Your summer garden is in for a treat with three stunning new hydrangea hybrids in full bloom.
- Magical Revolution (Hydrangea macrophylla magical) is a must-have. This compact, bushy, deciduous shrub bears clusters of flowers that change color over time, offering a magical daily experience with a rainbow of hues. Ideal for semi-shade or full sun, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil, making it suitable for containers, beds, and borders. It’s disease-resistant but watch out for red spider mite and scale.
- Endless Summer (Hydrangea macrophylla) lives up to its name. This special cultivar blooms on both old and new wood, ensuring a year-round flower display. It thrives in semi-shade, tolerates full sun with consistently moist soil, and suits hedging and cut-flowers due to its resilience against pests and diseases.
- Oakleaf (Hydrangea quercifolia), a medium-sized bush, boasts large, cone-shaped clusters of stunning blooms, up to 30cm long. Cream-white flowers mature into pink hues and last through mid-winter, complemented by burgundy foliage. It prefers dappled shade and adapts well to drier climates. Maintain fertile, moist soil and watch for mildew.
Hydrangea pruning tips:
- There are two main groups of hydrangea pruning requirements; consult your garden center assistant to identify your type.
- Group 1 plants (old wood) bloom on last year’s growth and require pruning in late summer.
- Group 2 plants (new wood) bloom on fresh growth and should be pruned in early spring after the frost.
- Pruning branches as leaves emerge in spring encourages multiple smaller flower heads rather than fewer, larger clusters.
Toxic alert: Most hydrangeas are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.
Feeding tip: Hydrangeas are heavy feeders! Use slow-release fertiliser every six weeks.
For more information, visit www.lifeisagarden.co.za.
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