How much sun do hydrangeas need
Hydrangeas can be a beautiful accent plant that can serve as a centerpiece for your backyard. They’re stunning and require very minimal attention. But, how much sun do Hydrangeas need? If you are planning to plant them in the most suitable location, you must ensure they receive just enough sunlight and the Grow Monster will assist you in giving your Hydrangeas the sun they require to keep producing those gorgeous, large blooms year after année.
Hydrangeas require on average four hours of sunlight every day. Hydrangea prefers morning light but will tolerate some direct afternoon sun if you live in a warmer growing area.
If you’re wondering what amount of sun Hydrangeas require, you’ve come to the right spot to know more about the Hydrangea sun needs to lead an active, healthy, and beautiful life. In certain zones, Hydrangeas are tolerant of more direct sunlight while others require just morning sun. Find out what sun requirements are required in your region.
How many suns do Hydrangeas Need?
Hydrangeas can be found in zones 3-7. They require at minimum 4-6 hours of sunshine each day. They can live with 4-6 hours of sun if they are in shade. Keep in mind the more secluded your zone, the greater amount of sunlight your Hydrangea can manage.
Different kinds of Hydrangea will require different amounts of sunlight and this is also dependent on the zone you’re growing in. Grow Monster has created a helpful chart to quickly determine how much sun do Hydrangeas need according to these two factors.
| Mophead/Bigleaf/Lacecap Hydrangea Hydrangea Macrophylla | Growth Zone 4-7 4-6 hours of sunlight |
| Mountain Hydrangea Hydrangea Serrata | Growth Zone 5-7 5-8 hours of sunlight |
| Smooth Hydrangea Hydrangea Arborescens | Growth Zone 3-9 4-6 hours of sunlight |
| Panicle/Peegee/Limelight Hydrangea Hydrangea Paniculata | Growth Zone 3-8 6+ hours of sunlight |
| Oakleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea Quercifolia | Growth Zone 5-9 3-4 hours of sunlight |
Hydrangea Macrophylla
Hydrangea Macrophylla, referred to in the guise of “mophead,” “bigleaf,” or “French” Hydrangea, is the most sought-after variety of Hydrangea. Lacecap Hydrangeas also fall in this category. Hydrangea Macrophylla is recognized to have the smallest amounts of direct sunlight needed. They can be grown in shade, and they prefer morning sunlight with less direct afternoon sun. Bigleaf Hydrangea do best in zones 4-7. They require 4-6 hours of direct sun a day.
Hydrangea Serrata
Hydrangea Serrata, also known as Mountain Hydrangea, is originally located on the hillsides that are cooler in Japan along with Korea. Hydrangea Serrata is more resistant to cold and is not fond of direct sun. It is hardy in zones 5-9. Mountain Hydrangea prefers partial shade and requires between 5-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The warmer zones need less time in the sun each day than the more temperate zones.
Hydrangea Arborescens
Hydrangea Arborescens, also known by the name of “smooth” Hydrangea is hardy in zones 3-9. Smooth Hydrangea is extremely cold-hardy in comparison to other varieties of Hydrangea. Because Hydrangea Arborescens is a great choice for cooler temperatures, it prefers partial shade. If you’re in a warmer climate you could enjoy about 4 hours of full sunlight. On average smooth Hydrangea require between 4-6 hours of sunlight each day.
Hydrangea Paniculata
Hydrangea Paniculata, also known as the Panicle Hydrangea are the varieties that are known as “peegee” and “limelight.” These Hydrangea Paniculata are sun-tolerant and flourish in the growing zones 3-8 (Zone 9). It is possible to ask how much sun Panicle Hydrangeas need if they’re more sun-tolerant. And the Hydrangea Paniculata require more than 6 hours of direct sunlight and therefore, it’s more than the average amount needed for Hydrangea.
Hydrangea Quercifolia
Hydrangea Quercifolia which is sometimes referred to also as Oakleaf Hydrangea has a distinct style of leaves in comparison to different Hydrangea varieties. They look like Oak leaves and that’s why it got the name “Oakleaf.” These Oakleaf Hydrangea are extremely shade-tolerant and can be grown in full shade and only require three to four hours of sunshine each day. They are tolerant of very limited hours of direct sunlight and are resilient in zones 5-9.
Do Hydrangeas thrive in the sun?
