CARE OF ENDLESS SUMMER HYDRANGEA

Until now hydrangeas that bloom in colors other than white have been difficult to grow and almost impossible to flower in Minnesota. With the development of the Endless Summer Hydrangea, we now have one that is hardy enough to handle those unpredictable Minnesota winters we’re all too familiar with. A unique factor about Endless Summer Hydrangeas is that the plants will flower on new wood, so you can be confident that flowers will come, even if the plant dies back to the ground. Also, as flowers begin to appear in July, the flowers can change color! Depending on the growing conditions, flowers appear pink or blue.

What does “flower on new wood” mean?

Endless Summer does not rely on the previous years stems (wood) to remain alive through the winter to have flowers. This new hydrangea will bloom regardless of whether the plant dies back to the ground or not, since it flowers come from the new stems (wood).

Pink or blue flowers?

The color of the blossoms depends on the soil which your plant is growing in. Pink blossoms come from soils with high Ph (neutral or basic), whereas blue blossoms will occur in soils with low Ph (acidic). Soils in the Twin Cities Metro are generally high Ph and will produce pink flowers on the Endless Summer Hydrangea. If your blossoms are pink, and you want blue, you must acidify the soil to change them. Bachman’s recommends soil sulphur for making the soil more acidic. As these flowers fade, prune them out to encourage new blooms for the rest of the summer.

Where should it be planted?

Endless summer will do the best when planted in a sheltered location, away from the cold winter winds and hot summer sun. An eastern exposure with morning sunlight is ideal.

When should I expect substantial growth?

This type of hydrangea will be slow to start budding out in the spring and start growing only when ground has sufficiently warmed up. This could be as late as June, depending on where your Endless Summer is planted and on the spring temperatures.

How should I prepare my plant for winter?

To prepare an Endless Summer for winter, stop fertilizing by August 1st and continue to water throughout the fall until the ground is frozen. At this time, trim your plant back to 2” above the ground and cover with at least 6”of organic mulch (leaves, wood mulch, etc.). The mulch will help to prevent damage to the plant over the winter.

If you have other questions about your Endless Summer Hydrangea, please call a Bachman’s Horticulturist at 612-861-7676