Choosing the Right Side of the House to Plant Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are a popular flowering shrub that can add a splash of color and beauty to any landscaping project. However, choosing the right spot to plant your hydrangeas is crucial for their growth and overall health. One of the most common questions that people ask is what side of the house is the best for planting hydrangeas. In this article, we鈥檒l explore some of the factors to consider when choosing a spot to plant hydrangeas and provide you with expert tips to ensure that your shrubs thrive.

Factors to Consider Before Planting Hydrangeas

Before deciding on the side of the house to plant hydrangeas, you need to take into account several factors. The first thing to consider is the amount of sunlight that the spot receives. Hydrangeas require adequate sunlight to bloom, but too much sun can damage the foliage and cause the plants to wilt. Ideally, hydrangeas should receive around 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily.

The second factor to consider is the soil quality. Hydrangeas prefer soil that is rich in organic matter, well-drained, and slightly acidic. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add some organic matter, such as peat moss or compost, to lower the pH level.

The third factor to consider is the proximity to other plants. Hydrangeas should be planted at least three feet apart from other plants to prevent overcrowding and ensure adequate air circulation.

Choosing the Right Side of the House

Now that you have an understanding of the factors to consider before planting hydrangeas let鈥檚 explore what side of the house is best. The ideal spot would be a spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade. The eastern side of the house is perfect for this as it gets plenty of morning sun and is shaded from the afternoon heat. However, if the eastern side of the house is not an option, the northern side can also work as it provides the right amount of sun and shade.

Avoid planting hydrangeas on the southern or western side of the house unless you can provide adequate protection from the intense afternoon sun. These sides can get too much sunlight, which can result in sunburned foliage and wilted plants.

Tips for Planting Hydrangeas

Now that you have the ideal spot to plant hydrangeas, here are some tips to ensure that your shrubs thrive.

1. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant, but not too deep. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface.

2. Add some organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and provide nutrients for the plant.

3. Water the plant well after planting, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Hydrangeas require regular watering, especially during dry spells.

4. Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.

Conclusion

Choosing the right side of the house to plant hydrangeas is crucial for their growth and overall health. The eastern or northern side of the house is the best, as it provides the right amount of sunlight and shade. When planting hydrangeas, make sure to take into account factors such as soil quality and proximity to other plants. Finally, follow the expert tips outlined in this article to ensure that your hydrangeas thrive and add beauty to your landscaping project.