Hydrangea paniculata white planting and care in the open field

Do you want to decorate your garden with an unusual shrub? Try planting a hydrangea flower, planting and caring for which in the open field is simple, reproduction and growing of hydrangea can be done even by novice gardeners. You can find a fantastically beautiful flower by reading the description of the variety and considering its combination with other plants in landscape design. In the photo, the hydrangea looks like the queen of the garden.

Varieties and varieties of hydrangea

Hydrangea is an undoubted favorite among flowers in summer cottages. A long flowering period, a variety of shapes and tones attract special attention to it from gardeners and designers; more and more often, various varieties of this perennial are used in landscape design.

Blue hydrangea

Hydrangeas can be spherical, racemose, and white, lilac, red, two-colored in color. The most common in our latitudes is the tree hydrangea. Unpretentious, fairly easy to care for and grow, the plant is recommended for novice gardeners. Several varieties of shrubs have been bred by breeders:

• Bella Anna - a new variety of tree hydrangea, has rather large spherical inflorescences, the crown grows up to three meters in diameter, the color of the petals is from pale pink to purple-pink, blooms throughout the summer season and September;

Bella Anna variety

• "Anabel" - a lush blooming, spreading shrub about 1.5 m high, inflorescences in the form of a ball of snow-white color, blooms in early July and retains its color throughout the summer season until September. After the end of flowering, the leaves of the plant remain bright green throughout the fall. Variety "Anabel" is adapted for wintering, does not require special shelter for the winter, frost-resistant;

"Anabel"

• "Grandiflora" - differs in large crystal-white inflorescences, blooms for 4 months;

"Grandiflora"

• "Invincibel Spirit" - a new variety of hydrangea with pink petals;

"Invisibel Spirit"

• "Sterilis" - a variety with hemispherical, dense, heavy inflorescences, during the flowering period - from July to October - the petals radically change color: from pale green to crystal white.

"Sterilis"

Also, a fairly common perennial variety - Panicle hydrangea, planting and caring for which is quite simple. This flower is attractive with inflorescences of an unusual - paniculate - shape, frost-resistant, is distinguished by its rapid recovery even in unfavorable climatic conditions. An interesting feature of this hydrangea variety is the particularly long flowering period, during which the inflorescence changes its color. Does not need mulching for the winter. The most common varieties of panicle hydrangea are:

• Vanilla Fraze - variety with pale white and pink petals;

"Vanilla Fries"

• "Limelight" - the plant blooms in autumn, differs in large inflorescences of a pale lemon shade;

"Limelight"

• "Pinky Winky" - hydrangea with soft red petals.

"Pinky Winky"

How to plant correctly

Growing hydrangeas in the open field is possible even for novice gardeners. If a hydrangea is chosen for a flower garden, planting and caring for it will never be a burden, they will become favorite activities. The correct location should be chosen for planting the shrub. Hydrangea does not tolerate long shading, the best place to plant it is on the sunny side. Hydrangea propagation is carried out by separate bushes or cuttings. It is recommended to plant a flower in spring (in May) or in autumn (in warm September).

Even a novice gardener can plant a hydrangea.

To plant a hydrangea with a bush in the open field, you need to dig a planting hole about 60 cm deep, about half a meter wide and long. The distance between the bushes is at least 1.5 meters. A flower, growing with proper care, will occupy a much larger area than when planted. The pits should be filled with a special mixture, including peat, sand, soil, humus (1: 1: 2: 2) and fertilizers (landscape design experts recommend combining 20 g of urea, potassium sulphide each, add about 60 g of superphosphate in granules and 10 kg of humus ).

Attention: do not add lime to the soil mixture for hydrangea - it is detrimental to this plant.

When planting, it should be borne in mind that the root collar of the plant should be at ground level. After planting the hydrangea in open ground, it must be watered abundantly.

Tip: For the first two flowering seasons, it is recommended to pick off the inflorescences. The root system of the plant will get stronger and grow, which will subsequently give the bush strength and splendor.

Suitable care

Hydrangea care consists in weeding and loosening the soil around it, organizing a timely and correct watering regime. In addition, to prevent rapid evaporation of moisture, it is recommended to mulch the bush in early summer with peat or sawdust.

Fading flowers must be cut off so that they do not pull strength from the plant.

A perennial needs proper pruning. The plant should be pruned in the spring before the beginning of the growing season, removing old shoots and leaving young and strong ones, shortening them by 3-5 buds. Faded and dried bush inflorescences must be removed. Old perennial bushes must be cut almost at the root, leaving only low stumps, from which young shoots will develop.

Fertilizing and fertilizing hydrangeas

The hydrangea planted in prepared and fertilized soil for the first two years can not be fertilized or fed.
Then the procedure for feeding hydrangeas is as follows:

• in the spring it is necessary to apply a complex fertilizer containing micro- and macroelements (phosphorus, potassium, nitrogen) under each bush;
• the second time in a season, top dressing (potassium sulfate together with superphosphate) is applied during the period when buds appear on the bush;
• a couple of times it is advisable to feed the perennial with diluted chicken droppings or cow dung.

Hydrangea responds very well to feeding

Caution: Excessive fertilization of nitrogen can lead to greening of hydrangea petals and problems with the wintering of the plant.

It should also be borne in mind that hydrangea responds well to lactic acid, therefore it is important when growing it to periodically water the bush with soaked sour bread, milk whey, sour milk, kefir.

Propagation of hydrangea

Like other perennial shrubs, hydrangea can be propagated vegetatively (by cuttings, dividing the bush, layering) and seeds.

To grow shrubs from cuttings, it is necessary to cut the tops of young non-lignified shoots in mid-July and root them in specially prepared soil, consisting of coarse sand and peat. Experts recommend taking measures to increase soil moisture under the cuttings. For this, sphagnum moss is added to it. Cuttings are planted in such soil a little at an angle, at a small (up to 5 cm) distance and provide them with a temperature regime in the range of 16-20 ° C. 4-5 weeks are enough for rooting. After that, the hydrangea is planted in a permanent growing area and provided with proper care.

Propagation of hydrangea by cuttings

When the hydrangea propagates by dividing the bush, part of it is separated, while it is important that there are 2-3 buds on the young shoots, they are dug up and transplanted to a new place.

For the propagation of hydrangeas by layering, it is necessary to bend one of the young shoots of the growing bush to the ground and dig it into a previously dug hole (up to 15-20 cm deep). In order to prevent the shoot from straightening, it can be fixed with staples. Experienced gardeners recommend making an incision on the part of the shoot that will be in the ground to speed up the rooting process. It is necessary to regularly water the branch, it can also be mulched. After the formation of its own root system at the branch, it is separated from the mother bush and planted in a new place.

Propagation of hydrangea by layering

Diseases and pests

As a rule, hydrangea is quite resistant to all sorts of pests and diseases. However, it can also become infected with chlorosis, downy mildew, spider mites, and green leaf aphids can appear on it.

Chlorosis is expressed in a sharp lightening of the leaves of the plant, the loss of their natural color. The reason for its development is the excessive content of lime or humus in the soil. To eliminate chlorosis, it is enough to water the plant with solutions of nitric acid potassium and copper sulfate in turn with an interval of three days.

Hydrangea disease - chlorosis

The cause of hydrangea disease with downy mildew is excess air humidity. For treatment, it is recommended to treat the hardwood surface with a solution of copper sulfate with the addition of soap.

Garlic infusion will help drive aphids from the plant. It is necessary to prepare a garlic infusion (200 g of chopped garlic in a bucket of water, let it brew for 2 days), add laundry soap (40 g) and irrigate the perennial with this infusion every 5-7 days until the aphids are destroyed.

Hydrangea: combination with other plants

In a flower garden or garden, hydrangea is quite effective both by itself and in combination with other flowers. For example, panicle hydrangea looks great next to clumps of purple-leaved barberries, viburnum vesicle. The beauty of the tree-like hydrangea is emphasized by daylilies, sheared barberry, undersized juniper.

Hydrangea in the design of the flower bed

Hydrangea in landscape design

Hydrangea is a fantastically beautiful flower that inspires beautiful compositions in landscaping. Taking into account the climatic conditions, in our latitudes it is recommended to plant a tree-like, paniculate and petiolate hydrangea. Hydrangea looks magical in the photo in large compositions when it grows in the squares, surprising everyone with the size and beauty of its inflorescences.To emphasize the beauty of hydrangea, you can surround it with borders of spirits, cotoneaster, and other shrubs. The hydrangea should be planted in a flower garden in the background so that it does not obscure other plants.

