With a single targeted pruning and three simple gestures, it is possible to strengthen the hydrangeas before the arrival of the cold. 2 right tools are enough and a pinch of attention: no magic formulas, only good habits to be adopted in time.
When temperatures begin to drop and the days are shortened, it’s time to act: 2 fundamental interventions e 3 targeted treatments They can make the difference between hydrangeas in full shape and suffering plants. Preparing the hydrangeas upon the arrival of autumn does not only mean proding some branches here and there, but intervening with a complete strategy that protects the plant and stimulates an even richer flowering the following spring.
Those who have vase hydrangeas on a terrace exposed to the north know how humidity and cold currents can damage the roots. In a small urban garden, however, the problem is often the excess of rainwater and the risk of rot. That’s why it is essential to intervene now, before the climate changes drastically.
Necessary to treat hydrangeas in autumn
Before starting with autumn works, make sure you have some essential tools and materials at hand. Adequate preparation reduces the risk of improvised errors.
Here’s what it takes:
- Well -sharpened pruning scissors
- Waterproof gardening gloves
- Fresh and well draining soil
- Thick or coccited plastic vases (if necessary to repot)
- Bark or organic mulch
- Slow sale fertilizer for acidophile
In a small courtyard in the city center, for example, it was enough to repot with new soil and add a handle of cortex to note less stained leaves during the winter. The details make the difference.
Smart cuts for a stronger plant
Autumn is the ideal period for prune with criteria: It is not about shortening everything, but of eliminating only what damages the health of the plant.
Good pruning stimulates the structure, removes dry or sick branches and improves air circulation between the hair. Like the wind that passes through the branches of a dense forest, each cut must create space for the light:
- Remove the dry flowers leaving two gems under the inflorescence
- Eliminate the weak or inclined branches towards the ground
- Shorten slightly the jets too long
- Avoid cutting The branches with well -formed gems
- Always disinfect the scissors before and after use
There are those who, for a hurry, potted everything blindly after the first rains: the following year, halved blooms. After all, who has never forgotten a plant in the sun?
Repotted and substrate of the hydrangeas: the right time
With the arrival of autumn, the repotting becomes crucial for the hydrangeas grown in the container. The cold and stagnant humidity mainly affect the roots if the vase does not drain well.
Like a too heavy blanket on a summer bed, a wrong soil can suffocate the plant. This is why it is essential to choose a light but rich substrate:
- Mix Acidophile soilblonde and perlite peat
- Use slightly larger vases Only if the plant has grown a lot
- Place A draining layer of expanded clay on the bottom
- Avoid stagnation by inserting Feet under the vases
- Repot Before the first gels (end of September – mid -October)
In the balconies exposed to the west, it is often enough to move the vases against the wall to limit the night thermal excursion. You don’t need a greenhouse, just a little attention.
Errors to avoid with the arrival of the cold
Many are wrong in this period, convinced that the plant can face winter alone. In reality, small mistakes compromise months of care.
The mistakes to avoid are:
- Excessive pruning which eliminates the apical gems
- Too compact or clayey soil
- Nitrogen -rich fertilizers out of season
- Failure to protect the roots in the exposed vessels
- Frequent watering also with wet climate
A common mistake? Water how in summer. If the ground remains wet for a long time, you risk radical rot. Better touch the soil with your fingers: if it is still humid, you don’t need to add water.
Where to place them and how to protect them
During autumn, The position of the hydrangeas becomes decisive. In the ground they can resist well, but in pots it is another story.
Like a traveler who seeks shelter under a canopy during a sudden storm, the vase hydrangeas must be moved or shielded:
- Exposure southeast or south-west, away from cold currents
- Shelter under canopies or shelters in the windy areas
- Thick mulch with dry leaves or bark
- Non -woven fabric In case of early frosts
- Weekly drainage control
In a Milanese terrace, it was enough to raise the vases on wooden supports and wrap them with jute to avoid frost damage. Small tricks, great result.
Practical secrets for happier hydrangeas
Those who cultivate Ortensie for years know it: every season he teaches something. And autumn is made of small gestures that anticipate great satisfaction:
- Add a little iron sulphate To maintain the color of the flowers
- Spray Neem oil To prevent fungal attacks
- Limit irrigations to once every 10–12 daysif it doesn’t rain
- Insert level signs in the pot To monitor humidity
- Take advantage of the end of the season for multiply by cutting
A fans of hydrangeas said that, after changing the vase and protected the plant with cortex and fabric, in the spring it had had twice the flowers.
We need patience, but nature knows how to reward every care.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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