Hydrangeas (Hydrangea) are flowering shrubs that can be planted either in beds or in containers. In both cases, however, some species need special care in order to be able to tolerate the frost in the cold months. In this article you will find out which species these are and what you should pay attention to so that your hydrangeas can overwinter in the bed!
A hydrangea in full bloom is a colorful sight to celebrate. But did you know that some hydrangea species form their flower buds during the growing season before they bloom? The young, tender buds form in late summer and then have to survive the winter weather that comes their way. If cold winds, freezing temperatures, and periods of frost damage these buds, you probably won't see hydrangea blooms next spring or summer. However, if you take extra good care of your hydrangeas during the winter in colder regions, you can maximize their blooming time. Here you will find out what you should do so that your hydrangeas can overwinter in the bed and you can enjoy their beautiful flowers again.
Know your hydrangea species
The first step in planning winter care is knowing the type of hydrangea in the bed. If your hydrangea does not bloom in spring but in mid or late summer, it is probably a viburnum hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) or panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata). These two species have the greatest winter hardiness and canSurvive winter without additional care. This is because these species only form their flower buds on newly formed shoots. This means that after you have cut back the old shoots in spring, you also remove any frost damage and the new buds can form without any problems.
Winter protection is usually recommended for the newer varieties of farmer's hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) and plate hydrangeas (Hydrangea serrata). If you want to protect them from frost, you should cover the roots with a layer of mulch or something similar so that they don't freeze in the ground. In case of hard frost, the crown should also be wrapped with warming wool.
Plants need to stay hydrated
Like all trees, shrubs and perennials, hydrangeas should be watered well throughout the year. So water them as usual in the fall. When the snow falls, the ground will probably be sufficiently moist and you will no longer need to water. However, keep in mind that winter winds can dry out your hydrangeas. So, if you are worried that in cold weather without snowfall the soil inside might be too dry, water the hydrangea roots with warm, but not hot, water.
Also important: water hydrangeas:How much water do hydrangeas need to thrive and when is vinegar good for them
No pruning is necessary
If you prune your plants in fall or winter, you may accidentally remove next year's flower buds. However, if you leave the old flower heads on the plants, the winter landscape becomes even more interesting. So it's best to save the pruning of hydrangeas until spring or summer.
Also read:Location for hydrangeas in the garden depending on the variety for healthy growth
How hydrangeas overwinter in the bed – further tips
- Fertilization with mineral nitrogen or organic fertilizers is prohibited from mid-July, but fertilizer with a high potassium content ensures frost resistance.
- Protect hydrangeas from frost with leaves, spruce branches or mulch. Don't just cover the crown, but especially the roots.
- Remove winter protection from hydrangeas when temperatures rise to avoid endangering the shoots from fungus.
- If there are strong night frosts during the budding process in spring, you may want to briefly protect the hydrangeas from frost again - for example, wrap them in garden fleece overnight.
