struggling hydrangeas failing to bloom? understanding the causes and methods to cultivate an abundance of beautiful blooms
Hydrangeas, with their vibrant blooms, are a popular choice for gardens across the globe. However, these plants can be finicky, and understanding their care requirements is essential to ensure a bountiful display of flowers.
These plants can fail to bloom due to various factors, including improper pruning, insufficient light, inadequate water, and poor soil. It's important to note that improper pruning, particularly the removal of flower buds, can prevent hydrangeas from blooming, especially for varieties that bloom on old wood.
Amy Draiss, the Digital Community Manager, and Caroline Bloomfield, the Manager of Marketing Communications at the platform since 2019, are gardening enthusiasts who share valuable insights on hydrangea care. Caroline, who was raised by avid gardeners and has resided and gardened in multiple zones in the U.S., currently calls Bandon, Oregon, home.
In Oregon, Tonya Barnett's specific care and handling requirements for hydrangeas include ensuring well-drained, rich soil, providing consistent moisture, placing them in partial shade to protect from intense sun, and protecting the plants from harsh winter conditions common in the region.
Hydrangeas thrive in a mix of sun and shade. Plants grown in excess shade or too much sun may struggle to produce blooms. It's also crucial to avoid overfeeding the plants with excess nutrients, as this can inhibit bloom. Instead, annual feeding with a balanced slow-release fertilizer, specifically formulated for hydrangeas, can promote growth and blooming.
The addition of high-quality compost and other amendments at planting time can help new hydrangea shrubs. Shrubs in hot or sunny beds may require more frequent irrigation. Researching the specific type of hydrangea being grown can help better understand the cultivar's pruning needs and ideal growth conditions.
Deer and other common garden animals can damage hydrangeas, especially the flowers produced on old wood before the shrubs have the opportunity to bloom. A simple fence is an effective way to keep these animals at bay.
It's also worth noting that hydrangeas grown under dry conditions may become stressed and produce fewer blooms or become dry and brittle. Hydrangea plants that have been injured by extreme cold or winter storms may struggle to bloom the following season.
In conclusion, meeting the demands for each hydrangea species will often require patience, but healthy hydrangea shrubs will reward the gardener with bountiful blooms for many years. With the right care and attention, these beautiful plants can thrive and bring joy to any garden.