Hydrangea in landscape design

It is not recommended to combine hydrangea with yellow, red, orange flowers. Plants with bluish flowers, needles or leaves can successfully shade a shrub - for example, clematis, cereals, hosts, stunted junipers.
A classic landscape design is the combination of hydrangea with pink phlox with a round shape of inflorescences, thujas, microbiota. Also hydrangea is used in mixborders to create compositions along garden paths, can be grown as a hedge.

Hydrangea is the foundation of a beautiful garden. With proper care, it will delight you for years to come. Experiment with different varieties of this shrub, try to decorate your gazebo with climbing hydrangea, plant a tree-like one along the paths, create a living fence using a paniculata.

Garden hydrangea care: video

Garden hydrangea: photo

Hydrangea paniculata is an unusual plant of amazing beauty, which has many species. It can be grown both at home in large pots and in your garden. Today we will tell you everything about planting and caring for hydrangea paniculata in the open field.

Botanical description

In the wild, panicle hydrangea is found in the form of shrubs and small trees up to 10 m in height. Natural habitats are the southern shores of Sakhalin, China and the islands of Japan. Here hydrangea grows in the form of trees.

In our latitudes, hydrangea also grows well, but not more than 3 m in height. She is accustomed to the heat of the south of the country, and to the frosts of the Urals and Siberia. However, the territory of central Russia, the Moscow region, is especially well suited for its cultivation. With proper care, the bush will add 25-30 cm every year.

The panicle hydrangea in the garden looks very picturesque. Flowering begins in early July and lasts until the first frost. Inflorescences up to 30 cm long in shape resemble panicles. Small flowers grow on them, which can be of 2 types:

• bisexual (small in size, after pollination, the petals quickly fall off);
• sterile (about 3 cm, do not fall off for a long time).

In many species of this plant, the petals change color. At first they are creamy, then gradually turn pink, then turn green or red.

The leaves are oval in shape, rather large - they reach 10-12 cm in length. They have a velvety texture, and there is also a slight pubescence. Leaf plates cover the branches abundantly.

Hydrangea paniculata is considered a long-liver. On average, it grows for about 60 years.

The following varieties of panicle hydrangea are most optimal for growing in our territory:

• Pinky Winky;
• Grandiflora;
• Polar bear;
• Kyushu;
• Tardiva;
• Limelight;
• Vanilla fries;
• Phantom;
• Mega Pearl.

Hydrangea varieties are updated every year. You can always choose a suitable variety and plant it on your site. However, before doing this, be sure to find out whether it is suitable for growing in your climate or not.

Hydrangea propagation occurs by seeds, cuttings and layering. This can be done at home, but keep in mind that planting in open ground will not occur until two years. This is a very time consuming and slow process. It is best to buy ready-made seedlings for planting.

Getting ready for landing

Planting hydrangea paniculata, as well as the subsequent care of it, does not require special skills. The shrub grows quickly, begins to bloom for 2-3 years. But still, you should familiarize yourself with the basic rules in order to properly plant a hydrangea in open ground. These include:

1. Landing site. Choose areas that are sheltered from strong winds and with good lighting.It should be borne in mind that it blooms best in partial shade, that is, it will be great if a shrub or tree grows nearby. Best planted on the east side of the garden.
2. Planting dates for hydrangeas. In cold climates, seedlings should be planted in early May, in southern regions in September.
3. Soil and acidity. Hydrangea grows very well on fertile and clayey soils that are rich in humus. It grows worse on red soil. Sandy soils are completely contraindicated. The optimal acidity index is pH 5.3-6.0. That is, the soil should be slightly acidic, so you can ensure the maximum brightness of the inflorescences. On neutral soil, the inflorescences are pale in color, and the bush grows slowly.
4. Purchase of seedlings. Give preference to seedlings only with a closed root system, as it is less likely that they are susceptible to any diseases. Seedlings can be purchased at garden shops and flower fairs.

Step-by-step instructions for planting a panicle hydrangea

The technology of planting paniculate garden hydrangea is as follows:

1. 2-4 weeks before planting, completely clear the area of ​​plant debris and dig it onto the bayonet of a shovel.
2. Dig holes 40-50 cm deep and 70 * 70 cm wide. If you plan to make a hedge, then dig a solid groove of the same size. The distance between the holes can be from 1 m to 2.5 m - it all depends on the specific variety.
3. Prepare your potting mix. The composition includes leafy land, sod land, peat and humus in equal amounts. Nutrients should also be added there: 25 g of potassium sulfate, 70 g of superphosphate and 25 g of urea. Under no circumstances should you add chalk, lime and wood ash.
4. Fill the planting holes with the prepared potting mix.
5. Dig the holes again after 2-4 weeks. For planting, take seedlings of hydrangea 3-4 years. If they were with open roots, then they should be slightly shortened.
6. Place the seedling on the cone of the potting mix at the required depth and carefully fill the hole. The root collar should be at ground level, a maximum of 1–2 cm lower. Tamp the soil with your palms.
7. Water the bush with 10 liters of warm, settled water and mulch. Sawdust, bark, or peat are good mulches.

Below is a photo of planting hydrangea paniculata:

Garden hydrangea is a heat-loving plant that needs fertile soil and sufficient moisture. If you want to grow a strong and healthy shrub, you shouldn't ignore these instructions.

Care after landing

It is impossible to grow panicle hydrangea without proper care. It includes several factors, each of which will be analyzed in more detail:

1. Watering. Hydrangea is a moisture-loving flower. In the absence of a sufficient amount of moisture, developmental disruption occurs, therefore drought is strictly contraindicated. It is recommended to water 20 liters of water once every 2 weeks, in hot weather - once a week, and in a rainy summer - once a month.

2-3 g of potassium permanganate can be added to the water for irrigation to prevent the development of rot. It should be watered in the near-trunk circle in the morning or in the evening, when the scorching sun is not standing. Do not forget to loosen the soil 5 cm deep after each watering and remove weeds.

2. Mulching. After watering, sprinkle the soil with peat chips or pine needles. This will prevent rapid evaporation of moisture.

3. Top dressing. It should be applied often enough, as the shrub is fast flowering. In the spring, water the hydrangea with a urea solution (20 g per 10 liters of water). Pour in at least 20 liters under large bushes.

At the beginning of the growing season, a good result can be achieved by introducing nettle infusion, and then immediately buckets of water. Add mullein solution every 2 weeks. It is simple to prepare: pour a bucket of manure with 3 liters of water and let it brew for 3 days, after which dilute 1 liter of infusion in 10 liters of water and water the bush.When the first buds appear, add 2 mineral dressings (70 g of superphosphate + 45 g of potassium sulfate per 10 liters of water) with a two-week break between each dressing.

4. Pruning in spring and fall. All varieties of panicle hydrangea need pruning. In November, all dry inflorescences should be cut off so that they do not create additional weight on the branches in winter. In the spring, until sap flow has begun, you should completely get rid of incorrectly located and weak shoots. Frost victims should be pruned to a healthy location. Annual shoots should be shortened by a third. On time and correctly cut hydrangea blooms very profusely.

5. Shelter for the winter. After removing the faded inflorescences, it is necessary to prepare for the winter. Treelike panicle hydrangeas do not need to be covered. They are hardy - simple mulching is enough for them. In the conditions of the Moscow region, the Middle zone, the North-West, Siberia and the Urals, the hydrangea must be covered.

To do this, the bush is spud with soil, and the trunk circle should be mulched with needles, rotted manure or peat. After the branches, bend very carefully to the ground so that they do not break. Cover them with spruce branches, sawdust or dry leaves. Place a box or box on top of the bush. Tie large bushes neatly, make a frame shelter (a kind of "hut") and pour dry foliage there. The winter shelter should be disassembled gradually, you can start in April.

Caring for a hydrangea is not as difficult as it seems at first glance. The main thing is to water and feed on time, then the risk of disease and pests will be minimized. Do not forget about pruning, then lush flowering will be ensured.

