Hydrangeas are known for their vibrant blooms from late spring to autumn, but a common watering mistake can prevent flowering entirely, warns gardening expert Ben Hilton. Despite their low-maintenance reputation, hydrangeas require consistent moisture levels to reach full bloom.
Hilton, founder of The Gardening Fix, advises regular deep watering twice per week, supplemented with a layer of organic mulch. This routine, he claims, will return fantastic blooms all summer. Inconsistent watering can stress the plant and reduce flower production.
Aside from watering, soil pH is critical. Most hydrangea varieties thrive in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.2 and 6.2. Incorrect pH limits nutrient absorption, leading to poor blooms. Hilton recommends using a soil test kit and amending the soil if needed, then applying a phosphorus-rich fertiliser (10-20-10) in spring.
Pruning at the wrong time is another costly mistake. Hydrangea macrophylla and quercifolia bloom on old wood and should be pruned after flowering in autumn. Paniculate and arborescent varieties bloom on new wood and can be pruned in late winter or early spring. Incorrect pruning can cut off flower buds, resulting in no flowers at all.
