Varigated Hydrangea Plant Care
- Danny Lipford, host and executive producer of the nationally syndicated television show "Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford," and the radio show "Homefront with Danny Lipford," recommends full morning sun with light afternoon shade for variegated hydrangeas, which may burn if they get bright sunlight all day. If hydrangeas don't get the right amount of light, however, they fail to bloom. Shade is especially important in hot areas of the country.
- Variegated hydrangeas need rich, crumbly soil that drains quickly. Hydrangeas will fail when planted in sites that retain water in puddles. Gardeners should mix plenty of organic compost into the soil at planting to support their hydrangeas.
- Fertilize generously in spring and again at the end of summer for ideal hydrangea growth and blooming. Danny Lipford goes on to suggest two to three fertilizer applications during the growing season. Hydrangeas prefer slow-release, balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10.
- Variegated hydrangeas are very thirsty plants and require frequent irrigation. Give variegated hydrangeas 1 to 2 inches of water every week, and check the soil often for drying. Hydrangeas won't bloom or grow if they don't get enough water.