Panicle hydrangea is able to fit into any landscape design. From it you can grow a hedge, plant in pairs. It will also look great as a single plant.

Delicate and bright airy hydrangea inflorescences will give the garden its own style and mood of comfort. An ideal option for realizing your design fantasies is panicle hydrangea. In addition to the fact that the plant blooms profusely and is very unpretentious, it lends itself well to formation. Even standard forms can be created from bushes of this type, which will remain for many years. This feature of the panicle hydrangea makes it ideal for decorating any garden area. In this article, we will look at the best flower varieties and talk about the features of growing them outdoors.

Description, photos and types of hydrangeas

To date, there are more than eighty types of hydrangeas, of which more than a hundred hybrid varieties have been bred by breeders. There are erect and curly, evergreen and deciduous, tree-like and dwarf, thermophilic and frost-resistant hydrangeas.

The leaves of the plant can be oval or round, with jagged edges or wavy. Depending on the type and variety, the inflorescences are formed in the form of a panicle, cone, umbrella or ball. At the edges of each inflorescence are sterile flowers with four petals, and in the center are fruiting flowers. Hydrangea blooms for a long time with white, red, lilac, blue, purple, bright crimson or deep pink flowers... Their palette can have transitional shades or consist of two colors.

The most popular hydrangea is large-leaved with globular inflorescences, which in the 18th century came from Japan to Europe, where it made a sensation. This plant was grown only at home, as it was thermophilic. Since then, breeders have developed the widest selection of varieties and types of hydrangeas that are hardy and can grow in open ground in almost any latitude.

Hydrangeas: species and varieties for Russian gardens

In the gardens of our climatic zone, hydrangeas are widespread and winter well: tree, paniculate and serrate.

Treelike or wild hydrangea is a bush up to 2.5 meters high with pointed leaves and huge dense inflorescences of different colors. The species is considered winter-hardy and unpretentious, due to which it is widely used for decorating garden plots in the middle latitudes of our country. She does not need shelter, prefers semi-shady and shady areas.

Serrated hydrangea is medium-sized tree-like spreading shrub up to one and a half meters high... Its bright green oval leaves are pointed towards the top. Inflorescences in the form of a ball consist of blue flowers. The brightness of their color depends on the acidity of the soil. Fading, the petals turn pink. The serrata hydrangea flowers bloom in mid-summer and bloom until September. The species is suitable for growing in the middle zone of our country, but requires shelter for the winter. Loves moderate watering and tolerates any transplants well.

Panicle hydrangea is an incredibly beautiful plant and is one of the most popular species in garden culture. A small tree in the open field will grow from two to five meters. Cold resistance is given to it by shoots, which quickly grow stiff. The pubescent leaves up to 12 cm long are elliptical. Panicle-shaped inflorescences are composed of fragrant flowers that are excellent honey plants. Flowering begins in June and lasts until frost. The species is suitable for cultivation in the central and northern part of Russia, since without shelter it can withstand frosts down to -25C. Hydrangea paniculata has a large number of various varieties, among which it can be noted:

1. Variety "Grandiflora" - it is a massive shrub with oblong velvety leaves and large, white inflorescences that turn pink over time. On fertile, light and well-moistened soils, it grows up to two meters. Does not like strong winds, but tolerates frosts well.
2. Variety "Vanilla Fries" is a spreading bush up to two meters high. The lush buds are composed of white flowers that later turn bright pink. It begins to bloom late. Loves light and moisture. It easily tolerates severe frosts.
3. Variety "Great Star" it is distinguished by oval shiny leaves and small inflorescences with large flowers. Their four petals create a propeller-like appearance and bloom in the second half of summer. The variety is frost-resistant, but requires shelter for the winter.
4. Variety "Bobo" refers to dwarf forms that do not grow up to one meter. Blooms in the second half of summer with lush inflorescences of pink, white and light yellow shades. For the winter it is mulched with leaves. Suitable for decorating flower beds and small front gardens.
5. Variety "Unique" grows up to two meters and decorates gardens with its exquisite appearance. The sprawling bush is covered with boiling-white inflorescences, which turn pink by the end of flowering. Young plants take cover for the winter.
6. Variety "Phantom" is such a profusely flowering shrub that, due to its large white inflorescences and creamy flowers, almost no leaves are visible. To make the flowering even more magnificent, in the spring the shoots are cut shortly.

Different varieties of hydrangea paniculata

Planting hydrangeas in open ground

Hydrangeas are planted in well-lit areas without direct sunlight. They grow best in partial shade on well-drained, loamy, structural soils. The soil should have an acidic or neutral reaction, since on alkaline soils the plant gets sick, grows poorly and practically does not bloom from a lack of iron.

The planting of flower seedlings is done just before the buds are set. A mixture of manure and bone meal is introduced into the holes prepared according to the size of the root system or ready-made feed for hydrangeas. The plant is carefully removed from the container and, together with an earthen lump, is placed in the hole. The roots are covered with soil and pressed slightly.After planting, the hydrangea must be watered abundantly.

The color of flowers directly depends on the acidity of the soil. To obtain bright blue inflorescences, aluminum salts are added to the alkaline soil. In acidic soil, pink flowers can be obtained after adding limestone.

Panicle hydrangea: care

The shrub is unpretentious, therefore, special knowledge and skills are not required when caring for it. Translated from Greek, the name of the flower means "a vessel with water", which speaks of the main conditions of its life. Therefore, it is necessary to water the hydrangea often and abundantly. The ground should be constantly wet, but so. So that there is no stagnation of water in it.

To facilitate care when planting moss or hydrogel can be added to the hole along with the root system... They are able to retain moisture and prevent the soil from drying out during the hot season.

Fertilizing hydrangea

When caring for a plant, one should not forget about its fertilization, on which active growth and flowering depend. Three dressings are made during the season:

1. In the spring, at the beginning of the growing season of the plant, the bushes are fed with nitrogen fertilizers. Young bushes are fertilized a few days after planting.
2. Before flowering, around June, nitrogen fertilizers are again applied.
3. In September, when the plant begins to bloom, the garden hydrangeas are fed with potassium salt.

Pruning bushes

Pruning shrubs is a very important part of maintenance, as improperly done shrub can damage the shrub or lead to poor flowering.

Features of hydrangea pruning:

1. Old inflorescences are removed until healthy and strong buds.
2. In hydrangea paniculata last year's shoots are cut off only by a third.
3. Too densely spaced and weak branches are cut under the root.
4. In relatively mild climates, pruning is recommended before the start of the active growing season in the spring. This is due to the fact that dried hydrangea inflorescences not only look beautiful in the winter garden, but also protect new buds from frost.

Preparing hydrangea paniculata for winter

Frost-resistant shrub survives frosts well. However, in regions with harsh winters, it must be sheltered. Frozen shoots in the spring quickly recover and grow back, so you can only cover the root system. For this, the base around the bush is earthed up and covered with mulch.

In winters with temperatures below -35C, the whole bush is insulated... Adult plants are bound and wrapped in spunbond or lutrasil. Then a frame is built around them, the inside of which is filled with dry foliage or straw. Young plants are pressed to the ground and covered with roofing material, which is pressed down with bricks or boards.

Caracas is removed from the bushes in April, and the covering material only after the last frosts have passed.

Reproduction of hydrangea paniculata

Reproduction is carried out in three ways:

• layering;
• cuttings;
• shifts.

Cuttings

When pruning the plant, there are sections of shoots that can be rooted. To do this, they are first put in water for several days, and then cuttings are cut. In a soil consisting of sand and peat, cuttings are planted two-thirds of the entire length... The container is covered with polyethylene and placed in a cool place. Cutting care involves keeping the soil moist. It shouldn't dry out. Thus, the cuttings are rooted and stored until spring. Young plants planted in open ground must take shelter for the winter for three years.

Green cuttings cut in summer are rooted in an earthen mixture with a top layer of sand. The twigs should not reach the peat.

Reproduction by layering

To get a young plant, a depression is made in the soil next to a large bush. The soft young shoot is bent down and sprinkled with a layer of earthen mixture. Placed next to the support to which the middle part of the retracted shoot is tied... It will be possible to separate the young plant from the mother bush only after the twig gives roots and begins to grow. This will not happen earlier than in a year.

In order for cuttings and shoots to take root well and quickly, it is recommended to use a growth stimulator when rooting.

