Hydrangeas

Hydrangea plants

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy hydrangea plants in the UK. You can contact our customer service team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant hydrangea plants

The best time to plant hydrangea plants is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, ensuring that the ground is neither too hot nor too cold. Planting in these seasons allows the hydrangeas to establish a strong root system before the extreme temperatures of summer or winter set in.

How to plant hydrangeas

Hydrangeas prefer moist soil conditions and thrive in dappled shade or an east-facing spot that benefits from sun in the morning and protection from the harshest afternoon sun. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball and enrich the soil with organic matter. Hydrangea plants are typically pretty thirsty and benefit from regular watering. Certain varieties of hydrangea can change colour in different soils, depending on their pH levels.

The common belief is that acidic soil will turn a hydrangea blue. However, this is highly dependent on the variety of plants and other factors, like the aluminium content of the soil. Need help picking the right hydrangea for your soil type? Just contact us, and we'll happily be your guide.

How long do hydrangea plants take to grow?

Hydrangea plants typically take about two to three years to become fully established and reach their mature size, depending on the variety and growing conditions. While they may produce some flowers in the first year, it usually takes a couple of seasons for them to achieve their full blooming potential. Regular watering, proper fertilisation and suitable placement in the garden can help promote healthy growth and development. With the right care, hydrangeas will provide long-lasting flowers from spring to autumn, and some varieties offer attractive foliage and bark for winter interest. Easy to care for and maintain, hydrangeas are perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners looking to enhance their outdoor space with minimal effort.

How to care for hydrangeas to plant

Regular watering and pruning at the right time are key considerations for getting the best from your hydrangeas. But they are otherwise unfussy plants that can bounce back from tough frosts to still perform well come summer.
Refrain from pruning classic mophead hydrangeas until mid-spring. You can keep the old flowerheads on the plant over winter, as this will protect it from frost. Flowers will form on old wood, so once the risk of frost has passed, you should be able to see an abundance of buds to guide your pruning as you take away last year's faded flowers. Paniculata and aborescens varieties flower on new wood, so an earlier prune is required to get the plant into shape for summer.

Can you grow hydrangea plants in pots?

Yes, hydrangea plants can thrive in pots. Make sure to pick a large enough container so they have enough space for lots of root development. A well-draining potting mix will also help keep the plant moist without getting waterlogged. Regular watering is key for hydrangeas in pots. In summer, they may well need a sprinkle every day to help them cope with hot and dry conditions. If your garden soil is alkaline, growing blue hydrangea plants in a pot of ericaceous soil will also prevent them from changing colour!

Why buy hydrangea plants from Marshalls?

• Our experts are committed to delivering advice when you need it. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 75 years of experience, to get the best results from your hydrangea plants and much more.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can rely on.