Thursday, July 1, 2010

Hydrangea...

In folklore, as a Rose is the symbol for Love, Hydrangeas represent Understanding, Devotion, and Friendship. In my dear grandmothers' nostalgic garden, Roses and Hydrangeas are a match made in heaven.

In your yard, whether you plant a neat row of Hydrangeas for a lovely hedge, sprinkle a variety of Hydrangeas throughout your garden for their diverse blooms, or fill a vase to overflowing, Hydrangeas will take your breath away. We have so many Hydrangeas, you're sure to find what you want.

"I want HUGE Hydrangea flowers."
Invincibelle Spirit™ has flowers that grow up to 12" across. Absolutely HUGE flowers that re-bloom on new growth until FROST. More reasons to grow an Invincibelle Spirit? They are Easy to Care for, Fast Growing, Heat Tolerant, Long Blooming, Moisture Tolerant, Multi-Seasonal Interest, Cut Flower, Dried Flower. Stop by to see this beauty!

"I want early Hydrangea blooms."
Quick Fire™ hydrangea blooms months earlier than traditional varieties, extending the blooms and beauty from early summer rigjt through autumn. Quick Fire™ blooms earlier than other varieties. As cooler weather arrives, Quick Fire™ blooms change from white to a lovely dark rosy-pink.

"I want summertime white flowers with a hint of pink in Autumn"
Pinky Winky has large white panicles open in mid to late summer, and as summer turns to fall the florets at the base of the panicles turn pink. The flower panicles continue to grow, producing new white florets at the tip. The result is spectacular two-toned flower panicles that can reach up to 16 inches in length! This is a real show-stopper that's also very easy to grow. Adaptable to most soils and both sun and shade, Pinky Winky will thrive in most gardens.

"I want to plant another of those large, white Hydrangeas that I bought from you years ago." That must be "Annabelle". Her large (over 10" in diameter), stunning white blooms have been a favorite Hydrangea for many years. Unlike the better known blue and pink hydrangeas (macrophyllas), Annabelle blooms profusely every year, even after severe pruning or intensely cold winters. Some people plant 'Annabelle' as a hedge.

"I want more of last years' favorite Hydrangeas."
Proven Winners' Endless Summer™ Collection including Twist-n-Shout™ continue to be popular. Twist-n-Shout™ is a reblooming lacecap hydrangea. Twist-n-Shout flowers on both old and new growth all summer long. Gorgeous blossoms of pink or periwinkle blue, depending upon your soil type*. In a large enough pot, the compact-rounded form of Twist-n-Shout suits container planting.











"I want pretty summer blooms now, and I want brilliant fall color later."
Plant Oakleaf Hydrangea, Limelight or Little Lamb. Oakleaf is a native species of Hydrangea that's available in a few varieties.

"Where should I plant my Hydrangeas?"

Hydrangeas grow well in shady gardens and even tolerate full sun. Ideally, they prefer have morning sun and afternoon shade. The grower, "Proven Winner", is known for high-quality plants. Choose from a really nice variety of these Hydrangeas at Woodbridge Greenhouses.

"How do I make my Hydrangeas blue?"
Simply adding sulphur to your soil will give you bluer blooms, but not every Hydrangea will turn blue. White or Creamy Hydrangeas, like Oakleaf and Annabelle, can't turn blue. Mophead and Lacecaps that are pink, blue or purple, can usually change color according to the pH of your soil. You will need to reapply the sulphur throughout the growing season to maintain the color change. Another tip: For sweeter (alkaline) soil that will turn some varieties more pink, work lime into your soil. For just a hint of blue, continually mulch your Hydrangeas with acidic pine needles that will slowly add acid to your soil.

The growing number of varieties ensures that one will suit your taste and your garden. Whether planted in a hedge or sprinkled throughout your garden or filling your favorite vase, Hydrangeas have been a favorite garden plant for generations.


Article Compiled by Renee C. Brannigan

No comments: