hydrangea

Hydrangeas should be watered deeply and thoroughly; this encourages the plant to have a strong, extensive root system. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. For best results, water in the morning, allowing the foliage to dry out in the afternoon; this will help prevent fungal problems. During the summer, the hydrangea should be watered twice a week; once during scorching, summer temperatures and once right after. With the onset of cooler weather, reduce the frequency of watering to once a week. Water the hydrangea slowly and thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes of the pot. For outdoor plants, water at the base of the plants, do not water the foliage.

Hydrangeas, especially the species Hydrangea serrata, require full sun or partial shade for optimum growth and flowering. At least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day is best for hydrangeas, but they can also tolerate some shade as long as they still get some direct sunlight for at least a few hours a day. During the hottest, sunniest hours of the day, it is best to give these plants a bit of shade to prevent scorching and wilting. In the early mornings or late afternoons when the light is less harsh, they can receive full sunlight.

When it comes to pruning hydrangea serrata, it is best to prune it in late winter or early spring. Start by cutting the stems back to about 2/3 of their original height. During the summer, you can lightly prune any dead or weak stems that do not have any growth. This will help promote new and healthy growth for next season. In the fall, it is best not to prune your hydrangea serrata as doing so will remove any potential blooms for the following spring.