The Zimbabwean Gardener Issue 19 Summer 2016/17 | Page 16

hydrangeas
HYDRANGEAS
By gil laver
Big blooming hydrangea flowers make their appearance every
Christmas if you have cared for them correctly.
Heavenly hydrangeas with their bountiful
blues, subtle shades of pink, whites and
even burgundy, provide abundant flowers
during Christmas. However, growing
hydrangeas successfully does not come
without a bit of trial and error, and
sometimes disappointment, as you need
to find the ‘right’ place for these amazing
plants to reach their full potential.
Before you’re tempted by all the
wonderful hydrangea varieties available,
take the time to find that perfect place in
the garden. Too much sun will make them
wilt, whither and scorch; too much shade
will deteriorate the flowering pattern.
Varieties
There are many types of hydrangeas,
but the most common species found in
Zimbabwean gardens are the Hydrangea
macrophylla Mophead and Lacecap.
The Mophead, which is more prevalent,
bares large beautiful blooms in varying
shades of pink and blue. There are
other species such as the Hydrangea
arborescens Annabella, Oakleaf and Pee
Gee. Keep a look out for magnificent
hydrangeas in some of our local nurseries
and visit our wonderful display at
Picabella Rose Nursery in the summer.
Where to plant them
When choosing a site for planting
hydrangeas, consider the following:
1. Good quality light
We have found that full sun in the
morning and partial shade in the
afternoon works well. Too much shade
will reduce the number of flowers.
2. Soil type
Well-drained soils rich in organic matter
are essential. If your soil conditions are
not favourable, consider planting them
into suitable containers. But don’t skimp
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