pot rim, and ensure pots have drainage holes and room for plant growth.

Do hydrangeas grow in Cape Town?

Hydrangeas, native to Asia and America, are native to South Africa and can be found in coastal areas and interior areas. The plant’s name comes from the Greek words “hydr-” meaning water and “angeion” meaning jar or vessel. Hydrangeas flower during summer and autumn and thrive best when planted in partial shade. The genus consists of over 80 species, including deciduous and evergreen shrubs and climbers. The most common species grown in South African gardens are Hydrangea macrophylla, Hydrangea arborescens, Hydrangea paniculata, Hydrangea quercifolia, and Hydrangea serrata.

Hydrangea macrophylla is the most popularly grown hydrangea in South Africa, with two forms: mophead hydrangea and lacecap hydrangea. Mophead hydrangeas form large pom-pom-shaped balls of flowers, while lacecap hydrangeas are round and flat with tiny flowers in the center. Hydrangea arborescens, also known as “sevenbark”, bears small white to green-colored flowers and is the most popular variety. Hydrangea paniculata is the giant of the hydrangea genus, growing up to 3m tall and changing color throughout the flowering season.

Hydrangea quercifolia, also known as the oak leaf hydrangea, grows best in inland gardens in South Africa, with beautiful white flowers in summer and autumn foliage. Hydrangea serrata is smaller, finer, and harder than its popular cousin.

Are hydrangea native to Massachusetts?

American hydrangea, also known as smooth hydrangea, is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 5 feet tall. Native to eastern North America, it is mostly found in disturbed areas in New England. Its small, white flowers bloom for a long time and are tolerant of poor soil conditions. The plant can thrive in rain gardens and is useful for erosion control. It can be found in anthropogenic, floodplain, forest edges, and forests.

Why don t hydrangeas grow in Florida?

Hydrangea can be cultivated in Florida if planted in an area that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade. The Endless Summer® BloomStruck® Hydrangea is the optimal choice due to its demonstrated resilience to high temperatures and its classification as a USDA Zone 9 hardy plant. The dark stems contribute to the plant’s overall aesthetic appeal. To safeguard the shrubs from the effects of afternoon sunlight, it is recommended that they be situated on the northern or eastern side of the residence and that they be provided with regular irrigation.

Where in the US do hydrangeas grow best?

Panicle hydrangeas are hardy plants that thrive in full sun and partial shade, with the best heat and cold tolerance of all hydrangeas. They bloom from summer to fall, typically white, with some varieties like ‘Limelight’ Hydrangea boasting lime-green blooms that mature to creamy white. In cooler zones, they may turn pink or blush colored, sometimes even red. They can be grown in containers in Zone 4 and can be pruned in spring or fall. This North American native produces large, snowball-like clusters of pure white blooms, with smooth hydrangea flowers blooming earlier than bigleaf and most having mophead-style blooms.

Why does Cape Cod have so many hydrangeas?

Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is known as a hydrangea haven due to its temperate climate, sandy soils, and coastal influences. The region has numerous gardens and nurseries dedicated to these beautiful blooms. The Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival, a collaborative effort between local gardeners, nonprofit organizations, and businesses, celebrates hydrangeas in private gardens not typically open to the public.

This year, visitors can enjoy a variety of garden tours, explore different hydrangea varieties, and learn gardening tips from experts. Visitors can also visit the Heritage Museum and Garden, which offers exhibits, festival activities, and gardens filled with rhododendrons, daylilies, and other hydrangeas.