The more recent introductions like Bloomstruck®, Summer Crush®, and PopStar® produce more flowers sooner and continue to do so more quickly than their predecessors.
Looking for hydrangeas that are bred to be pink? Then look to Ruby Blossom™. This is a mophead with sturdy stems and unique, fully double, dark pink flowers that engulf the plant. Those flowers contrast beautifully with the dark green foliage. Plus, its compact habit allows it to fit nicely into small spaces.
Generally speaking, the more sun you give your hydrangeas (even the big leaf), the stronger the stems will be. That has been my consistent experience with all the cultivars mentioned here and many others. Just keep an eye on soil moisture and use compost and mulch to improve moisture retention if necessary.
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I want pink Hydragneas. I understand that Lime is a good supplement to make that happen. How often? How much? Do I use 10-10-10 Rose fertilizer in addition because I do not think that Lime should be used alone? Or something else in Spring and then again in? I live in Ventura County in Southern CA which is between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Any other suggestions for these shrubs? Thank you,
We asked Lorraine Ballato the author of this blog and this is her reply…
1.) I am assuming you have a big leaf (macrophylla) hydrangea. If it is another variety like a panicle, oak leaf, etc., color change isn’t an option.
2.) Assuming this is a big leaf or mountain (serrata) hydrangea, make sure your hydrangea is one that can change color (not all of them can). If you lost the tag, check w/your local independent garden center or local extension office. They can often help solve the mystery.
3.) If your plant can change color, then do a soil test to check the pH of your soil. Pink flowers need a pH above 7 for the best pink color.
4.) To move up on the pH scale, you add pelletized lime. Follow the directions on the package label for how much to add and how to add it.
5.) Plan to re-test your soil to keep that pH reading where you need it. Soil will always revert to its natural state, so be prepared to continually test and amend in the future.
6.) It takes the plant time to integrate the amendment so plan to add it in the autumn for the color change in the following season.
7.) If your hydrangea is planted adjacent to a cement walk or a structure/house foundation, be aware that the lime from that hardscape will leach into the soil and influence the pH (raise it) so you may be able to take advantage of that placement.
I don’t recommend any fertilizer that has equal amounts of the 3 key nutrients. No plant uses nutrients in the same amount and when you use a “balanced” fertilizer like 10-10-10, you contribute to run-off and pollution. Rose food is ideal as a fertilizer for your hydrangeas (as well as other shrubs). Compost is also a helpful amendment as it provides microbes and aids in moisture retention.