climbing hydrangea

Climbing hydrangeas thrive in moist conditions. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week during the growing season, making sure to provide enough water to moisten the soil at least 8-10 inches deep. During particularly dry stretches, increase watering to keep the soil moist. Reduce or stop watering any time the soil gets soggy, as overwatering will lead to root rot. Let the soil dry out between waterings. In winter, when the plant is dormant, water just enough to keep the soil from becoming completely dry.

Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea barbara) typically thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate partial shade and are even known to survive in shade. For optimal blooming, it is best to provide this plant with 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight each day, preferably in the morning or late evening hours. Too much direct exposure to sun can result in leaf scorching. In cooler climates, some direct sun in the afternoon can help the plants to produce more flowers. If grown in pots, it is important to turn the pots regularly to ensure that all sides get adequate lighting.

Climbing hydrangeas should be pruned twice a year, once in the late winter and once in the early summer. Before pruning, use a pair of sharp shears or garden loppers to trim away any dead or damaged limbs, as well as any that are actively growing in the wrong direction. In late winter, you can cut back nearly all of the stems that grew the previous year to about 4 to 8 inches in length, and any older branches that have become woody can be cut back to just a few inches. In early summer, you can trim any new shoots that have grown, as well as remove water sprouts and any dead or damaged stems. It is best to avoid pruning when the plant is in bloom, as this can inhibit flowering.