Hydrangeas bring spectacular beauty to Massachusetts gardens with their showy blooms and versatile growing habits. These flowering shrubs thrive in our state’s climate and soil conditions, making them popular choices for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Discover how to make the most of these stunning plants with these essential facts tailored specifically for Massachusetts growing conditions.
1. Massachusetts Soil Affects Bloom Color
Our state’s naturally acidic soil is why blue hydrangeas are so common in Massachusetts gardens. The more acidic your soil (pH below 5.5), the bluer your blooms will be. If you’re seeing pink flowers instead, your soil might be more alkaline than typical.
You can adjust the color by adding aluminum sulfate to increase acidity for blue flowers, or garden lime to reduce acidity for pink blooms. Just remember that white hydrangeas won’t change color regardless of soil pH.
2. Winter Protection Is Essential
Massachusetts winters can be brutal on hydrangeas, especially newer varieties that bloom on old wood. Protecting your plants from harsh winter winds and freezing temperatures makes all the difference between glorious summer blooms and disappointment…