Hydrangeas are one of the few flowering plants that prefer semi-shady and shady locations. If the hydrangea is exposed to the blazing sun all day, it often shows leaf damage. Even if you suddenly expose an indoor hydrangea to the changed sunlight outdoors, the foliage can burn.
What to do if the leaves on hydrangeas are burned?
Burned leaves on hydrangeas are caused by excessive sunlight. To counteract this, you should check the location and, if necessary, move the plant to a partially shaded area. Prune scorched leaves and flowers and shade the hydrangea during the hottest times of summer.
How does sunburn manifest itself?
If strong sunlight hits the leaf surface, the leaves gradually turn brown. This happens because the radiation removes moisture from the foliage, causing it to dry out. This also causes the leaves to lose their green color. While the foliage often only shows slight damage in the form of brown spots, young shoots can hardly withstand the radiation and dry out before they have fully developed.
The hydrangea loves partial shade
Although some hydrangea species thrive in full sun, most varieties prefer a partially shaded or shady spot. Since hydrangeas are very loyal to the soil, you should choose a suitable location when planting to avoid moving the hydrangea.
Indoor hydrangeas slowly get used to the changed conditions
In early spring, the colorful hydrangeas bring color into the home and drive away the winter gray. If you have the opportunity, you can plant the plant outdoors after a few weeks, where the hydrangea usually thrives even better than indoors.
So that the leaves of the hydrangea do not burn, you must slowly accustom the hydrangea to the changed conditions. Initially position the pot so that it is only exposed to the less strong evening or morning sun.
What can you do about burnt leaves?
Even if the burnt leaves don't look nice, there is no need for serious concern. The hydrangea usually recovers quickly and sprouts again willingly. If you discover sun damage, these measures can help:
- Check the location and, if necessary, move the hydrangea to an east or west bed.
- Cut off burnt leaves and flowers below the next pair of leaves.
- Shade hydrangea during the hot dog days of August.
Tips & Tricks
Do not under any circumstances water the hydrangea in the blazing midday sun. It is almost unavoidable that when watering, drops of water fall on the leaves, which then act like burning glasses and burn the leaves.