Seed reproduction

Species hydrangeas reproduce by seeds. Sowing is carried out in autumn in seedling containers filled with an earthen mixture consisting of leafy soil, peat and coarse sand (4: 2: 1). The seeds are sprinkled with a small layer of soil and moistened with a spray bottle. In order for the seedlings to sprout together, it is recommended to cover the containers with foil or glass. The mini greenhouse is placed in a warm place with an air temperature of 14-20C. The film or glass must be removed for half an hour every day, ventilating the substrate. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that it is always wet.

The first shoots appear no earlier than a month later. The film is immediately removed, and the containers are placed in a well-lit place... When the first true leaves appear, the seedlings dive for the first time. The second time they sit in separate pots at the end of spring.

As soon as young plants get stronger, they need to start hardening. On warm days, the bushes are exposed to fresh air in a place protected from direct sunlight, wind and rain. So that young plants are not weakened by flowering, the buds that appear are removed. In open ground, the hydrangea grown from seeds is planted only two years after sowing.

In the garden of a real owner, who will love the plant and take care of it with pleasure, panicle hydrangea will surely take root and give the flower garden a unique look.

Garden hydrangea - planting and care in the open field of a gorgeous beauty!

Hydrangea has received recognition from flower growers and designers due to the variety and long life span of its amazing inflorescences, their colors and shapes. The plant, blooming with pink and blue balls, was first discovered by members of the first round-the-world expedition from France on the island of Mauritius back in the 18th century, where it came from China. The appearance of the name is allegedly associated with the name of the sister of the Prince of Nassau-Siegen, one of the participants, the future Russian admiral. This beautiful princess of the Holy Roman Empire was called Hortense.

There is another interpretation of the origin of the name of the flower - "hortensis" (from the garden). This allegedly points to the location of the discovery of a colorful bush - the garden of the Mauritian governor. In Japan, the hydrangea is called "adzisai", that is, "a flower like a violet sun."

However, there is also a more prosaic version of the scientific name - Hydrangea, which is based on the moisture-loving property of the flower. Indeed, translated from the Greek language it means "a vessel with water" (water - hydor, vessel - aggeion). Many explain the presence in the name of the "vessel" by the similarity of seed pods to jugs and the need for a container for sufficient watering.

Today hydrangea has spread all over the world from Asia, the Far East to America. Over these more than two centuries, it has been enriched in different types and forms.

Description of hydrangea with photo

The plant belongs to the flowering genus of the Hortensia family. It has more than 70 species, of which more than 100 hybrid varieties have been bred. Now you can see them as erect shrubs and climbing vines, deciduous / evergreen small trees, frost-hardy and thermophilic. At the same time, wide, rounded bushes and tree-like varieties reach 3 m in height, and vines - about 30 m.

This profusely blooming "vessel with water" is capable of wintering in the open field in different latitudes. It has large, oppositely located oval-shaped leaves with a pointed tip, denticles along the edges and barely visible veins. They colorfully surround the flowers, forming the unity of the composition.

Particularly noteworthy is the characteristic of bright, airy, delicate flowers with various colors, pleasing from mid-summer to late autumn. Inflorescences at the ends of the shoots, resembling balls, umbrellas, shields or panicles (brushes), densely cover the entire plant. Flower heads are of 2 types:

• large sterile, called sterile, located at the edges of the inflorescences;
• small fertile (fertile), growing in the middle.

Most species are white, and some are red, pink, blue, lilac. The palette of inflorescences can be one-two-ton or have different transitional shades. At the end of flowering, the hydrangea produces fruits in the form of 2-5 separate capsules with many small seeds.

Types and varieties of hydrangea

Of the whole variety of colors, we offer you to get acquainted with the species most adapted to our conditions.

Panicle hydrangea

Panicle hydrangea are the most suitable for central Russia and, in particular, the Moscow region. Actually, it most often grows in old gardens. Its shrubs, reaching heights of up to 10 m, can also be found on the outskirts of forests overgrown with oak forests. An interesting feature of the variety is its unusual shape, quick recovery in an unfavorable climate, and frost resistance. A shrub on moist fertile land can live up to 60 years.

It has slightly pubescent large ovoid (elliptical) long leaves (about 12 cm), especially powerful in the lower part of the plant. This gives a special crown density.

It justifies its name by the presence of wide-pyramidal panicles of large flowers. They grow up to 25 cm and are excellent honey plants. At the beginning of flowering (June), it has a white color of small petals, which gradually turn pink, sometimes turn purple, and at the end (October) acquire a greenish range. Such changes are typical for all its varieties. After flowering, fruit-boxes appear, in which a large number of small seeds ripen with 95% viability.

Her most popular varieties:

• Vanilla Freise is a tall bush (up to 2 m) with a large conical inflorescence of strawberry-pink tone. Its reduced copy, up to 1.2 m high, is the Sundae Fraise variety.

• Pinky Winky has a conical openwork sterile inflorescence with red petals. Height - up to 2 m.
• Limelight is a "discoverer" of dense sterile inflorescences. Initially, they have a soft lemon with a transition to a greenish color, and by the end of the season they become pinkish. Its height reaches almost 2 m. It is distinguished by its late autumn flowering. Has a low (up to 1 m) copy - Little Light.

• Phantom is a tall, large bush (more than 2 m) with a spreading crown. Looks harmoniously with large inflorescences, first in a creamy white palette, and "goodbye" - in pink. In terms of the size of its inflorescences, it is considered the record holder among similar ones.

• Grandiflora with pyramidal large late inflorescences, changing colors from cream, white, pink to salad, red. Their length reaches up to 30 cm. Its crown can grow up to 3 m wide.
• Matilda has a rounded crown, dull green leaves. Flowers, like grandiflora, are subject to a metamorphosis of tones.

Other varieties of paniculate species are also widespread, namely: Brussels Leys, Kiushu, Pink Diamond, Presox, Floribunda.

Tree hydrangea

Treelike hydrangea, native to the North of the United States, is fast growing, winter hardy, and more commonly known as white globular / bushy. It takes root well in the cold climate of the Urals and Siberia on moist soil saturated with lime. However, with very frosty winters, there is a threat of freezing.

This species appears to be a short shrub, growing up to 2.5 m. Its large opposite leaves on several drooping shoots are ovoid / elliptical in shape with serrated edges and a heart-shaped notch.They are distinguished by juicy green on top and bluish on the back. Due to their size and original shape, the leaves create a rounded, luxurious crown.

Globular / hemispherical inflorescences are also quite large (up to 20 cm in diameter) and are located on annual young shoots at the very end. Their flowers (large sterile, small fertile) grow in a chaotic manner. Until full blooming, the inflorescences have a pale green tint, and when opened, they turn into cream, milky, and then white.

These transformations begin 4 years after planting the bush in early July and before the onset of cold weather. Flowering ends with the formation of fruits with a miniature seed capsule about 3 mm in size.

The most famous varieties of this species are:

• Anabel is a low (up to 1.5 m) sprawling rounded shrub covered with a snow-white “cap” of large sterile flowers. The adaptability to cold weather is evidenced by the leaves, which retain their bright greenery until the beginning of winter. The variety does not require any shelter from frost and snow at all.

• Sterilis with its inflorescences resembles Grandiflora, but differs in the oval shape of large leaves. Despite the ability to freeze, it can quickly recover after pruning at the root already at the beginning of spring.
• Hayes Starburst is the first variety of undersized tree hydrangea with double inflorescences. During flowering, these low bushes are colored at first with delicate salad tones, and then with snow-white. From their abundance, thin shoots without supports can break, not withstanding such a weight.

• Radiant is a kind of transitional variety from a tree-like to a large-leaved type of hydrangea. It is also called "garden". It has decorative large foliage with a green top and a white felt edge below. In windy weather, it amazes with its mesmerizing overflows. In July, it throws out corymbose inflorescences with many white sterile flowers.

Other varieties

Other varieties are represented by plants such as:

• Large-leaved (garden) hydrangea came to Europe from Japan over 200 years ago. Its difference from the rest is a variety of colors from monochromatic to numerous mixes. If the homeland endowed the large-leaved beauty with thermophilicity, then the Europeans created frost-resistant varieties and species. They can now be grown in gardens and parks at all latitudes. This hydrangea can be seen both in gardens, greenhouses and along various roads. In the subtropics, it can grow up to 4 m in height, and as it moves to cooler places - no more than 2 m. The ability to withstand winter low temperatures makes it most acceptable for Siberia, the Urals, the Moscow region.

