Thursday, September 22, 2011

Endless Summer Hydrangea

"Hydrangea macrophylla 'Bailmer'
USDA Cold hardiness Zone 4 to 9


These Hydrangea were planted in early September 2011, in a raised bed bordering a driveway in Lansing, New York on a hillside lot overlooking Cayuga Lake.  The bed with sandy soil was freshened with topsoil and peatmoss.  Mulch was spread over the area.


This plant is the first repeat blooming mop-head Hydrangea to be developed.  Spent flowers should be removed to maintain blooms from spring to fall.  Cut the emerging spring growth back to half to increase the number of blooms.  The color will vary from blue (acidic) to pink (alkaline) depending on the soil. The shrub will reach 3-5 feet tall and wide.  Water regularly, when the top 3 inches of soil is dry.  Filtered sun is best.  During the first growing season follow a regular watering schedule to establish a deep, extensive root system.  Provide well-drained soil, rich in organic matter.  Feed with an acid fertilizer before spring growth.  Prune to shape after flowering.  
August 2013
Plant about two feet tall