Year of the Hydrangea

The National Garden Bureau has declared 2020 Year of the Hydrangea. So, over the next few weeks I will feature each of the major groups to help you select the best ones for your landscape.

This week we focus on the snowball or Annabelle-type hydrangea usually seen growing in shade gardens. It has long been admired for its large white flowers that remain white no matter the soil pH. New varieties, however, have been introduced that feature pink and rose-colored flowers.

Annabelle type hydrangeas prefer partial shade but can be grown in full sun if the soil is kept moist. These 3- to 5-feet-tall plants bloom on new growth and can be pruned in early spring before growth begins.

Reduce floppiness by pruning all the stems back halfway. Then remove half of these back to the soil surface. The older stems help support the new growth.

A bit more information: National Garden Bureau is celebrating its 100th Anniversary. Their mission has been to educate and inspire home gardeners.