Like every plant, requires sunshine to flourish. But, do Hydrangeas do well in sun? They thrive in the morning sun and can be tolerant of more direct afternoon sun in cooler zones of growth. Certain Hydrangeas require more sunlight than others however it is an ideal rule of thumb to offer Hydrangeas more sunlight in the morning compared to the amount of direct afternoon sunlight.
| Hydrangea Name | Growth Zone | Sunlight Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Hydrangea Macrophylla (Mopleaf/Bigleaf/Lacecap) | Zones 4-7 | 4-6 hours of sunlight |
| Hydrangea Serrata (Mountain) | Zones 5-7 | 5-8 hours of sunlight |
| Hydrangea Arborescens (Smooth) | Zones 3-9 | 4-6 hours of sunlight |
| Hydrangea Paniculata (Panicle) | Zones 3-8 | 6+ hours of sunlight |
| Hydrangea Quercifolia (Oakleaf) | Zones 5-9 | 3-4 hours of sunlight |
Sunlight Requirements for Different Types of Hydrangeas
The wild Hydrangeas are found at the edge of forests and areas of woodland. These Hydrangea plants thrive best in partial shade generated by the canopy of trees over. This allows some direct sun to penetrate the Hydrangea but the majority of the sunlight they will receive is during the morning. This same effect can be created by planting your Hydrangea near the tree line if you live on a wooded property or the North or Northeast side of your home/garage/structure.
If you live in an area that is only exposed to sunlight that is direct in the afternoon or for the majority of the day there are some actions you can take to assist in helping your Hydrangea prosper. The first is to grow the Panicle Hydrangea because this variety, specifically that of Peegee and Limelight varieties, is the best sun-tolerant and can even thrive in direct sunlight during the afternoon. They have a more sun-shade requirement than other varieties of Hydrangea that require a minimum of six hours of sunshine every day.
If you decide to grow one of the other varieties, apply the following tips to ensure that they thrive in a sunnier environment. Be sure that you ensure that you water your Hydrangea properly, particularly by watering the base of the plant to avoid getting the leaves damp. The bigleaf Hydrangea is likely to begin to die during midday when there is too much sun. The additional water will aid in keeping them healthy However, be aware that they may not have the same amount of blooms as they do in a shaded spot.
Can you plant hydrangeas under shade?
Being aware that Hydrangeas require on average 4 to 6 hours of sunshine every day, are you able to plant Hydrangeas in shade? The Hydrangeas thrive in the shade since they are usually found along wood edges or in wooded areas. Some areas are more shaded than others, however as long as the Hydrangea receives morning sunlight for the same duration they should thrive.
If you live in a shaded area, perhaps in a tree, or on the North side of your home that is shaded from the morning sun You may be wondering what amount of sun Hydrangeas require in this shady area. You could choose a shade-tolerant variety such as those of Oakleaf Hydrangeas which can be grown even in complete shade, particularly in more temperate zones.
Hydrangeas look fantastic with a row of Hostas on the front because both are great in partial shade areas. A lot of people place them on the front of their homes that face North with this effect of layering to display flowers instead of a non-flowering plant or bush that will add some interest.
Other plants that are compatible with Hydrangeas include Azaleas or Rhododendron because they all thrive in shade. It is possible to layer your garden so there is always shrub blooming all year long.
Can Hydrangeas be too sun-splashed?
Because Hydrangeas thrive better in the morning sun than in direct afternoon sun as well, too much sun can damage the plant. When you inquire if Hydrangeas receive too much sun, you must take the time of the day it receives the most sunlight, and the direction that the sun is going, and then look for signs of excessive sunlight. Hydrangeas like more morning sunlight instead of the direct sun of the afternoon. They also require less sunlight and the more expansive your zone of growth.
If your Hydrangea is located in a shaded spot, such as the north-facing portion of your home or beneath some trees, your Hydrangea shouldn’t have any problems getting too much sunlight. It is possible to plant any kind of plant and not experience any problems with sunlight.
If the place where you place your Hydrangeas is awash with the sun, especially in the afternoon sun There are some factors to be aware of to determine whether your Hydrangea is receiving too much sunlight. The Hydrangea might be getting too much sunlight if the soil is dry all the time or the leaves have bent or wilted or appear to be burned on the edges.
