bigleaf hydrangea

Water your Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blaumeise' BLUE TITMOUSE) deeply twice a week when it is in its active growth period. Make sure to give the plant enough water so that it reaches the root level. During the hot summer months, increase the frequency of watering to 3 times a week and for the winter months, it can be reduced to once a week. You should also make sure the soil does not dry out in between watering. When the plant is done blooming and is preparing to go dormant, reduce the amount of water being given and also reduce the frequency of watering.

Bigleaf hydrangeas require approximately 5 or 6 hours of sunlight per day; the best exposure for the plant is direct or dappled sunshine in the early morning or late afternoon. Avoid midday sun, as intense, direct rays during this period will cause the leaves to burn or turn yellow. The plant does best with bright, filtered sun and protection from wind. Placing it near a building or under a tall tree can provide the required amount of light while preventing it from overheating during hot summer days.

Pruning the bigleaf hydrangea, Hydrangea macrophylla 'Blaumeise' BLUE TITMOUSE, should take place in late winter or early spring, just before the new growth appears. Pruning should consist of removing dead or damaged branches and shortening or removing overgrown stems. When pruning, a clean, sharp pruning tool should be used and all cuts should be made just above a bud or branch node. For this variety of Hydrangea, pruning should be limited to no more than 1-third of the previous year's growth. Pruning older, unproductive stems should be done to stimulate new growth and allow more light and air to reach the center of the shrub. Taking these steps will help maintain a lush, vibrant shrub.