The hydrangea is one of the garden classics and has been cultivated for several hundred years. Their romantic flower umbels conjure up nostalgic charm in shady garden corners. But what location requirements does this attractive plant have?
Which location is ideal for hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas prefer a partially shaded, wind-protected location with nutrient-rich, deep, humus-rich and loose soil. Some varieties such as farmer's hydrangeas, oak-leaved hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas and forest hydrangeas also thrive in the shade, while panicle and oak-leaved hydrangeas also tolerate sunny locations.
The hydrangea feels at home here
You can't go wrong with a partially shaded and wind-protected location. All types of hydrangeas thrive here.
Some varieties are also suitable for cultivation in a shady location. Specifically, these are:
- Farmer Hydrangeas
- Oak-leaved Hydrangea
- Climbing hydrangea
- Forest hydrangea
Location in the sun
A newly created garden often lacks shady areas because the trees are still small and hardly provide any shade. This is no reason to forego the splendor of hydrangea flowers. The oak-leaved hydrangea and the panicle hydrangea also do well in a full sun spot. However, keep in mind that sunny hydrangeas require a little more care.
Demands on the soil
Hydrangeas prefer nutritious, deep, humus-rich and loose soil. The pH value depends on the flower color and does not have to be in the very acidic range for all hydrangeas, as is often the case. Pink or red flowering varieties in particular prefer a pH value in the alkaline range.
The name Hydrangea means “water slurper” and stands for the enormous thirst that the plant can develop. Therefore, the substrate should have the ability to store water well. In addition to special hydrangea soil, the special needs of the hydrangea are also met by rhododendron or azalea soil, which you can get from specialist garden shops.
Hydrangeas on the balcony or terrace
What applies to garden hydrangeas also applies to potted plants: care for the hydrangea in a sunny location and protect the plant from the blazing midday sun. The hydrangea should never dry out, but it should also not be left in water.
Tips & Tricks
In very sunny locations, you can shade the hydrangea with a white bed sheet during the hot midday hours.
