Hydrangeas are a beloved garden staple, known for their ease of growth and stunning blooms. While many varieties produce shades from pink to purple, the elusive blue hydrangea is highly sought after by gardeners.
The colour of hydrangea flowers is determined by soil pH: alkaline soil yields pink blooms, acidic soil produces blue, and neutral soil results in purple. Home gardeners can test their soil pH with kits available at garden centres for around £5, or simply observe existing flower colours.
To achieve blue hydrangeas, a simple household solution can be used. Mix one cup of apple cider vinegar with 10 litres of water, then apply it to the soil around the roots, avoiding the foliage. This mixture should be used fortnightly to gradually shift bloom colour.
Once the desired blue shade is reached, the amount of vinegar in the solution can be reduced. However, care must be taken not to add too much vinegar at once, as it can damage the plant's roots.
