Hydrangeas can thrive even in shady north-facing gardens. Here are some helpful pointers for flourishing growth.
Nick Hamilton, the owner of Barnsdale Gardens, shares his wealth of knowledge about hydrangeas, a popular plant that thrives in shady conditions. With years of practical experience, trial and error, and success with organic and peat-free methods, Hamilton has become a go-to source for hydrangea advice.
Hydrangeas are known for their love of nutrient-rich, well-draining soil and cool, moist conditions. They can be found flourishing in various parts of Barnsdale Gardens, which has won Gold Medals at prestigious events like Gardeners' World Live and the Chelsea Flower Show's Great Pavilion.
When it comes to choosing the right hydrangea for your garden, consider the amount of sunlight your space receives. Hydrangea Macrophylla Glam Rock can be planted in full sun or partial shade and will flower from July to October, while Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris is an excellent choice for a north-facing garden due to its shade tolerance.
For those with drier patches of shade, the North American Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle', available at Waitrose, may have a greater chance of success. This variety, along with Hydrangea arborescens 'Incrediball' and Hydrangea macrophylla 'Endless Summer', are ideal for northern slopes or north-facing walls due to their ability to tolerate partial shade and cooler conditions well.
To create a beautiful and thriving hydrangea garden, consider planting groundcover plants like tiarella or vinca minor around your hydrangeas as a natural way to keep the roots cool. These plants can help maintain the ideal moisture level and temperature for your hydrangeas to grow.
In a UK climate, some direct sun is tolerated by hydrangeas, but light shade, shielded from the harsh midday sun, is best. It's essential to ensure your hydrangeas receive the right amount of sunlight to promote healthy growth and beautiful flowerheads.
For instance, the unspecified hydrangea from Barnsdale Gardens that thrives in no sun has beautiful flowerheads that start out lime green and gradually turn white. Another example is Hydrangea arborescens 'Incrediball', available at Sarah Raven, which can brighten up any shady corner or space.
To support the growth of your hydrangeas, Hamilton recommends a good thick mulch and occasional applications of water for dry soil. By following these tips and choosing the right hydrangea varieties for your garden, you can create a beautiful and thriving hydrangea garden that will bring joy for years to come.
