How to Grow Climbing Hydrangea
Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala spp. petiolaris) is a beautiful but under-appreciated vine. It is low maintenance, has dark-green, glossy, heart-shaped leaves and rewards the gardener with clusters of white flowers in June. The blossoms fade to a light brown and last well into winter. An interesting texture and reddish brown bark add interest to dull winter gardens. With little work you can enjoy your hydrangea for years. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose your planting site. Climbing hydrangea is a very adaptable vine that will thrive in all levels of light, from full sun to full shade. Make sure the soil drains well.
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Dig your planting hole at least twice the width of the plant container and equally as deep.
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Remove plant from the container by gently tapping on the ground and easing the plant out of the pot. Be careful not to damage the roots.
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Place hydrangea in planting hole and fill with water. Allow soil to absorb. This step ensures that water will reach the roots immediately.
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Backfill original soil into planting hole. Adding soil around the bottom roots first helps prevent air pockets. Water again.
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Spread 2 to 3 inches of mulch or other organic material over entire planting area.
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Tips & Warnings
Climbing hydrangea grows well in Zones 5 and 6. Be sure to always check the plant tag and the U.S. Hardiness Zone map to make sure your plant is suitable for your area.
Climbing Hydrangea will cling to flat surfaces, such as brick walls, extremely well. It can, however, also be used as a ground cover. When planted near the foundation of a house, it often grows up the wall and spreads out in the planting bed.
This plant requires little maintenance. Apply a good all-purpose fertilizer in the spring and in the fall to help encourage blooming. If pruning is necessary, do it after blooming.
Don't get discouraged if your climbing hydrangea does not flower the first season. It is slow to establish itself and often will not flower for 2, 3 or even more years. It is worth the wait.
A climbing hydrangea can grow 50 feet or more. Be sure to plant where it has plenty of room to spread and has good support.
