
Do Hydrangeas Come Back Year After Year?
I thought of a question some years ago, like many flow enthusiasts. Do hydrangeas come back year after year? If you are a new hydrangea lover, I will describe the fact in the easiest way possible in this blog.
Hydrangeas are relatively low-maintenance plants that can thrive in a variety of climates. You know that hydrangeas are popular flowering shrubs known for their large, showy blooms and colorful appearance.
But, some gardeners may wonder if hydrangeas come back year after year. So today, let me share what I learned about this matter! Let’s get started!
Is Hydrangea Perennials?
There are two questions to investigate the hydrangea case! 1. Are hydrangeas perennials? 2. Do hydrangeas come back year after year? Here are the answers from Garden Holmes!
Are Hydrangeas Perennials Flower?
Yes, hydrangeas are perennial flower species. So they will return year after year if properly cared for. They typically bloom in the summer and fall. Moreover, hydrangeas are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9. The average hydrangea lives up to 20 years.
Do Hydrangeas Come Back Every Year?
Most hydrangeas are hardy woody perennials that will return yearly after proper maintenance. But some types are less resilient. Without enough knowledge of hydrangea, you may have lost its reincarnation strength.
But with keen attention to detail, you can harvest healthy hydrangea as I did, and shine your yard with colorful flowers. Also, you can choose a particular type of hydrangeas to have them return every year on time.
Why Does Hydrangea Come Back Every Year?
Hydrangeas are perennial plants, meaning they live for over two years (minimum). They have underground stems called rhizomes. The rhizomes store food and energy. Also, they allow the hydrangea to survive the winter and re-emerge in the spring. Let’s hear about them in detail:
- Strong Root Systems: I saw hydrangeas have extensive root systems that help them travel deep, and absorb nutrients from the soil. As a result, they survive harsh conditions like drought and cold weather.
- Environment Adaption: Do you know hydrangeas are native to Asia and the Americas? They have evolved to be well-suited to tolerate various temperatures, from hot and dry to cool and moist.
- Productive Regeneration: Hydrangeas can regenerate new growth from their roots, even from damaged stems. Their specialized meristem cells can divide and produce new plant tissues.
What Types of Hydrangeas Come Year after Year?
Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)
Oakleaf hydrangeas are known for their unique cone-shaped flower clusters. They have large, oak-tree-shaped leaves. I saw these hydrangeas reached up to 6 to 12 inches in diameter. These shrubs can grow up to 8 feet tall and prefer warmer climates, making them more challenging to maintain in colder regions.
Bigleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)
Bigleaf hydrangeas are also known as hydrangea macrophylla. You will find them in zones 5 through 9 and see them tolerating a wider range of temperatures. These shrubs feature round clusters of large, showy flowers that can bloom for several weeks and grow to about 4 to 5 feet tall.
Bigleaf hydrangeas include the popular mophead hydrangea, known for its dense, rounded flower heads, and the delicate lace cap hydrangea.
Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata)
People often refer to Panicle hydrangeas as Hydrangea Paniculata. They are remarkably resilient. I can guarantee you that they can thrive in zones as low as 3. With proper fertilization, these shrubs can grow to an impressive 15 feet tall and produce oval or tube-shaped flower clusters.
Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens)
Smooth hydrangeas share the other name, hydrangea arborescens or snowball hydrangeas. They are named for their resemblance to fluffy snowballs. Their flowers are typically white and grow in large, rounded clusters. These hydrangeas are well-suited to colder climates. Also, people often use them in floral arrangements due to their pristine white blooms.
Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala)
With their vigorous vines, climbing hydrangeas can reach heights of up to 60 feet or more. They are ideal for those with limited space as they can cling to structures like buildings or trellises.
What Factors Affect Hydrangea Survival for Years?
Usually, a hydrangea’s lifespan depends on special factors like climate, soil, water, pruning, and fertilization. If you are addicted to hydrangea like me, I suggest you check some factors for a longer lifespan. Let me explain to you why the checking matters!
Climate
I wouldn’t say hydrangeas are fragile in a wide range of climates, but they may not survive in areas with extremely cold environments. So, you must ensure your home is dry and warm for their survival.
If you live in prime winter areas, ensure the hydrangeas are always hydrated. Do not forget that dry hydrangeas have weak roots. The roots will lose strength after getting dried before the winter season.
If you reside in a region where the temperature never dips below 0 degrees Fahrenheit, your hydrangeas will likely thrive without additional winter protection.
Soil
Hydrangeas prefer acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, you can amend it with sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the pH. Moreover, you must feed your hydrangea what it needs!
For that, mix organic material with the soil. Sitting in water will also kill the hydrangeas, so ensure the waters are draining regularly. I believe mixing some compost will solve your problem for the winter.
Planting Location
I have seen that hydrangeas prefer partial shade to full sun. Yes, some varieties tolerate more shade than others. So, choosing an appropriate planting location ensures your hydrangea receives the optimal sunlight for healthy growth.
Watering
From my observation, you must water the hydrangeas regularly. There is no fixed time for watering. But water the plants, especially during hot, dry weather. No water means no possibility of life support for hydrangeas!
Colors
The pH balance of the soil can influence the color of your hydrangeas. To achieve blue flowers, cultivate moist soil with a pH between 5.2 and 5.5. For pink blooms, opt for alkaline soil with a pH of around 6.0.
