Where does oakleaf hydrangea grow best?
The species epithet indicates the resemblance of its leaves to that of the oak tree (Quercus). Oakleaf hydrangea grows best in organically rich, well-drained soils with medium moisture. It does well in full sun to part shade, and mulch in the summer helps to keep the soil moist. In southern zones, give them sites with morning sun and protection from intense afternoon rays. Soil – Oakleaf flourishes in rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. In areas with heavy clay, take time to amend your soil at planting time.
What pairs well with oak leaf hydrangea?
Western Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum): Western Sword Ferns thrive in the dappled shade of large trees, making them an ideal companion for oakleaf hydrangeas. Their glossy, dark green fronds provide a striking contrast next to the large, lobed leaves of the hydrangea, creating a visually appealing texture play. Oakleaf hydrangeas bloom best where summers are hot but prefer some afternoon shade. It its more northern range it can be planted in full sun. The greater the sun exposure the more prolific are the blooms and you’ll get the most spectacular fall color.Panicle hydrangea are considered the most cold hardy of the species. They are reliable shrubs or small trees that require minimal fuss for success. Their stout, reddish brown branches are upright to arching, some- times becoming bowed under the weight of the large flowers.Shade-loving hydrangeas thrive in woodland settings, but avoid planting them too close to trees so they don’t have to compete for water. Landscape around them with hostas, native plants or spring-flowering bulbs that emerge before the trees leaf out.Oakleaf varieties are the easiest type of hydrangeas for beginners to grow. Why are oakleaf hydrangeas so easy? They aren’t picky! Oakleaf hydrangeas can tolerate colder weather, handle more sun, withstand drought, are more disease/pest resistant and grow in sandy soil better than other hydrangeas.Hardy Hydrangea Types ARBORESCENS: Called Smooth or Snowball Hydrangeas, Arborescens varieties are low-maintenance high performers with white blooms on new wood. PANICULATA: Panicle or Conical Hydrangeas include tried and true varieties that bloom on new wood and can get quite large.
What not to plant next to hydrangeas?
Hydrangeas thrive in part shade, well-draining soil, and consistent moisture. Plants that are sun-loving, nutrient-hungry, or invasive are incompatible. Common ones include sunflowers, lavender, roses, spring bulbs, herbs, and some trees. Most hydrangeas are pruned in spring, between March and April. Leaving their flower heads on over winter helps protect this year’s new buds from frost by encouraging a barrier of slightly warmer air over them.This timing will vary by region. For instance, in areas with winter freezing and snow, hydrangeas should be planted in early spring or early fall (as soon as summer heat breaks). In warmer regions with mild winters, the window for planting hydrangeas is longer, from fall all the way through to early spring.Under ideal conditions, hydrangeas will bloom all summer long. The flowers will start appearing in your garden in mid to late spring, and can last until the first frost. If you would like to keep the blooms from mid-spring until the frost hits, you can plant a few different varieties to overlap the flowering periods.The rule of thumb for hydrangeas is if they bloom on old wood, cut back immediately after blooming, removing only about 1/3 of the plant. If they bloom on new wood, prune after flowering or in winter.
Are you supposed to cut back oakleaf hydrangeas?
Oakleaf hydrangeas do not need a lot of pruning. If you do not prune them, they will simply grow larger but still look nice. Shrubs can start to look untidy if you do not prune away dead branches or shape them lightly every few years. When to prune hydrangeas. Most pruning is carried out in late winter or early spring. However, climbing hydrangeas are pruned after flowering in summer.There are certain instances when pruning Hydrangeas can be helpful: All dead stems should be removed from hydrangeas every year. After the plants are at least 5 years old, about 1/3 of the older (living) stems can be removed down to the ground each summer. This will revitalize the plant.Alternatively, prune out a few of the oldest, toughest stems annually, cutting right down to the base, to rejuvenate the shrub over a few years. Climbing hydrangea can also be cut back hard in the spring, but this will affect its flowering.Multiply hydrangeas to make more free plants for your garden. Do it between late summer- early autumn. Select healthy, shoots of current season growth, firm and woody at the base. Cut just below a node where the leaves are growing.