The combination of the Greek words 'hydro' (water) and 'angeion' (jug) gave the name Hydrangea. A fitting name because all hydrangea varieties need a lot of water. In this article we explain when and how to water hydrangeas correctly!
Are you wondering how much or how often to water your hydrangeas to keep them looking good, and do hydrangeas need a lot of water? Yes! Irrigation is a very important factor for the proper development of plants. Overwatering and underwatering hydrangeas is a common problem and without the proper amount of water, hydrangeas will wilt and may even die. But the good news is that this problem can be easily solved if you act in time.
How often to water hydrangeas
How often do you have to water hydrangeas? You should water newly planted hydrangeas frequently so that they thrive in their new environment. Not only young but also mature plants need more moisture during the growing season, especially during periods of drought. How you know whenHydrangeas should be watered? Use your fingertip to check whether the soil feels dry - if so, it's time to water. If the weather becomes too hot and dry, it may be necessary to water every day.
How much additional water you need to give depends on the hydrangea variety, the sun exposure and the time of year. For established hydrangeas, water when the first inch of soil feels dry. Don't let the soil dry out completely, as this will stress the plant.
How much water do the plants need?
Throughout the growing season, hydrangea plants require 3 inches of water per week. Water deeply 3 times per week to encourage root growth. All varieties benefit from consistent moisture. If possible, use a soaker hose to water deeply and keep moisture away from the flowers and leaves.
You can water your plants with the garden hose or with the watering can. When watering your hydrangeas with a hose, watering should occur below the leaves and flowers, at the base of the plant. This will help you avoid problems with fungi, as moisture on the leaves and flowers can cause mildew.
If you irrigate at the base, ensure that the water goes directly to the root system. The water should be evenly distributed to the roots. Seepage hoses are a perfectly suitable method for sustainable irrigation. This means no water is lost.
The same applies to watering with a watering can. When watering hydrangeas, aim the watering can at the base of the plant rather than the leaves. Water the plants early in the morning because watering later in the day can result in faster evaporation.
Why water hydrangeas early in the morning
Experts advise watering hydrangeas early in the morning. Watering in the morning provides the plant with moisture and gets it ready for the day. Just be careful not to water,when the heat of the day is at its highestand that no water gets on the leaves. If you water hydrangeas in hot weather, water droplets on the leaves can act like magnifying glasses, reflecting sunlight and potentially burning the leaves.
Signs of irrigation problems
Have you been overwatering or underwatering your hydrangeas, watering them at the wrong time of day, or not using the correct watering method, i.e. watering overhead instead of at the base? Then your plants definitely don't look good and have started to wilt. Here are the most common signs that you are not watering your hydrangeas properly.
The plants have yellowing, browning or mottled leaves due to too much water
Plants with yellowed or brown leaves may have received too much water. You should not leave the plant in standing water if it is grown in a container. Note that fungal problems caused by overwatering can result in brown leaf tips. Secure appropriate drainage for potted plants and ensure consistent watering.
Hydrangeas have dry, crunchy leaves due to lack of water
Dry, crusty browning on the outer edges of leaves or flowers is a sign of water deficiency. Prolonged water loss can cause the plant to lose flower heads and leaves, jeopardizing the long-term health and survival of the plant.
Troubleshoot Hydrangea Watering Problems
If you haven't been watering your hydrangeas properly, it's time to change your watering schedule. Follow the watering methods and times described above and the plants will recover.
If you notice that your hydrangea is fromaffected by fungal infection,due to watering problems, pick up any infected leaves that have fallen off and dispose of them in the trash. Don't compost them. While the fungal infection is active, you should reduce watering. Thinning thicker foliage near the hydrangea can also promote air circulation, thereby reducing the risk of fungal infestation. You can treat your infected hydrangeas with compost tea, hydrogen peroxide, garlic oil or liquid seaweed.
