How to Plant a Tree Hydrangea

Tree hydrangeas are beautiful deciduous shrubs that produce large, cone-shaped flowers in the summer. These shrubs are easy to plant and care for, making them a great addition to any garden or landscape. Here’s how you can plant your own tree hydrangea:

Choosing the Right Spot

Before you start planting, choose a spot in your garden that gets partial to full sun. Tree hydrangeas need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight a day to grow and thrive. You should also choose an area with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Tree hydrangeas do not like standing water and can suffer if their roots are constantly wet.

Preparing the Soil

Once you have chosen the perfect spot for your tree hydrangea, it’s time to prepare the soil. First, remove any weeds or grass from the area where you plan to plant your hydrangea. Then, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches using a digging fork or shovel. Once you have loosened the soil, mix in a generous amount of compost or well-rotted manure. This will improve the soil’s texture and provide important nutrients for your hydrangea.

Planting Your Tree Hydrangea

Now it’s time to plant your tree hydrangea. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Gently remove the hydrangea from its container, and loosen any tangled roots with your fingers. Place the hydrangea in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Water your hydrangea immediately after planting, and continue to water it regularly for the first few weeks until it has become established.

Caring for Your Tree Hydrangea

Once your tree hydrangea is planted, it’s important to care for it properly. Water your hydrangea deeply once a week, especially during dry periods, to make sure the roots stay moist. You should also add a layer of mulch around the base of your hydrangea to help retain moisture in the soil and control weeds. A slow-release fertilizer can also be applied once a year in the fall to provide your hydrangea with essential nutrients.

Pruning your tree hydrangea is also important for maintaining its shape and promoting healthy growth. You should prune your hydrangea in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches and cut back any branches that have grown too long. You can also remove any weak or spindly growth to encourage more vigorous growth.

By following these easy steps for planting and caring for your tree hydrangea, you can enjoy beautiful and healthy blooms for years to come. With a little bit of effort and attention, you can create a stunning addition to your garden or landscape.