This hydrangea suffered in the heatwave. It’s also in an afternoon sun location but somewhat protected by a fence that provides a little shade/shelter. It’s a new plant (just purchased this spring, maybe 2 years old?). What would help? Fertilizer? Watering every other day? Thanks for any help
by pinetree_33
2 Comments
This is a big leaf hydrangea. They do best with afternoon shade. It could probably do with more water and mulch. Changing to a better afternoon location would help. Don’t fertilize it, would just be an added stress.
In NW PA, zone 6, we have better luck with them in afternoon shade.
I’m in central AR zone 8b/8a depending on who you ask.
I’ve got some out front in full afternoon sun and some out back in mixed light conditions. I water every single day, twice a day during the heat waves.
Get some of those curved pavers and build a small wall around the plant. Bury the paver wall about an inch down so it doesn’t move. Water it well. Then get some mulch of your choice (I use pine straw because I have an abundance of it) and lay the mulch in thick. As the plant grows you won’t see the mulch so color isn’t necessarily important. The mulch is there to retain moisture. You can use rocks as well if that’s preferable. Just don’t go with the tiny river rocks. Larger stones would be better.
You’ll want to replace the mulch every year or two as it will break down.
In my experience these plants can take a full year to really adjust well to their new conditions. The first year after planting is always gonna be the worst. Don’t let influencers tell you otherwise.