Can Mathilda Gutges Hydrangea be Planted Outside?

Nov 9, 2023

If you look the right way, you can see that the whole world is a garden.

Today, I’m excited to share my journey with Mathilda Gutges hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Mathilda Gutges’). If you’re like me, someone relatively new to gardening but eager to learn, you might wonder whether you can plant Mathilda Gutges hydrangea outdoors. Well, the answer is yes!

In this blog post, I’ll take you through my experience of planting and caring for Mathilda Gutges hydrangea in my garden. I promise to keep it simple and beginner-friendly, so let’s get started!

Mathilda Gutges Hydrangea: A Beginner’s Guide to Planting and Growing

Before we jump into the how-to’s, let me tell you a bit about Mathilda Gutges hydrangea. It’s a beautiful plant known for its stunning, globe-like flowers. What’s special is that these flowers can change colors based on the soil they’re in. In acidic soil, they turn blue, while in alkaline soil, they become pink. This color-switching feature adds a fun surprise to your garden.

Planting Mathilda Gutges Hydrangea

Now, let’s talk about how I planted my Mathilda Gutges hydrangea. It might sound not very easy, but I promise it’s doable, even for a beginner like me!

Step 1: Finding the Perfect Spot

I knew I needed to pick the right spot in my garden. Mathilda Gutges hydrangea loves shade, so I chose a place where it gets some morning sunlight but stays shaded in the afternoon.

It’s essential to ensure the soil is well-draining, and you can improve it by adding compost or organic matter. Also, remember to give your plant some space, about 3 to 4 feet away from other plants.

Step 2: Getting Your Hands Dirty

Dig a hole: I dug twice as wide as the plant’s root ball and just as deep. Careful about the distance from the house also.
Soil prep: I mixed the soil from the hole with some compost. It makes the soil richer and helps with drainage.
Taking out the plant: Gently, I took my Mathilda Gutges hydrangea out of its container. Be careful not to harm the roots. If they look tangled, give them a little wiggle to encourage them to spread out.
Planting: I placed my hydrangea in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball was level with the ground.
Filling and watering: I filled the hole with the soil-compost mix and pressed it down gently to get rid of air pockets. Then, I watered it thoroughly.

Step 3: Mulching Matters

Mulching helps a lot. It keeps the soil temperature steady, retains moisture, and keeps pesky weeds away. I added a 2 to 4-inch layer of mulch around my hydrangea, careful not to smother the stem.

Step 4: Water Wisely

Hydrangeas love moisture, but they don’t like soggy soil. I made sure to water my plant when the top inch of soil felt dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially during dry spells.

Step 5: Pruning – Not So Scary

I was worried about pruning, but it was straightforward. In late winter or early spring, before new growth starts, I did the following:

Deadheading: I removed the spent flower heads to encourage new blooms. Just snip them above the first set of healthy leaves.

Removing deadwood: I checked for dead or sick branches and cut them at the base to keep my plant healthy.

Step 6: Fertilizing – Feeding Time

I wanted my Mathilda Gutges hydrangea to grow strong, so I fed it. Here’s what I did:
In early spring, I applied a balanced, slow-release fertilizer per the package instructions.
In mid-summer, I gave it another round of fertilizer with higher phosphorus to encourage more flowers. Afterward, I watered it well.

Step 7: Keeping Pests and Diseases Away

I didn’t want any unwanted guests in my garden, so I looked for pests like aphids and diseases like powdery mildew. If I spotted any, I used insecticidal soap or neem oil for pests and maintained good air circulation to prevent diseases.

Step 8: Protecting in Winter

For my Mathilda Gutges hydrangea to survive the cold winter months, I took some precautions:

Extra mulch: In late fall, I added more mulch around the base to protect the roots from freezing.
Burlap wrap: If the winter was exceptionally harsh, I wrapped my plant in burlap to shield it from harsh winds.

Step 9: Playing with Flower Colors

Here’s the fun part – changing flower colors! If I wanted blue flowers, I added aluminum sulfate or sulfur to make the soil more acidic. For pink flower, I used garden lime to make it more alkaline. Just remember, it might take some time for the soil to affect the flower color.

Creating Your Own Hydrangea Paradise

Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s explore how you can make your garden an even more inviting place for Mathilda Gutges hydrangea:

Companion Planting

Consider planting complementary flowers and shrubs nearby. I chose shade-loving companions like hostas and ferns to create a harmonious garden bed.

Designing with Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas can be the focal point of your garden design. You can create beautiful borders or even use them as hedges. Be creative and experiment with different arrangements to make your garden uniquely yours.

Capturing the Beauty

One of the joys of gardening is capturing the beauty of your plants. Here are some tips for doing just that:

Photography:

Get your camera or smartphone ready! Mathilda Gutges hydrangea changes colors, and each stage is a work of art. Take pictures throughout the seasons to document the transformation.

Pressing Flowers:

Dried hydrangea flowers can be used in various crafts. Pressing them is a great way to preserve their beauty for years.

Gardening can be a communal experience. Share your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea journey with others:

Gardening Community:

Join local gardening groups or online forums. Share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from fellow gardeners.

