From the hillsides of the Azores to a front garden of a London townhouse, we’ve all had our head turned by a mass planting of hydrangeas. There’s something undeniably elegant about those large, showy blooms, and with our helpful watering guide, there’s no reason why you can’t be the proud owner of the most show-stopping lace-caps on the street.
The name 'hydrangea' comes from the Greek words for water (hydro) and vessel (angeion). In other words, they’re thirsty plants! That being said, there’s more to these intriguing plants than just giving them plenty of water. Did you know that the water you give them can influence their colour?
The Chemistry Behind the Colour
Your soil and water's pH level is the secret hidden key to maintaining certain hydrangea colours. Most gardeners focus on soil amendments, but the water you use can gradually shift soil chemistry over time, too.
For brilliant blue blooms, you want your soil to be acidic (pH below 7), because it frees up aluminium, which is absorbed by hydrangeas to create those classic azure displays.
For gorgeous pink flowers, aim to keep your soil alkaline (pH above 7) as it keeps aluminium locked away, resulting in vibrant pink and red flowers.
Not all hydrangeas play by these colour rules. White-flowering varieties like 'Annabelle' and 'Limelight' remain steadfastly white regardless of soil pH. Their genetics simply don't produce the pigments that create blues and pinks.
Helpful tip: Rainwater is naturally soft and slightly acidic (around pH 5.6), which gradually encourages those stunning blue tones over time. It's also free from the chlorine and mineral build-up found in tap water, which can affect nutrient absorption.
How Much Water Do Hydrangeas Need?
Hydrangeas want a proper drink, not a quick sprinkle. Water slowly and deeply at the base of the plant, allowing moisture to penetrate right down to the root zone. This encourages the strong, deep root system that can access soil minerals and create those spectacular colour displays.
Use a watering can with a long spout to deliver water directly to the soil, keeping the foliage dry. Wet leaves in humid conditions invite fungal problems, something hydrangeas are unfortunately prone to.
For this kind of careful, root-focused watering, a classic long-reach can such as The Warley Fall is ideal – it allows you to thread water right to the base without wetting the leaves.
Seasonal Watering Wisdom
Spring: Consistent moisture as new growth emerges helps establish strong stems for the season's blooms. Inadequate water during this time can directly impact bloom size later in the summer.
Summer: Peak watering season, especially for newly planted or container-grown plants. Maintain steady moisture levels for impressive blooms and healthy foliage.
Autumn: Gradually reduce watering as plants prepare for dormancy, but don't let them dry out completely.
Winter: Minimal watering for outdoor plants, though container-grown hydrangeas may need occasional moisture checks during very mild spells.
When larger beds or multiple hydrangeas need steady watering through the season, a two-gallon can such as The Bearwood Brook or The Hockley Heritage makes light work of the task – its generous flow helps cover ground quickly while staying balanced in hand.
Drying Hydrangeas for Natural Christmas Decorations
Come autumn, don't be too hasty to dispose of spent blooms when you reach for your secateurs. Hydrangea blooms make spectacular dried flowers for Christmas arrangements. The secret is patience – wait for the blooms to begin drying naturally on the plant until they feel papery to the touch and have an aged, antique look.
Once they've reached this stage, cut the stems and hang them upside down in a dry, airy spot for a few weeks. The faded colours create beautiful, long-lasting displays that capture the essence of your summer garden through the winter months and make beautiful, sustainable decorations.
Our Haws Jugs offer a timeless way to arrange and display your dried hydrangea heads indoors!
