Preparing hydrangeas for winter: Essential care tips for frost

Hydrangeas are exceptional plants that can outshine even the queens of gardens, like roses. Fall and early winter are the times to ensure they are properly prepared for the upcoming frost. The first step is to assess the plants' condition to ensure there are no signs of disease or pests. If any concerning symptoms are noticed, it is worthwhile to apply appropriate protective measures.

It should be noted that hydrangeas tolerate winter differently depending on the species. The garden hydrangea is considered the most demanding, while varieties of panicle hydrangea handle it slightly better. To ensure the shrubs survive, it's advisable to cover them before the first frosts appear. How to do it?

Horticultural fleece is a type of fabric that protects plants in the winter. The best choice is the white one, as it reflects light, preventing the wrapped hydrangeas from overheating while still allowing sunlight to reach them. Before wrapping the shrubs, water them generously—hydrangeas like to feel moisture, even in winter. After watering, you can start wrapping from the top of the plant downwards. This way, the shrub will not be exposed to snow or rain.

In the fall, potassium-phosphorus fertilizers should be used for hydrangeas to support the shoots' lignification, increasing their frost resistance. It is also recommended to avoid nitrogen fertilizers, as they could lead to excessive growth of new shoots during this time.

A key aspect of hydrangea care during the winter is their protection against frost. The best method is mounding, which involves covering the base of the shrubs with soil or organic mulch. This protects the roots from freezing and helps retain moisture in the soil, which is essential during winter.

For hydrangeas, using a homemade fertilizer that encourages growth and will cover the bush with flowers in the season is beneficial. This involves a coffee grounds fertilizer. You only need to mix warm water with a few tablespoons of the ground. Let the mixture sit for a while so the grounds swell. Then, mix the ingredients thoroughly and water the hydrangeas with the resulting solution once every two weeks.