
How to Plant and Care for Hydrangeas
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The leaves on my hydrangea are dying. They look liked they are burnt. I live in Florida and was surprised to even see them here. I had them in CT and never had a problem. They get morning sun and shade in the afternoon. Is it just to hot for them?
Leaf scorch happens because hydrangeas get too hot. The placement doesn’t sound unusual; morning sun is all they need. But the temperatures are probably too lot for this plant that enjoys the cooler side of life. Also, water management can be a challenge. The “hydra” in hydrangea means they need to be watered consistently. They have a very large leaf surface area which results in higher water loss. In addition, hydrangeas lack the ability to regulate water loss under drought stress conditions. This can readily lead to wilting and the resulting leaf scorch.
They look so beautiful.
Can hydrangea grow in large pots?
Hi, Mildred, thanks for your interest—and your patience! Yes, you can grow hydrangea in a pot but it should be a very large one if you intend for the plant to be there for a while. At some point it might become pot bound and need repotting or perhaps root pruning. But if you start with a small plant in a large pot, that should not be an issue for a while. Remember, too, if it is in a pot and outdoors in a cold zone it might benefit from some protection. A container does not provide the same protection from freeze/thaw cycles as an underground/in-ground plant would enjoy.
Can you divide a hydrangea? Mine is overgrown and needs to be divided?
Hi, Julie, Yes, you can divide a hydrangea. Look for natural separations in the rootball; it’s a lot like dividing a perennial flower. Shoots emerge from the perimeter of the plant and these should have their own root systems. Separate them by hand or with tools. Mid- to late fall is the second-best time to do this, by the way. The best time is very early spring, when the “new” plants have the whole growing season to become established.
I was given a hydrangea bouquet to put indoors in a vase. I was wondering if any part of the plant including the leaves is toxic to a pet cat?
Yes, hydrangea leaves are toxic to cats and dogs. Typically it causes mild indigestion or vomiting, but can be more dangerous if large amounts are consumed.
I have a hydrangea received it for mother’s day. I had it on my windowsill
Watered it when needed,now it is all dried up like it’s dead. Is it supposed to be like that ? I really don’t know how to take care of it.
HELP Please
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