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Hydrangeas are beloved for their stunning blooms, but they can be sensitive to cold weather. Properly overwintering your hydrangeas ensures they survive the winter and bloom beautifully the following season. Here’s a simple guide to help you overwinter your hydrangeas, whether they’re in the ground or in pots.
Step 1: Identify Your Hydrangea Type
- Macrophylla (Bigleaf) Hydrangeas: These are the most sensitive to cold and benefit the most from winter protection. They include popular varieties like mophead and lacecap hydrangeas.
- Paniculata and Arborescens Hydrangeas: These types are hardier and generally don’t need as much protection, but some care is still beneficial.
Step 2: Prepare the Hydrangeas for Winter
- Stop Fertilizing: In late summer, stop fertilizing your hydrangeas. This allows the plants to harden off and prepare for dormancy.
- Prune Lightly (if needed): Avoid heavy pruning in fall, especially for Bigleaf hydrangeas, as they bloom on old wood. Remove only dead or weak stems.
Step 3: Mulch and Protect
- Apply Mulch: In late fall, apply a thick layer of mulch (about 4-6 inches) around the base of the hydrangea. Use materials like straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves. This insulates the roots and protects them from freezing temperatures.
- Wrap the Plant (for Sensitive Types): For Bigleaf hydrangeas, you can add extra protection by wrapping the plant with burlap or using a wire cage filled with leaves or straw. This shields the buds from harsh winter winds and frost.
Step 4: Care for Potted Hydrangeas
- Move Indoors (if possible): If your hydrangeas are in pots, consider moving them to a cool, unheated garage, shed, or basement. Keep the soil slightly moist throughout the winter.
- Outdoor Protection: If indoor space isn’t available, group the pots together in a sheltered spot and wrap them in insulating materials like burlap or bubble wrap.
Step 5: Transition to Spring
- Unwrap and Prune: In early spring, once the danger of frost has passed, carefully remove any protective coverings. Prune dead or damaged stems, but be cautious with Bigleaf hydrangeas, as they bloom on old wood.
- Refresh Mulch: Apply a fresh layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds as the plants begin to grow.
Conclusion
Overwintering hydrangeas requires some attention, but the effort pays off with beautiful blooms in the next growing season. By following these steps, you can protect your hydrangeas from winter damage and ensure they thrive year after year.
