The location of hydrangeas should be well chosen, because this plays a crucial role in their growth. In this article we have summarized for you which factors you should consider when choosing a location!
Soil / substrate
The right substrate or the optimal soil is essential for hydrangeas to grow. It is therefore important to ensure that it is as fresh, humic and profound as possible. Hydrangeas also prefer a nutritious subsoil. However, if the existing soil does not have these properties, it is possible to improve the soil. This is achieved by mixing the substrate with compost. Since hydrangeas are very thirsty plants, the soil should always be moist, but not wet. Because the plants tolerate
no waterlogging, but should never dry out. The following substrates are suitable for hydrangeas:- Mixture of peat and compost
- Hydrangea soil
- Rhododendron earth
- Azalea earth
- Expanded clay
Note: Mulching with bark humus prevents evaporation and thus keeps the moisture in the soil longer!
The pH
In addition to the properties mentioned above, the pH of the soil is also crucial for the growth and appearance of hydrangeas. In general, the plants prefer a slightly acidic pH in the range of 5 to 6. However, the color of the flowers also plays a decisive role here, because blue hydrangeas prefer a lower pH value. It is
It is even possible to influence the color of the flowers by adjusting the pH value: pink flowers can get through the reduction of the pH value is blue and the blue flowers are colored pink / red by increasing the pH value will.- blue flowers: pH value from 4.0 - 4.5
- pink flowers: pH value from 6.0 - 6.2
Note: The pH value of the soil can be determined using test sticks.
Sun and shade
Most hydrangeas prefer a partially shaded location where they are exposed to sunlight in the morning and afternoon. However, some varieties also get along very well with shady spots, such as farmer, forest and climbing hydrangeas. A place in the blazing sun, on the other hand, is not ideal for the plants, although the midday sun in particular can be a problem for them. It is therefore advisable to protect hydrangeas from the direct midday sun. Plants on the balcony or on the terrace can easily be immersed in the midday sun
Shadows are brought. In the open field, however, the plants should be provided with sun protection. Natural parasols include:- Forest pines (Pinus sylvestris)
- Flower dogwood (Cornus kousa and Cornus florida)
- larger sorts of Japanese maple (Acer palmatum)
Windbreak
A windbreak is not a must for hydrangeas, but it is definitely recommended. Because especially varieties with heavy flower heads, such as "Annabelle", benefit from a sheltered spot. Hedges and dense trees, but also walls can act as wind protection.
balcony
Hydrangeas do best on a balcony that faces west or east. Orientation to the south, however, is not recommended. On the one hand, because the plants prefer a partially shaded location and, on the other hand, because the heat development and solar radiation on the balcony are usually much higher anyway. The dry and hot climate on a south-facing balcony can lead to the leaves becoming limp and the plant drying out more quickly.
