Transform Your Garden into a Floral Paradise: Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Endless Summer Bloomstruck Hydrangea

The Endless Summer Bloomstruck hydrangea is a popular choice for gardeners due to its long blooming period, vibrant colors, and easy maintenance. If you’re looking to add this beautiful plant to your landscape, follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure successful planting:

Site Selection

• Light: Hydrangeas prefer partial shade to full shade, with morning sun and afternoon shade being ideal.
• Soil: They thrive in well-drained, acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5.

Soil Preparation

• Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
• Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to improve drainage and fertility.
• Test the soil pH and adjust it as needed using lime (to raise pH) or sulfur (to lower pH).

Planting

• Remove the plant from its container and gently loosen the roots.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with the prepared soil.
• Tamp down the soil firmly around the base of the plant.
• Water deeply to settle the soil and remove any air pockets.

Mulching

• Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, such as bark or shredded leaves, around the plant.
• Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Watering

• Hydrangeas need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.
• Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

• Fertilize the plant in spring and again in midsummer with a balanced fertilizer.
• Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for specific application rates.

Pruning

• Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
• Remove any dead, diseased, or weak stems.
• Cut back the remaining stems by one-third to one-half to encourage new growth and flowering.

Color Variation

• The color of Endless Summer Bloomstruck hydrangeas can vary depending on soil pH.
• In acidic soil (pH below 6.0), the flowers will be blue.
• In alkaline soil (pH above 6.5), the flowers will be pink.
• To achieve a desired color, adjust the soil pH accordingly.

Troubleshooting

• Wilting: This can be caused by underwatering, overwatering, or root rot. Adjust watering habits or consult a professional.
• Yellowing leaves: This can indicate nutrient deficiency. Fertilize the plant according to the instructions.
• Brown or crispy leaves: This can be caused by sunburn or drought. Provide adequate shade and water the plant deeply.

What People Want to Know

Q: When is the best time to plant Endless Summer Bloomstruck hydrangeas?
A: Fall or early spring is the ideal time to plant hydrangeas.

Q: How often should I water my hydrangea?
A: Water the plant deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Q: Can I grow Endless Summer Bloomstruck hydrangeas in full sun?
A: No, these hydrangeas prefer partial shade to full shade.

Q: Why are the leaves on my hydrangea turning yellow?
A: Yellowing leaves can indicate nutrient deficiency. Fertilize the plant according to the instructions.

Q: How can I change the color of my hydrangea flowers?
A: Adjust the soil pH to the desired range. For blue flowers, the soil pH should be below 6.0, and for pink flowers, the pH should be above 6.5.