smooth hydrangea

Water regularly throughout the growing season - about twice a week - so that the soil remains moist but not saturated. During hot weather, check more frequently and water when the top of the soil begins to dry out. This species has good drought tolerance once established, so water only if needed. In the winter, reduce watering to once every 2 to 3 weeks. Be sure the soil does not dry out completely or the plant could suffer damage from cold temperatures.

Smooth hydrangeas prefer locations with full or partial sun. The optimal amount of sunlight for this plant is 5 to 8 hours of direct sunlight or partial shade every day. In the summer, it should be sheltered from harsh afternoon sun as it can cause sun scald. If planted in a container, it should be rotated every 2 to 3 weeks so that all sides of the plant get an equal amount of sunlight. While the plant may survive in less sunlight, optimal growth and flowering will be achieved with a minimum of 5-8 hours of daily sunlight.

Smooth hydrangeas (Hydrangea arborescens ‘NCHA5’ Invincibelle Wee White) should be pruned in the late winter or early spring. Aim to remove up to 1 third of the oldest, tallest stems all the way to the base, cutting just above a healthy bud. Pruning the top of the plant will help reduce the flower size. Additionally, dead or damaged stems should be removed and thinning out some of the dense stems can help the shrub maintain an attractive shape and improve air circulation in the centre of the shrub. Finally, removing spent flower heads to the base of the plant promotes flowering the following growing season.