It has erect shoots covered with bright green, ovoid leaves. Remarkable are rather wide (up to 25 cm in diameter) spherical flowers at the tips of the shoots. They differ in a varied palette (red, yellow, pink, purple, purple).

Unlike garden species, it, as one of the few, can be grown not only outdoors, but also indoors. The advantages include ease of maintenance. Growing success here can be achieved not only by ass flower growers, but also by beginners.

Among the large-leaved varieties, such hydrangeas are especially recognized: Forever & Ever, Alpengluchen, Red Baron, Shimnebol, Endless Summer, Expression, Romance, Together.

• Blue hydrangeas are quite unusual representatives of large-leaved ones. This group gets its name from the color of the flowers. Its saturation and combination largely depends on the properties of the soil. Blueness is caused by the accumulation of aluminum released from acidic soils. Therefore, experimental florists can "repaint" them arbitrarily. As if the heavens in the form of rounded inflorescences fell on their spreading crowns of short stature.

However, when choosing these hydrangeas, you should pay attention to the survival rate of such plants in our climate. Most of them do not always perceive severe frosts. Therefore, blue hydrangeas are the best option for growing in greenhouses for further planting in open ground.

Nevertheless, breeders today have bred blue hydrangeas Endless Samme, Foreve Ewe, more adapted to the harsh climate, with remontant flowering. Here you can also name such varieties as: Kumiko, Niko Blues, Mini Penny, Ramars, Freedom, Compento, Perfeshi, Honkori Blue, Jomari.

• Petiolate (curly, liana-shaped), which is closely related to plants from the genus Schizophragmatic. In the wild (Primorye, China, Korea, Japan), it can reach a height of up to 25 m. Therefore, when grown vertically on plots, it needs support, and without these it can be used for decorative soil cover.

These features are due to the presence of a mass of aerial roots with suction cups, which help it to anchor on the surface of the support or the ground. On the long stalks of this vine, there are wide dark green leaves with multi-colored fragrant corymbose inflorescences up to 25 cm in diameter. So they make it a magnificent "green blanket". And she is also a wonderful honey plant.

Varieties and types of hydrangeas: video

3>Where and when to plant hydrangea outdoors

1. The planting site for all species of these light-loving plants is determined by the degree of its openness and illumination. Therefore, it should be moderately sunny, without drafts. Flowers do not tolerate direct rays at the very peak of the heat. The best option is the east side with morning sun rays. Constant light partial shade results in fewer inflorescences and later flowering. Sliding partial shade in the afternoon is suitable for colored hydrangea flowers.
2. The soil should be loose, fertile, clayey with humus and an acidity level (pH) of 5 to 6. This is important, since the gamut of flowers largely depends on the pH of the soil (pH). On neutral soil, the petals are pale beige; alkaline - lilac, pink; sour - blue.

Red earth is less suitable and sandy soils are absolutely contraindicated. Acidic soils promote vibrant colors; neutral - retardation of development, color fading; alkaline - blanching leaves, chlorosis.

1. Landing time. For regions with a cold climate, early spring (early May) is suitable with already warmed up soil and no threat of frost at night. This allows the plants to take root, transfer the first wintering after transplanting. In more southern areas, hydrangea is planted in autumn in September.

Landing technology

Its observance consists in determining:

1. distance between seedlings. Between large-leaved hydrangea, space is needed from 120 to 160 cm, and from neighbors of other plants (shrubs, trees) - up to 300 cm. For early flowering, the distance is reduced to 80 cm, and after 2-3 years the plants are thinned out;

• the size of the landing pit. For the unhindered development of the root system, it should be more than 0.5 m wide and 35 to 45 cm deep;
• planting depth so that the root collar is located at or not below the soil level up to 3 cm.

We plant step by step:

• we dig the desired hole 20-30 days before planting;
• We fill the hole with a pre-prepared soil mixture. It consists of humus, leaf / sod land, peat / humus (in equal proportions) We also add urea (carbamide), potassium sulfate (1 tablespoon each), superphosphate / bone meal (up to 250 g). You can also use the ground dug under the conifers;
• we shorten the annual shoots of the plant by 3-4 buds;
• we place it in the formed cone of the mixture in the middle of the pit to the desired depth, carefully fill it up and compact the soil;
• water abundantly (up to 12 liters of water);
• mulch with sawdust, bark or peat;
• shade from the sun and wind.

Hydrangea care

After planting, the correct flower cultivation is as follows:

1. Watering is extremely necessary for this moisture-loving plant. It is not for nothing that this is a "vessel with water"! Even the slightest drying out of the soil can disrupt its development. In a dry, hot season, it is necessary to “water” it weekly with soft (rain) water up to 20 liters. In wet weather, rainy summer, you can water up to 5 times per season. Dry autumn requires additional watering. After all, the consequence of moisture deficiency can be a decrease in winter hardiness. For preventive purposes, when watering, you need to add up to 3 g of potassium permanganate. Watering time is morning. To retain moisture, the plant is mulched.
2. Loosening of the soil around the hydrangea shrub is carried out regularly (after watering) to a depth of 10 cm. The minimum amount of loosening for oxygen access to the root system is at least 3 times per season.
3. Fertilization / top dressing when planting in the proposed potting mix is ​​not required for the first couple of years. Then you need to do this in this order:

• in the spring, after pruning, the introduction of macro- and microelements (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus);
• early summer - complex fertilizer without calcium and chlorine;
• at the first budding - feeding with superphosphate and potassium sulfate;
• at the end of August, potassium sulfate is introduced;
• fertilization with diluted manure (chicken / cow) - no more than 2 times for the whole season.

Feeding hydrangeas with lactic acid (sour milk, whey, kefir, sour bread) is very effective.

Remember! Excessive application of nitrogen leads to weak flowering, the occurrence of rot, problems during the wintering of perennials. A sense of proportion should be also when fertilizing with organic matter, mineral salts. Feeding with wood ash is excluded.

1. Hydrangea pruning is carried out depending on its age, season, goals. Pruning in all cases is carried out in the spring with swelling of the buds. Let us briefly dwell on these main points.

Youngsters need this for the formation of growths, stimulating the process of flower formation. To prepare for a lush flowering for the future, you need to remove the buds still the size of a pea for the first 2 years after planting, or to pick off all the inflorescences. In order to regulate the height, density, it is necessary to prune the plant in the spring (April-May). And if we are talking about the so-called cosmetic pruning here, then the older plants need to be sanitary.

Shrubs aged more than 3 years "rejuvenate" by "freeing" space for the growth of new ones (removing all dried shoots, some of the old ones, shortening them by 5 buds). These "old people" can also be cut off "at the root", forming low stumps, from which new growth will begin to develop.

Compliance with these basic rules allows growers to avoid common mistakes. This is a careless attitude towards obsolete shoots or too fanatical removal of those still worth living.

Growing hydrangea, tips: video

3>Preparing for winter

Begins already with the first light frosts in the second half of October. This involves cutting off faded inflorescences. Otherwise, under the weight of snow, they can provoke the breaking of branches. In a harsh winter climate, experienced florists also practice sheltering young seedlings like clematis and grapes.

Attention! In the Central lane, the Moscow region, Siberia, in the Urals and the North-West, the paniculate, tree-like hydrangea must be covered.

Plants with insufficient winter hardiness can be transplanted into pots / flowerpots and removed. In particular, large-leaved plants must be dug up, transplanted into another container and transferred to the greenhouse, and then to the basement. Before that, it is necessary to remove all the leaves from the bush and leave only the buds of inflorescences located at the tips of the branches and a couple of leaves that protect them. Then the branches are tied with elastic fabric in bunches of 3-4 pieces.They are carefully bent very close to the ground, secured with staples and covered with agrofibre / burlap before the onset of cold weather.

On the eve of frost, instead of this shelter, the bundles are covered with dry compost, peat. Since frost is more dangerous for the tips of the shoots than the bases of the bush, the latter is sprinkled only a little. Further protection of the shelter consists in pulling the covering material over the set arcs.