If your soil is constantly dry in the area around the base of the Hydrangea The reason could be that it’s being exposed to too much sun. It is recommended to water more frequently to in preventing the drying of the soil. It can also cover the surrounding area with mulch can help keep an increased level of moisture.
The cooler times of the day could aid in battling dry soil near close to the root of your Hydrangea. It is the Grow Monster likes mulching areas near the plant’s base for not only water retention but also for the added benefit of reducing weeds as well as providing nutrients to the soil after the mulch has broken down.
If you see your Hydrangea leaves curling or wilting throughout the day, particularly in the summer months when temperatures are hotter the possibility is that you are in a place that is getting excessive sun.
When you consider the number of sun Hydrangeas require, you must consider how much sun is excessive for the Hydrangea. The leaves can often tell us whether the plant is receiving too excessive sunlight. Try to keep the surrounding area of the base humid, but be careful not to get it too moist or the Hydrangea could be vulnerable to root decay.
The last sign that tells you there is the presence of a Hydrangea that is too sun-drenched are the sharp edges and the tips of the leaves that appear to be burned. The edges and tips of leaves are referred to as “leaf scorch” and occur when there are too many sun rays on a plant that prefers more shade. It is possible to cut off scorched leaves, however, should you notice a large number of leaves suffering from scorched leaves, then the overall health of the plant could be at risk.
The most effective solution for the Hydrangea that is getting too much sun is to relocate it to a suitable shaded, more shaded location. If your region doesn’t have such an area, then you may be interested in another type of Hydrangea which thrives in the sun’s harshest conditions.
It is Panicle Hydrangeas, with varieties like “Limelight” and “Peegee,” are known to thrive very well in areas with higher levels of sunlight and more direct sunlight during the afternoon time during the daylight hours.
If you live in a sun-filled area, you must check these kinds because they are sun-tolerant Hydrangeas and are more likely to thrive and will be healthier plants in your garden that receive more sun’s direct afternoon light.
Can Hydrangeas bloom in full Shade?
Because Hydrangeas like morning sunlight and can thrive in a shaded location How much sunlight do Hydrangeas require in a shaded part of your garden? A shaded part of your garden is thought to get less than four hours of direct sun each day.
There are several kinds of Hydrangeawhich are particularly notable, such as the Oakleaf Hydrangeas which can withstand only 3 hours of direct sunlight per day, you can purchase a Hydrangea to blossom in full shade. A smooth Hydrangea or Bigleaf Hydrangeas are also able to withstand just four hours in direct sunlight, so they can be planted in complete shade.
The greater your zone of growth number the more shade your Hydrangea will need during the latter part of the late afternoon. If you are leaving to the south, you might need to look specifically for an area that is shaded to plant your Hydrangea to avoid certain problems that can arise when the Hydrangea receives too much sun.
If you decide to plant the Hydrangea in a shaded space, there are a few things to be aware of to protect your flowers. In the beginning, if you have recently planted your Hydrangea it might not produce flowers the first year, therefore, you should wait another year for the plant to adapt to its new home before attempting to move it back.
It is important to observe for signs that the Hydrangea suffers from weak or weak-looking stems excessive moisture in the soil, and problems with its leaves, especially if you’ve been in bloom for two seasons but haven’t produced flowers.
If, after two seasons your Hydrangea isn’t blooming, it could be because it isn’t receiving enough sun. The easiest method to remedy this is if sunlight is blocked by a nearby tree. Simply take the time to trim the branches to let more sunlight into your Hydrangea.
You’ll be able to determine the number of sun Hydrangeas require based on their type of variety, as indicated in the above chart, if your particular variety requires more sunlight than it’s receiving in the area and will not bloom, you must think about finding a new place to plant it into your garden.
If you see your Hydrangea appearing weak, with wilted branches, branches breaking easily, and leaves falling away, examine the moisture level of the soil surrounding the plant’s base. If there is excessive shade and the area holds plenty of water, your Hydrangea is not an optimum plant.
This can be solved by helping to drain the water out of the soil, or by allowing more sunshine on the soil to dry it out between rain or water. A Hydrangea loves a lot of water, but it doesn’t want to be sat in water. This could cause it to be susceptible to root rot, as well as other related issues.
The final thing to check for is the condition that is present in the Hydrangea leaves. Similar to Hydrangeas being exposed to too much sun they can also suffer from sunburn. Hydrangea that is exposed to too much sunlight could develop yellowing and wilting leaves, and even brown spots.
