
Lacecap hydrangeas are a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape in Lodi California, with their flat, frilly-edged flower heads that vary in size, bloom color, and bloom time. They are part of the bigleaf hydrangea species, which is native to Japan, and are toxic to both humans and pets. If you are considering adding these flowers to your garden, read on for information on how to care for them.
When planting lacecap hydrangeas, location is essential, as they require the right balance of sunlight and moisture. They grow best when planted in a location that receives partial sun, with morning sun and afternoon shade. The foliage can become droopy, turn yellow, or scorch in full sun. However, if the hydrangea is planted in too much shade, stems can become weak and produce fewer blooms.
Water is also critical to the health of your lacecap hydrangeas. They require enough water, but not too much. If you are unsure whether the plant needs water, stick your finger down about four inches into the ground. If it feels dry to the touch, the hydrangea needs water. Watering often with a light sprinkle does not benefit the plant because the water needs to reach the roots. A best practice is to water deeply and not as often.
Lacecap hydrangeas require a rich, well-draining, evenly moist soil that has been amended with organic matter such as manure or compost. To help the soil retain the level of moisture these shrubs require, consider layering a few inches of organic mulch around the shrub.
Fertilizer will definitely help boost growth. It is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer in the early spring according to label directions. You can also blend organic compost into the soil each year. Fertilization should be limited to the spring and should never be done in the late summer because feeding encourages new growth, which is especially susceptible to winter dieback.
If you plant more than one lacecap hydrangea, spacing depends on the variety, as lacecap hydrangea cultivars vary in their mature size. Some cultivars (except those with white blooms) have bloom colors that change with the level of acidity in the soil. An acidic soil (a soil pH 5.5 or lower) will result in blue flowers, while an alkaline soil (a soil pH 7.0 or higher) will cause the flowers to be pink. Add aluminum sulfate to the soil to make the flowers blue or add lime to the soil to make the flowers pink.
At cclandscapinglawns.com, we offer landscaping services that can help you with your lacecap hydrangea care. Our team of experts can help you choose the perfect location for your plant, provide watering and fertilization tips, and assist you in choosing the right soil and mulch. We can also help you with other landscaping projects to make your outdoor space beautiful and inviting.