smooth hydrangea

The Smooth Hydrangea should be watered thoroughly twice a week during the growing season and once a week in the winter. It prefers moist but well-drained soil, so make sure to check on the soil moisture by feeling it with your hands before watering. Allowing the top of the soil to dry out a little between watering can help prevent root rot. Too much water can result in wilting, so make sure the soil is not soggy. In hot, dry weather, you may need to water this plant more frequently. Water only at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, and avoid overhead watering.

Smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens 'NCHA4' INCREDIBALL BLUSH) does best in partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight but should be planted in an area where it will not be exposed to the hot afternoon sun. As morning sun is less intense, this particular species of hydrangea prefers several hours of morning sun, especially when growing in the south. If the area receives too much afternoon sun, it is advised to provide some type of shade to the plant or move it to an area with less direct sunlight.

Smooth hydrangeas should be pruned in late winter or early spring at the start of the growing season, before they begin active growth. Prune to remove any dead or damaged branches, then shape into a rounded or cone-shaped form. Remove no more than 1/3 of the previous season’s growth. This will keep the shrub healthy, and promote additional blooms.