These spots, yellowed leaves, and wilting may be the result of fungal issues caused by excessive water in the shady areas within your backyard. A Hydrangea that has poor foliage is also more prone to being damaged by insects. If your Hydrangea isn’t flourishing in a shaded area you can move it to a different spot in your garden with sufficient sunlight to suit the species.
Final Thoughts
A hydrangea plant in a unique area within your yard, for example, in full sun or complete shade is a fantastic method to bring some undiscovered beauty to your garden.
If you decide to plant your hydrangeas, it’s a wonderful element to the garden. Both sun and (partial) shade varieties bring distinct features to your garden. All it boils down to your imagination, the is the one you like the most and in which area you can find the appropriate amount of room in your garden. If you’re able to dream your ideas the plants listed above are sure to please you.
FAQs
✅When do hydrangeas flower?
The time of blooming for hydrangeas depends on the cultivar and type and also your plant zone. The majority of new growth hydrangeas pop buds in the early summer to bloom during the spring, summer, and early autumn months. If you live in hot regions, the hydrangeas might cease blooming during the summer heat, but they'll bloom again in autumn.
✅How can you trim off hydrangeas?
When hydrangeas are given ample room to grow within the gardens, they won't require any pruning. All they require is the periodic elimination of wood that is dead.
✅Do you have to deadhead the hydrangeas?
Deadheading hydrangeas keep your plants in bloom until autumn. It's not necessary to keep waiting until the flower fades they make great cut flowers. Let the early fall blooms in their place and let them fade in their own time. It isn't a good idea to promote new growth near the date of your freeze.
✅How do you control the hydrangea color?
Hydrangeas are distinctive in the sense that they allow you to control their color. However, keep in mind that not all varieties of hydrangeas can adjust color. In the bigleaf varieties, H. macrophylla reacts to changes in the pH of the soil. A pH that is low in the soil allows the hydrangeas' to absorb the aluminum that turns the blooms into a gorgeous blue color. To enhance the blue color of hydrangea flowers reduce the pH of your soil by adding peat moss or sulfur into the soil. Additionally, you can add aluminum sulfate to the soil throughout the season. The red and pink flowers sparkle when you mix in ground limestone to raise the pH. The test of pH in the soil can help determine the correct color for your hydrangea. Do not allow pH levels to exceed 7.5 to avoid damage to the plant. No matter the changes you've made All hydrangeas naturally fade by the time fall arrives. But don't fret because the plant will show new, vibrant blooms in spring.
✅Can hydrangeas thrive in shade?
Hydrangeas prefer dappled or occasionally shade, however, they do not thrive in intense shade. This isn't an issue of whether they prefer shade or sun however, it is it's more of a matter of how much sunlight do Hydrangeas require. The farther to the north your garden is and the higher the amount of sunlight the hydrangeas will require. A typical guideline is to get six hours of sunshine each day. But, hydrangeas that grow in the south could thrive in just three hours of sunshine.
✅Can hydrangeas bloom in full sunshine?
Hydrangeas prefer morning sun however, they don't thrive in the sun's direct, hot afternoon. Partially shaded in the later hours of the afternoon is perfect for these gorgeous flowers.
✅Are there any hydrangeas that can be grown in pots?
Even if you do not have the space to plant hydrangeas, being able to cultivate hydrangeas in pots allows you to be able to enjoy these stunning flowers. It's a simple process provided you are following the fundamentals of caring for hydrangeas. Pick a pot large enough to accommodate how mature your plant is - at minimum an 18-inch diameter. Find non-porous containers that aid in maintaining the constant water content required by the hydrangeas. Drainage holes let the excess water drain effectively. You can plant dwarf hydrangeas like Little Lime, Mini Penny, and Buttons 'n Bows.
✅How can you prevent the hydrangeas from dying?
Regularly watering your plants every morning can keep the plants from the plant from wilting. Certain varieties of hydrangeas can't withstand scorching heat. They won't care how much water you provide them. They'll start to lose their vigor slightly during the afternoon heat. A dense mulch layer can aid in retaining moisture and keeping your soil cool. If your hydrangeas start to bloom back up after the day cools it's not a reason to be concerned. It's better to enjoy an occasional wilting in the middle of the day instead of drowning your flowers.