This design (except for the ends) is covered with a film and remains until spring arrives. Open sides are a kind of "insurance" against the appearance of condensation inside it, hydrangea damping out.

From about mid-March, the film, the shelter material, is removed, the mulch is raked and again covered with burlap. After the frosts leave, the shelter is removed completely.

Diseases and the fight against them

In general, hydrangea is a fairly healthy plant, but it is difficult for it to resist some pests and sores. Their diseases can be triggered by an overabundance of soil components, an attack by aphids, spider mites, green leaf aphids, powdery mildew.

So, an overabundance of humus in the ground, lime leads to the loss of leaves of their color (chlorosis). For its treatment, plants should be watered with solutions of copper sulfate and potassium nitrate (after 3 days each).

With waterlogging of the air, the soil can be affected by powdery mildew. It can be eliminated by treating the leaves with a soap solution with the addition of copper sulfate.

Hydrangea is often damaged by green leafy aphids, which can be disposed of with infused garlic. It is prepared for 20 liters of water in the following composition: chopped garlic (200 g), laundry soap (40 g). After insisting for two days, they need to irrigate the bush until the aphids disappear (about 7 days).

However, many health problems of this beauty can be avoided with competent agricultural technology.

Healthy, colorful hydrangea can be a striking accent in landscaping. It gives room for the imagination of florists when creating various compositions. Experiments with different types and varieties of hydrangea make it possible to transform the living space into a marvelous garden of colors and aromas.

Garden hydrangea: planting and care in the open field

Today we will tell you about such a flower as garden hydrangea, planting and care in the open field. The time has already come for bird songs and bright colors. Everything around is becoming juicy - green, the first flowers are slowly beginning to appear, and everything takes on a completely different look. And what have you prepared for yourself.

Spring is the time of flowers, it is a well-deserved title of this season. Our advice is to plant a beautiful hydrangea in your garden.

We think that few people do not know what this stunningly beautiful flower looks like, but for not particularly informative gardeners, let's get to know it better.

Well, for starters, it should be noted that the history of the emergence of hydrangea is quite long, so we will focus on the most important and interesting. So, hydrangea is quite an adult flower, according to some sources its age is about seventy million years. Just imagine. This wonderful plant moved to Europe from North America, at that time it was a variety of "Treelike hydrangea", which was discovered by a self-taught farmer - John Bertrand and it was in 1732.

A little later, in 1776, Dr. Karl Peter - Thunberg from Sweden was an employee of one of the Danish firms, which was located in the Japanese Islands. But since it was illegal to conduct scientific activities at that time on the territory of a foreign state, he came up with a cunning plan. To get to the meadows of the island, he bought a goat in one of the villages and, under the pretext that the animal needed food, sent his assistant along with the goat to study the flora.

Here the "Large-leaved hydrangea" was discovered.Ironically, after a long time, a German doctor named Phillip Franz von Siebold worked for the same company. He was not so smart and was almost executed for having maps with the image of the Japanese state, but he miraculously managed to escape, instead he was imprisoned and was later expelled from the country. On his return to Holland, he contrived to bring with him a couple of plants, among which was also the "Panicle Hydrangea". And about garden hydrangea (planting and care in the open field) read a little below

In 1798, the hydrangea was officially brought to the European continent from China and planted in a park called Kew, and the variety planted was named after Joseph Banks, who actually opened this park.

In different countries, hydrangea was taken in different ways, for example, in England in the 18th century it did not become very popular, but at an exhibition in France, on the contrary, the plant attracted the attention of gardeners so much that they created a whole plan for its breeding. A little later, they became interested in hydrangea in Belgium, Germany and Switzerland.

Breeders from these countries have set themselves the task of developing the perfect hydrangea variety. And here, the bred hydrangea with round flowers pushed its predecessors, who came from North America. A variety with small flowers was bred and they began to forget about large varieties. The new species was named Grandiflora tree hydrangea. However, time does not stand still, and fashion tends to return, and currently there is an increase in demand for varieties of large flowers.

Be sure of one thing, planting a luxurious hydrangea in the garden, you will not regret it, it can please your eye before the cold weather, is unpretentious in care, it feels great in the open field, but at the same time it gives all its beauty without a trace. This is one of those plants that every self-respecting gardener should have in his garden, since the main goal is to create beauty around, and hydrangea in this matter occupies one of the leading places.

Hydrangea is an ornamental shrub.

There are a fairly large number of hydrangea species, which mostly grow in China and Japan, and many varieties of this plant can also be found in Russia, mainly on the Kuril Islands and Sakhalin.

Gardeners, on the other hand, make a choice in favor of the following types of plants:

• "Tree hydrangea";
• "Large-leaved hydrangea";
• "Panicle hydrangea";
• "Hortense Bretschneider";
• "Ash hydrangea";
• "Serrated hydrangea".
• Hydrangea has simple large oval leaves, flowers are of two types:
• Fertile;
• Barren.

The color scheme depends on the selected variety, however, cream-colored flowers are more common. At the beginning of its flowering and at the end, hydrangea flowers acquire a greenish tint.

Treelike hydrangea is a shrub capable of reaching a height of up to three meters, this species is native to North America. In Russian gardens, it is better known as "white bush hydrangea". The flowers of this species are fertile, initially having a greenish tint, and after full blooming, a white or cream color appears. The inflorescences themselves can reach a diameter of up to 20 centimeters.

The panicle hydrangea is considered one of the best decorative species in our gardens. Grown as a bush, this species is quite resistant to cold weather. Flowering occurs quite late, but intensively, the inflorescences themselves are in the form of pyramids, the flowers are white. The flowering period begins around June. In the autumn, the flowers turn pinkish.

Large-leaved hydrangea or as it is often called "garden hydrangea" (planting and care in the open field, see below). The adapted plant reaches a height of up to a meter. The leaves are bright green.The shoots become stiff the next year, this is the reason that this species is not resistant to cold weather. Depending on the land in which this hydrangea variety is planted, it gets color. It can be bright pink flowers or, on the contrary, blue. In order to obtain this shade, the soil is processed. Inflorescences can be spherical and large or viburnum.

Hydrangea paniculata or hydrangea "Limlight" sleeping reach a height of up to two meters, there is also a reduced version of this variety "Littleleim", its height does not exceed one meter. This variety is characterized by inflorescences consisting of sterile flowers, the color is greenish, turning into pink by the end of flowering. Also, in this form, the Phantom variety should be distinguished. The height of the bush is about two and a half meters. Inflorescences are large enough, pyramidal in shape.

These are the species that are more common in our gardens, so we dwelled on their characteristics in more detail. In total, there are about 75 species of hydrangea. In this article, we decided to pay special attention to the "garden hydrangea".

It is necessary to plant hydrangea in early spring, but if you did not have time, then it is worth postponing the planting to autumn. If you live in an area with a cool climate, then choose spring time for planting seedlings. This will help them to harden well and become more resilient after the transplant. As for the soil itself, you must pick it up in advance. It should be acidic enough and well moisturized. As for the light, both the sunny side and partial shade will do, but intense heat will not work for the hydrangea.

Interesting articles:

Garden hydrangea is planted in open ground in the form of seedlings, they do not require special care for themselves. To begin with, we prepare holes, the size of which should be at least 30 centimeters deep, and at least 50 centimeters wide, the size of the hole should correspond to the size of the crown. It is necessary to add fertilizers to them (use both mineral and organic fertilizers), then sand and sod soil, all this is mixed and sprinkled with a peat layer on top.

 

Before planting, you need to shorten the roots of the seedlings a little; it is not recommended to deepen them. An already planted bush must be watered immediately, add humus. If you plant hydrangea in the spring, you will need to shorten the shoots by several buds. The distance between the bushes should be at least one meter. Urea is also an excellent fertilizer before planting; superphosphate; organic; potassium sulfate. Let's listen if you plant a hydrangea in this way, it will not need feeding for another couple of years.

Planting garden hydrangea seedlings in autumn in open ground is suitable for a warm climate, it is necessary to care for it in the same way as usual, however, in the conditions of our territorial location, spring is more suitable.

For example, take the Urals, planting a garden hydrangea in the fall to wait for a good result is pointless, the seedlings should get into the open ground in early spring, care is needed not so much for the plant as it is important to prepare the planting pit.

