How to grow Hydrangea in the UK
Hydrangea macrophylla
Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Acid soil = blue flowers, alkaline = pink. Add ericaceous feed/sulphur for blue. This guide covers when and how to sow Hydrangea, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Hydrangea
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Moist, rich soil
- Soil pH
- Acid soil = blue mophead flowers; alkaline = pink
- Position
- Part shade, sheltered from morning sun
- Sowing depth
- Plant so the rootball top sits level with the soil
- Spacing
- 1–1.5 m
- Sowing
- Plant spring or autumn; keep well-watered (the name means "water vessel")
- Growing
- Water through the first two summers; mulch annually
- Harvest & upkeep
- Leave old mophead flowers over winter for frost protection; prune lightly in spring
- Watch for
- Generally trouble-free; capsid bug, vine weevil in pots
Companion planting for Hydrangea
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Hydrangea to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Hydrangea FAQs
How much sun does Hydrangea need?
Hydrangea prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When should I plant Hydrangea in the UK?
In the UK, plant Hydrangea in April. Planting in this window gives the roots time to establish before the plant is asked to grow away.
Is Hydrangea easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Acid soil = blue flowers, alkaline = pink. Add ericaceous feed/sulphur for blue.