08 October 2023 , 05:00
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Hydrangeas produce big, beautiful, colourful flowers in abundance and are easy to grow too, making them a staple in British gardens, despite them being native to Asia and the Americas.
They carry different symbolism dependent on country. In Japan, hydrangeas are said to be a sign of gratitude because ancient emperors would give them to their maidens as a sign of thanks. But the Victorians believed hydrangeas symbolised boastfulness or vanity because they produce a lot of blooms but drop little seed to share.
The pretty shrub comes in a variety of sizes that make them versatile and perfect for any garden and they can also be grown in pots for those with limited space, or even as climbers on north or east facing walls.
An expert has shared how to make the most of these stunning plants that are commonly seen in gardens with pink or blue clusters of flowers but also come in cream, green and other varying hues.
Horticulturists from Garden Express told the Express that the hydrangea is best planted when they are available in garden centres, but this can vary from region to region. If you live in a colder part of the country, it's best to plant them in early autumn (so get going now if you're up north!) or early spring to give them the best chance against a cold winter and of producing "lasting and healthy beautiful blooms".
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For people living in warmer climates, they should be fine to go in the ground from autumn right through to spring for seasons full of flowers. When it comes to potting in containers there is more flexibility and providing the soil isn't frozen or too wet or dry, they can go in all year round.
A container may be best if you are unsure of the earth in your garden as hydrangeas prefer growing in moist, clay soil and depending on the variety will prefer more acidic (which produces blue flowers) or alkaline conditions (for pink flowers). It's always best to test the PH of your garden before you decide where to plant.
The shrubby flower will also need quite a specific position in the garden to achieve best results: "Your hydrangea will be happiest growing in a combination of morning sun and afternoon shade," the experts said.
Once it has been planted, it's vital that it is given enough water so it can establish, especially if the area is getting a lot of sun. This way you should have beautiful displays from early spring right through to autumn.
What's your favourite garden plant? Let us know in the comments below.