Tips for Planting Hydrangeas in a Pot Outside

Table of Contents

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowers that add color and charm to any garden. While planting them in the ground is an option, planting them in pots outside can be just as rewarding. Here's a guide on how to do it right.

Overview of Planting Hydrangeas in Pots Outside

Planting hydrangeas in pots offers versatility and mobility to decorate your porch or patio with colorful blooms. Not only do they add beauty to outdoor spaces, they also provide aromatherapy with their sweet scent.

Benefits of Growing Hydrangeas in Pots

There are numerous benefits to growing hydrangeas in pots, such as:

• Portability: You can move them around to get better sunlight, shade, or simply for decorating purposes.
• Control soil quality: Since pots have limited space, you can take full control of the potting mix and fertilizer applied to your hydrangeas.
• Higher survival rate: In some cases, potted hydrangeas have a greater chance of survival because they're less exposed to pests or disease in garden soil.
• Winterization: Potted hydrangeas can be easily moved indoors during winter to survive the cold season.

It's clear to see why hydrangeas in pots have become popular among gardeners.

1. Choosing the Right Container

The container you choose can affect your hydrangeas' growth and survival rate. Here are two vital factors to consider when selecting your hydrangea pot.

Size and Shape Matter

When choosing the size of the container, bigger can be better if you want larger plants. However, if you're aiming for smaller, more manageable hydrangeas, a pot diameter of around 18 inches may suffice. As for the shape, make sure your pot is deep enough to accommodate the root ball of your hydrangea. A round shape could be the most practical.

Drainage is Essential

The container must have adequate drainage holes at the bottom. Hydrangeas in pots should never sit in standing water, which can lead to root rot and impaired growth. Having enough air circulation around the root system helps prevent soil diseases and allows the roots to breathe.

2. Selecting the Best Potting Mix

Hydrangeas are known to thrive in a specific type of soil. When planting hydrangeas in a pot outside, using the best potting mix is paramount.

Non-Soil Mixtures

Potting mix made from high-quality ingredients like peat moss or perlite mixed with vermiculite, composted bark, or coconut coir can provide your hydrangeas with well-draining soil that retains moisture.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer

There are various fertilizers available in the market. However, selecting the right one for your hydrangeas is crucial. Use a well-balanced slow-release fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

3. Picking the Best Hydrangea Varieties for Pots

Choosing the right variety of hydrangea plays a significant role in how well they grow in pots.

Compact and Dwarf Varieties

If you want smaller hydrangeas for easy maintenance, compact and dwarf varieties are good options. They can also grow well in smaller containers with proper care.

Endless Summer Varieties

Endless Summer is a popular hydrangea cultivar known for producing blooms in both summer and fall. They are very versatile and can thrive in both garden soil or pots.

Colors and Blooming Seasons

Hydrangeas come in various colors- from blue to pink, white, and even red. Knowing the color you want helps when choosing a suitable variety. Bloom time also varies; some types of hydrangeas bloom in spring, while others bloom in summer or fall.

4. Caring for Your Potted Hydrangeas

Caring for your potted hydrangeas does not differ significantly from caring for other types of hydrangeas. Here are some tips to consider:

Watering and Sunlight Requirements

Make sure your hydrangeas get plenty of sunlight in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon. The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged. In hot weather, you may need to water your hydrangeas more often.

Pruning and Deadheading

Regular pruning can help promote healthy blooming and shape your hydrangeas. Deadheading the spent blooms also encourages new growth.

Winterizing Your Potted Hydrangeas

Before the first frost, move your potted hydrangeas to a shaded spot, where they're protected from wind and direct sunlight. Insulate the pot with bubble wrap or burlap to retain heat.

These tips can help keep your potted hydrangeas healthy and in bloom. With proper care, you can enjoy your potting plants for many years.

Wrapping up Tips for Planting Hydrangeas in a Pot Outside

From choosing the right container size to pruning and deadheading, caring for hydrangeas in pots outside may seem daunting, but it's an excellent way to grow and showcase these beautiful flowers.

FAQ

Can hydrangeas grow well in pots?

Yes, hydrangeas can grow well in pots with proper care and maintenance.

What's the best-size container for hydrangeas in pots?

Hydrangeas can grow in different-sized containers. However, choose pots that are deep enough to accommodate the root ball of your hydrangea, usually around 18 inches in diameter.

How often should I water my potted hydrangeas?

Water your potted hydrangeas when the soil feels dry to touch. In hot weather, you may need to water more frequently.

Is it necessary to fertilize hydrangeas in pots, and how do I fertilize them?

Fertilizer is essential for hydrangeas, whether grown in pots or ground. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer at planting time and once every eight weeks during the growing season.

Do I need to prune my hydrangeas in pots?

Regular pruning can help promote healthy blooming and shape your hydrangeas. Deadheading the spent blooms also encourages new growth.

How do I protect my potted hydrangeas from cold weather?

Before the first frost, move your potted hydrangeas to a shaded spot protected from wind and direct sunlight. Insulate the pot with bubble wrap or burlap to retain heat.

Can I plant other flowers in the same container with hydrangeas?

Yes, you can plant other flowers in the same container with hydrangeas if they have similar light and watering needs.

How long will it take for hydrangeas in pots to bloom?

Hydrangeas can take up to two years to establish themselves in pots. However, once established, they usually bloom annually in a growing season.

Why are the leaves on my potted hydrangeas turning yellow?

Yellowing leaves could indicate either overwatering or poor nutrient availability- such as iron deficiency from alkaline soil. Ensure you're only watering when the soil is dry, and check your pH levels regularly.

What's the best time of year to plant hydrangeas in pots?

Spring is the best time of year to plant hydrangeas in pots. That way, they can have enough time to establish roots and develop healthy growth before winter sets in.