Gardening expert warns hydrangeas ‘will die’ if gardeners make common mistake

Hydrangeas are large shrubs that boast huge, vibrant clusters of blooms, which put on a show from late spring until autumn. 

Known for being low maintenance, hydrangeas are a popular choice among beginner gardeners and experienced growers alike. 

But despite their reputation for being easy to care for, there are a few common mistakes home gardeners of all skill levels can make with hydrangeas.

Gardening expert Madison Moulton of Blooming Backyard noted that there are several hydrangea mistakes that “seriously harm” the plant, but only one holds the possibility of killing them.

The expert claimed that despite their ease of care, there are “small quirks in growth that often trip up gardeners” growing hydrangeas.

The worst hydrangea mistake is watering them incorrectly. Gardeners need to find the right balance as hydrangeas love moisture, but also can’t sit in waterlogged soil.

The expert said: “The right balance will keep the roots cool and hydrated, giving you the best possible blooms and glossy foliage above the soil.”

She urged: “Avoid watering too often, especially when drainage is not good, as this can quickly lead to root rot.

“If conditions don’t improve, the entire root system will become mushy and the plant will die.”

To aim to fix this, gardeners should wait until the soil has dried out slightly before they consider watering again, taking recent rainfall in the area into account.

At the same time, it’s vital not to wait too long to water hydrangeas as the lack of moisture and inconsistent watering “will lead to stress, limiting new growth and preventing flowering”. 

The expert explained that water is an “essential component” in photosynthesis and without it, “hydrangeas cannot grow”.

How gardeners water their hydrangeas will also have an effect on the plant’s growth.

Try to avoid watering overhead where possible, focusing the stream of water on the soil only. 

Maddison said: “This keeps the leaves dry and prevents the proliferation and spread of damaging fungal diseases.”