Hydrangeas are known for their vibrant blooms and low maintenance, but a common gardening mistake can result in no flowers at all, according to gardening expert Ben Hilton. The founder of The Gardening Fix has highlighted three pitfalls that can prevent hydrangeas from flowering, with incorrect pruning being the most costly error.
Hilton explained that pruning hydrangeas at the wrong time of year can accidentally remove flower buds. For varieties like Hydrangea macrophylla and quercifolia, which bloom on old wood, pruning should be done directly after flowering in autumn. In contrast, Hydrangea paniculata and arborescens bloom on new wood and can be pruned in late winter or early spring.
Another common mistake is improper fertilisation. Many gardeners apply fertiliser expecting show-stopping blooms but are disappointed. This is often due to incorrect soil pH, which limits nutrient absorption. Hilton recommends slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.2 and 6.2 for most hydrangeas. A soil test kit can help gardeners measure pH, and if needed, they should amend the soil and apply a phosphorus 10-20-10 fertiliser in spring.
Consistent moisture is also crucial for full blooms. Hilton advises regular deep watering twice per week and applying a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture. This, he claims, will return fantastic blooms all summer.
