Hydrangeas
When many of us think of the hydrangea, the first thing we conjure up is that coarse textured, blue or pink summer flowering shrub. Well much has changed in the last decade; this plant is not the same plant that grandmother grew. While the old standard still remains, there is now a plethora of new introduction on the market today. In fact, I often wonder what they (hybridizers) will come up with next. The combinations and/or variations seem to be almost endless. For example, there are vines, standard size and dwarf varieties such as Hydrangea m. ‘Pia’ a wonderful dwarf pink selection.

Some Hydrangeas flower on old wood (last years growth) while a very recent introduction Hydrangea m. ‘Endless Summer’ can flower on both old and new wood. This is a particular plus, if you tend to prune at the wrong time of year, or if your plant sustains winter damage, there by effectively eliminating or reducing the current seasons flowers. Finally, but certainly not conclusive while most have green stems, Hydrangea m ‘Lady in Red’ has deep red stems that contrast nicely with its deep green leaves. Most hydrangeas do well in any average, well-drained soil. They prefer full sun to part shade; the mop head (the kind Grandmom grew) and the lacecap varieties do best with a little protection from the scorching rays of summer, so plant them in partial shade for the best results. Because of the great variability and diversity in this genus (group), there is literally a hydrangea for every “occasion”. They flower from Mid-June through fall depending on which varieties you select. So find room in your garden today for one of these marvels of the garden world and enjoy