You should also understand that planting a hydrangea directly into open ground is wrong, it is just as important as planting it in the spring, if you are a resident of the Urals, the plant will freeze.

Before planting a garden hydrangea in open ground, it is necessary to sow seeds for the seedlings to emerge, since we found out that the cool climate of the Urals is not suitable for planting seeds directly into the soil, first they must be sent to containers, for the seeds you just need to prepare the correct soil and cover them with glass ...

Then the grown seedlings of garden hydrangea are transplanted into open ground, it is necessary to take care of them periodically by mulching the soil, under the description, you can see in the photo a beautiful flower grown in the Urals, this means that with the correct process of breeding a plant, even in such climatic conditions it is possible to grow such a beauty.

Let's take a closer look at the process of planting seedlings in open ground and caring for them, for this, in addition to step-by-step instructions, we have prepared a training video.

As we indicated above, the holes should be large enough, their diameter will directly depend on the height of the plant and on the structure of the soil.Sign up with humus, it is necessary for hydrangeas, you will also need peat and fertilizers of organic and mineral composition.

Before transferring the seedling to the hole, check for broken roots, they must be cut off, place the roots at the base of the entire hole, do not make a strong deepening of the root system. Strengthen the soil well in order to protect the roots from drying out. Water the seedling well, hydrangea loves moisture and moist soil very much, so it should be saturated with water almost half a meter deep.

It is imperative to mulch the soil under the bush. This will make it possible to additionally oxidize the soil, and as we have already found out, hydrangea loves acidic soil. It is good to carry out this procedure in late spring.

In order for the hydrangea to delight you with the correct development and splendor of flowers, it is necessary to feed it with fertilizers containing iron and magnesium. Accordingly, such fertilizers are used before transplanting the bush into open soil and during the growth of the plant. Feed your hydrangea also in the bark of spring or early summer. A mixture of poultry manure with water and mineral fertilizers is well suited.

It is advisable to prune the hydrangea every year, so you can control the growth process and the size of the flowers. The number of inflorescences will certainly decrease, but they will add in volume. It is better to cut the shoots of hydrangea at the very beginning of the spring period.

In winter, it is recommended to cover the circle around the trunk of the plant with sawdust or straw, also peat and your own fallen leaves. This will help save the hydrangea from frost.

As for the defeat of hydrangea by pests and diseases, then oddly enough, but it is quite resistant to such problems of the plant world. Species grown in closed soil are more often affected. The only thing you need to know is that hydrangea does not tolerate a large amount of lime in the soil, so when you add humus, do not overdo it, otherwise it can cause chlorosis of the plant.

The same rules for planting a garden hydrangea in open ground and caring for it must be adhered to if you decide to plant, for example, in Siberia, the hydrangea does not like direct sunlight, but this does not mean that it prefers cold, the plant is quite thermophilic.

As for the northwestern territory of our large homeland, we still recommend planting garden hydrangea seedlings in open ground in the spring, as for caring for the plant, everything is the same as above.

Well, we sorted out with planting a garden hydrangea in open ground and taking care of it, now we propose to understand how its reproduction takes place. There are several ways:

• division of bushes;
• cuttings;
• seeds;
• vaccinations.

For propagation by the cuttings method, mainly annual shoots from the sides of a small size are used, they must be cut off in the middle of summer. In order for the cuttings to take root, a substrate of peat and sand is used, which must first be thoroughly rinsed. The cuttings sink into the substrate about three centimeters deep, and they grow stronger after a month.

If you decide to use the method of dividing the bush for the propagation of hydrangeas, then in late spring or early autumn you need to dig up the plant and divide it into several parts, make sure that each of them has at least three buds.

As for the seed propagation method, this is a very troublesome task. They are sown in wooden boxes, the soil should be sour, the seeds are placed on it and sprinkled with a layer of sand, and periodically should be watered. By the onset of autumn, the seeds should turn into seedlings.

h3>Hydrangea color features

When planting a hydrangea in open ground, as well as during its cultivation, the question arises what shade it will acquire, it depends on how you care for the soil, but in the photo you see that a hydrangea can be pink, white, cream or blue tint.

The most important thing that determines the color of future hydrangea flowers is the soil, and to be more precise, the level of its acidity. With a slight oxidation of the earth, we get a pinkish tint of flowers. And they acquire a blue or even blue color if the soil, on the contrary, is well oxidized. If you planted a variety with white flowers, then the acidity level will not affect the shade of the plant.

If you want to get blue flowers, then water the hydrangea bush with a solution of iron salts to get a bluer shade, compact iron small plates in the soil under the bush.

It is also possible that on one bush you can see both pink inflorescences and blue ones. This is possible if the plant is not completely saturated with iron. White and creamy inflorescences have a greenish tint at the beginning of their flowering, and this shade is also characteristic of them at the end of flowering.

Even if at one time hydrangea did not deserve great popularity, but now its time has come, if you are an experienced gardener or florist, you probably already noticed that most decorators use lush hydrangea inflorescences in their work, and brides increasingly prefer not roses in a wedding bouquet , namely the delicate pastel tones of hydrangea.

Bouquets of this flower look very beautiful and airy, therefore, we strongly recommend planting this bush plant in your garden, you will be satisfied with the result, because with minimal effort, you get lush inflorescences of delicate, and maybe bright colors. Moreover, hydrangea will delight you for more than one year, and at the same time it will calmly endure the winter with minimal warming of the soil. It does not cause trouble either in growing, or in care, or in reproduction, therefore, if you are thinking about planting a hydrangea (garden) in open ground, then definitely make up your mind.

Proper planting and caring for tree hydrangea outdoors

Flowering shrubs are a decoration of any garden, especially if they are undemanding to grow. Treelike hydrangea is one of such welcome guests of any garden.

Long-lasting lush flowering, resistance to diseases and pests, good winter hardiness, this is what makes it a garden favorite.

Characteristics and features of tree hydrangea

Treelike hydrangea is a bush with a height of 1.5 m to 2.5 m with spherical white inflorescences at the ends of the shoots, which acquire a slightly greenish tint by the end of flowering.

The shrub is distinguished by its rapid growth, in a year the shoots grow up to 0.5 m. The seedling turns into a lush flowering bush for 4 years after planting.

She has adapted well to our cold winters, can hibernate without shelter (only young seedlings are sheltered). Shoots freeze slightly only in very cold winters, but in spring they grow back quickly.

And since hydrangea tree-like flowering occurs on the shoots of the current year, the bush will bloom necessarily, only a little late.

The shrub blooms from June to frost, subject to certain planting and care rules.

The shrub blooms from June to frost, can winter without shelter

Features of planting in open ground

Saplings are usually planted in the spring in partial shade, so that the midday sun does not burn it.

Planting pits are dug with a size of 0.5 * 0.6 m, they are filled with nutritious soil containing compost, humus, superphosphate and potash fertilizers are added, 50 grams each. everyone.

Before planting, the roots of the plant are shortened, the shoots are cut off, leaving 2-3 pairs of buds. The seedling is placed in the planting pit so that the root collar is at ground level.

Having covered the seedling with earth, they produce abundant watering, and then mulch the soil with sawdust, needles, peat or compost.

Hydrangeas love acidic soils, so fresh manure, chalk, lime, ash are contraindicated for the plant.

Saplings are planted in spring, in partial shade, before planting, the roots of the plant are shortened, the shoots are cut

Plant care

Further care consists in performing the following operations:

1. 1. Regular watering. Since the plant is very moisture-loving, the drying out of the soil should not be allowed. After watering, to maintain soil moisture, the ground under the bushes must be mulched. As a mulching material, they use: dried cut grass, sawdust, needles, humus.
   2. Periodically shallow loosening of the soil under the bushes to improve air exchange in the root system.

The root system of hydrangeas is superficial, when loosening it is necessary not to damage the roots. Loosening depth no more than 10 cm.

1. For the correct formation of the shrub, it is necessary to regularly prune the bushes. In autumn, the faded inflorescences are removed. In the spring, frozen and dry shoots are removed, the remaining shoots are shortened by 2-3 pairs of buds. Hydrangea tree loves short pruning, after which it blooms more magnificently.

Pruning hydrangea in spring:> Pruning hydrangea in autumn:> For the first two years after planting, the stems need to be removed from the shoots to allow the bush to take root and form well.