These pH levels may produce purple flowers or a combination of pink, purple, and blue blooms. Endless summer hydrangeas in these colors are known for their impressive and long-lasting flowers.
How Do You Increase Survival to Bring Hydrangea Year after Year?
I already told you that hydrangea is weak in cold and dry weather. So, you have to take some steps to ensure its survival rate.
- Mulching Around: Mulch around your hydrangeas with wood chips or other organic material. This action will help to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing.
- Protecting from Cold Weather: If you live in an area with cold winters, you may need to protect your hydrangeas from the extreme cold. Simply wrap them in burlap or other protective material.
- Check the soil pH: If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend the soil with sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the pH.
- Increase watering: If the soil is too dry, increase watering. Make sure to water, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Provide More Shade: If the plant gets too much sun, move it to a shadier location. Remember that you cannot dehydrate the hydrangea ever.
- Prune Properly: Properly Prune your hydrangeas in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased wood.
- Fertilize Regularly: Fertilize your hydrangeas in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. But do not forget to use natural and less chemically emerged substances.
- Prohibits Pets & Insects: Viruses and diseases can kill hydrangeas earlier than expected. So prevent pets and diseases from attacking the hydrangeas in the first place. I would suggest making some fence or protective layers for your home.
How to Pot and Repot Hydrangea for Continuous Growth?
I potted and repotted hydrangeas to maintain their health and continuous growth. Let me share with you the process of how to pot and repot hydrangeas effectively.
Potting a Hydrangea
- Choose the Right Pot: Select a pot at least 2-3 inches larger than the hydrangea’s current pot. Terracotta pots are ideal for breathability, but plastic or ceramic pots are also suitable.
- Prepare the Potting Mix: Use a well-draining mix formulated for acidic plants like hydrangeas. Adding organic matter like compost or peat moss can develop soil quality.
- Gently Remove the Hydrangea: Carefully remove the hydrangea from its current pot. Gently loosen the roots and tap the sides of the pot. If the roots are tightly bound, use a knife to loosen them slightly.
- Position the Hydrangea in the New Pot: Place the hydrangea in the center of the new pot. Also, ensure the root ball’s top sits slightly below the pot’s rim.
- Fill and Firm the Soil: Fill the pot with the prepared potting mix, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets. Leave about an inch of space between the top of the soil and the rim for watering.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the potted hydrangea generously until water runs out of the drainage holes. This guarantees the soil is thoroughly moistened.
Repotting a Hydrangea
- Identify Signs of Repotting Needs: Repotting is typically necessary every 2-3 years when the hydrangea outgrows its current pot as roots grow out of the drainage holes.
- Choose the Right Time: Repot hydrangeas in the spring or early fall when they grow actively. Avoid repotting during the hot summer when they are stressed.
- Prepare the New Pot: Follow the same steps as potting a hydrangea when selecting and preparing the new pot.
- Loosen the Root Ball: Gently loosen the hydrangea’s roots by hand or with a knife, especially if tightly bound. This encourages new root growth and prevents circling roots.
- Position and Fill the Pot: Place the loosened hydrangea in the new pot. Fill the pot with potting mix and firm it down as described in potting a hydrangea.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the repotted hydrangea generously until water runs out of the drainage holes. After that, the soil helps the hydrangea adjust to its new environment.
Conclusion
I hope that will answer your question and help you decorate your home with colorful hydrangeas. Hydrangeas are beautiful and rewarding flowering shrubs that can enrich a garden year after year.
If you are a garden lover, do not hesitate to follow the instructions to pot and repot hydrangeas accurately.
FAQs
What Is the Lifespan of A Hydrangea?
Hydrangeas can live for a remarkable life span of up to 50 years. They prefer the gentle embrace of the morning sun and a respite in the afternoon shade. They need regular watering during active growth to keep them hydrated and flourishing. Once the blooms have perfectly departed in the fall, pruning is necessary to develop sturdy stems that will support the next summer’s vibrant blooms.
What Is the Best Way to Keep Hydrangeas Alive?
Swift action is crucial to ensure the longevity of cut hydrangeas. Immerse them in lukewarm water. Consider incorporating a sprinkle of flower food into the water for added nourishment. This timely intervention will provide the necessary hydration and sustenance to prolong the life of your cut hydrangeas.
How Do You Revive a Dead Hydrangea?
To revive wilted or drooping hydrangeas, first gently make a vertical slit in the stem of the affected hydrangea. Then, submerge the stem in boiling water for approximately 60 seconds. Immediately place the hydrangea back in your floral arrangement upon removing the stem from the boiling water. The hydrangea should regain its vibrancy and perkiness within an hour or so.
How Do You Make Hydrangeas Blue?
A key factor in cultivating blue hydrangeas is soil acidity. Aluminum sulfate is an effective soil acidifier. As your hydrangeas begin to sprout in the spring, prepare a solution by mixing ¼ ounce of aluminum sulfate with one gallon of water. Gently soak the soil surrounding the hydrangeas with this solution to initiate the transformation towards captivating blue blooms.
Is Baking Soda Good for Hydrangeas?
The baking soda might seem like a convenient solution for fertilizing hydrangeas, but it’s not ideal. Sodium bicarbonate is the main component of baking soda. It lacks the essential nutrients required for optimal plant growth. Instead of promoting healthy development, it can potentially harm the roots of your hydrangeas. Therefore, I advise you to avoid using baking soda as a fertilizer for these blooming beauties.