The Very Best Time Of Year To Plant Hydrangeas In Your Garden For Maximum Blooms

In order to ensure your hydrangeas flourish, it's important to plant them during the most optimal months. These beautiful flowers are hardy once they're established, but that doesn't mean they can be planted at any time. In fact, hydrangeas need slightly warmer soil in order to root comfortably. That means there are specific seasons that will promote a healthy plant. You can set your hydrangeas up for success by following a few simple steps.

When it comes to learning how to grow and take care of hydrangeas, all successful gardens start by planting at the very best time of year. Across the board, the most consistent piece of advice is not to plant them in summer or winter. More specifically, early spring or autumn are ideal. April and May (after the winter frost has ended but before the heat is too intense), are a safe bet for most four-season climates. If you miss spring, September to October can also be a good time if your climate isn't exceedingly cold. 

Although shoulder months are an ideal time of year to plant most hydrangeas, it's a good idea to take your specific climate into consideration. First, check your climate zone by searching for your area on the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you are located within the USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 7, spring may be a preferable time to start planting your hydrangeas. This is because the soil won't be frosty, as it can be in autumn. On the other hand, warmer climates, like zone 9 or 10, can get too hot in the spring, shocking your newly-planted hydrangeas with intense heat. 

If you're still unsure whether the season is suitable, try testing the temperature of the soil. It should be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit to promote rapid root growth. Frozen or waterlogged soil can put significant strain on the roots, preventing them from settling properly. These are just a few of several crucial tips and tricks for successful hydrangea blooms every year. If you're still deciding on the right species to plant, 'Avant Garde' is a showstopping variety of hydrangea that produces massive flowers.