Hydrangeas are the quintessential Mother’s Day gift, their big, lush blooms bringing instant joy and elegance. But here in Baton Rouge, many varieties are still putting on a beautiful show well into July. While they make wonderful gifts, they can also become dependable, long-lasting additions to our local landscapes when given the right care.
In our hot, humid subtropical climate, hydrangeas generally prefer morning sun and afternoon shade. They like rich, well-drained soil amended with plenty of organic matter. I always recommend adding compost when planting and keeping a consistent layer of mulch around the roots to hold in moisture. Watering is especially important in July. Aim for about an inch of water per week, and don’t let them dry out completely during our intense summer heat.
For cut flowers, few plants can match the classic Annabelle (Hydrangea arborescens). Its large, snowball-like blooms sit on strong stems that hold up well in vases and dry nicely for arrangements. Annabelle is also one of the toughest hydrangeas for our area and continues blooming through much of the summer…