Heavenly Hydrangeas
The cloudlike flowers of hydrangeas are as romantic as ever, but today's plants bloom bigger, brighter and showier than Grandma's favorites. With so many types, you'll find one perfect for your garden.
Bigleaf hydrangeas: What you need to know
Type of flowers: Early summer flowers bloom in white, blue, purple or pink, depending on variety and soil. Two flower head shapes: rounded mophead and flat lacecap.
Where to plant: Grow in partial sun to shade with 1-2 inches of water per week. For blue flowers, add aluminum sulfate to soil, following package directions.
What to watch for: Can be vulnerable to late spring frosts. Overfertilizing, overwatering and a lack of sun can delay or prevent blooms.
Recommended types: Try mopheads 'Lemon Daddy' and Cityline series, plus rebloomers Endless Summer, Blushing Bride, Forever & Ever series, Let's Dance series and Mini Penny. Try lacecap Light-O-Day and rebloomers Let's Dance Starlight and Twist-n-Shout.
Zone: Generally as far north as Zone 5 or 6; some hardy in Zone 4 with winter protection.
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