For a long time, the hydrangea was known primarily as a cemetery shrub. However, they were rarely found in gardens or parks. It is now very popular with more and more gardeners. But how suitable is the perennial for the cemetery?
Can I use hydrangeas for grave planting?
The easy-care hydrangeas are an interesting option for grave design, especially because of their long flowering period. The dried inflorescences are decorative even in winter. Despite little maintenance, the perennials need regular water, fertilizer, sun and pruning.
How suitable are hydrangeas as grave plants?
Hydrangeas are considered easy-care plants and are thereforewell suited for grave planting They don't just look good during the flowering period in summer. The dried inflorescences are also a beautiful sight in winter, as long as you don't cut them off in autumn. Another advantage of hydrangeas is that they grow slowly. This means they stay compact on the grave and only need to be cut back in spring. Fertilizer applications once or twice a year are also sufficient.
What do I have to consider when planting graves with hydrangeas?
You should pay attention to the location of the grave. Is it in the sun all day or does it only receive a little light? Most hydrangeas prefer a partially shaded location. However, there are also varieties that do well with more or less sun.
Hydrangeas need a lot ofwaterand therefore need to be watered regularly. If you can rarely visit the cemetery, you should probably use other plants that tolerate drought better. Hydrangeas are hardy and can therefore overwinter in the cemetery without special protection. However, under certain conditions it is worth covering them with fleece over the winter months.
Is grave soil suitable for hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas require slightly acidic, loose and nutrient-rich soil. Grave soil meets these requirements quite well. Particularly due to its low pH value, it iswell suited for hydrangeasGrave soil has the property that it can store water particularly well and for a long time. The moisture-loving hydrangeas benefit from this. However, it usually contains fewer nutrients than other potting soils, which is why hydrangeas need to be fertilized on the grave.
Tip
These plants go well with hydrangeas on the grave
Of course, it is primarily a question of taste as to which plants you would like to combine hydrangeas with on the grave. Popular companion plants are hostas or grasses. Ground cover plants are also a sensible combination as they retain moisture better in the soil and can loosen the soil with their roots.