Hydrangea paniculata

Growing and care

Optimum growing conditions

• Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soils with slightly acid to neutral pH (5.5 – 7.0). Also adapts to clay soils, but does not tolerate waterlogging.
• Light: Thrives well in full sun or semi-shade. In regions with very hot summers, plant in a spot where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade.
• Moisture: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. The soil should always be water but not excessively wet.

Fertilization

• Spring: Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer to stimulate vegetative growth.
• Before flowering: Use phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to encourage flower formation and coloration.

Cut

• When to do it: It is done in late winter or early spring (February-March), before vegetation starts.
• How to do it: Remove dry or weak branches and cut back to 2-3 buds at the base to stimulate flowering.
• Effect: Annual pruning maintains a compact shape and stimulates the development of large inflorescences.

Diseases and pests

• Common diseases: gray rot, leaf spotting, leaf spotting, leaf blotch
• Pests: Aphids, woolly lice, mites
• Prevention: Avoid watering leaves, maintain good air circulation and apply preventive fungicide treatments as needed.

Uses

• Ornamental shrub in gardens and parks – Plant alone or in groups for a spectacular effect.
• Ornamental hedge – Thanks to its abundant flowering and dense shape.
• Grow in large pots – Suitable for terraces or balconies.
• Cut and dried flowers – Inflorescences are used in fresh or dried flower arrangements.
• Attracts pollinators – Bees and butterflies are attracted to its nectar-rich flowers.

Hydrangea paniculata is one of the most popular hydrangea species because of the beauty of its flowers and its adaptability to different climatic conditions.