Hydrangeas are among the most beautiful ornamental shrubs, and in order for them to look truly stunning in spring, you need to think about their preparation now, in winter. You may think that the garden rests in the winter, but now you are deciding whether your hydrangeas will turn the garden into a colorful paradise in the spring.
Hydrangeas are a true gem of any garden. Once in bloom, their huge flowers are eye-catching.
Watch a video from the YT creation of the Gardening Express channel – Hydrangea in winter
Source: Youtube
Let’s start at the roots. Hydrangeas are hardy, but their lower part needs a little warmth during the winter. If you forget about the protective layer around the plant in autumn, you risk that the frost will damage the root system. Take dry leaves, chopped straw or bark and create a protective ring around the bush. Thanks to this, the roots will be protected from temperature fluctuations and at the same time the soil will remain moist, which the hydrangeas will appreciate.
Next up are the branches themselves. Try wrapping a non-woven fabric loosely around the bush or use classic juniper. It is important that the plant can breathe, so avoid packing it too tightly. If moisture got in and couldn’t get out, it would create an ideal breeding ground for mold.
What about pruning? This depends on the type of hydrangea you have. Varieties that bloom on old wood should not be pruned at all now. Leave them as they are so that the buds remain protected and can bloom in the spring. But if you have species blooming on new wood, you can remove old and damaged branches. Do this step carefully, ideally on a warmer day.
In order for hydrangeas to get off to a good start in the spring, you can already supply them with the necessary nutrients. In winter, it is ideal to use a fertilizer rich in potassium, which strengthens the plant and prepares it for the coming season. Conversely, avoid fertilizers with a high nitrogen content, which could encourage growth at the wrong time.
Even in winter, don’t forget about occasional watering. If the temperatures are not too low and the soil is dry, hydrangeas will appreciate a little moisture. However, avoid watering during frosts so that the water does not freeze in the roots.
Once winter turns to spring, you’ll see the results of your care. Hydrangeas will reward you with abundant flowers, and their bushes will become the pride of the entire garden. Just a little and your plants will look like they are from a gardening magazine. In winter, don’t forget that right now you are deciding how beautiful your garden will be next season.
Source: bhg.com
