Endless Summer® Hydrangea

Endless Summer® Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) Planting Guide

Planting Instructions:

1. Location & Timing: Endless Summer® Hydrangeas prefer partial sun—ideally, morning sun with afternoon shade to protect them from the intense heat. They thrive in USDA zones 4-9 and should be planted in early spring or fall, allowing time for the roots to establish before extreme heat or cold.
2. Soil Preparation: These hydrangeas prefer moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Amend heavy or sandy soil with compost before planting. The pH of the soil can affect the bloom color: acidic soils (pH 5.0-5.5) produce blue flowers, while more alkaline soils (pH 6.0-6.5) yield pink blooms.
3. Digging & Planting: Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant so the top of the root ball sits at ground level or slightly above to allow for settling. Backfill with soil and gently tamp down to remove air pockets.
4. Spacing: Space plants about 3-4 feet apart to allow them room to grow and spread. They can grow up to 3-5 feet tall and wide.
5. Watering & Mulching: Water thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, leaving a small gap around the stem to prevent rot.

Care Instructions (Establishment Period):

1. Watering: Endless Summer® Hydrangeas need consistently moist soil, especially during their first year of establishment. Water deeply 2-3 times a week, particularly in hot, dry conditions. Reduce watering slightly once the plant is established but continue to provide adequate moisture during dry spells to support flowering.
2. Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for flowering shrubs. If you’re looking to change the bloom color, aluminum sulfate (for blue flowers) or lime (for pink flowers) can be applied in early spring to adjust the soil pH. Reapply mid-summer for continued blooming.
3. Monitoring: Watch for signs of overwatering or poor drainage, like yellowing leaves. Endless Summer® Hydrangeas are prone to root rot if the soil stays too soggy, so ensure good drainage. Check regularly for common pests like aphids or spider mites and treat promptly if needed.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care:

1. Watering & Fertilization: Once established, water deeply once a week, increasing during dry periods. Endless Summer® Hydrangeas prefer consistently moist soil but can handle occasional drought once established. Fertilize once a year in early spring and lightly again in midsummer to encourage continuous blooming.
2. Pruning: Endless Summer® Hydrangeas bloom on both old and new wood, which means they produce flowers on growth from the previous year as well as the current year. Pruning should be minimal—remove dead or damaged branches in early spring. Deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to encourage new blooms, but avoid heavy pruning after midsummer as this can affect the next year's blooms.
3. Pest Control: Hydrangeas are relatively pest-resistant, but aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew can sometimes be an issue. Regularly inspect the plant, especially in humid conditions, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.

Additional Tips for Success with Endless Summer® Hydrangea:

1. Adjusting Bloom Color: For blue blooms, maintain a more acidic soil by adding aluminum sulfate or an acidifying fertilizer in early spring. For pink blooms, keep the soil more alkaline by adding lime. Regular soil testing will help you maintain the desired pH level.
2. Winter Protection: Endless Summer® Hydrangeas are cold-hardy, but in colder zones (zones 4-5), apply a thick layer of mulch around the base in late fall to protect the roots. You can also use burlap to wrap the plant if frost or harsh winds are a concern.
3. Maximizing Blooms: To keep your hydrangea blooming all season long, make sure it receives plenty of water, especially during dry spells. Light pruning after the first round of blooms encourages new growth, which leads to additional flowers throughout the season.
4. Mulching: Keep a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your hydrangea year-round. This not only helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature but also provides organic nutrients as the mulch breaks down.
5. Companion Planting: Endless Summer® Hydrangeas pair well with shade-loving plants such as hostas, ferns, and astilbes. These plants help create a lush, layered garden look while providing the dappled shade hydrangeas love.