9 Facts Every Hydrangea-Lover Needs to Know
:extract_cover():upscale()/2016/03/21/887/n/1922794/17e65805_edit_img_cover_file_40642764_1458581097_hydrangea-bouquet-ideas-via-_mystylevita-My-Style-Vita-1-1.jpg)
There's something innately sentimental about hydrangeas; their classic beauty and enduring style has made them popular in yards and bouquets for as long as we can remember. With Spring upon us, it's time to study up on these beloved stems. Keep reading to discover the nine essential facts every hydrangea-lover should know.
As Their Name Implies, They Need Lots of Water
These thirsty shrubs like moist, well-drained soil and dislike direct sunlight, so find a partially shady spot to plant them.
Their Color Is Determined by the Soil's pH
You can control the color of a hydrangea's flowers yourself by adjusting the soil's acidity and alkalinity.
Hydrangeas Produce Flowers From Early Spring Through Fall
Hydrangea's flowers peak for about two to three weeks during the season, and it's normal for their color to change as they age.
Hydrangeas Are Native to Japan
Hydrangeas are thought to have originated in the mountainous Japanese islands, and they continue to have their greatest species diversity in Japan, China, Korea, Indonesia, and the Himalayas.
They Require TLC After Snipping
Hydrangeas are known to wilt without warning after being snipped from the bush. You can try to prevent wilting by placing them in water immediately after snipping, and then recut the stems and soak them in a cup of boiling water for 30 seconds before placing them in a vase.
They Mean Gratitude and Heartfelt Emotions
Hydrangeas' deep meaning, paired with their beauty and fragrance, make them a popular choice for wedding bouquets and decor arrangements.
They Look Just as Pretty Dried Out as They Do Fresh
No need to toss your blossoms after they dry out — these preserved arrangements stay looking lovely for months and months.
They're a Flowering Shrub
There are three main types of these shrubs, distinguished largely by the flowers. The most commonly recognized type is mophead. Panicle hydrangeas have cone-shaped flower clusters, and lacecaps have flattened clusters of tiny buds encircled by a handful of petaled flowers.
They Have Their Own Day
Hydrangea Day is celebrated on Jan. 5, ironically when the flowers are out of season. Even if you can't snip flowers from your own garden to celebrate, you can make a bouquet by purchasing imported stems at the florist.