Hydrangeas are among the most robust garden perennials that grow into magnificent shrubs when properly cared for. Almost all cultivated Hydrangea species are relatively frost-resistant and, with light winter protection, can survive long periods of frost well.
Are all hydrangeas hardy?
Most hydrangea species are hardy, but frost-sensitive varieties can lose buds during prolonged periods of frost. Hardy hydrangeas include farmers' hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas, plate hydrangeas and forest hydrangeas. In harsh conditions, winter protection with soil, bark mulch, compost or fleece is recommended.
Location and species determine winter hardiness
Despite the fact that almost all of the hydrangea varieties offered here are considered to be completely hardy, how well the plant gets through the cold season depends on the location and the type. In mild regions in protected places, the hydrangea does not need winter protection, even in Germany. In somewhat harsher areas, without this it could happen that some buds of varieties that flower the previous year freeze. After very harsh winters with low temperatures, it is even possible that all flower buds fall victim to frost.
The following varieties are considered relatively hardy:
- Farmer Hydrangeas
- Climbing hydrangeas
- Plate hydrangeas
- Forest hydrangeas
Overwinter hydrangeas properly
In many areas it is therefore advisable to protect the hydrangea from frost. Proceed as follows:
- Do not fertilize from late summer onwards so that the shoots fully mature by winter.
- Cut out dried and protruding branches in autumn to avoid snow breakage.
- Hill the root neck with soil, bark mulch or compost.
- Several layers of brushwood also provide good protection from the cold.
- Cover smaller bushes in fleece (€6.00 on Amazon) to protect the sensitive buds.
Foil and other airtight materials are not suitable as winter protection. Condensation forms under these and the shoots of the hydrangea begin to rot.
Tip
In principle it can be said: Shade-loving hydrangeas and those that do not require a sheltered location according to the label tolerate frosts relatively well. However, a hydrangea that can tolerate sun is not quite as frost-resistant.