Fertilizers for shrubs

The plant is responsive to fertilization. The first feeding is done in the spring, applying nitrogen fertilizers under the bush with urea or ammonium nitrate at the rate of 20 grams. 10 liters of water.

At the beginning of budding, fertilizing with nitroammophos is performed in the same proportion.

During the summer period, it is fed about once a month with a complex mineral fertilizer or organic (infusions of mullein, bird droppings, herbal infusions).

It is optimal to alternate the application of organic and mineral fertilizers.

Since August, nitrogen must be excluded from top dressing, potassium-phosphorus fertilizers must be applied for better ripening of the shoots. To strengthen the shoots, you can water the plant with a pale pink solution of manganese once a month.

With an overabundance of organic fertilization, you can cause the growth of leaves and not see flowers at all.

The plant is responsive to fertilization

Breeding rules

Sooner or later, the hydrangea will want to propagate because beauty, like money, can never be too much.

There are the following breeding methods:

1. Seeds. In February, the seeds are sown in loose nutrient soil, they sprout within 4-6 weeks. When the first true leaves appear, they dive into separate containers. The next spring, you can transplant seedlings into open ground.
2. The fastest way to reproduce is by cuttings. The green, not yet lignified shoots of the current year are cut into cuttings with one internode, the lower oblique cut is dipped in a rooting machine and planted in separate containers. Rooting takes place over 3-4 weeks.
3. By dividing the bush. The bush is divided in the spring, so that it is stronger by the fall.
4. Layers. Young one-year-old shoots are bent to the ground and sprinkled, leaving a shoot about 20 cm long above the surface. The rooted plant is separated for the next year.

Hydrangea treelike - cultivation by cuttings: 3>Application in landscape design

Since hydrangea is very easily combined with other plants, it is used in landscape design for landscaping garden plots, country houses, park areas.

Using it when decorating plots has endless possibilities and no matter how the trends in garden fashion change, there will always be a place for this bush in the garden.

Snow-white hydrangeas are favorites of any garden. If the site is small, then one bush is planted, surrounded by borders of sheared boxwood, spirea. Conifers will also look good next to the bush.

But hydrangeas planted in groups look best, then all the beauty of the inflorescences is fully manifested.

In flower gardens, the plant is planted in the background, so as not to dominate the partners, which can be phlox, geranium, daylily, astilbe and other plants that match in color.

Popular varieties

A distinctive feature of the tree hydrangea is its round large inflorescences. Different varieties have different color and shape of flowers.

The most famous varieties include:

Annabelle

A widespread variety with snow-white, globe-shaped inflorescences. The height of the shrub is up to 1.5 m. It blooms from June until frost, the variety is frost-resistant and unpretentious.

Annabelle variety

Strong Annabelle (Incredible)

Variety with white inflorescences with a greenish tint. The flower caps are larger than Annabelle's. Shoots are strong, not bending under the weight of flowers.

For your information! Inflorescences cut in autumn are very beautiful in dry bouquets.

Strong Annabelle Variety (Incredible)

Grandiflora

One of the most common varieties in gardens. Hardy, loving light and moist soil. The height of the bush reaches 2 m, the width is up to 3 m.

The shrub needs a garter, as thin shoots cannot withstand the weight of the inflorescences and droop to the ground.

Variety of Grandiflora

Hayes Starburst

A low bush up to 1.2 m high is adorned with the only white double flowers among the treelike hydrangeas. It also features an oblong openwork foliage.

Hayes Starburst variety

Bella Anna

Low shrub up to 1.3 m, thin shoots, sagging under the weight of huge pink-crimson inflorescences. The pointed tips of the flower petals give the variety a showiness.

Bella Anna variety

Pink Annabelle (Invincibel Spirit)

The bush up to 1.2 m high has very elastic shoots. During flowering, the color of the inflorescences changes from bright pink to light pink. The variety winters well without shelter.

Variety Invincibel Spirit (Pink Annabelle)

Pruning is very important to maintain the shape of the bush and stimulate flowering. In the spring, be sure to cut thin, curved shoots so that they do not compete with the main flowering shoots.

Seemingly difficult at first glance, growing tree hydrangeas is actually quite easy. Choosing a variety for your site to taste, you will decorate your site for many years.

Hydrangea garden planting and outdoor care

Garden hydrangea is quite picky about the soil and its moisture, therefore it is recommended to plant in early spring or autumn. However, if the climatic conditions are cold, then it is better to plant in the spring, it will have enough time to grow stronger before the onset of cold weather. In the open sun, the leaves wither, it is better to choose a semi-shady place. In this article, hydrangea garden planting and outdoor care, the best ways.

Garden hydrangea - planting in open ground

Before planting a garden hydrangea, fertilizers, both mineral and organic, are added to the soil. Peat is added to the prepared well. The size of the pit for planting is 30 centimeters, the distance from the seedling to the seedling is 1 meter. The neck of the root is not subject to deepening.

Garden gartens are planted singly or in groups. After planting, the bush is watered abundantly with water and peat, humus are laid on top or mulched with needles.

Garden hydrangea - care

To maintain sufficient moisture, it may take 30 or 50 liters of water when irrigated twice a week, this is for an adult plant. The temperature of the water is selected warm. If the soil is covered with peat, watering is required less frequently. Garden hydrangea care is as follows:

• If the hydrangea was planted in the spring, then 4 or 5 buds are removed from the shoots of the annual type.
• You can loosen the soil from three times per season, the depth of loosening is 5 or 10 centimeters.
• Near hydrangea, other plants with a similar root system are undesirable, otherwise they will have a struggle for resources.
• They feed hydrangea or mineral fertilizers.But busting is fraught with the fact that the buds will be too large and heavy for the stems, which can lead to a kink or curvature.
• Organic, such as humus or slurry.
• Complex feeding is carried out twice a year. In early spring, when the inflorescence begins, they are fed with a urea solution.
• The second time after flowering, with mineral fertilizers.
• In the summer, they sometimes give slurry.

In adult plants, faded areas must be pruned in the fall. In springtime, young shrubs are pruned until buds have grown. For successful wintering of young shrubs and giving them a lush volume, the shoots are removed up to the fourth bud. Plants that have already outlived their own, that is, the old ones are subject to renewal by cutting to the very root.

During the first flowering of the cuttings, they are removed and then good flowering can be expected the next year.

Preparing for winter

High hilling of the bushes and mulching of the area surrounding the hydrangea will help protect the roots. It is better to start resorting to such measures immediately after the first frost. Young bushes are covered with earth to the top. Adult bushes are carefully covered with lutrasil. Then, a frame is made of a metal mesh in a cylindrical shape. The distance to the bush is 20 or 25 centimeters and 10 centimeters higher than the hydrangea. The inner space is filled with dried leaves. With the onset of spring, the frame is removed, but the lutrasil is removed only when the temperature and weather become stable.

Hydrangeas are divided into two groups; small, capable of bearing fruit and do so in the middle of the inflorescence. The second group includes large ones, they are sterile, have petal-shaped cups.

In order to reliably know what type of fertilizer is suitable for the soil, you need to know the properties of the soil, the structure.

Types of hydrangeas

We list several main types of hydrangeas

Tree-like

The most common in our environment is hydrangea. Shrub one or three meters high. At the time of the beginning of the inflorescence, the flowers have a green tint, when blooming, the color changes to white or creamy. More often pink or white hydrangea is planted in gardens.

Paniculata

In nature, the shrub grows from two to five meters in height. This species can live in one place for up to forty years. Flowers appear at the top, resemble pyramids in shape, the color at the beginning of flowering is a shade of green, when fully blooming is white or pinkish and is replaced by brick, when it fades, a green tint reappears.

Large-leaved

Garden hydrangea, however, there are also more accurate representatives of this species and if grown in a container, can be placed in the room. Leaves are dense, rich green. The flowers are in the shape of a ball or umbrella. The color depends on the soil, blue appears if the soil is acidic. On neutral soils, a lilac color is formed.

Oak-leaved. Non-frost-resistant species, in winter it is required to carefully cover. The achievable height is two meters. The flowers are white at the beginning of flowering, then change to purple.

Groundcover. Withstands cold, growth of two, three meters. It begins to bloom at the end of June, the flowers look loose, the color is white, we change to pink.