Gifting Plants:

Consider propagating your hydrangea through cuttings to share with friends and family. It’s a thoughtful gift that can bring beauty to their gardens, too.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

As with any plant, Mathilda Gutges hydrangea might face a few challenges. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Yellowing Leaves

Yellow leaves could be a sign of nutrient deficiency or overwatering. Adjust your watering schedule and consider fertilizing if needed.

Wilting in the Sun

If your hydrangea looks wilted on a hot afternoon, don’t worry. It’s likely just thirst. Give it a good drink, and it should perk up.

Fading Flower Color

If your hydrangea’s flowers aren’t as vibrant as you’d like, it might be time to adjust the soil pH. Remember, acidic soil is blue and alkaline for pink.

Planning for the Future

Your garden is a dynamic space that evolves. Here are some long-term considerations:

Pruning for Shape:

As your hydrangea grows, continue to prune for shape and size control. Regular maintenance will keep it looking its best.

Transplanting:

If you decide to rearrange your garden, Mathilda Gutges hydrangea can be transplanted, although it’s best done during the dormant season.

Sustainable Gardening with Mathilda Gutges Hydrangea

Incorporating sustainable practices into your gardening routine can benefit both your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea and the environment:

Rain Barrels

Collect rainwater in barrels to use for watering your hydrangea. This eco-friendly approach conserves water and reduces your utility bills.

Organic Pest Control

Consider using organic pest control methods like neem oil or introducing beneficial insects to keep unwanted critters at bay without harmful chemicals.

Pruning for Blooms

Pruning isn’t just about maintenance; it can also influence the bloom cycle of your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea:

Blooming on Old Wood:

This variety typically blooms on old wood, setting flower buds in late summer and fall for the following year. Prune sparingly in early spring, if needed, to avoid removing potential blossoms.

Hydrangea in Containers

Don’t have a garden? No worries! You can still enjoy Mathilda Gutges hydrangea on your balcony or patio:

Container Gardening:

Select a large container with good drainage and fill it with potting soil. Plant your hydrangea, and you’re all set! Just make sure to water and fertilize regularly since container plants tend to dry out faster.

Celebrating Seasonal Changes

Your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea will evolve with the seasons, providing a dynamic focal point in your garden:

Spring Awakening

As spring arrives, watch for the first signs of new growth and budding flowers. This is an exciting time for gardeners as the anticipation of the colorful display builds.

Summer Elegance

Enjoy the vibrant blooms in full glory during the summer months. Consider adding outdoor seating nearby to create a tranquil spot for relaxation and reflection.

Fall’s Grand Finale

As autumn arrives, the flowers may start to change color. Do not forget to capture the stunning transformation in photographs and create a fall-themed garden display.

Inviting Wildlife

Your garden can become a haven for local wildlife, enhancing the natural beauty of your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea:

Butterfly and Bee Attraction:

Hydrangeas are known to attract butterflies and bees, contributing to pollination in your garden. Consider planting other nectar-rich flowers nearby to create a pollinator-friendly habitat.

Bird Watching:

Hydrangeas also provide shelter and perching spots for birds. Install a bird feeder or bird bath nearby to invite feathered friends to your garden.

Hydrangea Varieties

While we’ve been focusing on Mathilda Gutges hydrangea, there are many other hydrangea varieties to explore:

Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)

This category includes Mathilda Gutges hydrangea and offers various flower colors, making it a popular choice among gardeners.

Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata)

Known for their cone-shaped flower clusters, panicle hydrangeas are hardy and can thrive in various conditions.

Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)

These hydrangeas have large, round blooms and are easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners.

Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)

With its unique oak-like leaves and elegant flowers, this variety adds a touch of sophistication to your garden.

Hydrangea Crafts

Get creative with your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea:

Dried Flower Arrangements

Dry hydrangea blooms to create beautiful floral arrangements that brighten your home during the colder months.

Pressed Flower Art

Pressing hydrangea flowers between the pages of a book can result in stunning art pieces. Frame them to add a touch of botanical beauty to your living space.

Handmade Cards

Use dried hydrangea petals to craft unique greeting cards for birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions.

Garden Reflections

Take a moment to reflect on your gardening journey:

Garden Journal: Maintain a garden journal to record your observations, experiences, and new insights. It’s a great way to track the progress of your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea and your evolving gardening skills.

Garden Meditation: Use your garden as a space for meditation and reflection. The soothing presence of your hydrangea can provide a serene backdrop for moments of inner peace.

Gardening for Wellness

Gardening has numerous benefits for your physical and mental well-being:

Mindful Gardening: Practice mindfulness while tending to your Mathilda Gutges hydrangea. Focus on the sensory experience—the feel of the soil, the scent of the flowers, and the sounds of nature around you. Gardening can be a form of meditation.
Stress Relief: Spending time in your garden can reduce stress and anxiety. It’s a sanctuary where you can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and find solace among your plants.

In Brief

My journey with Mathilda Gutges hydrangea has been a delightful learning experience. From choosing the right spot to adjusting soil pH for those captivating color changes, gardening is a fulfilling adventure. Remember, every garden has a unique story; yours is just beginning.

So, whether you’re a newbie gardener or someone with more experience, I encourage you to take the step to plant Mathilda Gutges hydrangea. With these tips and a little patience, you can nurture a colorful addition to your garden that will bring you joy for years to come. Happy gardening!