Pretty Hydrangea

Some people asked me the other day when to transplant Hydrangeas.  The answer is really a simple one…Anytime during dormancy.

Whenever the plant does not have any leaves on it is the best time to move it because it is not actively growing and will not get stressed during the move.  (Was that too much info in one sentence? Sorry)   Anyway, that means November and December is a great time for most parts of the country.  If the ground is not frozen solid January and February work well also.

When digging up the plant, dig as big of root ball as you can.  Hydrangeas have very fibrous roots and the more you can take with you the better.  You will probably need a second pair of hands due to the weight and awkwardness of carrying a ball of dirt with a plant on top.

Choosing a location is critical to its survival and strength.  Hydrangeas do not like the hot afternoon sun, but do like the sunrise very much.  If placed under a large hardwood tree (i.e. Maple, etc.) there is a good chance of it stressing due to the tree taking all the moisture out of the ground.  Hydrangeas look the best if placed somewhere that they will never have to be pruned.  The average Hydrangea will grow to be about 4×4.

Once you have planted the hydrangea in his new hole, water well immediately, then you will probably not have to water again until the spring or summertime.  “When the leaves wilt, water. “ Good rule of thumb for the brown thumbs out there.   If the plant does not unwilt within an hour of watering, the plant is stressed and try misting the leaves until they recover.

Fertilize twice per year with a slow release fertilizer such as Osmocote or Dynamite.  Don’t fertilize, however, if the plant is stressed and won’t come out a long wilt period.

Happy Hydrangeas